About Place
- Ancient Silk Road Heritage : Turpan is a historical gem, known for its well-preserved ruins and significance as a key stop along the ancient Silk Road.
- Vineyards and Uyghur Culture : The city is celebrated for its fertile vineyards and rich Uyghur culture, offering a unique blend of traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
- Extreme Heat : Turpan is one of China's hottest places, with summer temperatures often soaring above 40°C (104°F).
Reasons to Visit
- Historical Significance : Turpan was a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, and its historical ruins, like the Jiaohe Ancient City and Gaochang Ancient City, offer a glimpse into the region's rich past. These archaeological sites, set against the stark desert landscape, are a testament to the area’s historical importance and are among the best-preserved ancient cities in China.
- Unique Natural Phenomena : The Turpan Depression, the second-lowest point on Earth, is a geographical wonder. The nearby Flaming Mountains, named for their fiery appearance, are a striking feature of the landscape, especially at sunset. Additionally, the Karez underground water system, an ancient engineering marvel, still irrigates the vineyards that Turpan is famous for.
- Uyghur Culture and Cuisine : Turpan is a hub of Uyghur culture, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Uyghur music, dance, and cuisine. The region is particularly famous for its sweet, sun-dried grapes and the local dish, "Dapanji" (big plate chicken), which is a must-try.
Visa
- Application Process : Visas must typically be applied for at a Chinese consulate or embassy before travel.
- Exceptions : Some nationalities have visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements with China.
- Check Requirements : Always verify the specific visa requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from Turpan :
- Round-trip flights from Beijing to Turpan for two people: Approx. $600-$800.
- Hotel Cost :
- 3-star hotels in Turpan typically cost around $50 per night.
- Total for 3 nights: $150
- Food Cost :
- Daily food costs for two: Approx. $30-$50.
- Total for 3 days: $90-$150
- Activity Cost :
- Entrance fees to all attractions: Approx. $50 per person.
- Total for two: $100
Near Destination Travel Cost :
- Renting a car with a driver for 3 days: Approx. $150-$200.
Estimated Total Cost : $1,090 - $1,400
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Exploring the Ancient Silk Road
Start your day early with a visit to the Jiaohe Ancient City, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Explore its labyrinth of streets, temples, and residences from 9 AM to 12 PM. For lunch, head to a local Uyghur restaurant and try Dapanji at Muslim Family Restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Karez Irrigation System Museum from 2 PM to 4 PM, where you can learn about the ancient water supply system. Spend your evening at the Turpan Night Market, sampling street food and enjoying local music. For dinner, try Uyghur lamb kebabs at Eden Kebab House. End your day with a leisurely walk through the grapevines of the Grape Valley, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Day 2 : Natural Wonders and Cultural Immersion
Begin your day with a visit to the Flaming Mountains around 8 AM, where you can witness the surreal landscape that inspired the name. Afterward, take a short drive to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves and explore these ancient Buddhist cave temples from 10 AM to 12 PM. Lunch can be enjoyed at Tian Yuan Restaurant, where you can taste Polu (Uyghur pilaf). In the afternoon, explore the Emin Minaret from 2 PM to 3:30 PM, the tallest minaret in China and a symbol of Turpan’s architectural beauty. Spend your evening exploring the Gaochang Ancient City until sunset, capturing the golden hues of the desert. For dinner, savor Lagman (Uyghur noodles) at Silk Road Restaurant. After dinner, enjoy a traditional Uyghur music performance at the Uyghur Arts Center.
Safety Tips
- Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat.
- Wear sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Uyghur or Mandarin.
- Be cautious when exploring remote ruins.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Always carry a copy of your passport.
- Ensure your travel insurance covers remote areas.
- Use bottled water for drinking.
- Be aware of potential sandstorms in the region.
Flights
- China Southern Airlines and Air China offer direct flights from Beijing to Turpan.
- Approximate cost: $300-$400 per person, 3-4 hours.
Hotels
- Tuha Petroleum Hotel : 4-star, modern amenities.
- Huozhou Hotel : Centrally located with traditional decor.
- Silk Road Lodges : A boutique hotel with a cultural theme.
- Grand Turpan Hotel : Mid-range, comfortable stay.
