Private Travel
China
Private
Private Tour
Shanghai to Shanghai – 10 Days
Join us on an epic journey along the Silk Road, exploring China’s vast history and culture. From the bustling streets of Shanghai to the ancient city of Kashgar, this 10-day adventure uncovers the richness of China’s past, present and natural beauty. Experience modern Shanghai, ancient Xian, mystical Dunhuang, and vibrant Kashgar. Each destination is a window into the past and present of this amazing country, blending history with natural wonders and cultural immersion.
Follow in the footsteps of Marco Polo along the ancient trade routes, embarking on an epic trip that traces the legendary paths connecting East and West.
Discover Urumqi’s diverse heritage, marvel at Heavenly Lake’s beauty, and live with the nomadic Tajik people in a traditional yurt. Explore China's Silk Road and witness the enduring legacy of the Chinese empire, whose influence shaped these routes and the region’s architecture. This is not just a travel itinerary but a bridge to the heart and soul of China, its people and their stories. From the relics of the Silk Road to the landscapes and markets, every step is a chapter in a journey through time.
IMPERIAL MARVELS: FORBIDDEN CITY, TIANANMEN & TERRACOTTA WARRIORS
Step into China’s imperial grandeur as you explore Beijing’s Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, symbols of dynastic power and modern history. In Xian, stand before the legendary Terracotta Warriors—thousands of life-sized soldiers and horses buried to guard China’s first emperor for eternity.
SILK ROAD TREASURES: MOGAO CAVES & CRESCENT MOON LAKE
Uncover the artistic and spiritual legacy of the Silk Road at Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves, where centuries-old Buddhist murals adorn grottoes carved into sandstone cliffs. Then, be captivated by the desert oasis of Crescent Moon Lake, nestled beneath Echoing Sand Mountain—a rare natural wonder steeped in legend.
EPIC FORTRESSES: THE GREAT WALL & JIAYUGUAN PASS
Walk along remote, dramatic sections of the Great Wall, including the westernmost fort at Jiayuguan. These ancient defences once marked the edge of Chinese civilisation, offering both historical perspective and sweeping views across desert and mountain landscapes.
WESTERN FRONTIERS: KASHGAR’S BAZAARS & HEAVENLY LAKE
In Urumqi, soak in the alpine serenity of Heavenly Lake, framed by the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains. Then journey to Kashgar, where the ancient bazaar buzzes with Uyghur culture, spices, and textiles—an enduring crossroads of Silk Road trade and tradition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Light Moderate
Premium
Experience the Silk Road’s wonders on a 10-day journey from Shanghai’s modernity to Kashgar’s ancient markets. Visit terracotta warriors, Buddhist caves, pristine lakes, and stay in a traditional yurt, exploring China’s rich history, culture, and landscapes.
Your journey starts in the heart of Shanghai, a city that blends the old with the new. Upon arrival, check into one of Shanghai’s top hotels, where luxury and comfort awaits. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Bund. Located in the city centre, this waterfront area is famous for its historic buildings in various architectural styles and serves as a central hub for exploring Shanghai’s culture. Walk along the promenade, take in the views of the Huangpu River and the city skyline. The area’s bars and restaurants are the perfect setting to introduce you to Shanghai’s culture and lifestyle.
Fly to Xian, a city that marks the eastern end of the Silk Road and has over 3,100 years of history. Here you’ll find the Terracotta Warriors, an army of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this is a deep dive into ancient Chinese art and military formation. Later, explore Xian’s ancient city walls, one of the best-preserved in China, stretching 7.4 miles. Whether you choose to bike or walk, the walls offer a unique view of the city. Afterward, visit the Muslim Quarter and discover the Great Mosque, a historical landmark founded during the Tang Dynasty, renowned for its unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture and its enduring cultural significance. End your day in a luxury Xian hotel.
Start your day in Xi'an, China's ancient capital, at the Shaanxi Museum of History, a stunning building inspired by Tang Dynasty architecture. The museum’s vast collection of ceramics, paintings and fossils of Lantian Man gives you a glimpse into China’s history. Continue your historical journey at the Han Mausoleum where over 60,000 artifacts reveal the social hierarchy of the Han dynasty. In the afternoon, climb the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist site with panoramic views of Xian from the top. End your day back at your Xian hotel, reflecting on the day’s discoveries in this historically significant ancient capital.
Fly to Dunhuang, a historic oasis city on the Silk Road, surrounded by the mystical Gobi desert. Visit the Mogao Grottoes, a treasure trove of Buddhist art over a thousand years old in 735 caves. Your expert guide will show you around. Afterwards, experience the thrill of the Mingsha Dunes. Whether you choose to sand-toboggan, paraglide or camel ride, the dunes are an unforgettable adventure at the edge of the Gobi desert. You will stay at the Silk Road Hotel, conveniently located near Dunhuang's main attractions.
