Jinxiu Dongfang · 2027 Northern and Southern Xinjiang via the Duku Highway — 16 Days
Jinxiu Dongfang

2027 Northern and Southern Xinjiang via the Duku Highway — 16 Days

Xinjiang · 16 days and 15 nights

Original Chinese name

独库版·2027年全景奢享南北疆16日

Journey overview

Reference fare
USD 20,683 and up
Duration
16 days and 15 nights
Departure location
Chengdu

Departure dates

2027

Cabins

  • Luxurious Double Suite
  • Luxurious quality carriage (whole section)

Fares and availability vary by departure and cabin. Please confirm both when booking.

USD estimates use the 2026-11-13 exchange rate. Confirm the final amount and payment currency when booking.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Chengdu-Urumqi

  • MealsAt your own expense
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Board the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express, go on a cultural journey along the Silk Road, and enjoy a leisurely and elegant time on the train.

Today’s event: [Welcome Ceremony] [Cultural Salon]

Welcome Ceremony
Welcome Ceremony

Day 2

Sightseeing along the way

  • Mealstrain breakfast; train lunch; train dinner
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Sightseeing along the way, immersively enjoy the relaxing romance of slow train travel.

Day 3

Urumqi

  • Mealstrain breakfast; special welcome banquet; Xinjiang flavor meal
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

The Urumqi itinerary is set up to choose between two theme lines A and B. Once selected, the itinerary cannot cross the lines.

Line A: [Xinjiang Museum] [Sweat Horse Base]

[Noon] The train arrives in Urumqi. Go to Jinxiu Dongfang Express [Xinjiang Welcome Banquet] and start a wonderful journey to Xinjiang with characteristic Xinjiang songs and dances.

[Afternoon] Visit the [Xinjiang Museum], participate in private cultural and museum classes, immerse yourself in the treasures of the Silk Road, and invite [historians] to decipher the codes of civilization. (If the Xinjiang Museum is regularly closed during the itinerary, it will be replaced by [Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar]). After the museum tour, go to the purebred [Sweat Horse Base] to watch a professional equestrian stunt show.

Return to the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express that night and head to [Altay].

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line B: [Heavenly Lake of Tianshan]

[Morning] The train arrived in Urumqi. Go to Jinxiu Dongfang Express [Xinjiang Welcome Banquet] and start a wonderful journey to Xinjiang with characteristic Xinjiang songs and dances.

[Afternoon] Go to [Heavenly Lake of Tianshan] (about 70 kilometers away, about 1 hour's drive), transfer to the scenic spot through train and enter the mountain, visit the world-famous alpine barrier lake known as the "Earthly Jade Pool", walk on the lakeside boardwalk, admire the jasper lake surrounded by snow-capped spruce trees, overlook the majestic and holy Bogda Snow Peak, visit the landmark ancient elm "Dinghai Shenzhen", and immerse yourself in the fairyland scenery created by the melted water of Tianshan Mountain.

Return to the Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express that night and head to [Altay].

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum
Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum

Day 4

Altay

  • MealsAltay style breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Hemu

On the 4th to 6th day, the Altay itinerary has three themed lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway. (If you choose Line C in the Altay section of the itinerary, you will need to pay an additional trip fee of ≈ USD 893.50 per person)

Line A: [Ahe Highway] [Hemu]

[Morning] Walking through the [Ahe Highway] in Altay, known as the "Thousand Miles Gallery" (distance 240 kilometers, about 6 hours' drive), the scenery along the way is picturesque.

Special note: If the route is inaccessible due to special weather conditions, policy controls, etc., other routes will be changed to Hemu.

[Afternoon] Head all the way north, and finally arrive at Hemu Village, known as the "God's Private Reservation", and visit the original wooden house village of the Tuva people - [Hemu].

After dinner, check into the hotel and rest.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Hemu or similar class

Meals: Altay style breakfast; grassland camp meal; Hemu style meal

Line B: [Hemu Village] [Forest Experience Activities]

[Morning] After enjoying the local [Kazakh breakfast] in Altay, take the bus to [Hemu Village].

[Afternoon] [Forest Experience Activities] Go deep into the Hemu native forest valley, collect Altai mountain plants, and experience mountain activities such as plant handicrafts, firewood chopping, and archery. Set up a moss tea mat in the primeval forest, take a seat amidst the breeze and the aroma of vegetation, and enjoy a forest afternoon tea carefully prepared with local ingredients.

On the return journey, we passed through uninhabited valleys and vast grasslands, and climbed up to overlook the entire Hemu Village.

