Silk Road 
Perth -Xinjiang
15-Day Inclusive Tour
( May, June 2025)

Hemu Village, in Northern Xinjiang’s Altay Mountains, is a stunningly preserved village home to the Tuwa and Kazakh ethnic groups. Known for its misty mornings, wooden cabins, and breathtaking seasonal landscapes, Hemu offers a rare glimpse into traditional lifestyles surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and mountains. It’s a peaceful, timeless destination perfect for experiencing Xinjiang’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Famous for its stunning, turquoise Kanas Lake, surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. Known as “the Swiss Alps of China,” the reserve is breathtaking in every season, especially in autumn when the trees turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. It’s home to diverse wildlife, including moose and snow leopards, as well as the mysterious “Kanas Lake monster” rumoured to swim in its waters. The reserve’s beauty, mystery, and pristine wilderness make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Tianshan: means 'mountain to sky', is a UNESCO World Heritage site, span across Northern Xinjiang and are known for their dramatic peaks, glaciers, and diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to dense forests. Highlights include the crystal-clear Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), set against towering snow-capped peaks, creating one of China’s most iconic mountain views. The Tianshan range is also rich in biodiversity, home to rare animals like the snow leopard and offers hiking, horseback riding, and a chance to experience the traditional lifestyle of Kazakh herders who graze their livestock on the lush summer pastures. It’s an essential destination for those drawn to Xinjiang’s wild, rugged beauty.

The trips starts at Dunhuang, an ancient oasis town on the Silk Road in Gansu Province, is famed for its stunning desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Key attractions include the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO site with thousands of Buddhist statues and frescoes that reflect over a thousand years of art and history. Nearby, the striking Mingsha Sand Dunes and the Crescent Lake, a spring-fed oasis amid towering dunes, offer a unique desert experience. Dunhuang is a must-visit for those interested in the Silk Road’s history, breathtaking desert scenery, and ancient Buddhist art.

Known as the “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven,” it served as a vital military outpost and gateway on the Silk Road. The imposing Jiayuguan Fort is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and desert, showcasing impressive Ming Dynasty architecture. Nearby, you’ll find sections of the Great Wall stretching into the desert, including the Overhanging Great Wall, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Xinjiang cuisine is a flavorful blend of Central Asian and Chinese influences, known for its hearty, spiced dishes. Lamb is a staple, featured in skewers, stews, and pilafs. Signature dishes include “shashlik” (grilled lamb skewers), “laghman” (hand-pulled noodles), and “pilaf” made with rice, meat, and vegetables, all seasoned with cumin, garlic, and chili. Dairy products like “kumis” (fermented mare’s milk) are common, especially among Kazakh communities. The region’s food reflects its ethnic diversity, offering a rich variety of flavors that range from savory and spicy to rich and aromatic.

Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, is a key city along the ancient Silk Road and a gateway to western China. Situated on the banks of the Yellow River, it is known for its striking riverfront views and unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. The city is also home to cultural attractions like the Gansu Provincial Museum, which showcases the region’s rich history, and the White Pagoda Mountain, offering panoramic views of the city. Lanzhou’s combination of history, food, and natural beauty makes it an intriguing stop for travelers exploring the heart of China.