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The big trip: how to plan the ultimate Silk Road adventure through Central Asia

The old trade routes of the silk road give travellers endless options to explore central Asia, from lake-scattered mountain plateaus to ornate mausoleum complexes and lively cities packed with soviet architecture.

The name ‘Silk Road’ evokes images of Marco Polo and endless camel caravans stretching from Beijing to Baghdad and on to the Venetian Lagoon. But the fact is there was no single, definitive trail. Rather, the Silk Road was an umbrella term for a web of trade routes between China and Europe formed over a period of around 1,600 years, from the second century BC to 1450. While these routes wound as far south as India and Southeast Asia, most of their traffic moved overland through the heart of Central Asia, over snowy passes and through scorching deserts. Routes changed over time as new warlords demanded higher taxes from caravans wanting to travel through their territory. Other times, it was because of dangers caused by brutal brigands capturing riches such as silk, tea, ivory and precious metals, and enslaving travellers. Relics of the era can be found across the region today — particularly in the Central Asian segments of the Silk Road.  

Few merchants and travellers made the full journey from Europe to China, as most goods and gold changed hands many times at various points along the Silk Road. Similarly, today, travellers tend to approach the region in bite-sized chunks — travelling the full length would take longer even than Marco Polo’s famous 24-year, 13th-century journey.

History buffs and architecture lovers often focus on Uzbekistan, where preserved mosques and madrasas hide behind fortress walls, and Soviet-era architectural oddities can be found. Trekkers and mountaineers turn towards Kyrgyzstan, a country of snowy peaks and a proud nomadic heritage. Kazakhstan blends the two, with a few attractive Silk Road ruins and impressive landscapes that make it an easy choice to add to any itinerary. The legendary, mountain-backed Pamir Highway — one of the world’s most epic road trips and the northern segment of the ancient Silk Road, described by Marco Polo in the 13th century — lies mostly within Tajikistan’s borders, but travellers intent on seeing it will have to contend with access restrictions and safety concerns.  

Itinerary 1: S ilk Road Cities

Once major hubs for global trade and centres of cultural exchange, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s cities are now welcoming oases for history lovers, complete with ornate Islamic architecture and crumbling ruins.

Arriving in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, board a train (13-17h) to Turkistan to explore the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Dating to the late 14th century, it’s believed to be the earliest example of the Timurid architectural style — intricate tilework, multiple minarets and domes — that came to define the Silk Road. Set aside half a day to visit the partially excavated ruins of 10th-century desert fortress Sauran, 25 miles north west of Turkistan.

Cross the border to Uzbek capital Tashkent, a pleasant city of parks and fountains that, with nearly three million inhabitants, is the biggest in Central Asia. The 18th-century Kukeldash Madrasah, built as an Islamic school, is one of the largest in Central Asia. Inside the nearby 16th-century Hazrati Imam complex is the world’s oldest surviving Quran , brought to Taskkent by Turco-Mongol conqueror Timur.From Tashkent, travel to Urgench by plane, bus or train (3h/14h/15h) and continue by shared taxi to Khiva (30min), the best preserved fortress city along the Central Asian Silk Road. The 2,400-year-old Itchan Kala (old town) is packed with ancient architecture; it would be easy to spend two days here, wandering the winding streets and climbing lofty minarets for views of the city.

Days 8-12  

Go by train to Bukhara (6h) for three nights, then onward by train to Samarkand (1.5h). Both cities are UNESCO listed; Samarkand is the more famous, but Bukhara is the more appealing as it blends ancient and modern so well. Sixteenth-century trading domes are still in use, standing beside all-but-abandoned synagogues, family homes and bakers’ kiosks. In Samarkand, don’t miss the Gur-e-Amir, a mausoleum complex that contains the tomb of tyrant Timur, whose empire stretched from Aleppo to Delhi, and the imposing Registan — a plaza at the heart of the city that contains three ornately mosaiced madrasas. On the edge of the historic centre, the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum complex, with its colourful, tiled facades, is also worth a visit.  

From Samarkand, add a trip to Shakhrisabz, Timur’s birthplace. Once envisioned as the capital of the Timurid Empire and eventual resting place of the conqueror, plans stalled when Timur unexpectedly died during a military campaign in 1405. Today, it’s a small, traditional town; just past a modern statue of Timur, the restored Chubin Madrasah has been converted into a museum dedicated to the tyrant and his empire.  

Itinerary 2: Soviet Legacy

The Soviet Union ruled over much of Central Asia for more than half the 20th century, leaving an enduring physical and ideological legacy that can still be observed in the Silk Road nations of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.

Start in Almaty, exploring the history of Kazakhstan’s Soviet-era capital through the architecture and art of the era. A guided walk with the company Walking Almaty can be one of the best ways to uncover Modernist mosaics and Imperial-era buildings across the historic centre. In the mountains above the city is the modernist Medeu Highland Skating Rink, which opened in 1951. Soviet skaters broke more than 200 world records here before the USSR collapsed. It remains a popular venue, as well as an active competition venue.

Travel west by car to Bishkek, across the border in Kyrgyzstan, where Soviet architecture surrounds a Lenin statue in the city centre. Just over an hour east of the city lies Issyk-Ata Sanatoria — a throwback to the Soviet-era hospital-spa-summer-camps, where tourists can stay overnight in dilapidated, pastel-blue dormitories. Guests can hike up the valley to a small waterfall (a three-mile round trip), returning for a dip in the sanatoria’s hot springs. Before returning to Bishkek, detour to Ata Beyit Memorial Complex, an hour west of Issyk-Ata. A secret mass grave of Soviet Kyrgyzstan’s intelligentsia was revealed here by a deathbed confession from one of the guards on duty the night of the massacre.

It’s a nine-hour overland journey by bus or shared taxi via Kazakhstan — or a one-hour, 20-minute flight — from Bishkek to Tashkent in Uzbekistan. Rebuilt after a devastating 1966 earthquake, Tashkent today is still a showcase of Soviet modernism. Wander from the stone Monument to Courage Earthquake Memorial to the Islamic Modernist dome of Chorsu Bazaar and the brutalist facade of Hotel Uzbekistan. Then descend beneath the streets to ride the Soviet-era train carriages of the Tashkent Metro, where each of the 43 stations has its own distinct architectural style and artistic elements. Don’t miss a trip to see Physics of the Sun, a giant industrial solar furnace complex built by the Soviets in 1981 on a hilltop outside Parkent, 31 miles east of Tashkent. Brutalist in design and still operational today, it uses thousands of mirrored panels to channel heat from the sun.

Finish your trip in the far west of Uzbekistan, with a long journey from Tashkent to the town of Nukus on the former shores of the Aral Sea — around 15 hours by car. This remote location is home to the Nukus Museum of Art, which displays collector Igor Savitsky’s world-class Soviet avant-garde art haul. Poor water management by the Soviets turned the Aral Sea (once the world’s fourth-largest lake) into a dust bowl, which can now be toured in a 4WD vehicle to see the carcasses of marooned ships. The barren scrublands are a devastating ecological warning as well as starkly beautiful. Independent visitors can arrange a bed for the night at Mayak Yurt Camp, which can also provide a driver for an unforgettable trip into the desert on the edge of the town of Moynaq, near the former shore.

Itinerary 3: Mountains & outdoor adventure

Lace up your hiking boots and head into the Tien Shan. The ‘heavenly mountains’ — a range that defines the border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan — live up to their name, offering divine views of snow-capped peaks. There’s adventure here for every level of ability.  