Local vehicles: 2+1 land first-class bus, scenic spot direct bus

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Hemu or similar class

Meal: Altay style breakfast; Hemu style meal; Hemu style meal

Line C: [Ahe Highway] [Hemu]

[Morning] Drive to Hemu Village along [Ahe Highway] (distance 240 kilometers, about 6 hours' drive). Ahe Highway is the core landscape corridor of the "Thousand Miles Gallery" eco-tourism route in the Altay region. It connects grasslands, wetlands, virgin forests and river valley scenery all the way. Cars travel in the scenery and people swim in the paintings.

Special note: If the route is inaccessible due to special weather conditions, policy controls, etc., other routes will be changed to Hemu.

[Afternoon] Head all the way north, and finally arrive at Hemu Village, known as the "God's Private Reservation", and visit the original wooden house village of the Tuva people - [Hemu].

Upon arrival, have dinner and check into the hotel to rest.

Local vehicle: off-road vehicle

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Hemu or similar class

Meals: Altay style breakfast; grassland camp meal; Hemu style meal

Ahe Highway
Ahe Highway

Day 5

Altay

  • Mealshotel breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Kanas

On the 4th to 6th day, the Altay itinerary has three themed lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway. (If you choose Line C in the Altay section of the itinerary, you will need to pay an additional trip fee of ≈ USD 893.50 per person)

Line A: [Hemu Village] [Kanas] [Cruise Activities] [Tuva Private Concert]

[Morning] Set foot in the Tuwa village [Hemu Village], where you can visit the Hemu River Valley, view alpine grasslands, Hemu Bridge, Tuwa wooden houses, etc.

[Afternoon] Drive to [Kanas] (distance 80 kilometers, about 2 hours' drive), take a boat tour of Kanas Lake, go boating on the lake, watch the snow-capped mountains reflecting the lake, the clear water and the light, and be immersed in the beauty of the secret place.

[Evening] Immerse yourself in the [Private Concert] of the [Tuva National Band] at the B&B, allowing us to listen to the heartbeat of a nation.

Local vehicles: 2+1 land first-class bus, scenic spot direct bus

Accommodation: Parking STAY Zuowang B&B (Kanas Scenic Area Branch) or similar

Meals: hotel breakfast; Hemu special meal; Kanas-style meal

Line B: [Tiejia Highway] [Kanas] [Baihaba]

[Morning] Drive along the [Tiejia Highway] towards Kanas (distance 200 kilometers, about 6 hours' drive), unlocking the niche landscape highway in northern Xinjiang, connecting snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands along the way. Stay away from the crowds of popular thoroughfares and enjoy the quiet and vast mountain scenery.

Special note: If the route is inaccessible due to special weather conditions, policy controls, etc., other routes will be changed to Kanas.

Passing through the northwest village [Baihaba], stop at the [China-Kazakhstan Border Grand Canyon] to check in and unlock the unique and magnificent scenery of the border.

[Afternoon] Arrive at [Kanas] and check into a B&B.

Local vehicles: 2+1 land first-class bus, scenic spot direct bus

Accommodation: Parking STAY Zuowang B&B (Kanas Scenic Area Branch) or similar

Meals: hotel breakfast; Altay-style meal; Kanas-style meal

Line C: [Tiejia Highway] [Kanas] [Naren Ranch] [Baihaba] [China-Kazakhstan Border Grand Canyon]

Special note: Naren Ranch belongs to the border management area, and most of them are pastoral roads. They are often closed or impassable due to weather conditions (especially not in summer). If the road is closed, please take a detour and leave.

[Morning] Drive along the [Tiejia Highway] to Kanas (the total distance is 200 kilometers, the journey is about 6 hours), unlocking the niche landscape highway in northern Xinjiang, connecting snow-capped mountains, forests, grasslands and other landforms along the way. Stay away from the crowds of popular thoroughfares and enjoy the quiet and vast mountain scenery. Go deep into the secret border control area [Naren Ranch], ride an off-road vehicle in the native alpine basin, visit the isolated [Kazakh Summer Ranch], and enjoy the entire Altai Mountains without the hustle and bustle of tourists.

Seasonal limited sceneries: 5 - 9 In each month, you can track the grand migration of herdsmen, watch the majestic teams leading the way, and the majestic scenes of cattle and sheep walking through the Linhai Valley; in other seasons, you can visit

In the yurt, you can enjoy the secret scenery of the bustling summer grassland and the endless grass waves, and enjoy the unique beauty of the summer grassland.

