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Xinjiang is an immense land, rich in culture and diversity. The 9N9D China tour takes you to fascinating landmarks along the 'Silk Road'!
Turpan City – A Silk Road Heritage
Turpan, a city in Xinjiang, boasts a long history and played a crucial role as a trade hub on the ancient Silk Road. Today, Turpan is a peaceful city famous for its grape cultivation. Though the Silk Road has faded and its golden past has vanished, remnants of its glory remain, such as the ancient cities of Jiaohe, Gaochang, and the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. The 9N9D China tour invites you to explore this fascinating city.
Flaming Mountains
The Flaming Mountains, part of the Tian Shan range east of Turpan, are narrow and long, famous for their fiery red slopes that glow under the sun. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 50°C, making it one of China's hottest places. The Flaming Mountains are also renowned through the classic work 'Journey to the West.' Today, they attract tourists with their unique landscape.
Bezeklik Caves
The Bezeklik Caves, also known as Hang Mạc Cao, are a series of rock-cut temples built between the 5th and 14th centuries. Bezeklik contains 77 caves, with over 1,000 murals depicting Buddhist tales, the daily lives of Turpan residents, merchants along the Silk Road, and royal rituals. These murals portray various ethnic groups of the Gaochang era, including Han Chinese, Indians, Turks, Mongols, Uyghurs, and even Europeans.
When Islam arrived in Central Asia during the 15th and 16th centuries, most of Xinjiang's population converted, and the Bezeklik Caves were abandoned. In the early 20th century, explorer Albert von Le Coq took the finest murals to Germany, where they were displayed in the Berlin Museum. As a result, only 15 caves remain with ancient traces, and very few murals from Bezeklik are on display for visitors today.
Gaochang Ancient City
The Gaochang Ancient City was established about 1,600 years ago and became a key city along the ancient Silk Road. It later developed into a bustling commercial, cultural, and military hub during the Sui and Tang dynasties. The architectural remnants of Gaochang include houses, temples, and military structures carved directly into the rock.
The city structure is divided into functional areas such as residential, religious, and military zones. At the heart of Gaochang, there is a temple, of which only a soil tower remains. Based on its foundation and the surrounding 10-meter-tall Buddhist pagoda and monastery, it is clear that this site once hosted many religious ceremonies and important events in Gaochang. China Tour will take visitors to explore this unique ancient city.
Olu Morche (Urumqi City)
Urumqi is located in a unique geographical setting, surrounded by the Tian Shan mountain range. This city is also a vital economic center, serving as a gateway for trade between China and Central Asian nations. The culture of Urumqi is a blend of various ethnic groups, including Han, Uighur, Kazakh, and others, creating a distinct multicultural identity. Visitors to the city will experience lush grasslands, snow-covered peaks, and peaceful herds of sheep.
Tian Shan – Heavenly Lake
The Tian Shan mountain range is one of the most impressive ranges stretching across Xinjiang. Among its peaks, Heavenly Lake (Tian Chi) stands out as one of the highest, offering scenic views. The area is home to icy lakes, majestic waterfalls, and forests with nearly pristine vegetation at an altitude of 1,907 meters. The natural beauty of the mountain is both awe-inspiring and untouched. Heavenly Lake is frequently featured in the folklore and legends of the minority ethnic groups of Xinjiang.
Bortala City
Bortala is the administrative center of the Mongolian Autonomous Region. This small city holds a strategically important position. It is home to a variety of ethnic groups, with the largest being Mongolian and Han. Bortala is famous for its vast grasslands and stunning lakes. China Tour will take visitors to some of the region's renowned attractions.
Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake, located in the northwest of Xinjiang, is the largest freshwater lake in the region. Situated at an altitude of around 2,073 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by the towering Tian Shan mountain range. The lake is known for its enchanting beauty, with clear blue skies, transparent waters, and majestic mountain views. The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is warm and inviting.
Nalati Grassland
Nalati Grassland, often called the 'Sky Plateau,' is situated high in the Tian Shan mountains. The area offers a spectacular view of vast green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and winding rivers. It is a popular destination for horseback riding and exploring the culture of the Kazakh and Hui peoples. Nalati is also famous for its traditional festivals, where visitors can witness thrilling equestrian displays and wrestling contests.
KongZhong Grassland
KongZhong Grassland, which means 'grassland in the sky,' is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and cool climate. The grassland features expansive green meadows, colorful wildflowers, and roaming herds of livestock. KongZhong is also home to the Kazakh and Mongol peoples. Visitors come not only to admire the stunning landscapes but also to learn about the unique traditions of the local communities.
Kanas Nature Reserve
Kanas Nature Reserve is considered the 'gem' of Xinjiang, featuring breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. This area includes the crystal-clear Kanas Lake, which reflects the blue sky and surrounding mountains. The reserve is home to vast forests, where deer, bears, and snow leopards roam. It also preserves the unique culture and customs of the Uyghur people. Visitors on a China tour will enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, refreshing ice cream, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Uyghur dance performances.
Dushanzi Gorge
Dushanzi Gorge is renowned for its steep cliffs and complex mountainous terrain. Formed over hundreds of millions of years, it was created when a flat plain was split by a flowing river. This stunning natural feature has become a popular filming location for many Chinese movies and television shows. It is a fascinating destination for researchers and travelers with an interest in natural sciences.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnMay 8, 2024
