Urumqi

Urumqi is the capital of Xinjiang, China's far western province, and is home to about two and a half million people. While Urumqi is said to be the most inland city on earth - that is, the farthest from any ocean - it is nonetheless surrounded by an abundance of dramatic natural wonders, from the snow-capped Tian Shan Mountains to the deep blue waters of the Tian Chi Lake. The city's former past as a prominent stop on the Silk Road gives it a wealth of historic and artistic wonders, including teeming bazaars, a flavorful, rich cuisine, a multi-ethnic, multicultural population, and archaeological artifacts and relics. Urumqi presents a side of China little-seen by outsiders, a bustling, culturally distinct city little-changed since the days of spice caravans and itinerant traders.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Heavenly Lake

Visit the south bank of Tianchi, the Heavenly Lake, which is situated to the east of the Tian Shan Mountain range outside Urumqi. Cross the lake by boat and take in the majestic mountains, glaciers and forests that surround it.

Kazak Nomads

Visit a nomadic Kazak family, who are usually situated south of the city on the "Southern Pasture". Have a rare chance to understand the local Kazak nomads and their way of life.

Mount Bogda Hike

More adventurous travelers can hike and camp at the foot of Mount Bogda, then watch the sun rise at 10,600 feet (3,230 meters) above sea level, where there is a magnificent view of the countryside and the Heavenly Lake.

The Grand Bazaar

Browse the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s foremost consumer paradises; a raucous, dynamic mix of peoples and products from all over Central Asia, Russia and Mongolia. Items on sale include, among others, fine rugs of silk and wool, assorted spices, fine grapes and melons (for which Xinjiang is famous), and the distinct fat-tailed sheep - a breed of sheep known for its hardiness and considerable tail fat, which can account for almost twenty percent of its total body weight.

Urumqi History Museum

Meet a curator for a privately guided tour of the Urumqi History Museum, whose collection includes 3000-year-old mummies on display, and gain insight into the history of the most ancient states along the Silk Road.

Urumqi Night Market

Take in the local blend of central Asian and Chinese cultures on display at the local night market. Dine in the city’s backstreets on sumptuous Uighur and Hui (Chinese Muslim) food such as lamb kebabs, sprinkled with cumin and grilled over charcoal; lamian, or hand-stretched noodles in steaming broth; or dapanji, chicken roasted in a giant pan with vegetables.

China Regions

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Urumqi Itineraries

China's Silk Road

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $14,600
See Itinerary

Really Remote Lands: Siberia, Western Mongolia & Northern China

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,900
See Itinerary

Silk Road Whirlwind: From Urumqi to Turpan

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,100
See Itinerary
Golden Eagle Shangri-La Express
Preferred Hotel

Golden Eagle Shangri-La Express

Urumqi, China

The Shangri-La Express allows guests to experience the exquisite scenery of China, such as the ancient wonders of the mysterious Orient, the treasures of the Tarim Basin, the Gobi Desert, and the Mogao’s Buddhist cave. It is the most modern hotel train in China, and despite the welcome amenity of air conditioning, it retains the romantic notion associated with the Shangri-La name and is traditionally decorated transporting guests back to an era befitting many of their travels. The accommodation echoes...
Hilton Urumqi

Hilton Urumqi

Urumqi, China

Located in Urumqi's Central Business District, close to the Xinjiang International Exhibition Center and the Ecological Gardens, the Hilton Urumqi is one of the best accommodation options in the city. Guest rooms are available in a variety of categories, including suite and executive (there is also an accessible room), with warm interiors and standard mod cons. Facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, a fitness center, a business center and an executive lounge. For dining, guests can indulge in hot drinks and desserts at the Lobby Lounge, Lebanese cuisine at Silk Road, international dining at U Cafe and fine dining at Yuxi, a Chinese restaurant that specializes in both Cantonese and regional cuisine from Xinjiang province.
Sheraton Urumqi

Sheraton Urumqi

Urumqi, China

The newest luxury hotel in the Silk Road region, the Sheraton Urumqi Hotel is located just 20 minutes from Urumqi Airport and sits near a collection of universities and local attractions. Each of the Sheraton’s 380 guest rooms and suites feature in-room safes, air-conditioning, the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, separate bath and shower stall, satellite channels, and fabulous views of snow-topped mountains and the city. In addition, butler service is available on the Executive Floor. The hotel also boasts a business center, a luxurious spa and health club. There are a number of restaurants located within the Sheraton, including Yakexi Halal, which serves Middle Eastern cuisine; Café Oasis, an all-day eatery that serves international and regional specialties; Shanghai on 2, which serves southern Chinese specialties; and House of Treasures, which offers Cantonese and numbingly spicy Sichuanese and Hunanese dishes.

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