[Afternoon] Passed through the northwest village [Baihaba], stopped at [China-Kazakhstan Border Grand Canyon], and stopped to check in.

Arrive at [Kanas] and check into a B&B.

Local vehicle: off-road vehicle

Accommodation: Parking STAY Zuowang B&B (Kanas Scenic Area Branch) or similar

Meals: hotel breakfast; simple meal for grassland herdsmen; Kanas-style meal

Kanas
Kanas

Day 6

Altay

  • Mealshotel breakfast; Kanas-style meal; intangible cultural heritage cold water fish feast
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

On the 4th to 6th day, the Altay itinerary has three themed lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway. (If you choose Line C in the Altay section of the itinerary, you will need to pay an additional trip fee of ≈ USD 893.50 per person)

Line A: [Kanas Three Bays] [Cold Water Fish Feast]

[Morning] Relieve travel fatigue, enjoy the natural waking time, rejuvenate the body and mind in silence, and start a new day's journey to a secret place. Take the express train from the scenic area to visit the "Three Bays of Kanas" (the tour lasts no less than 3 hours), and enjoy the misty clouds of Shenxian Bay, the graceful winding water of Moon Bay, and the clear water of Wolong Bay.

[Afternoon] Drive to the fairy tale border town [Burqin] (distance 160 kilometers, about 4 hours' drive). Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery of Altai foothills, valleys and grasslands. In the evening, taste the landmark delicacy [Cold Water Fish Feast] - Altay's representative intangible cultural heritage delicacy, originating from the Irtysh River, inheriting ancient cold water fishing and hunting skills, and tasting the original flavor of river freshness bred by the melted water of the snow mountains.

Afterwards, go to Beitun Station (90 kilometers away, about 1.5 hours’ drive) and take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to [Yining].

Local vehicles: 2+1 land first-class bus, scenic spot direct bus

Line B: [Kanas Three Bays] [Cold Water Fish Feast]

[Morning] Relieve travel fatigue, enjoy the natural waking time, rejuvenate the body and mind in silence, and start a new day's journey to a secret place. Take the express train from the scenic area to visit the "Three Bays of Kanas" (the tour lasts no less than 3 hours), and enjoy the misty clouds of Shenxian Bay, the graceful winding water of Moon Bay, and the clear water of Wolong Bay.

[Afternoon] Drive to the fairy tale border town [Burqin] (distance 160 kilometers, about 4 hours' drive). Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery of Altai foothills, valleys and grasslands. In the evening, taste the landmark delicacy [Cold Water Fish Feast] - Altay's representative intangible cultural heritage delicacy, originating from the Irtysh River, inheriting ancient cold water fishing and hunting skills, and tasting the original flavor of river freshness bred by the melted water of the snow mountains.

Afterwards, go to Beitun Station (90 kilometers away, about 1.5 hours’ drive) and take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to [Yining].

Local vehicles: 2+1 land first-class bus, scenic spot direct bus

Line C: [Kanas Three Bays] [Cold Water Fish Feast]

[Morning] Relieve travel fatigue, enjoy the natural waking time, rejuvenate the body and mind in silence, and start a new day's journey to a secret place. Take the express train from the scenic area to visit the "Three Bays of Kanas" (the tour lasts no less than 3 hours), and enjoy the misty clouds of Shenxian Bay, the graceful winding water of Moon Bay, and the clear water of Wolong Bay.

[Afternoon] Drive to the fairy tale border town [Burqin] (distance 160 kilometers, about 4 hours' drive). Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery of Altai foothills, valleys and grasslands. In the evening, taste the landmark delicacy [Cold Water Fish Feast] - Altay's representative intangible cultural heritage delicacy, originating from the Irtysh River, inheriting ancient cold water fishing and hunting skills, and tasting the original flavor of river freshness bred by the melted water of the snow mountains.

Afterwards, go to Beitun Station (90 kilometers away, about 1.5 hours’ drive) and take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to [Yining].

Local vehicle: off-road vehicle

Shenxian Bay
Shenxian Bay

Day 7

Yili+Kuqa

  • Mealstrain breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Line A/B: Sayram Lake; Line C: Zhaosu

On the 7th to 11th day, the Yili + Kuqa itinerary is set up with three theme lines A, B, and C. Each itinerary can only select one line. After selection, this itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Sayram Lake]

[Morning] Get off at Yining Station and take a bus to [Sailim Lake] (distance 150 kilometers, about 2 hours’ drive).

