An Epic Journey Through Northwest China

Travel across the northern and southern slopes of the magnificent Tianshan Mountains, where spectacular landscapes unfold at every turn.

Discover vast deserts, dramatic canyons, ancient glaciers, and snow-capped peaks that have stood for millennia. Ride across open grasslands, explore historic oasis cities, and experience the rich cultures, traditions, and flavours that have shaped the Silk Road for centuries.

Local Flavors

Savor authentic cuisine inspired by each destination.

Spectacular Landscapes

Alpine lakes, grasslands, canyons and deserts of extraordinary beauty.

Silk Road Heritage

Explore ancient oasis cities and vibrant cultures.

Luxury Rail Experience

Relax in comfort while your private train takes you beyond the ordinary.

Journey at a Glance

Personal Butler service

All-Inclusive & No hidden Fee

Premium Gourmet Dining

Small Group Journey

8 Days

On the Train

8 Days

In Luxury Hotels

Journey Highlights

Apak Khoja Tomb

Karakul Lake

Golden Grassland

Tajik Family Visiting

Old City of Kashgar

Tianshan Grand Canyon

Nalati Grassland

Flaming Mountains& Grape Vally

Stone City

Baisha Lake

Your Train

Travel Aboard the DA HE ZHI NAN

DA HE ZHI NAN is your luxury hotel on wheels. Thoughtfully designed cabins, private en-suite bathrooms, and attentive butler service provide all the comforts of a luxury hotel, while ever-changing landscapes unfold beyond your window, making every moment of your journey as memorable as the destinations themselves.

Your Route

From Zhengzhou to the Far Edges of Xinjiang

Altay Prefecture/ Beitun

Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, 5-Colored Beach

Urumqi

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, Tianshan Tianchi Lake

Turpan

Karez Underground Irrigation System, Flaming Mountains, Grape Valley

Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture

Bayanbulak Grassland, Central Section of Duku Highway

Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture

Nalati Grassland, Horgos Port, Liuxing Street

Aksu Prefecture

Kuqa, Southern Section of Duku Highway, Tianshan Grand Canyon

Taxkorgan County

Golden Grassland, Stone City, Tajik Family Visit, Pamir Plateau

Kashgar

Old City of Kashgar, Id Kah Mosque, Abakh Khoja Tomb

This scenic train journey winds through rolling hills and quaint villages, offering stunning views at every turn.

Days 1–2

Your journey begins as the DA HE ZHI NAN Luxury Train departs from Zhengzhou, with convenient boarding also available in Luoyang, Xi'an, and Lanzhou. You may choose the boarding station that best suits your travel plans, with detailed boarding information provided prior to departure.

Settle into your elegantly appointed cabin and enjoy the comfort of life onboard. Relax at your leisure, savour exceptional regional cuisine, or unwind in the lounge carriage as ever-changing landscapes unfold beyond your window while the train travels west towards Turpan—the gateway to the wonders of Xinjiang.

Journey Aboard the DA HE ZHI NAN

Zhengzhou

Xi'an

Luoyang

Lanzhou

Days 3–4

Turpan – The Flaming Mountains & Grape Valley

On the evening of Day 3, arrive in Turpan and transfer to a carefully selected premium hotel for a restful overnight stay.

The following day, discover one of Xinjiang's most remarkable natural landscapes. Explore the legendary Flaming Mountains, among the hottest places on Earth, where dramatic red sandstone ridges glow beneath the desert sun, creating the illusion of an endless wall of fire. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views and exceptional photographic opportunities in this extraordinary geological setting.

Continue to the tranquil Grape Valley, a refreshing oasis of lush vineyards and crystal-clear streams nestled beneath towering canyon cliffs. The striking contrast between the verdant valley and the surrounding desert landscape has made it one of Turpan's most treasured destinations.

In the evening, return to the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train for a farewell dinner, celebrating the beginning of your Silk Road adventure in an atmosphere of refined comfort.

During the night, the train continues west, arriving in Kashgar on the morning of Day 5.

Day 5

Arrive in Kashgar this morning and set out along the legendary China–Pakistan Friendship Highway, one of the world's most spectacular mountain roads, as you ascend onto the magnificent Pamir Plateau, often called the "Roof of the World."

Your first stop is the breathtaking Karakul Lake, framed by some of Central Asia's most celebrated peaks, many rising above 7,000 metres. Watch as the lake's crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding snow-capped mountains, creating one of the most unforgettable landscapes along the Silk Road.

Continue deeper into the Pamirs to visit the ancient Stone City, an important Silk Road stronghold with a history stretching back more than two millennia. Below the ruins lies the beautiful Golden Grassland, where winding streams, open meadows, and distant mountains create a striking harmony of history and nature.

