Urumqi – Lhasa
UNDISCOVERED HORIZONS OF CHINA
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
URUMQI – TURPAN – KASHGAR (KASHI) – HOTAN – RUOQIANG – DUNHUANG – XINING – LHASA
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through the captivating landscapes of China and the fabled heights of Lhasa on our Undiscovered Horizons of China tour. Travel in unrivalled luxury aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, exploring iconic cities such as Urumqi, Kashgar (Kashi), Turpan, Dunhuang, and Xining. Experience the remarkable blend of ancient culture and natural wonders along this legendary route.
We are thrilled to welcome the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express to our esteemed fleet of luxury trains, a testament to our 35 years of experience in delivering exceptional rail journeys. This brand-new train embodies our continual growth and commitment to providing unparalleled adventures for the discerning traveller. Having last operated in April 2019, we are excited to return to this remarkable region with an exclusive new itinerary and luxury train for 2026, offering a luxurious and immersive exploration of the legendary Silk Road. As we go from strength to strength, this journey represents the perfect blend of adventure and elegance for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable travel experience.
Dates & Prices
All prices are per person and published in US Dollars ($).
For your convenience, we are pleased to offer personalised quotations and accept payment in both Euros (€) and Pound Sterling (£). Please contact us to receive a confirmed price in your preferred currency.
2026
| USD ($) | Superior Class | Han Dynasty Suite | ||
| Twin ($) | Single ($) | Twin ($) | Single ($) | |
| Sep 12 – Sep 24 | 19,900 | 33,400 | On Request | On Request |
| Deposit | 25% | 25% | ||
DAY 1 URUMQI
Arrive in the vibrant city of Urumqi, the gateway to Xinjiang Province, where the fusion of ancient cultures meets modern elegance. Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by your private driver who will ensure a seamless transfer to the luxurious Conrad Urumqi, where you can unwind at your leisure in preparation for the adventure ahead.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure – take the opportunity to explore Urumqi’s vibrant streets or relax in the opulence of the hotel. You may choose to enjoy the hotel’s exceptional amenities, including fine dining, wellness facilities, or even a soothing massage.
This evening, join your fellow guests in a lavish reception at the Conrad Urumqi, where you’ll enjoy a fine dining experience and a curated selection of local and international dishes, setting the tone for your exquisite journey.
DAY 2 TURPAN
Today, we venture to the ancient city of Turpan, a region famed for its silk road heritage and lush vineyards. A scenic drive takes you through rugged landscapes to one of China’s most captivating regions. Here you will enjoy an exclusive evening tour of the Jiaohe Ancient City. As the sun sets over the ruins, feel the mystique of this once-thriving Silk Road city, with private expert commentary bringing history to life.
In the evening, step aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, where you’ll be welcomed into your elegant cabin and treated to a celebratory dinner in the luxurious dining car.
DAY 3 TURPAN
Begin your day exploring the Ancient City of Gaochang, once a flourishing capital of the Silk Road. Roam through the ruins of this ancient kingdom, immersing yourself in the echoes of the past. After a delightful lunch in a local restaurant, we’ll visit the renowned Karez Wells, an ingenious ancient irrigation system that still supports the lush vineyards of Turpan. The day concludes with a visit to Jiaohe Post, where tales of ancient travellers unfold.
On board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express – Dine on a gourmet menu prepared by expert chefs as you travel in style across Xinjiang’s enchanting landscapes.
DAY 4 KASHGAR (KASHI)
Arriving early in the iconic city of Kashgar, we begin our exploration of this bustling Silk Road market town. The day starts with a visit to the Apak Khoja Mausoleum, an ornate tomb steeped in legend and history. A stroll through Kashgar Old Town unveils vibrant streets teeming with life, offering an intimate look at the city’s culture.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Gaotai Folk Houses, where traditional Uighur life still thrives. The day ends in relaxation aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.
DAY 5 HOTAN
Spend a leisurely morning aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, enjoying the stunning desert landscapes. After a sumptuous lunch on board, we will arrive in Hotan, where an exclusive visit to the Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop awaits. Here, artisans continue the ancient tradition of hand-weaving exquisite silk and carpets, a process passed down through generations.
In the evening, an immersive night tour of Yotkan Ancient City takes you back to the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, where you’ll explore this archaeological treasure under the stars, creating a memory as timeless as the city itself.
Tonight, we visit the Hotan Rose Blossom Restaurant, dining under the enchanting desert sky, surrounded by the fragrances of Hotan’s famous rose gardens.
DAY 6 RUOQIANG
After a relaxing morning on board, you will arrive in Ruoqiang, where you can choose between two captivating options.
The Loulan Museum offers a deep dive into the history of the ancient Loulan Kingdom, which flourished in this desert region. Alternatively, visit the Miran Ancient City Ruins, where you’ll be transported back to the Han and Tang dynasties, walking in the footsteps of Silk Road traders and explorers.
After a day of discovery, return to the luxury of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express as you continue your journey through this captivating landscape.
DAY 7 GOLMUD
This morning, delve into the rich history of the Silk Road with a special lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud, followed by lunch in the hotel’s elegant surroundings. The afternoon offers the choice of visiting the surreal Chaerhan Salt Lake or joining a guided tour through the city, where modern life meets ancient traditions.
DAY 8 DUNHUANG
This morning, we will explore the vast natural beauty of the Sand Dunes by camel, where we will discover Crescent Lake, hidden amongst the towering sand dunes and has sustained life in this region for millennia.
