Xinjiang Train Tour

The Xinjiang Train Tour

From http://www.china-tour.com/Classical_Silk_Road_Tour.html

Traveling by train in China, especially in Xinjiang, has been one of the most rewarding journeys. Experiencing Xinjiang by train is not only cheap from the Urumqi train station, it’s also a great way to see the beautiful scenery the province has to offer.There are a number of ancient city ruins, such as Gaochang Ancient City,the ruins of ancient Subashi.You will know more about the Silk Road and the historical sites as well as the colorful customers.

Xinjiang Train Tour

The train route exercise in China's western desert, like a journey to the Middle Ages. Uighur towns constitute part of the famous Silk Road along the train way.It can see the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains and the red sandstone of the Turpan Flaming Mountains when the train cross throught the desert.It is incredible that you are still in Chinese territory-- residents, fairs and Xinjiang text makes people feel like being in Istanbul rather than China.

Xinjiang Train Lines

Xinjiang Train Lines

This is the most westerly Xinjiang train journey in China-it will feel a strong cultural impact.

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

One of the most frequent questions,is about train travel in Xinjiang is how to get tickets. It’s not always a simple process unfortunately, but it’s definitely good to know your options.

Book Train Travel Online: Back in 2011 China opened up the option to buy tickets online (http://www.12306.cn). There’s a catch, however: in order to do this you must 1) be able to read Chinese and 2) possess a Chinese credit or debit card. You’re out of luck if you don’t meet that criteria.

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

Buy at the Train Station: The cheapest way for foreigners to buy their tickets is at the Urumqi Train Station ticket hall. As of January 1, 2013 you can purchase tickets up to 18 days in advance, so keep that in mind. There is no “foreigner line” like there is in Beijing and Shanghai, so do yourself a favor and use this resource to check availability of your desired ticket before you stand in line.

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

Buy Through Your Hotel/Hostel: If you’re staying in a Urumqi hotel or hostel, they will usually offer a service to purchase tickets for you. There is a fee involved (budget around 50RMB extra) but if you’re short on time it’s worth it.

Buy Through a Travel Agency: For those who want to purchase their tickets before arriving in Urumqi, this is going to be your best option. You will probably pay a pretty good fee up front, but it takes all the hassle out of purchasing train tickets. The ones I know are good are: www.china-tour.com

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

Bear in mind that China’s latest “real name” ticketing system requires you to show your passport or valid ID both when you purchase the ticket and when you board.

Scenery along the Xinjiang Train

E-mail: service@china-tour.com