21 Days Kazakhstan-China-Myanmar Self-Driving Tour from Xinjiang Khorgas to Yunnan Ruili

The 21-day self-driving tour from Kazakhstan to Myanmar traverses through diverse landscapes, historical sites, and cultural regions of China. Starting from Khorgos in Xinjiang, the journey passes through the Silk Road, vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and ancient cultural relics, culminating in the vibrant border town of Ruili in Yunnan province. This route offers a comprehensive experience of China’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Silk Road: Travel along the ancient trade route.
  • Sayram Lake: Scenic beauty and natural splendor.
  • Turpan: The world’s third lowest depression.
  • Dunhuang Mogao Caves: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Terracotta Warriors: World-famous archaeological site in Xi’an.
  • Chengdu Panda Base: Home to the giant pandas.
  • Leshan Giant Buddha: The world’s largest stone Buddha statue.
  • Xichang Qionghai Lake: Beautiful lake in Xichang.
  • Dali Ancient Town: Historic town with rich cultural heritage.
  • Ethnic Minorities Villages in Yunnan: Unique cultural experiences.

China Self-Driving Travel Tips

  1. Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents for the vehicle and drivers, including temporary licenses, are obtained.
  2. Navigation: Use GPS and keep updated maps handy.
  3. Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with traffic rules and regulations in different regions.
  4. Safety: Regularly check the vehicle’s condition and keep emergency supplies.
  5. Accommodation: Pre-book hotels especially in tourist-heavy areas.
  6. Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps.
  7. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions.

Day by Day Itinerary with Distance and Daily Details

Day 1: Kazakhstan – Enter Horgos – Huocheng [Enter Xinjiang Province]

  • Activities: Border crossing and necessary procedures.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Huocheng – Yining (120 km)

  • Activities: Obtain temporary licenses.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 3: Yining – Sayram Lake – Kuytun (430 km)

  • Activities: Scenic drive, visit Sayram Lake.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 4: Kuytun – Urumqi (250 km)

  • Activities: Free time in Urumqi.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 5: Urumqi – Turpan (192 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Turpan, visit Heaven Lake.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 6: Turpan

  • Activities: Explore Turpan, visit Jiaohe Ancient City, Karez System, Flaming Mountain.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 7: Turpan – Shanshan – Hami (410 km)

  • Activities: Free time in Turpan, drive to Hami.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 8: Hami – Dunhuang [Enter Gansu Province] (400 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Dunhuang, visit Mogao Caves, Sand Sounding Dunes.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 9: Dunhuang – Jiayuguan (370 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Jiayuguan, visit Jiayu Pass.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 10: Jiayuguan – Zhangye (256 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Zhangye, visit Kumbum Monastery.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 11: Zhangye – Lanzhou (500 km)

  • Activities: Long drive to Lanzhou.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 12: Lanzhou – Xi’an [Enter Shaanxi Province] (630 km)

  • Activities: Long drive to Xi’an.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 13: Xi’an

  • Activities: Explore Xi’an, visit Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Drum Tower.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 14: Xi’an – Guangyuan [Enter Sichuan Province] (470 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Guangyuan.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 15: Guangyuan – Jiange – Chengdu (310 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Chengdu, visit Chengdu Panda Base.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 16: Chengdu – Leshan Giant Buddha (150 km)

  • Activities: Visit Panda Base, drive to Leshan.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 17: Leshan – Xichang (430 km)

  • Activities: Visit Leshan Giant Buddha, drive to Xichang.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 18: Xichang – Dali [Enter Yunnan Province] (580 km)

  • Activities: Long drive to Dali.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 19: Dali

  • Activities: Explore Dali, visit Erhai Lake, Dali Ancient Town.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 20: Dali – Ruili (410 km)

  • Activities: Drive to Ruili, prepare for exit procedures.
  • Accommodation: Hotel

Day 21: Ruili – Exit to Myanmar (530 km)

  • Activities: Complete exit procedures and enter Myanmar.
  • Accommodation: Hotel (end of NAVO service)