[Afternoon] [Sayram Lake] Walking around the lake, a stretch of clear water spreads like sapphire, and the snow-capped mountains are reflected picturesquely, taking in the magnificence and clarity of the pure sea on the plateau. We arranged a customized Sayram Lake [Sunset Afternoon Tea], waiting for the sunset to melt gold with the lake breeze, and meeting a romantic evening feast by the lake.

After dinner, check into Saihu Hotel and enjoy the quiet time in Saihu.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Sayram Lake or similar class

Meals: train breakfast; Saihu whitefish; Ili-style meal

Line B: [Sayram Lake]

[Morning] Get off at Yining Station and take a bus to [Sailim Lake] (distance 150 kilometers, about 2 hours’ drive).

[Afternoon] [Sayram Lake] Walking around the lake, a stretch of clear water spreads like sapphire, and the snow-capped mountains are reflected picturesquely, taking in the magnificence and clarity of the pure sea on the plateau. We arranged a customized Sayram Lake [Sunset Afternoon Tea], waiting for the sunset to melt gold with the lake breeze, and meeting a romantic evening feast by the lake.

After dinner, check into Saihu Hotel and enjoy the quiet time in Saihu.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Sayram Lake or similar class

Meals: train breakfast; Saihu whitefish; Ili-style meal

Line C: [Yizhao Highway] [Yuhu]

[Morning] Set off from Yining and ride the [Yizhao Highway] (distance 180 kilometers, about 4 hours' drive), circling along the Wusun Mountain, crossing the Anglet Daban, taking in the magnificent scenery of the Wusun Mountain on the cliff bends, and passing through multiple landforms such as river valleys, forests, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands in one day.

Special instructions: If the Yizhao Highway is not open to traffic, take the national highway instead.

[Afternoon] Take a boat trip to Zhaosu [Jade Lake], enjoy a customized [Cruise Boat Afternoon Tea] on the cruise ship, have a panoramic view of the gradient jade-colored lake water set against the snow-capped mountains, and encounter the unique Tiffany Langao Gorge flat lake secret in the Tianshan Mountains. Overnight at Yuhu B&B with a view.

Special note: If the cruise ship is not open, visit the Aheyazi Canyon instead.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Zhaosumuzitao Yeshe Resort Hotel

Meals: train breakfast; Zhaosu style meal; hotel dinner

Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake

Day 8

Yili+Kuqa

  • Mealshotel breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Line A: Nalati; Line B: Qiongkush Terrace; Line C: Kuldening

On the 7th to 11th day, the Yili + Kuqa itinerary is set up with three theme lines A, B, and C. Each itinerary can only select one line. After selection, this itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Tianshan Sea of Flowers] [Nalati Grassland]

[Morning] Take a bus to [Nalati] (distance is about 350 kilometers, driving time is about 6 hours), pass by [Tianshan Sea of Flowers], feel the unique vanilla pastoral style of Ili, and encounter the seasonal limited-edition brilliant flower mirrors.

[Afternoon] Arrive at [Nalati Grassland], have dinner, and check into the hotel to rest.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Nalati or similar class

Meals: hotel breakfast; Ili-style meal; grassland-style meal

Line B: [Qiongkush Terrace]

[Morning] Drive deep into the hinterland of the mountains and arrive at the ancient Kazakh village of [Qiongkushtai]. Wandering in the mountains and valleys, you can admire the primitive village scenery and feel the tranquility of the mountains away from the hustle and bustle.

[Afternoon] After dinner, check into the grassland wild luxury camp and enjoy the romantic starry sky in the grassland.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Qiongkushtai Qiongguwan Wild Luxury Camp Hotel

Meals: hotel breakfast; Yili style meal; Yili style meal

Line C: [Xiata] [Muzart Glacier] [Kurdenin Grassland]

[Morning] Drive to [Xiata], follow Xuanzang’s westward journey along the thousand-year-old Tang Monk Ancient Road, and stroll through the hidden passes of the Silk Road. Facing the majestic Muzart Glacier, snow peaks, spruce trees, canyons, and meadows are laid out in front of you.

Special note: If the scenic spot is closed due to special weather conditions, the Zhaosu Tianma Bathing River scenic spot will be replaced.

