Turpan Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and where to stay in Turpan with our comprehensive guide for the ultimate travel experience!


Introduction to Turpan

Turpan is a unique desert oasis in Northwest China’s Xinjiang region, and one of the must-visit destinations in the country. From Silk Road ruins to ancient architecture and rolling sand dunes, Turpan has something for everyone.

Turpan is a vibrant city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, fascinating history, delicious cuisine, and awe-inspiring natural attractions. Whether you are a solo traveler, a family, or a group of adventurers, Turpan offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more.

List of Places to Visit in Turpan

Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Turpan.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves
  • Gaochang Ruins
  • Jiaohe Ruins
  • Turpan Museum

Natural Attractions of Turpan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Flaming Mountains
  • Grape Valley
  • Karez Irrigation System
  • Mingsha Shan

Hiking/Biking Routes of Turpan

Turpan boasts a variety of hiking and biking routes that are suitable for all levels. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice cyclist, you will find the perfect trail to explore the stunning beauty of Turpan.

Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Mingsha Shan Trail, the Flaming Mountains Trail, and the Grape Valley Trail.

For cyclists, the Turpan-Korla Expressway offers a scenic bike ride through the heart of Turpan, with stunning views of the surrounding desert and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Turpan: Activities and Tours

From exploring the ancient Silk Road ruins to tasting the authentic local cuisine, Turpan offers a wide range of activities and tours that are sure to please every traveler.

Some of the best things to do in Turpan include a visit to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a stroll through the Grape Valley, a hike to the Flaming Mountains, a soak in a local hot spring, and a taste of the famous Turpan raisins.

Week-Long Itinerary for Turpan

Day 1: Visit the Turpan Museum, explore Gaochang Ruins, and hike to the Flaming Mountains.

Day 2: Take a stroll through the Grape Valley, try some local cuisine, and visit the Emin Minaret.

Day 3: Explore the ancient Jiaohe Ruins and the Karez Irrigation System.

Day 4: Take a camel ride through the Mingsha Shan Sand Dunes, visit the Crescent Lake, and enjoy the desert scenery.

Day 5: Visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves and take a tour of the surrounding area.

Day 6: Relax and soak in one of the local hot springs.

Day 7: Buy some souvenirs and local products to take home, and prepare for your departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Turpan

Must-Try Dishes

Turpan has a unique cuisine that is influenced by the region’s history and geography. Some of the must-try dishes include the famous Turpan lamb skewers, lamb pilaf, hand-pulled noodles, stuffed buns, and the local specialty, Turpan raisins.

Local Beverages

Turpan is famous for its grape wine, thanks to its unique climate and geography. Other popular local beverages include kumis (fermented mare’s milk), yogurt, and tea.

Where to Stay in Turpan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Turpan, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses and hostels. Some of the best places to stay include the Turpan Silk Road Lodges Hotel, the Tuha Petroleum hotel, and the Turpan Furen International Hotel.

For budget travelers, the Roast Coffee Backpackers Hostel and the Beikeleige Hotel are great options.

What to Buy in Turpan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Turpan is known for its colorful and exotic souvenirs, which make great gifts and keepsakes. Some of the must-buy items include Turpan raisins, grape wine, sliks, carpets, and traditional hats.

Local Culture and Customs of Turpan

Turpan is a city with a proud Uyghur Muslim culture, firmly rooted in its history and traditions. Local customs include greeting people with “salam alaikum,” wearing traditional costumes, and enjoying music and dance performances.

Best Time to Visit Turpan

The best time to visit Turpan is from April to June and September to October, when temperatures are moderate and the weather is pleasant. Summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching over 100°F.

Do’s and Don’ts of Turpan

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly while visiting mosques or holy sites
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the desert heat

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places
  • Drink alcohol in public places
  • Bring pork products into mosques or Uyghur restaurants

Safety and Health

Safety in Turpan

Turpan is a safe city, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions while traveling. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your personal belongings close to you.

Health in Turpan

Turpan is a desert region with a dry climate, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunstroke.

Getting to Turpan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Turpan

Turpan Jiaohe Airport serves the city, with regular flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Turpan

There are several long-distance bus stations in Turpan, with regular buses to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

The train is also a popular option for travelers, with regular trains to major cities like Urumqi and Beijing.

How to Get Around in Turpan

Turpan is a small city, and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also abundant and affordable.

Where to Go Next from Turpan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For travelers looking to extend their trip, there are many options for nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the best places to visit include the Heavenly Lake in Urumqi, the Kashgar Old Town, and the Kanas Lake in Altay.

Conclusion

Turpan is a truly unique and unforgettable destination, offering visitors a tantalizing glimpse into ancient Silk Road history and culture, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. With so much to see and explore, Turpan should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Plan your trip today and discover the wonders of Turpan for yourself.

Emin Minaret Emin Minaret A painting of merchants from the Tang Dynasty, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves A painting of merchants from the Tang Dynasty, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves A monument marking the lowest point of China A monument marking the lowest point of China