As the day draws to a close, take in the region's unspoilt scenery, where grazing livestock and vast grasslands reflect a traditional way of life that has endured for generations. This evening, enjoy an overnight stay at a carefully selected hotel in Taxkorgan.

Kashgar –Karakul Lake & Stone City & Golden Gressland

Day 6

Taxkorgan – Pamir Plateau & Baisha Lake

After breakfast, visit a welcoming Tajik family and gain a fascinating insight into the traditions, customs, and daily life of one of the Silk Road's most distinctive ethnic communities.

Continue to the breathtaking Baisha Lake, a serene alpine lake set high on the Pamir Plateau. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dazzling white dunes, the lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the ever-changing sky, creating one of Xinjiang's most extraordinary natural landscapes.

Later, return to Kashgar and check in to a carefully selected hotel for the evening.

Day 7

Kashgar–Discover Ancient Kashgar

Today, delve into Kashgar, one of the Silk Road's most legendary oasis cities and a crossroads of cultures, religions, and civilisations for more than two thousand years.

Begin your exploration at the magnificent Apak Khoja Tomb, an architectural masterpiece and one of Xinjiang's most important Islamic heritage sites. Continue through the atmospheric Old City of Kashgar, where winding alleyways, traditional courtyard homes, and bustling artisan workshops preserve the city's timeless character. Visit the historic city, where generations of local families continue to uphold centuries-old craftsmanship and traditions.

This evening, rejoin the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train as it departs westward for Kuqa, continuing your unforgettable journey through the heart of the Silk Road.

Day 8

Kuqa – Tianshan Grand Canyon – Bayinbuluk

Arrive in Kuqa this morning and travel along the spectacular southern section of the legendary Duku Highway, renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery and breathtaking vistas.

Continue to the magnificent Tianshan Grand Canyon, where millions of years of geological activity and natural erosion have sculpted soaring sandstone cliffs, deep gorges, and extraordinary rock formations. One of the most remarkable natural wonders along the ancient Silk Road, the canyon offers spectacular landscapes and outstanding photographic opportunities.

Later, journey across the vast grasslands to Bayinbuluk, where you will check in to a carefully selected hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Tianshan Mountains.

Day 9

Bayinbuluk – Duku Highway – Nalati

After breakfast, explore the magnificent Bayinbuluk Grassland, China's second-largest grassland and one of Xinjiang's most breathtaking natural treasures. Surrounded by the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, this vast alpine meadow is home to the meandering Kaidu River, famous for its spectacular "Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns," as well as the tranquil Swan Lake, an important sanctuary for migratory birds.

Later, continue your journey along the central section of the legendary Duku Highway (National Highway G217). Traversing the heart of the Tianshan Mountains, this remarkable engineering achievement links Northern and Southern Xinjiang through dramatic mountain passes, deep valleys, and ever-changing landscapes. Widely regarded as one of China's most scenic roads, it offers unforgettable views at every turn.

Arrive in Nalati in the evening and check in to a carefully selected hotel, surrounded by the spectacular beauty of the Ili Valley.

Day 10

Nalati Grassland – Ili – Liuxing Street

After breakfast, discover the spectacular Nalati Grassland, one of Xinjiang's most celebrated alpine meadows and a historic summer pasture for the region's nomadic communities. Nestled within the lush Ili River Valley, Nalati is renowned for its rolling grasslands, wildflower-filled meadows, and breathtaking mountain scenery. During the flowering season, the landscape comes alive with lilies, tulips, scarlet poppies, and purple sage, creating an unforgettable tapestry of colour.

Take time to breathe the crisp mountain air, enjoy the tranquillity of nature, and experience the restorative beauty of this remarkable landscape before continuing to Yining.

Later, visit the vibrant Liuxing Street, one of Yining's most distinctive cultural landmarks. Wander through its colourful streets, where the city's signature "Yili Blue" architecture, lively accordion music, traditional cafés, artisan bakeries, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread and local barbecue create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It is the perfect place to experience the unique blend of cultures that has shaped the Ili region for centuries.

This evening, check in to a carefully selected hotel in Yining.

Day 11

Horgos Port – Sayram Lake – Journey to Altay

After breakfast, travel to Horgos Port, one of China's most important land border crossings in the west and a historic gateway connecting China with Central Asia. As a key hub along the ancient Silk Road, Horgos continues to play an important role in regional trade and cultural exchange.

Continue to the breathtaking Sayram Lake, known as the "Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains." Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and endless grasslands, this crystal-clear alpine lake reflects the vast skies above, creating a scene of extraordinary beauty. Traditional nomadic life can still be seen here, with felt yurts scattered across the meadows, horses roaming freely, and herds of cattle and sheep grazing across the landscape—an idyllic vision of Xinjiang's pastoral heritage.