[Afternoon] From Zhaosu to [Kurdening Grassland] (distance about 270 kilometers, drive about 5 hours), stay at Yeshe B&B.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Kuld Ningbo Rui Camp or similar level

Meals: hotel breakfast; Zhaosu style meal; grassland style meal

Tianshan Flower Sea
Tianshan Flower Sea

Day 9

Yili+Kuqa

  • Mealshotel breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Line A: Nileke; Line B: Turks; Line C: Yining

On the 7th to 11th day, the Yili + Kuqa itinerary is set up with three theme lines A, B, and C. Each itinerary can only select one line. After selection, this itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Nalati Grassland] [Tangbula Grassland] [Baili Gallery]

[Morning] Stroll through [Nalati Grassland]. Nalati Grassland is known as the "Sky Green Island" and "Wonderland on Earth" for its three-dimensional and diverse grassland and forest landscapes and rich nomadic culture. It is an ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature and ethnic customs.

[Afternoon] Go to [Tangbula Grassland], visit [Baili Gallery], walk through hundreds of kilometers of native meadows, and the long natural scrolls formed by snow-capped mountains, spruce trees, streams, and valleys.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Taoli Monkett's Hermitage Manor

Meals: hotel breakfast; Ili-style meal; grassland-style meal

Line B: [Light Hiking in the Forest] [Wildness Kitchen] [Tex·Bagua City]

[Morning] After breakfast, set off for [Light Hiking in the Forest]. Under the leadership of a local professional guide, we will visit the beautiful scenery of original wooden houses, wooden bridges over streams, and snow-capped mountains. Experience [Wilderness Kitchen], immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery, and experience a unique and comfortable outdoor dining atmosphere.

[Afternoon] Leave Qiongkushtai, go to [Tekes], and visit [Bagua City].

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Tekes Tianyue Ecological Hotel or similar level

Meals: hotel breakfast; grassland-style meal; Ili-style meal

Line C: [Home visit to Kazakh herdsmen] [Six Star Street]

[Morning] [Home visit to Kazakh herdsmen], immersively visit the life of native herdsmen, enjoy authentic Kazakh breakfast, and deeply feel the warmth of nomadic grassland.

[Afternoon] Departure return to Yining and visit [Six Star Street].

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Yining Intercontinental Hotel or similar class

Meals: hotel breakfast; Yili style meal; Yili style meal

Nalati Grassland
Nalati Grassland

Day 10

Yili+Kuqa

  • Mealshotel breakfast; local lunch; local dinner
  • Accommodation: Line A/B: Bayin Town; Line C: Panda Special Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

On the 7th to 11th day, the Yili + Kuqa itinerary is set up with three theme lines A, B, and C. Each itinerary can only select one line. After selection, this itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Mengkete Ancient Road] [Wild Kitchen] [Middle Section of Duku Highway]

Note:If the Duku Highway is not open, you must follow the non-Duku version of the itinerary. (Duku Highway is only open to Mainland Chinese citizens)

[Morning] Depart by car to a small secret place [Mengkete Ancient Road], explore the ancient migration route of Wusun ancestors two thousand years ago, and immerse yourself in the scenery of the original Tianshan Pass that is rarely visited. We will enjoy a special [Wilderness Kitchen] meal in this mountain valley and feel the leisure between heaven and earth.

[Afternoon] Drive through the [middle section of Duku Highway] (Nalati-Bayinbuluke section), arrive at Bayinbuluke Town, and check into the hotel.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Bayinbrook Holiday Hotel or similar class

Meals: hotel breakfast; grassland-style meal; Bayin-style meal

Line B: [Nalati Grassland] [Middle Section of Duku Highway]

Note:If the Duku Highway is not open, you must follow the non-Duku version of the itinerary. (Duku Highway is only open to Mainland Chinese citizens)

[Morning] Go deep into the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains and the [Nalati Grassland] at the east end of the Ili River Valley, experience the vertical three-dimensional landforms, and enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Tianshan Mountains.

[Afternoon] After lunch, set off from Nalati, pass through the [middle section of Duku Highway] (Nalati-Bayinbuluke section) and arrive at Bayinbuluke.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Bayinbrook Holiday Hotel or similar class

Meals: hotel breakfast; grassland-style meal; Bayin-style meal

Line C: [Sayram Lake]

[Morning] Take a bus to [Sailim Lake] (distance 150 kilometers, about 2 hours’ drive).

[Afternoon] [Sayram Lake] Walking around the lake, a stretch of clear water spreads like sapphire, and the snow-capped mountains are reflected picturesquely, taking in the magnificence and clarity of the pure sea on the plateau. We arranged a customized Sayram Lake [Sunset Afternoon Tea], waiting for the sunset to melt gold with the lake breeze, and meeting a romantic evening feast by the lake.

