25 Days Kyrgyzstan-China Self-Driving Tour Kashgar to Shanghai

Embark on an exhilarating 25-day self-driving adventure from the rugged landscapes of Kyrgyzstan to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. This journey takes you through some of China’s most diverse and historically rich regions, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and historical landmarks.

Starting from the Irkstan Pass, you will drive through the ancient Silk Road cities, cross vast deserts, explore picturesque lakes, and traverse scenic highlands. This tour provides a deep dive into the cultural and historical tapestry of China, from the bazaars of Kashgar to the modern skyline of Shanghai.

Key Highlights:

  1. Kashgar: Wander through the vibrant Kashgar Bazaar, visit the historic Id Kah Mosque, and explore the Abakh Khoja Tomb.
  2. Taklamakan Desert: Experience the vast and mesmerizing Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest sandy deserts in the world.
  3. Turpan: Visit the Grape Valley, Flaming Mountains, and ancient ruins that showcase the rich history and culture of this oasis city.
  4. Dunhuang: Discover the renowned Mogao Caves, filled with Buddhist art, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Crescent Moon Spring.
  5. Xi’an: Explore the ancient city of Xi’an, home to the world-famous Terra Cotta Warriors and the historic city walls.
  6. Luoyang: Visit the Longmen Grottoes and the White Horse Temple, significant sites in Chinese Buddhist history.
  7. Suzhou: Stroll through the classical Chinese gardens and visit the charming water towns.
  8. Shanghai: Conclude your journey in Shanghai, exploring its modern attractions and historical sites, including a visit to the 2010 World Expo site.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Irkstan to Kashgar

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Enter China, complete border procedures, and drive to Kashgar.

Day 2: Kashgar

  • Distance: Local exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Kashgar Sunday Market, Id Kah Mosque, and Abakh Khoja Tomb.

Day 3: Kashgar to Yecheng

  • Distance: 260 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Morning visit in Kashgar, afternoon drive to Yecheng.

Day 4: Yecheng to Hetian

  • Distance: 260 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive to Hetian, visit the Hetian Jade Market.

Day 5: Hetian to Mingfeng

  • Distance: 300 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive to Mingfeng, start of the Taklamakan Desert road, sunset in the desert.

Day 6: Mingfeng to Luntai

  • Distance: 560 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive through the Taklamakan Desert, challenging yet scenic.

Day 7: Luntai to Turpan

  • Distance: 530 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive through Kuerle, famous for pears, and arrive in Turpan.

Day 8: Turpan

  • Distance: Local exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Jiaohe Ancient City, Sugong Tower, Grape Valley, and Flaming Mountains.

Day 9: Turpan to Hami

  • Distance: 390 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Maza Village, Shanshan Desert Park, and Hami King Tomb.

Day 10: Hami to Dunhuang

  • Distance: 400 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Dunhuang Grottos, Crescent Moon Spring, and Singing Sand Dunes.

Day 11: Dunhuang to Zhangye

  • Distance: 620 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Jiayuguan Pass, drive to Zhangye.

Day 12: Zhangye to Xining

  • Distance: 350 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Zhangye Dafo Temple, drive to Xining.

Day 13: Xining to Qinghai Lake

  • Distance: 300 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel or camping
  • Highlights: Visit Taer Monastery, Qinghai Lake.

Day 14: Qinghai Lake to Lanzhou

  • Distance: 390 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Qinghai Lake, drive to Lanzhou.

Day 15: Lanzhou to Tianshui

  • Distance: 330 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui.

Day 16: Tianshui to Xi’an

  • Distance: 395 km
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive to Xi’an, visit the city wall, drum tower, and bell tower.

Day 17: Xi’an

  • Distance: Local exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Terra Cotta Warriors and Shaanxi Historical Museum.

Day 18: Xi’an to Luoyang to Dengfeng

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Longmen Grottoes and Baima Temple, drive to Dengfeng.

Day 19: Dengfeng to Xuzhou

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Shaolin Temple, drive to Xuzhou.

Day 20: Xuzhou to Nanjing

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive to Nanjing, afternoon city exploration.

Day 21: Nanjing to Suzhou

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit Suzhou Gardens and Tongli Water Village.

Day 22: Suzhou to Shanghai

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Drive to Shanghai, afternoon city exploration.

Day 23: Shanghai

  • Distance: Local exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Visit the 2010 World Expo site.

Day 24: Shanghai

  • Distance: Local exploration
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Explore Shanghai’s major attractions.

Day 25: Shanghai

  • Distance: Variable
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Highlights: Complete vehicle exit procedures, end of the tour.

Travel Tips for Self-Driving in China

  1. Documentation: Ensure you have the necessary permits and temporary driving licenses.
  2. Navigation: Use reliable GPS and local maps. Be prepared for areas with limited signal.
  3. Fuel: Keep your tank full, especially in remote areas.
  4. Language: Learn basic Mandarin or have a translation app.
  5. Health and Safety: Carry a first aid kit and stay hydrated, especially in desert regions.
  6. Local Laws: Adhere to traffic laws and customs procedures.
  7. Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Service Included:

  • Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
  • Meals as listed in the itinerary;
  • Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
  • Private English-speaking tour guide;
  • Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
  • Service charge & government taxes;
  • Luggage transfers between airports and hotels.

Service Excluded:

  • Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
  • Chinese visa fees;
  • Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
  • Single room supplement;
  • Tips to guides and drivers;
  • Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
  • Personal travel accident insurance;
  • All optional programs.