For this region, the niche wholesaler recommends a luxury rail journey aboard the Silk Road Express, a private train introduced by Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in 2024.
Clients have two days exploring Beijing, the Great Wall and Forbidden City before the trains sets off for Xi’an, historically the starting point of the Silk Road in China, where silk, tea and porcelain were loaded onto caravans. The Terracotta Warriors are a highlight Xi’an, as is a walk along the ancient city walls. From here the train travels to Dunhuang at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, famous for its Magao Caves.
The train then skirts around the southern edge of the desert to Hotan, then onto Kashgar, one of the most important trading hubs on the Silk Road.
In Turpan, guests witness the engineering marvel of irrigation which has provided water in this arid region for centuries. The final stop is in Urumqi, home to numerous ethnic groups and with the vibrant energy of East meets West.
The 12-day itinerary is priced from US$18,500 per person share twin which includes two nights’ five-star hotel accommodation in Beijing, eight nights aboard the Silk Road Express in a Superior Cabin, one five-star hotel night in Urumqi; all meals and beverages (excluding premium brands); transfers and porterage; off-train sightseeing excursions with the train’s tour management team; the services of an onboard doctor; and gratuities.
Departures in 2026 are 21 September ex Beijing; and in 2027, 29 March or 11 September ex Urumqi.