After dinner in Yining, board the Panda Train Jinxiu Dongfang Express and head to Kuqa.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Meals: hotel breakfast; Saihu whitefish; Ili-style meal

Duku Highway
Duku Highway

Day 11

Yili+Kuqa

  • Mealstrain breakfast; train lunch; Kuqa style meal
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

On the 7th to 11th day, the Yili + Kuqa itinerary is set up with three theme lines A, B, and C. Each itinerary can only select one line. After selection, this itinerary is fixed and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Southern Section of Duku Kilometers] [Kiziliya Grand Canyon]

Note:If the Duku Highway is not open, you must follow the non-Duku version of the itinerary. (Duku Highway is only open to Mainland Chinese citizens)

[Morning] Cross the [Southern Section of Duku Highway] to Kuqa (distance is about 200 kilometers, driving time is about 3.5 hours). Duku Highway is known as one of the "most beautiful roads in China". The natural landscapes along the way are rich and diverse, forming a long landscape scroll of "seeing four seasons in one day, and different days ten miles away", providing a rich visual enjoyment.

[Afternoon] Arrive at [Kiziliya Grand Canyon], look up at the majestic Danxia scenery, and encounter the red secret realm.

After dinner, take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to [Kashgar].

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Dining: Hotel; Kuqa-style meal; Kuqa-style meal

Line B: [Southern Section of Duku Highway] [Kiziliya Grand Canyon]

Note:If the Duku Highway is not open, you must follow the non-Duku version of the itinerary. (Duku Highway is only open to Mainland Chinese citizens)

[Morning] Cross the [Southern Section of Duku Highway] to Kuqa (distance is about 200 kilometers, driving time is about 3.5 hours). Duku Highway is known as one of the "most beautiful roads in China". The natural landscapes along the way are rich and diverse, forming a long landscape scroll of "seeing four seasons in one day, and different days ten miles away", providing a rich visual enjoyment.

[Afternoon] Arrive at [Kiziliya Grand Canyon], look up at the majestic Danxia scenery, and encounter the red secret realm.

After dinner, take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to [Kashgar].

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Meals: hotel breakfast; Kuqa-style meal; Kuqa-style meal

Line C: [Kiziliya Grand Canyon] [Private Tea Break]

[Morning] Take a bus to the [Kiziliya Grand Canyon], shuttle through the secret realm of the red canyon, look up at the majestic red cliffs, and appreciate the wonders of the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains. Set up a [Private Tea Break] deep in the canyon, just like the hundreds of millions of years of Danxia, you can slowly savor the time of the Western Regions.

After dinner, board the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express to Kashgar.

Local car: 7-seater commercial vehicle

Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Meals: train breakfast; train lunch; Kuqa-style meal

Duku Highway
Duku Highway

Day 12

Kashgar

  • Mealstrain breakfast; plateau style simple meal; Tashkurgan yak beef hot pot
  • Accommodation: Ta County Snow Crown, Wanda Meihua or similar class

On the 12th to 14th day, the Kashgar itinerary has three theme lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary will be executed fixedly and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Minle Village] [Baisha Lake] [Pamir Plateau]

[Morning] After breakfast, go to Kashgar [Folk Music Village] to experience a special ancient art activity, make a simple musical instrument with your own hands, have a close dialogue with century-old intangible cultural heritage crafts, and immerse yourself in the warmth of traditional folk music in the Western Regions.

[Afternoon] Drive to the [Pamir Plateau] and enjoy the scenery of the Kunlun Secret Land. Pass by [Baisha Lake], enjoy the beautiful scenery of rolling silver-white sand mountains and clear blue lakes and mountains, stop by the lake, feel the lake breeze of the Pamir Plateau, and finally arrive at [Ta County].

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line B: [White Sand Lake] [Pamir Plateau] [Toglensha Village]

[Morning] Drive along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway to the [Pamir Plateau] and arrive at [White Sand Lake]. The continuous silver-white sand mountains surround the clear blue lake. The sand and snow complement the clear water, which outlines the unique picture of the plateau.

[Afternoon] Explore the Tajik secret land [Toglensha Village] to watch the eagle dance, listen to the eagle flute, and immerse yourself in the Tajik cultural customs.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line C: [Baisha Lake] [Pamir Plateau]

[Morning] Drive along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway to the [Pamir Plateau] and arrive at [White Sand Lake]. The continuous silver-white sand mountains surround the clear blue lake. The sand and snow complement the clear water, which outlines the unique picture of the plateau.