From mountain-flanked Almaty in Kazakhstan, it’s a three-hour drive to 93-mile-long Charyn Canyon for hikes among red-rock towers and through labyrinthine gorges. The alpine village of Sati makes an ideal base for visiting the Kolsai Lakes. From the nearest lake, it’s an easy five-mile hike to the next, then a challenging two-and-a-half miles to the final one. Two valleys east, you’ll find Lake Kaindy; created by an earthquake in 1911, it contains a partially submerged forest of spruce trees, whose exposed tips make for a surreal sight.

Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and make for Karakol, founded in 1869 as a military outpost. Its wooden cottages are now interspersed with hostels catering to armies of hikers. The three-day trek to Ala-Kul lake is Kyrgyzstan’s most popular, climbing to an altitude of 3,900 metres for epic views over the lake from the Ala-Kul Pass. At the end of the trek, visitors can hire a Soviet-era military truck for a day trip to the Altyn-Arashan springs to sooth sore muscles.

Days 9-11  

Hike around Issyk Kol lake, staying at lakeside yurt camps such as Feel Nomad or Bel-Tam . Support conservation initiatives on a guided hike of   Baiboosun Nature Reserve or make the easy, one-mile hike to the Shatyly Panorama for views over Issyk Kol and the snowy Tien Shan peaks.  

Continue to Song-Kol lake at a breathtaking 3,015 metres. Drive up in around four hours from Kochkor on Issyk Kol’s western side, or take one to two days hiking and horse-trekking there from Kyzart, 45 miles west of Kochkor. Spend a full day at the lake, horse-riding through the grasslands in solitude. Afterwards, drive to Bishkek for day hikes up the forested slopes of nearby Ala Archa National Park or to explore the Soviet architecture of the capital.

How to travel: a practical guide

What visas will I need for Central Asia?

Visa policies have loosened considerably over the last decade, with travellers on UK passports currently allowed visa-free entry to Kazakhstan (30-day stay), Uzbekistan (30 days) and Kyrgyzstan (60 days). Longer stays will still require a visa, which must be issued at an embassy or through each country’s e-visa platform . You still need a visa to enter Tajikistan, which can be applied for online before arrival (avoid the on-arrival service, which is a frustrating, time-consuming process).  

Am I likely to need any travel permits?

Trips to some remote border regions of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan do require special permits. If your itinerary includes the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, for example, you’ll need a permit from the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, and it’s best to apply for it with your initial country visa application to save time. Applying for permits can involve Soviet-style bureaucracy; if travelling independently, it’s worth paying a local tour company to do it on your behalf. Fees are usually £25 to £40 per permit.  

How should I manage money while travelling?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Central Asia’s cities but rarely outside of them, and even in cities you’ll still need cash for small purchases. ATMs are widespread in the big cities, but they can unexpectedly run out of cash — particularly on weekends — so it’s worth also carrying some foreign currency. British pounds and Euros can reliably be changed in cities, but in towns and rural areas US dollars are the easiest to exchange.

What languages are spoken across the Central Asian Silk Road?

Russia is the common language in this region. Tourism businesses in popular destinations will usually have English-speaking staff; it’s harder to find English speakers in rural areas.  

How should I dress while travelling here?

Locals across the region typically dress more conservatively than in the West. While visitors aren’t usually expected to adhere to local norms, you may be the target of unwanted attention if you don’t cover your shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas; the capital cities across Central Asia tend to be more liberal.  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• RELIGIOUS TRAVEL

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52 Useful Tips for Travelling the Silk Road (Backpacker’s Guide)

January 19, 2020.

Thinking about travelling the Silk Road? You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. This in-depth post will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip.

From the windswept steppe of Kazakhstan to the mighty Pamir Mountains and to the oasis towns of Uzbekistan, the Silk Road has it all. For thousands of years, travellers and traders made the treacherous journey along the Silk Road, across vast deserts and over high mountain passes.

Nowadays, it’s rather easy to see the countries of the Silk Road for yourself. Visa issues have basically disappeared and there is now plenty of infrastructure to accommodate tourists.

I’ve spent over 6 months travelling around the Central Asian Silk Road countries, and have learned a ton about the region.

• 1 What is the Silk Road?
• 2.2 Kyrgyzstan
• 2.3 Kazakhstan
• 2.4 Uzbekistan
• 2.5 Tajikistan
• 2.6 Turkmenistan
• 2.7 Afghanistan (Wakhan Corridor)
• 3 Silk Road Travel Routes
• 4 Food along the Silk Road
• 5 People & Culture of the Silk Road
• 6 Visas for travelling the Silk Road
• 7 Safety along the Silk Road
• 8 Transportation while travelling the Silk Road
• 9 Accommodation while travelling the Silk Road
• 10 Silk Road Travel Costs
• 11 When to travel the Silk Road
• 12 Communication along the Silk Road
• 13 Internet & SIM Cards for the Silk Road
• 14 Travelling the Silk Road Wrap-up

What is the Silk Road?

1 – The Silk Road wasn’t just one route: The Silk Road was a vast network of trade routes that connected Europe to Asia. The most well-known route is the one from China to Turkey, via Central Asia and Iran. Other routes travelled to Arabia, India, and Southeast Asia.

2 – This post will focus on the Central Asian Silk Road : Most travellers who plan a trip to the Silk Road visit the Central Asian ‘stans and China. While places such as Iran and Turkey are also technically on the Silk Road, that’s not usually the first thing that comes to mind when people visit them.

3 – Where does it start? Where does it end?: People typically consider Xi’an in China to be the starting point, and Istanbul in Turkey to be the endpoint of the Silk Road.

Where to visit along the Silk Road

4 – There are 7 different countries that make up the Central Asian Silk Road: China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and northern Afghanistan are the countries that most consider being part of the Central Asian Silk Road.

Let’s go over the highlights of each of them below:

5 – History, nature, and delicious food: China has an incredibly long history, and it’s Silk Road corridor from Xi’an to Kashgar is no exception. Travelling along the Chinese Silk Road is an incredible experience. You’ll get to visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, taste some delicious noodles in Lanzhou, visit the famous Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, and check out the famous flaming cliffs of Turpan.

6 – Kashgar, China’s westernmost city: Closer to Baghdad than Beijing, Kashgar is an oasis city far from the rest of China. It’s inhabited by ethnic Uyghur people, and has always been an extremely important location on the Silk Road. When you visit Kashgar, you’ll be able to roam around its old city, visit animal markets, and take a road trip down the Karakorum Highway to the Pakistani border.

7 – Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers: Kyrgyzstan is without a doubt the most naturally beautiful Central Asian country. While small in area, it boasts a number of different landscapes. One of my personal favourites is the Alay Valley in the southern part of the country.

There are countless different treks that you can do while in Kyrgyzstan, and there is pretty good information floating around online about the best ones. The Ala-Kul trek is one of the most popular ones, although if you want to get really off the beaten path, treks such as the Heights of Alay will be right up your alley.

8 – Mountaineers will be right at home: Some of the most accessible 7,000-meter peaks in the world are located in Kyrgyzstan, and there are a number of agencies that assist experienced climbers in making attempts on these giant mountains.

I personally attempted to climb Lenin Peak when I was in Kyrgyzstan, it was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done but was incredibly beautiful.

9 – There are nice beaches in Kyrgyzstan: You probably wouldn’t expect to have a nice beach day with a mountain backdrop while you’re in Central Asia, but the massive Issy-Kul in Kyrgystan gives you this opportunity! There are a bunch of towns along the shores of Issy-Kul with great little beach resorts.

This lake is actually a popular summer destination among tourists from Russia and other parts of Central Asia!

Check out my backpacker’s guide to Kyrgyzstan for more info on this amazing country!

10 – Vast steppes and gorgeous mountains: While most of Kazakhstan is an empty steppe, there are some large mountains located in the Almaty and Altai regions of the country. The mountains in the Almaty region are super accessible (just a short bus ride from the city), and there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities here.

