Hidden Loop Route in Xinjiang | East Tianshan Ecological Panorama Loop
by JOSIE HICKS
Oct 17, 2025
#chinatravelitinerary
Looking for an easy, scenic escape with vast deserts, stunning mountains, and amazing local food? ๐๏ธโจ Xinjiang (ๆฐ็) is the place to be! This trip is slow-paced, perfect for soaking in the breathtaking landscapes, enjoying the rich culture, and trying delicious Uyghur cuisine.
๐ Day 1: Beijing โ Urumqi (Beautiful Lakes & Foodie Paradise) ๐๐ข
๐
Morning: Travel to Xinjiang
๐น 6:00 AM โ Wake up early, have a light breakfast โ๐ฅ, and head to the airport.
๐น 8:00 AM โ Take a flight to Urumqi (ไน้ฒๆจ้ฝ) โ๏ธ (~4 hrs).
๐น 12:00 PM โ Arrive in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang! Check into a comfortable hotel ๐จ and rest a bit.
๐ Afternoon: Heavenly Lake & Relaxation ๐๏ธ๐
๐น 1:30 PM โ Have a Uyghur-style lunch ๐โtry lamb kebabs (็ค็พ่ไธฒ) and hand-pulled noodles (ๆๆกๅญ)!
๐น 2:30 PM โ Take a short drive (~1.5 hrs) to Heavenly Lake (ๅคฉๅฑฑๅคฉๆฑ ), a gorgeous alpine lake surrounded by mountains. Walk along the lakeside, breathe in fresh air, and take in the peaceful scenery. ๐๐๏ธ
๐น 5:30 PM โ Head back to Urumqi and rest at your hotel ๐๏ธ.
๐ Evening: Night Market Fun & Local Vibes ๐
๐น 7:00 PM โ Visit International Grand Bazaar (ๅฝ้
ๅคงๅทดๆ)โa colorful market full of local food, souvenirs, and live music. Try Uyghur-style roasted lamb, naan bread, and dried fruits. ๐๐ข
๐น 9:00 PM โ Take a short walk around the city, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and have a relaxed evening.
๐ Day 2: Turpan Adventure (Oasis & Silk Road History) ๐๏ธ๐ฟ
๐
Morning: Travel to Turpan & Explore Ancient Sites ๐บ
๐น 7:30 AM โ Enjoy a slow breakfast โ๐, then take a comfortable car ride (~2.5 hrs) to Turpan (ๅ้ฒ็ช), a small desert oasis town with amazing history!
๐น 10:00 AM โ Visit Jiaohe Ancient City (ไบคๆฒณๆ
ๅ)โone of the oldest and best-preserved ancient cities in China! Walk through ruins from over 2,000 years ago and imagine life on the Silk Road. ๐บโจ
๐ Afternoon: Scenic Relaxation & Local Flavors ๐ฟ
๐น 12:00 PM โ Have a traditional Uyghur lunch with roasted lamb, polo (ๆฐ็ๆๆ้ฅญ), and sweet melons ๐.
๐น 1:30 PM โ Visit Grape Valley (่ก่ๆฒ), a green oasis in the middle of the desert. Take a leisurely walk through the vineyards ๐ and enjoy some fresh local grapes.
๐น 3:00 PM โ Stop by the Flaming Mountains (็ซ็ฐๅฑฑ)โthese red sandstone mountains glow in the sunlight, creating a magical desert landscape. ๐๏ธ๐ฅ
โ๏ธ Evening: Return to Beijing
๐น 5:00 PM โ Drive back to Urumqi (~2.5 hrs).
๐น 8:00 PM โ Take a flight back to Beijing (~4 hrs).
๐น 12:30 AM โ Arrive home, feeling refreshed from an epic Silk Road adventure! ๐โจ
โจ Final Tips!
โ
Best time to visit: Spring ๐ธ & Autumn ๐ (not too hot or cold!).
โ
Pack light but bring sunscreen ๐งด, sunglasses ๐ถ๏ธ, and comfy shoes ๐.
โ
Try local snacks ๐๐ขโXinjiang food is AMAZING!
โ
Take it slow, enjoy the scenery, and embrace the chill Silk Road vibes.
#myitinerary #china #staycation #naturalwonders
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