Continue your exploration of Dunhuang with a visit to the Huyang Forest, where golden poplar trees have stood the test of time. This natural wonder is a contrast to the desert landscape. Next, pay homage at the White Horse Pagoda, built in the 4th century in memory of a monk's loyal horse that played a crucial role in the transmission of Buddhism to China. The pagoda's bells, when rung, are said to mimic the horse's noble call. End your day back at your hotel, immersed in the history and natural beauty of Dunhuang.
Fly to Urumqi, a city that combines cultures and history. Start your day at the Urumqi History Museum where a curator-led private tour will show you the city’s Silk Road legacy, 3,000-year-old mummies and precious artifacts that tell the story of the region’s past. Visit Heavenly Lake, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Tianshan Mountains, where snow-capped peaks frame the stunning landscape. As the sun sets, experience the vibrant night market of Urumqi. Here, the air is filled with the smells of street food, Chinese Muslim cuisine and hand-pulled noodles. Walk through the Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest, covering over 44,000 square feet. This bustling market with an open mosque, viewing tower and thousands of stalls is a kaleidoscope of Urumqi’s cultures.
Today you’ll visit Heavenly Lake, 6,600 feet above sea level. Surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, the lake’s turquoise water is a stunning contrast to Mount Bogda, a breathtaking natural scenery. After taking in the serene landscapes, head to the outskirts of Urumqi to visit a Kazak campsite. Here you’ll learn about the nomadic Kazak people’s way of life, traditions and agricultural practices. This will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s diverse cultures and Urumqi’s historical connections as a crossroads between China and Central Asia. Back to your Urumqi hotel to rest and reflect on the day’s discoveries.
Fly to Kashgar, an ancient city that is a testament to China’s multicultural history. Upon arrival, take a walking tour to experience Kashgar’s charm where centuries-old traditions blend with daily life. Your tour includes a visit to the Yeksjemba Bazaar, a market with over 100,000 stalls selling goods from around the world, livestock and souvenirs to silk. The diversity and vibrancy of Kashgar’s bazaar is the essence of this historic trade hub and a fascinating glimpse into the city’s enduring legacy as a cultural crossroads. Be sure to visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang. This iconic landmark is not only an architectural marvel but also serves as a central place for Muslim worship and community activities, reflecting the spiritual heart of Kashgar.
Go deeper into Kashgar’s cultural heritage with a guided tour of its mosques led by a local history scholar. This journey through Kashgar’s spiritual landmarks will give you insight into the role of Muslim minorities in the city’s history. As you travel along the ancient Silk Road, remember that Jiayuguan Pass, a historic gateway and key fortress at the western end of the Great Wall, once served as a crucial link connecting east and west on this legendary route. For a truly immersive experience, spend the night in a traditional Tajik yurt. These warm and comfortable tent dwellings set against the Xinjiang’s desert plains will give you a chance to live among the nomadic Tajik people, their customs and experience the stark beauty of China’s desert wilderness up close.
Your Silk Road journey ends today as you fly back to Shanghai with a full heart and many memories. This trip has not only shown you the history and cultures of the places you've been but also connected you to the land and people. As you travel on, the stories and experiences will stay with you, the essence of the spirit of adventure.
This journey is inspired by the timeless magic of the ancient Silk Road—a network of ancient trade routes that once linked East and West through trade, ideas, and cultural exchange. As modern travellers look for deeper, more meaningful experiences, we designed this tour to retrace China’s Silk Road heritage through its most iconic sites.
Traveling along the historic path, you will pass through the Hexi Corridor, a vital artery of the Silk Road that connects the heartland of China to Central Asia. The route winds through Gansu Province and Qinghai Province, regions rich in history and culture, where ancient cities flourished as hubs of commerce and civilization. Along the way, you will encounter the Overhanging Great Wall, an impressive section of the Great Wall built during the Ming Dynasty, dramatically perched over the mountains as part of the Silk Road’s defensive network.
From the imperial treasures of Xian and the sacred Buddhist caves of Dunhuang to the bustling bazaars of Kashgar and the nomadic traditions of the far west, this itinerary takes in the many civilisations that shaped the region. Key highlights include the Jiaohe Ancient City, a remarkable archaeological site that stands as a testament to the region’s past, and the Thousand Buddha Caves, such as those at Bezeklik, carved into the cliff face and renowned for their religious and artistic significance. Each stop reveals a different layer of history and identity, with immersive encounters with art, religion, and daily life across time.
With expert guides, handpicked luxury stays, and seamless travel, this tour combines heritage, landscape, and living culture—reviving the spirit of adventure for the modern traveller. It’s not just a route, it’s a journey across centuries and cultures.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATION: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned accordig to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