11 – Almaty is the most European-like city in Central Asia: When you arrive in Almaty, you’ll notice immediately how European it feels. Everything from the architecture, cuisines, and way that people dress is quite a bit different than most of Central Asia. It’s a wonderful city to spend some relaxation time in after being in rural areas for a while. I ended up loving it so much I stayed in the city for almost two months!

12 – If you like history, Uzbekistan is for you: Out of all the Central Asian ‘stans, Uzbekistan has by far the best-preserved historical sights. The old cities of Bukhara and Khiva feel like living museums – you can wander around their endless alleys all day. Samarkand has the famous Registan and Gur-e-Amir (Mausoleum of Timur) which are two incredible sights that you can’t miss while travelling the Silk Road.

13 – The Aral Sea, one of man’s greatest mistakes: The Aral Sea was once a thriving sea in Uzbekistan, surrounded by fishing towns supporting tens of thousands of people. The Soviet Union decided to redirect the waters of the Aral Sea to use it as irrigation for cotton fields. Over time, this has lead to the Aral Sea almost completely drying up. Nowadays, one can visit the depressing former fishing town of Moynak to gain more insight into how the disaster affected people on the ground.

14 – Tashkent, the Soviet capital of Central Asia: Tashkent was the Soviet capital of Central Asia, and definitely still gives off those kinda vibes. The city is made up of giant 8-lane roads, large European looking buildings, and has plenty of monuments to look at if you’re bored.

For more info on travel in Uzbekistan, be sure to check out my detailed 2-week Uzbekistan itienerary !

Ceilings in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

15 – World’s greatest road trip: Tajikistan is home to the Pamir Highway, arguably the world’s greatest road trip. The Pamir Highway travels through Tajikistan’s mountainous Pamir Region near the border with Afghanistan. When travelling on the highway, you’ll drive over epic 4,500 meter passes, descend into gorgeous valleys, and meet some of the most hospitable people on Earth.

16 – Undiscovered, yet ready to explore: Tajikistan often gets overshadowed by neighbouring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, but it’s so unique and beautiful it’d be a shame to miss it. There are plenty of regions of Tajikistan that see almost no tourists (the Bartang Valley, parts of the Fann Mountains, the Eastern Pamir). Tajiks are very friendly and the Persian influence on their culture is very unique from the rest of Central Asia.

Turkmenistan

17 – The North Korea of the Silk Road: Turkmenistan is a very closed off country, and is often touted as the North Korea of Central Asia. Tourist visas are impossible to get without visiting on a guided tour, making the country pretty off-limits for most backpackers.

Afghanistan (Wakhan Corridor)

18 – Marco Polo’s route to China: During his travels along the Silk Road, Marco Polo passed through the Wakhan Corridor and Little Pamir to enter China via the Wakhjir Pass (4,923 m). This is one of the most remote and treacherous trade routes around, but locals have no choice but to use it.

19 – One of the most untouched places on the planet: Visiting Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor is like a trip back in time. Much of the region still doesn’t have any electricity and internet access is-non existent. This place isn’t for everyone, but experienced travellers will remember it for the rest of their lives.

For more info on visiting, check out my detailed guide to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor .

Silk Road Travel Routes

So now that you know a little bit about the countries that lie along the Silk Road, what is the best way to travel through them?

Let’s go over a few classic Silk Road travel itineraries.

20 – China to Central Asia – the classic Silk Road route: If you want to follow the classic route that traders would’ve taken towards Europe, begin your journey in Xi’an and start heading west. You should stop in Lanzhou, Dunhuang, Zhangye, Turpan, Urumqi, and Kashgar before crossing the Irkeshtam Pass into Kyrgyzstan.

When you’re in Kyrgyzstan, you’ve got a few options. You could head south to Tajikistan along the Pamir Highway, or go north to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan’s Capital) before crossing to Almaty for a little taste of Europe in Central Asia. From either Tajikistan or Kazakhstan, cross the border into Uzbekistan and check out the famous oasis cities of Bukhara and Khiva.

You can end your trip after Uzbekistan, or consider applying for a Turkmenistan transit visa to continue onto Iran if you’ve got even more time.

21 – The Central Asia Loop itinerary: If you want to focus on the heart of Central Asia, you need to visit Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

I’d recommend flying into Almaty, then heading down to Bishkek for some time exploring Kyrgyzstan (Karakol and Osh are must-sees). After that, head south to Dushanbe, Tajikistan via the Pamir Highway and Wakhan Valley (and hop into Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor if you’re up for it!).

After Dushanbe, visit Tajikistan’s Fann Mountains (if you’re not yet tired of mountains) before crossing the border into Uzbekistan. While in Uzbekistan, check out Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent before taking an overnight train back to Almaty.

Food along the Silk Road

22 – Food along the Silk Road is very diverse: Plov, Lagman, Shashlik, Samsas and Beshbarmark are just some of the unique foods that you’ll encounter while travelling around this part of the world. Central Asian food tends to be meat and dairy heavy, whereas Chinese food focuses much more on spices to add flavour.

23 – Plov and Lagman are the most common dishes: In all of the Central Asian countries, you’ll be able to find plov and lagman. Plov is a rice dish with meat and veggies (usually beef and carrots). Lagman is a noodle dish that originates from Uyghur parts of Central Asia. It’s typically made with pulled noodles, meat and vegetables. Spice levels with lagman vary, I only ever found it spicy enough in Xinjiang (China).

24 – Kumis is an alcoholic dairy drink: Made from fermented horse milk, you’ll often find kumis in rural areas of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. It’s got a slight alcohol percentage and a sour taste that takes some getting used to!

People & Culture of the Silk Road

25 – The Silk Road is incredibly diverse: There are so many different ethnic groups in Central Asia, it’d be impossible to list them all. The most common ones that you’ll encounter are Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Uzbeks, Tajiks, and Dungans. As a result of the Soviet Union and China, there are also plenty of Han Chinese, Russians, and Koreans scattered around Central Asia.

26 – Islam is the most common religion: All Central Asian ‘stans are Muslim, and much of the Xinjiang region of China is as well (at least.. for now). Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are the most liberal areas, with plenty of people drinking alcohol and not fasting during Ramadan.

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan are more conservative, especially the southern regions of both countries. However, they are still much more liberal than places like Pakistan or Saudi Arabia .

27 – People are extremely hospitable: One thing that all of the people living in Central Asia have in common is their hospitality. No matter where I went, I was always welcomed with open arms and a cup of chai. People don’t see very many tourists around here and want to treat their guests as well as they can. You don’t have to worry about people being unfriendly here – just keep a smile on your face and you’ll have a wonderful time.

28 – Dress code varies from country to country: In liberal Almaty, girls can wear whatever they want and nobody will bat an eye. Try to do that in southern Tajikistan and you’ll get a different reaction.

In more religious areas, you should dress modestly. For the dudes, pants and a t-shirt is fine everywhere in Central Asia. For females, nothing revealing and you’ll be ok.

Visas for travelling the Silk Road

29 – Visas issues in Central Asia are disappearing: Central Asia used to be one of the most difficult regions to travel around. Travellers would need a visa for every country, and they wouldn’t be easy to get.

Nowadays, things are a lot easier. Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan offer 30-day visa-free access for a number of nationalities. Kyrgyzstan gives 60-days for most people. Tajikistan still requires an e-visa, but it is easy to apply for online and can be gotten within a week or so and is valid for 45-days.

China still requires a visa, but it should be fairly straightforward to apply for before you leave home.

Turkmenistan is still locked down. You can’t get a tourist visa without a guided tour, although travellers are sometimes able to visit independently on a short 5-day transit visa.