In the small oasis city of Dunhuang we will visit the fascinating Magao Thousand Buddha Cave Complex. This impressive site contains almost 500 grottoes, carved between 700 and 1,700 years ago. Inside we will see an amazing collection of beautiful sculptures and murals depicting the evolution of Buddhist religious art over 1,000 years.
Our day concludes with a Farewell Dinner aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, celebrating the culmination of an extraordinary journey.
DAY 9 XINING & THE Qinghai–Xizang Railway
Enjoy a leisurely morning aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express as it winds through the breathtaking landscapes of China’s far west. In the afternoon, enjoy the option to visit either the historic Buddhist Kumbum (Ta’er) Monastery or bustling Shuijingxiang Market before boarding the world-famous Qinghai–Tibet (Xizang) Railway, a high-altitude marvel that will carry you through the stunning Tanggula Mountain Pass.
One of the world’s most remarkable railway routes, the Qinghai–Tibet (Xizang) Railway spans approximately 1,956 kilometers, extending from Xining to Lhasa.
Alternatively, guests can choose to travel directly to Lhasa, via plane.
DAY 10 TANGGULA MOUNTAIN PASS & LHASA
Today, you will journey across the Tanggula Mountain Pass, the highest point of the Qinghai–Tibet (Xizang) Railway (16,640 ft above sea level), offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and pristine valleys. After lunch, you will check into the opulent St Regis Lhasa. This afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this spiritual city.
DAY 11 LHASA
Lhasa, nestled in a serene basin surrounded by majestic mountains, aptly translates to the “place of the gods.” At an altitude of approximately 11,975 feet (3,650 metres), it is one of the highest cities on Earth. Steeped in over a thousand years of cultural and spiritual history, Lhasa is the traditional seat of the Dalai Lama and the holiest centre of Tibetan Buddhism in Xizang.
Today, we explore the tranquil Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama’s Summer Palace, built in the 1740s as a retreat from the sweltering summer heat. Meaning ‘jewel garden’ or ‘precious garden,’ this peaceful oasis remains a sanctuary from the bustling city, with its beautifully manicured grounds and serene atmosphere providing a delightful escape.
Afterwards, enjoy some free time to wander through the streets of Lhasa at your leisure, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and immersing yourself in the rich culture and charm of this picturesque city.
DAY 12 LHASA
On our second full day in Lhasa, we delve deeper into its spiritual heart, beginning with a visit to the revered Jokhang Temple, a sacred 13th-century shrine that stands as the spiritual epicentre. This ancient temple, rich with devotion and history, draws countless pilgrims who journey here from across the region. We will also explore the vibrant Barkhor Market, the oldest market in Lhasa, where the rhythmic footsteps of pilgrims tracing their way around the temple blend with the lively hum of traders offering traditional crafts and wares.
For lunch, we’ll savour authentic flavours while enjoying the enchanting sounds of traditional folk music, immersing ourselves further in the local culture.
In the afternoon, we embark on a tour of the iconic Potala Palace, a monumental 17th-century masterpiece and former seat of the Government. Once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama, this awe-inspiring palace dominates the Lhasa skyline with its towering walls and intricate architecture. Set atop the Marpo Ri Hill, rising 130 metres above the valley floor and extending a further 170 metres skyward, the Potala Palace is one of the world’s most magnificent architectural wonders, offering breathtaking views and an extraordinary glimpse into its regal and religious past.
We’ll conclude this unforgettable day with a farewell dinner, a fitting tribute to the incredible experiences shared on this journey.
DAY 13 LHASA
Your journey concludes with private transfers to Lhasa Airport, as you bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and ancient cultures that have defined this exclusive adventure.
Railway Scheduling & Itinerary Flexibility Notice
Please note that all railway schedules in China are determined solely by the Chinese railway bureau. As a result, we do not have control over the exact timings allocated to our journeys, which may occasionally include early morning or late night departures or arrivals. This can necessitate adjustments to the published itinerary, such as changes to visiting hours, routing, or the inclusion of activities. While we will always strive to deliver the planned experience, certain elements may need to be amended, substituted, or omitted based on the final timetable. Rest assured, our team is committed to providing the highest possible guest experience and will communicate any updates as soon as official schedules are confirmed.
Thank you for your understanding.
Tour Inclusions
Accommodation
- Quality pre and post-tour accommodation in Urumqi and Lhasa
- 1 night in Conrad Urumqi
- 7 nights on board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
- 1 night on board the Qinghai–Xizang Railway
- 3 hotel nights in St Regis Lhasa
Service
- Cabin attendant service including evening turndown
- Experienced Tour Management team
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All gratuities – on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
Dining
- Freshly prepared meals on board, using the finest local ingredients
- Authentic dining experiences in local restaurants
- Inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Standard Bar list
- 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
Excursions
- Enjoy immersive excursions throughout this exclusive voyage
- Benefit from the insight of our expert tour managers and specially selected, local tour guides
- Experience authentic encounters with local cultures and identities through our curated itineraries
Tour Highlights
Enjoy signature Golden Eagle experiences throughout this extraordinary voyage. Expertly curated excursions are accompanied by relaxing afternoons onboard your private, five-star hotel on rails.
- Enjoy an exclusive evening tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Jiaohe Ancient City
- Visit the Gaotai Folk Houses for a fascinating insight into the ancient residential community in Kashgar
- Experience an immersive night tour of Yotkan Ancient City – the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan
- Visit the Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop, to learn the ancient tradition of hand-weaving exquisite silk and carpets
- Learn about the Han and Tang dynasties with a tour of the Miran Ancient City Ruins
GOLDEN EAGLE SILK ROAD EXPRESS
An indulgent, modern luxury train journey tracing ancient Silk Road routes through captivating, timeless landscapes.
