Need help please

Me & my wife are planning to take a long train ride from Shanghai to Urumqi end of June,our plan is fixable so kindly suggest us cities to stop & explore for this train ride.

From Urumqi then we will be going to kashger & then crossing the border to Pakistan

Thanks for your suggestion

Taking the train from Shanghai to Urumqi is an exciting journey across China, covering diverse landscapes and cultures. Since you have a flexible schedule, you can plan a few stops along the way to explore different regions.

Recommended cities to consider stopping at:

  • Xi’an: Famous for the Terracotta Army and ancient city walls. A 1–2 day stop is usually sufficient to explore major attractions.
  • Lanzhou: The capital of Gansu Province, known for the Yellow River, hand-pulled noodles, and as a gateway to the Silk Road. A half-day or overnight stop can be enough.
  • Turpan: Slight detour from Urumqi but highly recommended for its desert landscapes, Karez irrigation system, and Jiaohe Ancient City. 1–2 days is ideal.
  • Urumqi: Once you reach your main stop, spend 2–3 days exploring the Xinjiang capital, including the Xinjiang Regional Museum, Red Hill, and local bazaars.

Travel tips for the train journey:

  • Consider booking soft sleeper tickets for comfort on the long journey.
  • Pack snacks, water, and entertainment, as some train segments are very long.
  • Check train schedules in advance, as stops may vary and some cities require planning to align with sightseeing days.

After Urumqi, heading to Kashgar is an adventure in itself. Allow a few days there to explore the old town, Sunday Bazaar, and surrounding natural scenery. Crossing into Pakistan will require planning with visas and possibly organized tours, as border crossings in this region can be complex.

Summary: Suggested stops – Xi’an for culture and history, Lanzhou for Silk Road experience, Turpan for desert and ancient ruins, and then Urumqi as your base before heading to Kashgar and the Pakistan border.


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