Why Visit Urumqi?

Urumqi is the vibrant capital of Xinjiang and a classic starting point for Silk Road journeys. Here, Uyghur, Han, Kazakh and other cultures meet in bustling bazaars, fragrant kitchens, and wide avenues at the edge of Central Asia.

From the Xinjiang Regional Museum to nearby mountain and desert landscapes, Urumqi is your launchpad to Turpan, Dunhuang, and the classic overland route toward Xi — an on our Silk Road itinerary.

Plan Your Urumqi Trip
Urumqi

Explore Urumqi

Attractions, culture, and cuisine of Xinjiang’s capital

International Grand Bazaar
Must See

International Grand Bazaar

Wander one of the world’s largest bazaars — spices, carpets, dried fruits, and Central Asian architecture in the heart of Urumqi.

Xinjiang Regional Museum
Museum

Xinjiang Regional Museum

See remarkable Silk Road artefacts and the famous Tarim mummies that illuminate Xinjiang’s ancient history.

Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)
Nature

Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)

Take a day trip to the alpine lake beneath Bogda Peak — a cool, scenic contrast to the desert routes ahead.

Red Mountain Park
Landmark

Red Mountain Park

Climb for panoramic views over Urumqi and a classic local landmark perched above the city.

Erdaoqiao Market Area
Culture

Erdaoqiao Market Area

Explore neighbourhood streets filled with Uyghur snacks, music, and everyday Xinjiang city life.

Crossroads of Cultures
Silk Road

Crossroads of Cultures

Feel the blend of Chinese and Central Asian traditions that has shaped Xinjiang for centuries.

Uyghur Music & Dance
Music

Uyghur Music & Dance

Discover lively muqam music and dance performances that celebrate Xinjiang’s artistic heritage.

Carpets & Embroidery
Craft

Carpets & Embroidery

Browse handmade carpets, atlas silk, and embroidery that travellers have prized along the Silk Road.

Oasis Civilisations
Heritage

Oasis Civilisations

Learn how desert oases and caravan trade built the cultural mosaic of today’s Xinjiang.

Lamb Skewers (Kawap)
Signature

Lamb Skewers (Kawap)

Taste smoky, cumin-spiced lamb skewers — the iconic street food of Xinjiang nights.

Hand-Pulled Laghman
Must Try

Hand-Pulled Laghman

Slurp chewy hand-pulled noodles tossed with peppers, tomatoes, and tender meat.

Polo (Pilaf)
Classic

Polo (Pilaf)

Enjoy fragrant rice pilaf cooked with carrots, onions, and lamb — a Central Asian feast classic.

Nang Bread
Snack

Nang Bread

Tear into freshly baked nang flatbreads from clay ovens, perfect with tea or grilled meats.

Recommended Urumqi Tours

Curated holiday packages that include the best of Urumqi

Xi'an
Small Group10% Deposit available
14 days

Silk Road Xinjiang to Xi’an

Urumqi, Turpan, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Zhangye, Xi’an

TourFlightsRail

Includes Return International Flights & High-Speed Rail

View Tour

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