Golden Eagle Silk Road Express: Ancient China by Private Train (Tour code: 14779)

Upon arrival in Urumqi, guests will be warmly welcomed and transferred in luxury to the Conrad Urumqi, where a one-night stay awaits. This city is the cosmopolitan capital of Xinjiang, home to numerous ethnic groups and brimming with the vibrant energy of East meets West.

That evening, join fellow travellers for an exclusive welcome reception and dinner, setting the tone for an exceptional journey along the Silk Road.

After a relaxing morning in Urumqi, board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, your luxurious home for the next stage of the journey. Settle into your elegantly appointed cabin and take some time to become acquainted with life on board before joining your fellow travellers in the dining car for a welcome lunch. As the train travels east across the sweeping landscapes of western China, sit back and enjoy the exceptional comfort and attentive service that define this private rail experience as it makes its way towards its first destination, Turpan.

On-board dining

Begin the day by exploring the Ancient City of Gaochang, once a thriving Silk Road outpost and an important hub for merchants travelling between East and West. Walking among its atmospheric ruins offers a fascinating glimpse into a city that flourished for centuries along the ancient trade routes.

After lunch, visit the remarkable Karez irrigation system, an ingenious network of underground channels that has brought life-sustaining water to this arid region for centuries and remains one of the great engineering achievements of the ancient world.

Later, continue to the Jiaohe Ruins, the remains of a dramatic ancient city carved from a natural plateau of rock. Its distinctive layout and well-preserved streets, temples and dwellings reflect the remarkable ingenuity of the communities who once lived here.

Gaochang

Today, delve into Kashgar, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architecture. Begin with a visit to the Apak Khoja Tomb, a stunningly adorned mausoleum considered the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. Wander through the Old Town, where narrow alleys and traditional homes provide a glimpse into local life, and explore the Gaotai folk houses, an area steeped in history and tradition. 

A delightful lunch in a local restaurant introduces guests to the diverse flavours of Uyghur cuisine before returning to the train to continue your journey. 

Apak Khoja Tomb, Kashgar

Step back in time with a tour of Yotkan Ancient City. Once the heart of the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, this ancient city flourished along the Silk Road, its temples and cultural centres revealing Hotan’s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality.

Enjoy also an exclusive visit to Hotan’s Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop. Here, witness master artisans create intricate silk fabrics and carpets using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations.

Golden Eagle Silk Road Express - Dining

Your day in Golmud includes an enlightening lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud on the Silk Road’s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between East and West.

Guests may then choose between two contrasting experiences: a visit to the remarkable Chaerhan Salt Lake, where vast salt flats and striking mineral formations create a surreal and otherworldly landscape, or a guided exploration of Golmud’s lively city streets, providing a glimpse into everyday life in this remote desert city.

Later, return to the train and re-board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express to continue your journey.

Golmud

Arriving in Dunhuang, explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” is a spiritual oasis that has inspired pilgrims and artists for centuries, adorned with vibrant murals and statues that date back over a thousand years. Local folk artists serenade guests with music, adding an atmospheric touch to your journey through this sacred complex. 

After a delightful lunch, embark on a camel trek along the Silk Road to the enchanting Crescent Lake, an oasis nestled among towering dunes. This tranquil crescent-shaped lake has endured millennia of desert winds and remains a cherished symbol of resilience and beauty.

Dunhuang

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the luxurious amenities of the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Take in panoramic views from the Observation Car, which features the largest train window in China, or unwind in the lounge with a fine selection of wines and cocktails. Revel in the experience of luxury rail travel, with every detail carefully designed for your comfort and enjoyment.

Later this evening you'll arrive into Xi’an, one of China’s most historic cities. Tonight, delight in an authentic Tang Dynasty dinner, where the elegant setting is enhanced by a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, evoking the splendour and cultural richness of ancient Xi’an.

Golden Eagle Silk Road Express

In Xi’an, explore the impressive ancient city walls before visiting the historic Great Mosque of Xi’an, one of the oldest and largest mosques in China. Uniquely blending traditional Chinese architectural elements with Islamic design, it reflects centuries of cultural exchange along the historic trade routes.

Later, visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army — a vast collection of life-sized soldiers, chariots and horses created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Often described as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this remarkable archaeological discovery offers a fascinating insight into the beliefs, craftsmanship and ambition of ancient China.

In the evening, join a farewell dinner aboard the train as you bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, celebrating the unforgettable experiences and friendships formed along the journey.

Terracotta Warriors, Xi An

Upon arrival in China’s capital, enjoy a comprehensive tour of Beijing’s historic heart, revealing the grandeur of the country’s imperial past. Explore the magnificent Forbidden City, the vast palace complex from which Chinese emperors ruled for almost 500 years. Stroll across the immense Tiananmen Square, a site of immense historical significance, before continuing to the tranquil Summer Palace, a serene retreat of lakes, temples and landscaped gardens once favoured by the imperial court.

Alternatively, guests may choose to discover Beijing’s modern side with a tour of its contemporary architectural landmarks. Marvel at the impressive structures of the Olympic Village, including the iconic Beijing National Stadium, glimpse the striking headquarters of China Central Television, and explore the National Museum of China for a modern perspective on the country’s rich cultural evolution.

After touring, guests will be transferred in comfort to the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, where a two-night stay awaits.

Beijing

Your adventure begins with a morning visit to the Great Wall at Badaling, one of the most iconic symbols of ancient China. Here, you can walk along a beautifully restored section, soaking in the breathtaking views and imagining the historical figures who once guarded this marvel. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to explore Beijing’s lively mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. 

That evening, gather for a sophisticated dining experience at a celebrated Peking Duck restaurant. This Beijing speciality, cherished for centuries, is expertly prepared and carved at your table, offering a delectable insight into Chinese culinary mastery. 

Great Wall of China

On your final morning, enjoy transfers to Beijing’s international airport for your onward journey. Leaving with memories of China’s treasures and the unforgettable sights of the Silk Road, we hope your journey has been as extraordinary as the history of the lands you have traversed.