30 – Border crossings aren’t too bad: Unless you fly everywhere, you’ll end up having to cross some borders while travelling the Silk Road.

Most border crossings in Central Asia are fairly straightforward now, and you don’t need to worry about a strict bag inspection or anything.

Exceptions are borders into and out of China. Expect a full bag inspection, as well as a search of all the photos on your electronic devices.

Safety along the Silk Road

31 – Central Asia is reasonably safe: I’ve spent a long time in Central Asia, and never once had any safety issues. While this is simply anecdotal, governments usually just advise travellers to proceed with caution while in Central Asia.

There are areas that are more dangerous than others. Parts of the Uzbek/Kyrgyz border infrequently have small violent clashes (you wouldn’t visit here anyway), and southern Tajikistan sometimes has issues.

The areas that tourists usually visit are very safe, in my opinion.

32 – Be careful with nature: I’d guess that most issues that arise when travelling in Central Asia are due to altitude sickness and twisted ankles. If you’re planning a trip along the Pamir Highway, you need to be sure to properly acclimatize or you could get altitude sickness. When hiking, always be careful and go with a guide if you’re unsure of your abilities.

33 – Driving can be dangerous:  Like everywhere in the world, Central Asia has some crazy drivers. Combine this with windy mountain roads, and you’re asking for disaster.

All you can do here is get out of a vehicle if you feel unsafe. If the driver smells like alcohol, that’s a bad sign.

In many places, you can take a train rather than drive, but driving is required to travel around Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

34 – Don’t forget your travel insurance: No matter where you go, you should always have travel insurance – Central Asia is no exception. Even though Central Asia is safe, accidents can still happen.

I personally use and recommend World Nomads. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of  adventure sports and activities (important if you plan on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities while in Central Asia).

GET YOUR FREE QUOTE FROM WORLD NOMADS HERE

Transportation while travelling the Silk Road

35 – Travelling the Silk Road involves long journey times: Distances are massive along the Silk Road, and the roads and railways are usually not the most modern.

For example, a train from Xi’an to Kashgar takes a solid 40 hours, and a minivan from Bishkek to Osh takes about 14 hours.

Patience is key here, but at least you’ll be able to look out the window and enjoy views of the epic scenery of Central Asia.

36 – When you can, take the train: Trains aren’t always an option, but in China, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan they have pretty good networks. Trains are much more comfortable for long distances than buses, and they often run overnight so you can just sleep in a bed the entire journey.

37 – Get ready for a lot of marshrutka rides:  Marshrutkas (minivans) are the backbone of Central Asia. They run throughout all of the former Soviet Union countries and are pretty affordable.

Try to avoid sitting in the very back – it’s uncomfortable and you can’t see anything. Bring plenty of water, as these things don’t usually have air conditioning and the Central Asian summer gets bloody hot.

38 – Consider flying if you’re short on time: While I prefer overland travel, I understand that not everybody has 6 months to spend screwing around in Central Asia.

If you need to get from Osh to Bishkek (and you’ve already seen that epic drive at least once), then just take the $30 flight and skip the 14-hour long drive.

Accommodation while travelling the Silk Road

39 – Most forms of accommodation are available: In most places that you’ll visit while travelling the Silk Road, there are both budget and mid-range accommodation types available.

Hostels are common in Central Asia and are very affordable. Hotels are also found in all cities and large towns.

In rural areas, I recommend staying at a homestay to experience true Central Asian hospitality.

40 – When you’re in Kyrgyzstan, you need to sleep in a yurt :  The yurt is the traditional home of nomadic Kyrgyz, Kazakh, and Mongolian people. A yurt is a round, single-room building that is usually white on the outside. They’re warm and comfortable even when high in the mountains.

Tourist yurts are common in Kyrgyzstan, and the perfect place to spent a night while trekking.

41 – Research your Xinjiang accommodation in advance: The far west Chinese province of Xinjiang has a lot of restrictions on which hotels foreigners are allowed to stay at. The list is always changing, so you need to do a bit of research to find where you’ll be allowed to stay during your trip.

If you’re travelling with a tour, this would be arranged for you.

Silk Road Travel Costs

42 – Central Asia is a pretty cheap place: While not as cheap as India or Vietnam, travelling in Central Asia is still very affordable. If you stick to hostels, local food, and public transport, you can easily keep your budget around $35 per day.

If you want a bit more luxury, push that budget to $50 and you’ll be able to have amazing meals and stay in pretty nice places.

43 – China can be a bit more pricey: With China’s economic boom, prices have been increasing. While travelling in China is affordable for the most part, certain things like entrance fees and train tickets can add up over time.

44 – Money-saving tips: To save some money while travelling in Central Asia, I’d recommend using Couchsurfing and hitchhiking when possible.

Couchsurfing is a great way to meet locals, and you’ll save a bit of cash. Hitchhiking in Central Asia is fairly easy, although you sometimes have to pay a small amount (even locals do this).

When to travel the Silk Road

45 – Summers are super hot: The Central Asian summer is extremely hot. Summer temperatures can reach 50°C in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, and cities like Tashkent and Dushanbe get pretty unbearable. Central Asia is quite dry, so you don’t need to worry about humidity, at least.

However, summer is the perfect time if you want to get into the mountains of Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan. The trekking season is short here, usually running from June to mid-September. If you’re at all interested in outdoor adventures, summer is a great time. You’ll just need to bear the city heat while you pass through them.

46 – Spring and Autumn are perfect: For the most comfortable experience, travel the Silk Road during spring or autumn. These seasons bring comfortable temperatures, especially in places like Uzbekistan. In the mountains of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, things will be a bit chilly but it’s still possible to do some short hikes.

47 – Winters are harsh: Central Asia is a land of extremes. Winter brings freezing temperatures to much of the region. While travel is doable at this time of year, bring warm clothes and understand that certain summer activities just won’t be possible.

Snow-covered landscapes are beautiful, and the Silk Road landscapes look unique while covered in a blanket of fresh white snow.

If you’re a skier, you’ll be happy to know that Almaty, Bishkek, and Karakol have some great hills! Rental prices are pretty reasonable.

Communication along the Silk Road

48 – Russian is the most useful language: The five Central Asian ‘stans spent quite a while in the Soviet Union, and the Russian language spread throughout them during this time.

In Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, almost everybody knows Russian, especially in the cities. It’s much more common to hear Russian being spoken in Bishkek than Kyrgyz.

Uzbekistan still has quite a lot of Russian speakers as well, especially in Tashkent. In Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, Russin is less common but it’s still possible to find some speakers of it.

While you obviously don’t need to learn Russian to travel in Central Asia, it sure does help to learn the Cyrillic alphabet and some basic phrases.

I recommend picking up a Russian phrasebook before leaving home.

49 – People love if you learn a word or two in their local language: Just learning how to say “thank you” in Kyrgyz ( rahmat )  makes Kyrgyz people super happy. I always try to do this when travelling, and in Central Asia, it’s a really great thing to do.

50 – Plenty of people know English: With tourism increasing along the Silk Road, more and more people are learning some English to work in the tourism industry. At hotels and hostels, you’ll usually be able to find an employee who knows English.

In cities like Bishkek and Almaty, so many young people know English and are eager to practice with foreigners. I’ve had people start friendly conversations with me just because they heard me speaking English.

Don’t stress if you don’t know any Russian or local languages. I always manage to get by with English, Google Translate, and some patience.

Internet & SIM Cards for the Silk Road

51 – Internet quality varies along the Silk Road: In Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, there is cheap and fast internet almost everywhere. I was able to get 3G signal at Lenin Peak base camp at 3,600 meters in Kyrgyzstan. In Kazakhstan, I paid about $5 for 9GB of data with unlimited social media use (including YouTube and Instagram). In Kyrgyzstan, I paid $4 for 40GB of data.