[Afternoon] Arrive at [Ta County] and check into the hotel.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Pamir Plateau
Pamir Plateau

Day 13

Kashgar

  • Mealshotel breakfast; local lunch; roasted whole lamb feast
  • Accommodation: Kashgar Radisson Blu/Kashgar Yi Fei Resort Hotel or similar class

On the 12th to 14th day, the Kashgar itinerary has three theme lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary will be executed fixedly and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Home visit to Tajik people] [Karakul Lake]

[Morning] [Home visit to the Tajik people], watch the national intangible cultural heritage eagle flute performance and eagle dance performance up close, and immerse yourself in the unique eagle culture of the plateau.

[Afternoon] Go to the Pearl of the Plateau [Karakul Lake]. The lake is as clear as a mirror. The three towering snow-capped mountains of Muztage Peak, Gonger Peak, and Gonger Jiubie Peak are all reflected in the water, depicting the desperate situation of Kunlun.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line B: [Panlong Ancient Trail] [Karakul Lake]

[Morning] Drive to the [Panlong Ancient Road], which is 75 kilometers long. The best section is densely covered with more than 600 S-shaped bends. The road is like a giant dragon circling the mountains. The altitude rises sharply and the highway is dangerous, forming a spectacular visual spectacle.

[Afternoon] Go to the Pearl of the Plateau [Karakul Lake]. The lake is as clear as a mirror. The three towering snow-capped mountains of Muztage Peak, Gonger Peak, and Gonger Jiubie Peak are all reflected in the water, depicting the desperate situation of Kunlun.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line C: [Karakul Lake] [Visit the Kirgiz Tribe]

[Morning] Head to the Pearl of the Plateau [Karakul Lake]. The lake is as clear as a mirror. The three towering snow-capped mountains of Muztage Peak, Gonger Peak, and Gonger Jiubie Peak are all reflected in the water, depicting the desperate situation of Kunlun.

[Afternoon] [Visit the Kirgiz Tribe], the mountains and fields are filled with rich and pure ethnic fireworks, immersively watch the authentic Kirgiz traditional wedding, and witness the unique folk rituals and song and dance celebrations.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Tajik home visit
Tajik home visit

Day 14

Kashgar

  • Mealshotel breakfast; Kashgar style meal; Kashgar style meal
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

On the 12th to 14th day, the Kashgar itinerary has three theme lines A, B, and C. Only one line can be selected for each section of the itinerary. After selection, this section of the itinerary will be executed fixedly and cannot be combined across lines or switched midway.

Line A: [Kashgar Ancient City] [Id Kah Mosque]

[Morning] Roam around [Kashgar Ancient City], stroll through the streets and alleys of the Western Regions for thousands of years, enjoy the authentic afternoon tea with the characteristics of the Western Regions deep in the quaint old city, and slowly enjoy the fireworks of the ancient city.

[Afternoon] Walk into the [Id Kah Mosque], this iconic religious building in the Western Regions, witnessing the blending and symbiosis of diverse civilizations along the Silk Road.

After dinner, take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express and set off back to Chengdu.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line B: [Kashgar Ancient City] [Id Kah Mosque]

[Morning] Roam around [Kashgar Ancient City], stroll through the streets and alleys of the Western Regions for thousands of years, enjoy the authentic afternoon tea with the characteristics of the Western Regions deep in the quaint old city, and slowly enjoy the fireworks of the ancient city.

[Afternoon] Walk into the [Id Kah Mosque], this iconic religious building in the Western Regions, witnessing the blending and symbiosis of diverse civilizations along the Silk Road.

After dinner, take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express and set off back to Chengdu.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Line C: [Kashgar Ancient City] [Id Kah Mosque]

[Morning] Roam around [Kashgar Ancient City], stroll through the streets and alleys of the Western Regions for thousands of years, enjoy the authentic afternoon tea with the characteristics of the Western Regions deep in the quaint old city, and slowly enjoy the fireworks of the ancient city.

[Afternoon] Walk into the [Id Kah Mosque], this iconic religious building in the Western Regions, witnessing the blending and symbiosis of diverse civilizations along the Silk Road.

After dinner, take the Panda Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express and set off back to Chengdu.

Local car: 2+1 land first class bus

Kashgar Ancient City
Kashgar Ancient City

Day 15

Kashgar-Chengdu

  • Mealstrain breakfast; train lunch; train dinner
  • Accommodation: Panda Express·Jinxiu Dongfang Express

Participate in various experience activities organized by Jinxiu Dongfang Express and enjoy a pleasant train time.

Day 16

arrived in Chengdu

  • Mealstrain breakfast; train lunch; train dinner
  • Accommodation: Arrange independently

The trip to the secret land of the Western Regions ended on the 16th, Panda Special Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express, waiting to see you again!