- Dap Youth Hostel : Budget-friendly, local atmosphere.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in China (Beijing) : +86-10-8531 2500
- Turpan Police : 110
- Ambulance : 120
- Firefighters : 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Turpan Jiaohe Airport (TLQ)
Nearest City
- Ürümqi
Heritage Sites
- Jiaohe Ancient City
- Gaochang Ancient City
Airlines
- China Southern Airlines
- Air China
- Hainan Airlines
Currency
- Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Languages Spoken
- Uyghur
- Mandarin Chinese
Real Story
The Rise and Fall of Gaochang : The ancient city of Gaochang, located near Turpan, was one of the most significant urban centers on the Silk Road. Founded in the 1st century BC, Gaochang was originally built as a garrison town by the Chinese Han Dynasty to protect the Silk Road and its valuable trade routes. Over the centuries, Gaochang grew into a bustling metropolis, becoming a major cultural and religious center where different civilizations converged.
At its peak, Gaochang was a melting pot of cultures, where Chinese, Persian, Indian, and Central Asian influences blended seamlessly. The city was renowned for its Buddhist temples, where monks and scholars from various regions studied and translated Buddhist scriptures. The Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, located nearby, are a testament to this era, adorned with exquisite murals that illustrate the rich artistic and religious heritage of Gaochang.
However, Gaochang's prosperity made it a target for invasions. In the 8th century, the city was conquered by the Tibetan Empire, and later by the Uyghur Khaganate, which established its rule over the region. Despite these challenges, Gaochang remained a thriving city until the 14th century, when it was finally destroyed by the Mongols under the leadership of Timur, marking the end of its illustrious history.
Today, the ruins of Gaochang stand as a haunting reminder of the city’s glorious past. The crumbling walls and empty temples, set against the stark desert landscape, evoke a sense of timelessness and mystery. Archaeologists continue to uncover artifacts from Gaochang, providing valuable insights into the life and culture of this once-great city.
Cuisine
- Dapanji : This dish, meaning “big plate chicken,” is a hearty stew made with chicken, potatoes, green peppers, and onions, all simmered in a rich, spicy sauce. It is typically served with flat noodles or bread and is a popular choice for sharing among family and friends.
- Polu : Also known as pilaf, Polu is a fragrant rice dish cooked with chunks of lamb, carrots, onions, and spices. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together. It is often garnished with raisins or dried apricots, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory flavors.
- Kawap : These are Uyghur-style lamb kebabs, marinated in a blend of spices and grilled over an open flame. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a slightly smoky aroma, often served with naan bread and raw onions.
- Beverages:
- Ayran : A traditional yogurt-based drink, Ayran is popular in Turpan, especially during the hot summer months. It is slightly salty and served chilled, making it a refreshing complement to the rich and spicy Uyghur dishes.
- Grapes and Melons : Turpan is known as the "City of Grapes," and its vineyards produce some of the sweetest grapes in China. These grapes are used to make raisins, which are a staple in many local dishes, or enjoyed fresh as a dessert. The region is also famous for its Hami melons, a type of cantaloupe with a sweet, juicy flavor.
Culture and History
Uyghur Traditions : The Uyghur people, who are the majority in Turpan, have preserved their distinct cultural identity through their language, music, dance, and traditional crafts. Uyghur music is characterized by its lively rhythms and the use of traditional instruments like the dutar (a two-stringed lute) and rawap (a plucked string instrument). Dance is an integral part of Uyghur culture, often performed during festivals and social gatherings, with vibrant, swirling movements that reflect the energy of the region.
Architecture : Turpan’s architecture is a blend of Islamic, Chinese, and Central Asian influences. The Emin Minaret, built in the 18th century, is a perfect example of this, with its intricate brickwork and towering presence that dominates the skyline. The city’s traditional mud-brick homes, designed to keep cool in the extreme heat, are another testament to the ingenuity of Turpan’s people.
Religious Influence : Turpan has a long history of religious diversity, with Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity all having left their mark on the region. The Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, dating back to the 5th century, are a significant example of Buddhist art, with murals depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures. Today, Islam is the predominant religion, and the call to prayer is a familiar sound throughout Turpan.
Historical Significance :
Silk Road Hub : Turpan’s strategic location made it a vital hub on the Silk Road, connecting China with Central Asia and the West. It was a place where traders, pilgrims, and travelers from various cultures and religions converged, leading to a rich exchange of ideas and goods. The ancient cities of Jiaohe and Gaochang were key centers of commerce and culture during their time, flourishing as part of the broader Silk Road network.
Karez System : One of Turpan’s most remarkable historical contributions is the Karez underground irrigation system. Developed over 2,000 years ago, this system of underground channels was engineered to bring water from the distant Tianshan Mountains to the arid plains of Turpan, sustaining agriculture and allowing the city to thrive in an otherwise harsh environment. The Karez system is still in use today, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient engineers.