On the other side of the spectrum are Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The internet there is somewhat expensive, and coverage is pretty bad outside of the main cities. It’s still worth picking up a local SIM card, but you need to be a bit mindful of your data usage. WiFi is also less common here, although decent hostels will have it.

52 – You need to get around China’s Great Firewall: In China, the internet is restricted and most foreign websites are blocked. All Google and Facebook services are inaccessible, as well as sites such as Reddit and Wikipedia.

To access these sites, you need to use a VPN. The best VPN for travelling in China right now is NordVPN .

I’ve used a bunch of different VPNs while travelling and had by far the best experience with NordVPN . They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, 24/7 customer support, and high-speed servers that are reliable and consistent.

Travelling the Silk Road Wrap-up

I hope this post has helped you learn a bit more about travelling the Silk Road! I love Central Asia so much, and I’m sure you’ll love it too. It’s such an undiscovered and beautiful place to travel around.

If you have any questions, ask in the comments below!

Otherwise, check out some of my other epic guides:

• Guide to travelling in Kyrgyzstan
• Guide to travelling in Mongolia
• Guide to travelling in China
• Guide to travelling in Pakistan
• Guide to travelling in Saudi Arabia
• Guide to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor

21-year old Canadian dude who loves to visit off-the-beaten-path places, climb tall mountains, and try delicious foods.

Read more about me

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5 thoughts on “ 52 Useful Tips for Travelling the Silk Road (Backpacker’s Guide) ”

Wow looks so beautiful😍, I want to visit Silk road and Pamir Highway. How is temperature in Central Asia (May – Sept). Did you visit with a tour or autostop? I want take a tour because its more cheaper, we’re 4 people. I wanna book tour with Pegas Adventure. Anyone used this tour company?

You’ll love Central Asia 🙂

Temperatures depend on where you are in Central Asia – summertime peaks in July & August, so you should try to be in the mountains during those months where temperatures will be pretty comfortable. In the lowlands of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, summer temperatures can soar to above 40 degrees.

I don’t know much about tour agencies in Central Asia – If you have four people you could even consider renting a car and driving it on a big loop. Public transport is also very easy to take, but with four people it might end up costing the same just to rent your own car. You can even take it between countries, as long as the rental company allows it.

Let me know if you have any other questions! Hope this helps 🙂

Do you think it would be ok for two women traveling alone, say a mother-duaghter duo?

I’d say so, although some previous travel experience in a less developed country would be good to have.

Locals might be a bit surprised, as this isn’t something they’d typically encounter, although there shouldn’t be any hostility about it.

People in Central Asia are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners! Feel free to email me if you have more questions.

Thank you for this lovely guide. You’ve done the hard footwork and then share such useful information with us! I hope that you’ll get to travel all the places in the world you desire, and are always at the right place, at the right time. ☀️🌈🌳🌸🌟☃️

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How to travel the Silk Road

What is the silk road.

The Silk Road is one of the world’s most famous and evocative routes. Named after the trade which sprang up in response to the demand for Chinese silk, its origins can be traced back over 3000 years.

Merchants exchanged goods such as horses, furs, jade and ivory for silk. This in turn led to trading posts springing up along the route, which over time grew into wealthy and important cities, such as Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan.

It wasn’t just goods which travelled the Silk Road, but in time everything from ideas and religion to cuisine and even disease. We’ve brought some of this to life in a Silk Road infographic.

View Our Silk Road Infographic

WHERE DOES IT RUN TO AND FROM?

Rather than a single road, the Silk Road was more like a network of different routes. At its full length, it stretched from Xi’an in eastern China to Constantinople, now Istanbul. Different branches stretched on alternative routes, to the Indian Subcontinent, South East Asia, across to the Middle East and over sea routes to North Africa.

WHICH  PARTS SHOULD I SEE?

That depends on what you’re after.

SCENERY: KYRGYZSTAN

Kyrgyzstan (above) is hard to beat in terms of breathtaking scenery, with landscapes of grassy steppe, primal forests and turquoise lakes, along with the remote and striking “Mountains of Heaven”.

It’s also the place to experience nomadic culture: sleep in traditional yurts, meet eagle hunters and enjoy watching nomad’s horse-games. Our  Kyrgyzstan Explorer trip spends two weeks uncovering this natural beauty, through walks, stays in yurts, horse rides and some unforgettable drives through the mountain scenery.

See All Kyrgyzstan Tours

CULTURE: UZBEKISTAN

If it’s the cultural legacy you’re searching for , head to Uzbekistan for the architecturally splendid ancient cities of Bukhara, Samarkand and Khiva, filled with elaborately tiled mosques, emerald domes, impressive fortresses and palaces all with fascinating histories.

Discover the legacy of great rulers such as Babur, who conquered northern India and became its first Mughal emperor, to Tamerlane, one of the last great nomadic conquerors of Central Asia, who built many of the stunning monuments of Samarkand and Bukhara on our Uzbekistan: Land of Silk Road Treasures tour.

See All Uzbekistan Tours

But if you can’t choose – don’t worry! Combine elements of both, for instance on our Mountains and Cities of the Silk Road tour, spending time in both Kyrgyzstan’s beautiful mountains and Uzbekistan’s wondrous cities.

Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan - Mountains and Cities of the Silk Road Tour

THE UNUSUAL: TURKMENISTAN

Beyond this, Turkmenistan offers unique travel experiences, with an ostentatious marble-clad capital like no other and the ever-blazing phenomenon of the Darvaza Gas Crater. 

See All Turkmenistan Tours

IRAN: 

Iran is experiencing a travel renaissance since it re-opened to western tourists, with a wealth of fascinating culture and history, stunning mountain scenery and an exceptionally friendly and hospitable populace. 

See All Iran Tours

THE FULL MONTY: 

For those with the time to spare, our epic 47-day Great Silk Road Adventure travels the entire route end-to-end, through six contrasting countries and 15 UNESCO sites.

The Great Silk Road Adventure Tour

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE?

“Surprisingly better than expected!” most of our travellers delight in telling us.

Signature dishes include laghman (hand-pulled noodles with meat) and plov (a slow-cooked rice dish - see photo above). Whilst there is a lot of meat, the region is not as un-vegetarian friendly as you might assume. From pumpkin-stuffed dumplings to beetroot soup and an abundance of aubergine and fresh tomato salads, there is plenty by way of meat-free alternatives.

Read our blog on the food of the Silk Road  from Wild Frontiers' Mike, who spent time there last summer. Travel and food writer Caroline Eden has recently published a wonderful cookery book Samarkand celebrating the cuisine of Central Asia and we discuss the main flavours and popular dishes with her  here .

ANY CULTURAL THINGS TO BE AWARE OF?

Travelling to Central Asia and the Silk Road, like travelling anywhere, requires an open mind and a respect for different cultures. With these in hand, you are bound to have both a revealing and rewarding visit. Particular issues crop up from country to country and on any of our trips we will always send you detailed notes on anything to be aware of beforehand. Examples of such issues include things like pretty vigorous border checks into countries like Uzbekistan, alongside alcohol not being permitted and women being required to cover their hair in Iran. 

Find Out What To Wear In Iran

WHAT IS THE VISA SITUATION?

For British and American nationals, clients will need to get visas before travelling to most Silk Road countries. The exception is Kyrgyzstan, which is simply a stamp on arrival. Iranian visas require a bit of time as we must acquire an invitation code for you. We can apply for this on your behalf and it generally takes three to four weeks to come through. You can then apply for your visa using this code. In addition, Turkmenistan requires an official letter of invitation.

You should always check the country guidelines for whichever country you are visiting.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO GO?

