Turpan
Only three hours away from Urumqi, Turpan is a refreshing change from the modern capital city. Due to the proximity to Kazakhstan and a key stop in the China Silkroad, the town of Turpan has been under the influence of many civilisations and travelling merchants. Discover the fertile grape valley of Turpan, the arid and barren desert landscape and the numerous historical relics.

A quick drive from Turpan is the barren Flaming Mountains and known for being the hottest place in China. Be amazed by the ingenuity of the Chinese as you wander in the Karez System, a 3,000-mile long underground water tunnels. Explore the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Cave that contained many beautiful Buddhist murals commissioned by merchants in the past to protect their travels along the Silkroad. Lose yourself in the Jiaohe ruins (UNESCO), an architectural wonder with a history of over 2,500 years.