After exploring Sayram Lake, return to Yining and reboard the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train. Settle into your cabin as the train continues northward towards Beitun, carrying you deeper into the spectacular landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.

Day 12

Beitun – Kanas Lake – Jiadengyu / Burqin

Arrive in Beitun this morning and, after breakfast, journey to the legendary Kanas Scenic Area, often described as a "fairyland on earth" and one of China's most extraordinary natural reserves. Nestled among the Altai Mountains, Kanas is a unique protected area where China meets three neighbouring countries, and is renowned for its pristine landscapes, ancient forests, and remarkable biodiversity. The enchanting Kanas Lake changes colour throughout the year, shifting between shades of emerald green, deep blue, and milky white due to variations in depth, sunlight, and aquatic life.

Surrounded by primeval taiga forests and distinctive vertical vegetation zones, the lake creates a breathtaking alpine landscape. Local legends of the mysterious "Kanas Lake Monster"—believed by some to be the giant taimen fish—add an element of intrigue to this already captivating destination.

Explore some of Kanas' most iconic viewpoints, including Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay, where winding rivers, forested mountains, and tranquil waters create unforgettable scenery.

This evening, enjoy an overnight stay at a carefully selected hotel in Jiadengyu or Burqin.

Day 13

Hemu Village – Colorful Beach – Journey to Urumqi

Today, travel to the enchanting Hemu Village, one of Xinjiang's most picturesque destinations and often described as the "Switzerland of the East." Nestled among mountains, forests, and grasslands, this ancient Tuva village is one of the largest communities of the Tuva people in China.

Step into a timeless world and experience the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people, whose distinctive wooden homes, built entirely from local timber, blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Wander along the peaceful Hemu River, admire vast alpine meadows and golden birch forests, and discover why Hemu has become a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers.

Continue to Colorful Beach, a remarkable landscape shaped by millions of years of geological transformation. The unique Yadan landforms, with their dramatic ravines, sculpted formations, and vivid layers of colour, create an extraordinary natural canvas along the banks of the Irtysh River.

Return to Beitun and reboard the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train for your overnight journey to Urumqi, the vibrant capital of Xinjiang.

Day 14

Urumqi – Tianshan Tianchi Lake – Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

Arrive in Urumqi and travel to the magnificent Tianshan Tianchi Lake, a UNESCO Global Geopark and one of Xinjiang's most celebrated natural attractions. Along the way, admire the dramatic contrast of desert landscapes, vast Gobi scenery, and fertile agricultural valleys.

Upon arrival, take the scenic shuttle route into the mountains to reach Tianshan Tianchi Lake, an alpine paradise steeped in ancient Chinese legends. Surrounded by the majestic Tianshan Mountains, the lake showcases a remarkable vertical range of vegetation, from desert foothills to alpine forests. Enjoy panoramic views of Bogda Peak, the highest summit of the eastern Tianshan Mountains, and experience the extraordinary transformation of landscapes through the seasons—all within a single day.

Later, explore the vibrant Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, a cultural landmark where tradition meets modern life. Wander through its creative cultural districts, intangible cultural heritage displays, international fashion streets, and lively food areas, discovering the diverse flavours, craftsmanship, and cultures that define Xinjiang.

This evening, check in to a carefully selected hotel in Urumqi.

Days 15-17

Return Journey Aboard the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train

Begin your return journey aboard the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train, relaxing in comfort as the ever-changing landscapes of Northwest China unfold beyond your window. From vast deserts and rugged mountains to sweeping plains and historic landscapes, enjoy a final opportunity to admire the remarkable scenery that has accompanied your Silk Road adventure.

On Day 16, guests may choose to disembark at Lanzhou or Xi'an, according to their travel arrangements.

On Day 17, the journey concludes with disembarkation available in Luoyang or Zhengzhou. With unforgettable memories of Xinjiang's extraordinary landscapes, rich cultures, and timeless Silk Road heritage, your remarkable journey aboard the South of the Yellow River Luxury Train comes to an end.

What's Included

Rail & Ground Transportation

Accommodation aboard the DA HE ZHI NAN Luxury Train in your selected cabin category, together with private air-conditioned coaches for all sightseeing and transfers.

Accommodation

Eight nights aboard the train and eight nights in carefully selected premium hotels.

A combination of onboard and hotel breakfasts, regional lunches and dinners, featuring authentic local cuisine throughout the journey. Dining arrangements may vary according to the train timetable.

Professional tour escort throughout the journey, expert local guides at each destination, dedicated onboard train butler service, and medical support throughout the tour.

Guided Experiences

Sightseeing

Dining

Admission to all scheduled attractions, including entrance fees and required local shuttle transportation where applicable.

Insurance

Tour operator liability insurance is included. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive personal travel insurance before departure.

Begin Your Journey

Enquire now to check availability and secure your place on this extraordinary adventure.