With everything else varying country to country, so too does the climate. The summer months are best for enjoying the mountain scenery of Kyrgyzstan; it's pleasantly warm in the daytime – enough to go walking in just a t-shirt, although at night when sleeping in yurts in the open steppe and at high altitude, temperatures fall to almost freezing. Layers and thermals are therefore key!

Both Iran and Uzbekistan are best enjoyed in spring or autumn and are in their prime in May and September. Our Great Silk Road Adventure departs in September in order to take into account the many considerations of a changing climate and altitude

GROUP OR TAILOR-MADE?

You can arrange either with Wild Frontiers. Our group sizes are never more than 12 – with the exception of our 47-day Great Silk Road Adventure which accommodates up to 16 people. If you travel in a group tour along the Silk Road with us, you will find yourself with a range of companions, mostly from Europe and the United States, across a range of ages, professions and interests. If you prefer to travel on a tailor-made basis, we have a range of suggested itineraries along the Silk Road or we can build your itinerary from scratch. 

See All Silk Road Tours

Michael Pullman

View michael pullman's latest blog posts, related tours.

Travelling Without a Passport

Travelling The Silk Road by Overland: Exploring a History the Length of the World

Exploring a history that spans the length of the world is no mean feat, our Silk Road travel guide will take you on a journey like no other!

The Silk Road is woven into the very fabric of our world. It needs no introduction, but then, it does, if only to let our imaginations run wild with the thought of travelling or driving the Silk Road. From its geographical configuration (at least 4,000 miles, in more than 40 countries) to its role in history, not many routes can claim the glory that belongs to the Silk Road. While its moniker came courtesy of Chinese silk, other goods such as spices and jade were also carried from east to west upon it.

The Silk Road has also had a social and cultural impact on the world. In its heyday, the route formed bonds and links between different ethnicities across its sprawling and complex network. In total there are more than twenty ethnic groups along the Silk Road; many with their own languages, customs, and traditions. Life around the Silk Road remains mostly unknown to us, but the legends, myths, and rituals warrant a closer look.

For explorers and travellers, this route is the embodiment of wanderlust; its very name suggests a voyage like no other, it is a trip through time. Buddhist art, Islamic architecture, lost dynasties, ruins, ancient cities, and dramatic scenery are only the beginning of what there is to discover. How do you explore something that spans most of the world? The answer: overlanding. When you overland, the purpose of your trip is not the destination but the journey, and there is no adventure more suited to this style of travel than that of the Silk Road.

See Also: The Fastest-Growing Destinations for 2019

Silk Road travel guide

The Silk Road is best described as a collection of intricate paths that form a network (so intricate that a travel guide is definitely required reading). Beginning in the former capital of China, Xī’ān, the route crosses mountain-tops and desert plains into Central Asia. The Silk Road played a considerable role in the development of China, Korea, Japan, India, Iran, Afghanistan, Europe, Africa, and Arabia.

The main artery of this track follows the Great Wall, over the Pamir Mountains into Afghanistan, and from there it leads to the Levant. Roads branched off this central route towards towns and cities, river ports, markets, and pilgrimage sites. Many cities located on the system flourished and became wealthy hubs during its trading days. As well as silk, other popular items traded along the route were salt, sugar, porcelain, and spices.

Along with metropolises rich in heritage and culture, the Silk Road is a haven for scenery, given that the route passes through so much wilderness and some of the highest places on earth. Visitors can discover cosmopolitan cities steeped in the past, semi-nomadic farming lifestyles, and explore hidden gems in a diversity of landscapes.

Best time to visit the Silk Road

March, April, and May are the perfect time to visit countries along the Silk Route. The weather will be around 15-20 degrees Celsius, and spring will be blooming. September and October are also another great time to visit; you can feast on juicy grapes and ripe dates. The winter is often too cold, and the summers are busy and hot.

Where to stay

The accommodation options along the Silk Road vary as much as the route itself. From luxurious hotels in urban habitats and guesthouses in towns, to local homestays in rural villages and cozy yurts under the stars, where you stay is really up to you. Not all the destinations will have as many options, particularly if you venture to remote locations that can be found on the route. Travellers who want to take away the hassle of figuring out where to stay should ideally pick a tour that will handle this element for them.

You will need visas for many countries along the Silk Road. This may seem a little daunting at first, but with a bit of research and the right planning, it can be a relatively easy process. Make sure you are up to date on any travel requirements for the countries you are visiting and apply for visas well in advance. Passport holders can also obtain a visa on arrival in certain countries, and tour companies often help with letters required to support your visa application.

What to pack

You can pack for the Silk Road as you would for most trips. A combination of shorts and t-shirts for the warm days, and extra layers for the cooler evenings. It may also make sense to pack a light waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes are a must. It’s also helpful to carry a backpack with essential travel items like a hat, a pair of sunglasses, lip balm, sunblock, snacks, refillable water bottle, and camera.

Being respectful while travelling the Silk Road

When meeting locals along the Silk Road it’s important to be aware of their culture, customs, and traditions. Doing a little research where possible will go a long way, and following in your host or tour guide’s example is the best practice. Likewise, when visiting temples and religious sites, it’s important to remember that these are sacred spaces and places of worship for the locals. Be respectful of dress requirements and visiting restrictions.

Medicines on the Silk Road

Depending on where you go on the Silk Road, you may need certain medications, though it’s best to acquire this information from a doctor or travel clinic. It’s also well worth packing some treatments for colds, upset stomachs, nausea, and fever. It also doesn’t hurt to travel with some bug spray and antiseptic creams, or a mini first aid kit. Also, do not carry any medicine that contains tramadol, codeine, temazepam, morphine, or opiates, as they are illegal in most of Central Asia.

See Also: Are You a Respectful Traveller?

Driving the Silk Road

From the silk traders that led to the naming of the road to the legendary rulers who used it satisfy their own ambitions, the cities along this ancient route have drawn visitors from far and wide. While it’s possible to travel the Silk Road by train (the most popular form of transport), understandably many visitors want to experience it more viscerally on a road trip.

If driving the Silk Road appeals to you, keep in mind that even today, the journey will require a substantial amount of travel days and preparation for you to get the most of out your trip. If you want to discover the route by road, we recommend doing it via overland vehicle. This removes the limitations of public transport, without sacrificing the chance to explore the Silk Road along old tracks that were used by historical figures like Marco Polo and Genghis Khan.

The Silk Road crosses some of the most exciting terrains on the planet; it won’t come as a surprise that it is here that overlanding was born. These days, visitors rarely get the chance to travel the entire route, but Dragoman has plenty of itineraries ranging from nine to 127 days that will let you experience the region thoroughly and authentically.

Silk Road travel itinerary

To follow in the footsteps of the remarkable explorers and traders who crisscrossed the world on this epic route, you’ll need an overland tour that travels through cities and destinations where the legacy of the Silk Road lives on. From bargaining in the market lanes of Tabriz and meandering the backstreets of Bukhara, to falling asleep alongside shepherds in the Pamir Mountains and exploring ancient towns, travelling the Silk Road can bring many dreams to life.

Overlanding is a unique and unrestricted way to visit the Silk Route. Imagine getting off the tarmac and taking the road less travelled? Staying with local families or heading off to remote villages and enriching your life with unchartered experiences? Overlanding captures the true spirit of the Silk Road, allowing travellers to form meaningful connections with the places they visit. Dragoman has been operating overlanding tours since the 1980s, so take advantage of their in-depth knowledge by opting for a carefully curated Silk Road travel itinerary.