What the fare covers

Included

Transportation

Panda Special Train·Jinxiu Dongfang Express+destination regular tourist air-conditioned bus+seven-seater commercial vehicle+off-road vehicle.

Catering

The whole trip includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Jinxiu Dongfang Express train meal: breakfast standard is ≈ USD 16.08/person, dinner standard is ≈ USD 44.38/person

Dining in local places when traveling: Breakfast is mostly included in the hotel, dinner standard is ≈ USD 29.78–44.67/person, and special meals are ≈ USD 59.57–74.46/person (the special meals are Xinjiang welcome banquet, wild horse private banquet, grassland camp meal, intangible cultural heritage cold water fish banquet, yak meat hot pot, and roasted whole sheep banquet)

Special note: Since the train meals need to be ordered in quantity before the train departs, and the local meals during the tour are group meals, the meals included in the itinerary will not be refunded if you do not use them. Please understand!

Admission

Tickets to the attractions on the itinerary and required on-site transport.

Special note: The tourist train itinerary is a service package model. The ticket fees have been calculated according to the group price and need to be booked and registered in advance. Therefore, the tickets are not subject to any preferential policies and will not be refunded if used! Please understand.

Accommodation

Please refer to the detailed hotel itinerary; (The room type is a double standard room. If there are single men and single women, we will arrange to share a room. If you are unable to share a room or want to live alone, you need to pay the difference of ≈ USD 1,935.91 per person for a single room)

Tour guides and service personnel

Local certified tour guides; full-time accompanying service personnel; Jinxiu Dongfang Express is equipped with public service panda stewards on the train and accompanying professional certified medical care.

Special note: "Accompanying certified medical staff" refers to health envoys with doctor or nurse qualifications and rich clinical experience accompanying tourists on the train.

Service standard for children under 12 years old

includes train meals, travel vehicle fees, tickets and sightseeing transfers, local meals, driver service fees, etc.

Excluded

1. All other expenses not listed in [Fees Included].

2. Optional paid itinerary and services.

3. Additional expenses caused by unexpected events such as traffic delays, cancellations, or force majeure such as war, strikes, natural disasters, etc.

4. Children under 12 years old do not include train berths or hotel beds.

Travel notes

Changes and cancellations

Tourist train's departure date, stop sites, operating routes and duration, etc. are subject to the final passenger transfer order of the railway department. Railway transportation implements unified dispatching and command. If the special train is advanced, delayed or canceled due to emergencies, changes to the railway timetable, construction, line accidents, vehicle failures, line overlaps and other factors beyond our control, and affects the schedule, our company will notify in advance according to the following time limit: 7 days in advance for changes in the departure time; 5 days in advance if the departure is cancelled. Under the above circumstances, the travel agency shall not be liable for breach of contract.

Since the tour is chartered, the losses incurred by tourists who withdraw from the tour are as follows:

(1) at least 30 days before the departure date, if the trip is canceled due to the tourist’s personal reasons, ≈ USD 5,956.64 per person will be charged.

(2) If the trip is canceled 15-29 days (inclusive) before the departure date due to personal reasons, 50% of the contract amount will be charged.

(3) If the trip is canceled 1-14 days (inclusive) before the departure date due to personal reasons of the tourist, 85% of the contract amount will be charged.

(4) If the trip is canceled due to personal reasons of the tourist on the day of departure or during the itinerary, 100% of the contract amount will be charged.

Name change rules:

Tourists can change the travel party 3 days before departure without any loss.

Questions

How much is 2027 Northern and Southern Xinjiang via the Duku Highway — 16 Days?

From USD 20,683 (Jinxiu Dongfang, 16 days and 15 nights). Fares vary by departure, cabin and party size; confirm the quote when booking.

When does 2027 Northern and Southern Xinjiang via the Duku Highway — 16 Days depart?

Departures: Jun 3, Jun 20, Jul 7, Jul 24, Aug 25, Sep 11 2027. Availability is confirmed when booking.

Where does the journey start?

The journey starts in Chengdu. Travel to and from Chengdu is arranged separately; an adviser can help.

What does the fare include?

The fare covers Transportation, Catering, Admission, Accommodation, Tour guides and service personnel, Service standard for children under 12 years old. See “What the fare covers” on this page.

How do I book?

Select “View dates and book” to choose your date, cabin and party size, or call +86-23-88721881 and an adviser will book for you. Payment by PayPal, SWIFT bank transfer, UnionPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay.