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China Silk Road Tours: 20+ Best China Silk Road Tours

Take China Silk Road Tours for Brilliant Cultures and Stunning Landscapes along Ancient Routes in Northwestern China!

With over 2,200 years of history, China’s Silk Road stretches across an impressive 4,000 kilometers, linking East and West in a journey through ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your Silk Road adventure in Chang’an (modern-day Xian), then travel through Gansu and Xinjiang, extending westward toward Central Asia.

China Silk Road Tours: Top Destinations & Highlights

1. Gansu Silk Road: Known for iconic sites like the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the vibrant Zhangye Danxia landforms, and Jiayuguan’s Great Wall Fortress, Gansu offers a fascinating blend of Buddhist art, desert landscapes, and Silk Road history.

2. Xinjiang Silk Road: Famous for its diverse cultures and natural beauty, Xinjiang beckons travelers to explore the oasis city of Kashgar, the crystalline waters of Kanas Lake, and the vibrant markets in Urumqi. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and expansive deserts, this region brings to life the multi-ethnic tapestry of the Silk Road.

Asia Odyssey Travel: Your Silk Road Experts at the Best Prices

As a Xinjiang-based agency, Asia Odyssey Travel offers both private and small-group tours with meticulously planned itineraries and affordable pricing. Join us to experience the Silk Road’s vast landscapes, rich heritage, and timeless adventure!

China Silk Road Tours
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How to Start & Plan Your China Silk Road Tour

Our China Silk Road Tours provide over 20 expertly designed itineraries, ranging from 5 to 13 days. Choose your starting point based on your preferences:

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From Xian: Begin at the Silk Road’s starting point for a cultural journey. Explore from Xian to Gansu (Dunhuang) and Xinjiang (Turpan and Kashgar) for a complete Silk Road experience.
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From Dunhuang: Dive into the cultural heart of the route; ideal for exploring either Gansu (6-8 days) or heading into Xinjiang (8-10 days).
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From Urumqi or Kashgar: These western gateways are perfect for exploring Xinjiang first, then continuing to Gansu and Qinghai.
  • China Silk Road Tours: Top 3 Most Recommended
  • Tour China Silk Road in Group (Budget Prices 2025)
  • Articles & Planning

China Silk Road Tours: Top 3 Most Recommended

First time exploring the Ancient Silk Road in China? Discover our top 3 recommended China Silk Road tours featuring classic routes and essential highlights. Choose from 8 to 11-day tours beginning in Xi’an, Dunhuang, or Urumqi for adventures!

Xian - Dunhuang - Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar
Now, follow us on a journey through time and ancient cities along the legendary China Silk Road, from its starting point in Xian to the final destination of Kashgar in Xinjiang Province. This long rou...
Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi - Kashgar
Why China Silk Road Tour from Dunhuang? You may read about Monk Xuanzang's Journey to the West, who traveled to India in the 7th century AD to collect Buddhist scriptures. Take our 8 Days China Silk R...
Urumqi - Turpan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Chaka - Xining
Our “11 Days Silk Road Tour to Xinjiang Gansu & Qinghai” begins in Urumqi and Turpan in Xinjiang, passes through Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye in Gansu, and concludes in Qinghai. It traces the an...

Tour China Silk Road in Group (Budget Prices 2025)

Looking for a small group experience along the China Silk Road? Our Silk Road GROUP tours offer the most affordable way to journey this ancient route. In 5 to 13 days, explore Xinjiang, Gansu, and Qinghai with small groups - all at unbeatable prices. Learn more about Silk Road Group Tours >>

Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye
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Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Xining
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Urumqi - Turpan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Xining
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Kashgar - Urumqi - Turpan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Chaka - Xining
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Other Popular China Silk Road Tours

Searching for more ways to explore China’s Silk Road? Choose your starting point from popular gateway cities, travel through iconic Silk Road sites in Gansu and Xinjiang, and select your ideal endpoint. Pick from our 12 popular China Silk Road Tours for an unforgettable journey through northwestern China.
Xian - Dunhuang
History
Days
5 Days
Places
2 Places
Why Xian Dunhuang Tour? Xi'an, the ancient capital of China (Chang'an), is often regarded as the starting point of the Silk Road. Dunhuang's significance as a key point along the Silk Road. Take our 5...
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Qinghai Lake Countryside View
Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Lake - Xining - Zhangye - Dunhuang
Qinghai Gansu
Days
7 Days
Places
6 Places
Ever dreamed of exploring the legendary Hexi Corridor? How about starting a unique natural and cultural journey from Xining in Qinghai Province? Qinghai, well connected to Gansu Province, is served as...
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Lanzhou - Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi
Classic Trip
Days
8 Days
Places
6 Places
Why Silk Road Tour from Lanzhou to Urumqi? Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu bisected by the Yellow River, stands as a hidden gem along the ancient Silk Road & Hexi Corridor. Urumqi, the capital city...
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Enjoy amazing view of Badain Jaran Desert
Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Lake - Xining - Zhangye - Badan Jaran Desert
Qinghai Gansu
Days
7 Days
Places
6 Places
Nature at its best! The most diverse landscape is calling you! Take this 7-day tour through the stunning landscapes of Qinghai, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia. This tour is the perfect blend of adventure a...
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Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar
Xinjiang Classic Tour
Days
7 Days
Places
5 Places
Planning a week-long trip to Xinjiang? The "7 Days Classic Xinjiang Tour" is specially designed for first-time visitors who are eager to explore the historical wonders, vibrant ethnic cultures, and st...
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Cave 45, Mogao Grottoes
Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Lake - Xining
Gansu Qinghai
Days
8 Days
Places
7 Places
Why Gansu and Qinghai in one trip? Discover the perfect blend of culture and nature in comfortable pace, on our 8-day Gansu & Qinghai tour! Follow the path of the ancient Silk Road as you explore its ...
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Urumqi - Turpan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Lanzhou
Bullet Train Tour
Days
9 Days
Places
6 Places
Why Northwest China Tour? When Northwest China is mentioned, people may think of Gansu and Xinjiang, which combine with Silk Road Culture (Marco Polo & A. Stein), Yellow River Culture (Lanzhou), Hexi ...
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Xian - Lanzhou - Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi
In-depth Tour
Days
10 Days
Places
7 Places
Why a Silk Road Tour from Xian to Urumqi? Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, is famous for Terracotta Warriors and is known as the Silk Road's starting point. Urumqi, the "Urban Heart of Asia", is a...
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Lanzhou - Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi - Kashgar
Silk Road from Lanzhou
Days
11 Days
Places
7 Places
This "11 Days Silk Road Tour from Lanzhou to Kashgar" traverses the core sections of the historic Silk Road within Northwest China's Gansu and Xinjiang regions. Gansu, located along the strategic Hexi...
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Xining - Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang - Urumqi - Turpan - Kashgar
Silk Road Tour from Xining
Days
12 Days
Places
7 Places
Embark on a magical journey across the heart of the Silk Road, from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau to the mystical Western Regions. This meticulously designed 12-day Silk Road tour traverses Qinghai, Gansu...
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Visit Beijing Great Wall in Winter with AOT
Beijing - Xian - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi - Kashgar
Silk Road from Beijing
Days
13 Days
Places
6 Places
For history buffs and cultural seekers, this 13-day China Culture Tour is the perfect adventure! Explore ancient capitals and the historic Silk Road, starting from Beijing! Begin in the capital of Chi...
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Kashgar - Urumqi - Turpan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye - Xining - Chaka - Xining
Silk Road from Kashgar
Days
13 Days
Places
9 Places
Our “13 Days Silk Road Tour from Kashgar to Xining” begins in Kashgar, Urumqi, and Turpan in Xinjiang, continues through Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye in Gansu, and concludes in Xining, Qinghai. ...
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China Silk Road Tours Planning & Useful Articles

Planning a Silk Road journey through China? Our expert travel articles and curated tours offer essential tips, itinerary ideas, and destination highlights. Explore Gansu, Xinjiang, and Qinghai, discovering ancient sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures. Check our comprehensive China Silk Road Travel Guide and start planning your unforgettable adventure along this historic trade route.

China Silk Road Tours FAQs - Plan Your China Silk Road Tours Worry-Free

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    1. Which destinations are best for Silk Road travel?
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    Key destinations include Xian (starting point of the ancient route), Dunhuang for its Mogao Caves, Turpan’s ancient city of Jiaohe, and Kashgar’s vibrant markets. The route spans Gansu and Xinjiang in China, extending westward into Central Asia’s Five Stans (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan).

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    2. What is the best time to visit the Silk Road?
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    The best months for a Silk Road tour are April–June and September–October, when temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and sites are less crowded. Summer can be very hot, especially in the desert areas, while winter can bring cold and challenging travel conditions.

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    3. What unique features do Gansu and Xinjiang offer along the Silk Road?
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    Gansu offers incredible Buddhist sites like the Mogao Caves and the scenic Zhangye Danxia landform. Xinjiang highlights include diverse ethnic cultures, the Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, and the ancient city of Kashgar, set against breathtaking landscapes of deserts and mountains.

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    4. What’s unique about a Xinjiang Silk Road tour?
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    Xinjiang’s culture is unique with its blend of Uighur, Kazakh, and Tajik influences. It’s home to diverse scenery like the Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, Kanas Lake, and Kashgar’s Old City, offering a truly multicultural experience.

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    5. How should I start planning my Silk Road tour?
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    Decide on your main interests, such as history, culture, or scenery, then choose an entry city like Xi’an, Dunhuang, or Urumqi. Planning your tour length is important, as the Silk Road can range from a week to several weeks. Choose between joining a group tour or arranging a private tour for a more flexible experience.

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    6. Which gateway city is best to start a China Silk Road tour?
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    Xi’an is a popular starting point as it was historically the Silk Road's beginning. Other good entry points include Dunhuang for central access or Urumqi for western Xinjiang and Central Asia links. Choose a city based on the main sites you want to explore.

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    7. If entering from the Five Stans, which is the best point to enter China for a Silk Road tour?
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    From Central Asia, Kashgar in Xinjiang is ideal. Located near Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Kashgar offers a seamless entry with its vibrant culture and connection to the western Silk Road.

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    8. What’s the difference between the Ancient Silk Road and the Maritime Silk Road?
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    The Ancient Silk Road was a land route through Central Asia, whereas the Maritime Silk Road connected China to Southeast Asia, South Asia, and beyond via sea. Some Silk Road tours offer an extension to Quanzhou, a key port for maritime trade.

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    9. What is the food like along the Silk Road?
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    The Silk Road’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultures. Enjoy noodles and lamb skewers in Gansu, Uighur kebabs and naan in Xinjiang, and Central Asian influences with dishes like pilaf and samsa in Kashgar.

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    10. How should I dress for a Silk Road tour?
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    Dress comfortably and in layers. Summers can be hot, while evenings may be cooler, especially in desert areas. If visiting religious sites, modest attire is recommended, particularly in Xinjiang.

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    11. Can I visit other countries on a Silk Road tour?
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    Yes, many tours extend to Central Asia’s Five Stans, adding historical and cultural depth to the experience. You can choose itineraries that start in China and continue westward into countries like Uzbekistan or Kyrgyzstan.

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    12. What’s the transportation like along the Silk Road?
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    Travel is primarily by high-speed train and private vehicle. Some remote parts may require longer drives. Group tours often use big van for comfort and convenience.

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Latest China Silk Road Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Discover what our customers are saying about the latest China Silk Road Tours. Browse through their recent reviews and feedback on tour arrangements, guides, transportation, attractions, dining, hotels, and detailed itineraries to plan your own unforgettable China tour. View All Customers Reviews >>
Ju Le
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Astonishing Northern Xinjiang Scenery: Kanas, Hemu, and More

Northern Xinjiang took my breath away with its endless natural beauty. While I’d heard of Kanas Lake, discovering Hemu Village, the picturesque Saramy Lake, and the vibrant Wucaitan Danxia formations added so much more. Urho Ghost City’s mysterious landscapes and the relaxing, scenic spots around each lake made every day exciting. This area is an absolute paradise for nature lovers!

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Ju Le
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Northern Xinjiang took my breath away with its endless natural beauty. While I’d heard of Kanas Lake, discovering Hemu Village, the picturesque Saram...
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Destination(s): Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: Sep 07, 2024

Tour Customized by: Owen

You May be Interested in This Tour: 8 Days Northern Xinjiang Group Tour: Kanas Lakes, Hemu Village & Sayram Lake

Zhen Xin
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Unforgettable Arts and Desert Adventure in Dunhuang

Dunhuang’s stunning desert and artistic treasures made for an unforgettable experience! The Mogao Caves were filled with remarkable historical art, while the desert landscape offered the thrill of camel riding and hiking up the sand dunes. Reaching the top rewarded us with panoramic views of the magical Crescent Lake nestled among the dunes. It was a surreal mix of history, art, and adventure!

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Zhen Xin
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Dunhuang’s stunning desert and artistic treasures made for an unforgettable experience! The Mogao Caves were filled with remarkable historical art, w...
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Destination(s): Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: Aug 18, 2024

Tour Customized by: Owen

You May be Interested in This Tour: 6 Days Best Gansu Tour from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan & Zhangye

Lynic
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Wonderful 3-Day Relaxation at Qinghai Lake and Silk Road Tour through Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang

Spending 3 relaxing days around the serene beauty of Qinghai Lake and its nearby salt lake was the perfect way to start our Silk Road adventure. Heading to Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang added cultural depth with visits to the Mogao Caves, filled with incredible ancient artwork. From scenic views to cultural highlights, this journey was packed with exciting activities and unforgettable moments! Highly recommended Asia Odyssey Travel.

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Lynic
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Spending 3 relaxing days around the serene beauty of Qinghai Lake and its nearby salt lake was the perfect way to start our Silk Road adventure. Headi...
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Destination(s): Qinghai, Dunhuang/Gansu

Date of Experience: Aug 16, 2024

Tour Customized by: Owen

You May be Interested in This Tour: 7 Days Qinghai Gansu Classic Tour: Nature & Legendary Silk Road Legacies

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