• Turkey, Iran and the Silk Route : From the whirling dervish to Persian culture, this route will take you to some of the most beautiful cities. Shiraz, Tehran, and Istanbul may be cosmopolitan, but they sired some of the world’s oldest poets and artists. This route is teeming with breathtaking architecture, sacred sites, desert plains, art, and literature.
• Kyrgyzstan and the Chinese Silk Route:  Even today, for travellers, Kyrgyzstan’s pastures and mountaintops are a gateway to Central Asia. For merchants on the Silk Road, this country also played a pivotal role. This is probably why a number of Silk Road sites can be found in the region. This route will also take you to Xī’ān, the starting point of the Silk Road, and another gateway to Kashgar (the epicentre for regional trade in China) and beyond. In Xī’ān, you can take a guided tour of the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, and explore the Great Mosque and Shaanxi Museum.
• Central Silk Route: This route will take you through Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, important trading posts on the Silk Road. Among the minarets, golden domes, and tiled mosaics of these cities, you’ll discover the history and culture left behind in Uzbekistan by traders and merchants that tread upon these roads all those centuries ago.
• Western Silk Route:  Start in Istanbul, a city where the spirit of the Silk Road manifests as east and west come together, and end your trip in the opulent marble palaces of Ashgabat in Turkmenistan. You’ll have the opportunity to sail over the Caspian Sea, explore the Black Sea mountain monastery at Sumela, and walk through the ancient valley of Ihlara. The valley was a haven for Byzantine monks who chiselled churches into its cliffs.
• Silk Route and Mountains of Central Asia:  On this route, you can follow the famous Pamir Highway over the Kyzyl Art Pass, the frontier between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan and one of the highest and most remote border crossings in the world. You’ll trek through the Fann Mountains, a stunning range of jagged peaks 30km east of Penjikent, camp beside Iskanderkul Lake, a glacial waterbody found in Tajikistan’s mountainous region and see the silk-weavers of Fergana Valley. Visitors will also see some cultural hubs that are filled with memories from the golden days of trade, including Samarkand in Uzbekistan, a city potently reminiscent of the Silk Road. The walled old town and grand architecture will quickly work its magic on you.

This story was created in partnership with: Dragoman 

Based in Toronto, Sahar is a full-time content editor for Days to Come and part-time travel junkie.

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Caravanistan

The Silk Road Travel Guide

Caravanistan helps you get the most out of your Silk Road trip

Both for independent travelers and guided trips

Hi there! We’re Caravanistan and we help you make the most of your Silk Road trip in 4 ways:

Leading travel guide for Central Asia

Silk Road Visa shop

Custom tours for unique adventures

Car and motorbike rental

A hand-crafted travel guide for Central Asia and beyond

At Caravanistan, we spend our waking hours to guide everyone to a more meaningful travel experience on the Silk Road.

We believe in going slow. A change of pace is often more important than a change of place. See less, and experience more.

Go beyond the guidebooks and the must-sees. We aim to guide you there.

Tailormade trips, at group tour prices

Use our expertise to design your unique adventure, whether it’s a 5-star trip along Uzbekistan’s culture cities, or a demanding hike in the Tien Shan mountains.

We evaluate your request and match you with the tour operators that suit your travel ideas best.

Why choose Caravanistan ?

No booking fee

You deal directly with local tour operators. We don’t put anything on top.

Competing offers

Pick the one you like best.

Cherry-picked tour operators

We only work with a few tour operators that we know well, who understand how you like to travel.

We know Central Asia

Not only have we been everywhere, we also know how things work around here.

Need a ride ?

Reliable wheels for your self-driving adventure, for rent across Central Asia

Invitation letters

We have got a decade of experience in getting visas for travelers of all passports.

Highly reliable, immensely helpful, and always inspiring. Kevin Kelly, founder Wired Magazine

Go further, go slower. Experience more.

Caravanistan is kept in the air since 2011 by Saule from Kazakhstan and Steven from Belgium. For travelers, by travelers.

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10 Days Classic Silk Road Tour

China Silk Road Tours - Ancient Silk Road Travel 2024/2025

Follow Marco Polo's footprints to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Ancient Silk Road!

The Silk Road connecting the East and the West was one of the most important arteries of trade and culture in world history. A dozen immense caravans traveled on this long route between ancient China and the Mediterranean for two millennia. Today, the Silk Road is rather a historic travel route on which you can experience interesting history, enjoy exotic culture and savor wild nature. The best highlights are a series of historical towns and ruins spreading on from Xian, through Ningxia, Gansu, Qinghai and Xinjiang, and eventually to Central Asia. Besides, the Silk Road is also a scenic route with breathtaking natural landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, wild deserts, magic Danxia landforms, emerald lakes, etc.

In order to help you better explore the cultural and natural splendor of the Silk Road, China Discovery here has selected the best-selling tour packages covering the most preferred attractions and activities. You could also browse the short trips filtering by the most popular destinations on the Silk Road, or customize a Silk Road tour according to your own interest, travel length or budget. Besides, we offer the most-updated travel information and travel guide about Silk Road which assist you with a full preparation for your coming Silk Road holiday in advance.

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Top 8 Silk Road Tour Packages

Classic Silk Road Tour

Trip at a Glance: Xian (3N), Dunhuang (1N), Turpan (1N), Urumqi (2N), Kashgar (2N)

Sites: Terracotta Warriros, Mogao Grottoes, Heavenly Lake, Kashgar Old City

Transfer: Private Car & Bullet Train

Silk Road Glory

Trip at a Glance: Zhangye (1N), Zhangye (1N), Jiayuguan (1N), Dunhuang (2N)

Sites: Zhangye Danxia, Jiayuguan Fort, Mogao Grottoes, Mingshan Mountains, Yulin Caves

Essences of Silk Road History and Culture

Best silk road culture.

Trip at a Glance: Xian (2N), Dunhuang (2N)

Sites: Terracotta Warriors, Mogao Grottoes, Mingshashan Desert, Crescent Lake

Transfer: Private Car & Flight

Photography of Colorful China

Photography of wild china.

Trip at a Glance: Xining (2N), Chaka (1N), Zhangye (2N), Badain Jaran Desert (1N)

Sites: Qinghai Lake, Zhangye Danxia Geopark, Binggou Danxia Geopark, Badain Jaran Desert

Transfer: Private Car

Legendary Journey to The West

Trip at a Glance: Beijing (3N), Xian (3N), Dunhuang (1N), Turpan (1N), Urumqi (2N), Kashgar (1N)

Sites: Mutianyu Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Mogao Grottoes, Kashgar Old City

Transfer: Private Car & Bullet Train & Flight

Epic Silk Road Scenery

Epic silk road tour.

Trip at a Glance: Xining (2N), Zhangye (1N), Jiayuguan (1N), Dunhuang (2N), Turpan (1N), Urumqi (2N), Kashgar (2N)

Sites: Qinghai Lake, Mingsha Mountains, Mogao Grottoes, Kashgar Old City

Transfer: Private Car & Train & Flight

Explore Silk Road in Xinjiang

Trip at a Glance: Urumqi (2D), Turpan (1D), Korla (1D), Kuqa (2D), Minfeng (1D), Hotan (1D), Kashgar (3D), Tashkurgan (1D)

Sites: Takilamakan Desert, Karakul Lake, Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar Old Town, Tianshan Mysterious Canyon...

Mysterious Wild China

Mysterious wild china exploration.

Trip at a Glance: Kashgar (2N), Urumqi (1N), Turpan (1N), Dunghuang (2N), Jiayuguan (1N), Zhangye (1N), Xining (2N), Xining-Lhasa Train (1N), Tibet(7N)

Sites: Kashgar Old City, Mogao Grottoes, Qinghai Tibet Railway, Mount Everest

Transfer: Private Car & Train

Find Your Favorite China Silk Road Adventure by Destinations

Do you have any ideas where to go to explore China Silk Road better? In fact, the Silk Road passes through six provinces in China, including Henan, Shaanxi, Ningxia, Qinghai, and the essence of the Silk Road - Gansu and Xinjiang . In these provinces, there are many cities and towns cherished with numerous brilliant historic & cultural treasures. Here we list the top 10 destinations (including Xian, Luoyang, Dunhuang, Kashgar…) with priceless relics and breathtaking landscape to experience. Just click your favorite destination to find the general travel information and the most recommended tours. If you are looking any other places for a more in-depth experience (such as Kuche, Korla, Baoji, Zhongwei, Guyuan…), feel free to contact us for more detailed information.

Xian - the Origin of the Silk Road

Explore China’s past glory in the World Historic and Cultural City recognized by UNESCO!

The Silk Road was originally opened in 139 BC during the Western Han Dynasty, when Emperor Wu ordered Zhang Qian to visit western regions from the capital - Xian (called Chang’an in the old times). As the origin of the Silk Road and an old capital of 13 Dynasties, Xian offers many wonderful historic sites and cultural experiences.

• Location: Shanxi Province in Central China
• Best Places to Go: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace
• Recommended Activities: Biking, Food Class, Tang Dynasty Show, Minatare Terracotta Warrior Making…
• Recommended Trip Length: 2 ~ 4 days

3 Days Classic Xian Tour

Travel the best highlights and the unique historic relics of the ancient capital Xian at an enjoyable pace in 3 days. This is the most classic Xian itinerary, with visits to all the bests of this ancient capital!

Price from $298

Most classic trip to follow the footprints of the ancient Silk Road. You will visit Xian, Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan and Dunhuang. Private tour package, competitive price.

Price from $2,566

Dunhuang - the Most Important Post along the Silk Road

Appreciate the finest Buddhist art in the Oriental Louvre and the magic desert view with a never-dry lake!

As the westernmost city in the Hexi Corridor, Dunhuang held a strategic post along the Silk Road. With many goods, handicrafts, religions and cultures from central China and other regions in central Asia or Europe mixed here, it became a flouring trade and cultural center. Lots of historic relics are preserved in Dunhuang, including world-famous Mogao Grottoes.

• Location: Gansu Province in northwestern China
• Best Places to Go: Mogao Grottoes, Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake, Yardang National Geopark, Yumen Pass, Yangguan Pass..
• Recommended Activities: Camel-riding, Desert Camping, Silk Road Shows…

3 Days Dunhuang Culture & Scenery

Trace the Silk Road in Dunhuang, also enjoy marvelous Gobi Desert landscape, incredible Yardang landforms, Crescent Lake, etc. with your private guide and driver.

Price from $352

8 Days In-depth Gansu Highlights Tour

A thorough tour to discover the Gansu highlights from Lanzhou, via Xiahe, Zhangye Danxia Landform, Jiayuguan, to Dunhuang.

Price from $1,361

Kashgar - the Convergence of North and South Route of the Silk Road

Get a memorable cultural and spiritual exploration in the essential part of Xinjiang!

Kashgar in Xinjiang is a must-be-visited site if you are seeking for the authentic Xinjiang atmosphere and the essence of the Silk Road culture. It is honored as the fusion of the Eastern and Western cultures, and various ethnic groups and different spiritual believes coexist here till now. In addition to cultural significance, an amazing plateau landscape can be viewed as well.

• Location: Xinjiang Province in northwestern China
• Best Places to Go: Kashgar Old City, Id Kah Mosque, Abakha Hoja Tombe, Karakul Lake, Tashkurgan Stone City…
• Recommended Activities: Handicrafts Making, Local Tea Tasting…
• Recommended Trip Length: 3 ~ 4 days

5 Days Legendary Pamirs Tour from Kashgar to Tashkurgan

This legendary Pamirs Tour combines the Silk Road culture with Pamirs adventure perfectly. It is all-inclusive private tour package that is strongly recommended for those who are seeking for authentic culture and wild landscape.

Price from Request

8 Days Urumqi Turpan Kashgar Xinjiang Tour - Classic Xinjiang Discovery

This is the most classic and enjoyable Xinjiang tour on which you will visit the Golden Triangle - Urumqi, Kashgar and Turpan to get the best Silk Road exploration and Xinjiang's best culture and nature.

Luoyang - the Capital of the Most Glorious Dynasties

Go back to the earliest days of China’s antiquity, and enjoy the enlightenment of Chinese Buddhism and Chinese Kungfu!

Just like Xian, Luoyang is also an ancient capital of 13 dynasties, including China’s most prosperous Sui and Tang Dynasty (581~907). As a great cradle of Chinese civilization, Luoyang provides travelers with many cultural surprises, such as the masterpiece of stone Buddha carving arts, China’s first Buddhist temple, the ruins of the capital of China’s first dynasty, etc. It is also known as the city of peony and you can enjoy a variety of peony flowers from April to early May. Besides, many travelers take a sidetrip to Shaolin Temple - the Birthplace of Chinese Kung Fu.

• Location: Henan Province in central China
• Best Places to Go: Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, Luoyang Museum…
• Recommended Trip Length: 2 ~ 3 days

3 Days Luoyang Essence Tour

Apart from the surviving Longmen Grottoes, you will also explore more of Luoyang by visiting its local museums and experience the authentic Shaolin Kung Fu in nearby Dengfeng Shaolin Temple.

6 Days Henan Highlights Tour

Explore the essential highlights of Henan in a brief but enjoyable way, including the ancient Yinxu Site in Anyang, famous Shaolin Temple and magnificent Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, etc.

Turpan - A Veritable Oasis in the Desert

Discover the ancient city ruins, mysterious villages and sweet grapes in China’s most burning city!

Turpan is the hottest city in China, and its highest temperature can reach over 40 °C. However, it can easily enjoy coolness in the mud buildings or green vineyards because of the irrigating project of Karez System. There are also many historic sites in Turpan, from which travelers can take an insight into the brilliant culture of the Silk Road as well.

• Best Places to Go: Jiaohe Ancient City, Karez System, Turpan Museum, Bezeklik Thousand Buddhas Cave, Tuyuk Valley, Gaochang Ancient City, Kumtag Desert…
• Recommended Activities: Desert activities like desert safari, sand surfing, desert spa…

3 Days Turpan Highlights Tour

This 3-day tour takes you to visit the Buddhist relics, city ruins, great engineering project as well as the magnificent Kumtag Desert.

6 Days Urumqi Turpan Kashgar Efficient Tour - Brief Xinjiang Impression

This is a time-and-money efficient tour on which you will start your tour from Urumqi and end in Kashgar with a well-arranged itinerary. You will have all the classic experiences in your pocket, and at the same time enjoy vacation-standard tour services. It is available all year around.

Xining (Qinghai) - Gateway to China’s Amazing Plateau Landscape

Immerse in the beauty of the colorful salt lakes and Buddhist atmosphere!

Xining is the capital and the tourist distribution center of Qinghai Province, and also an important stop along the ancient Silk Road during the Wei-Jin Dynasties and the late Tang Dynasties. Many travelers start a memorable Qinghai trip from Xining to nearby amazing lakes, geo-parks, holy mountains as well as Amdo Tibet Regions and Tibet.

• Location: Qinghai Province in northwestern China
• Best Places to Go: Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Kumbum Monastery, Dongguan Mosque, Tibetan Medcine & Tibet Culture Museum…
• Recommended Activities: Biking, Hiking, Cruising, Photography, Bird-watching…

4 Days Enchanting Qinghai Lake Chaka Salt Lake Tour

Bring you to see high-plateau Qinghai Lake and mirror-like Chaka Lake as you have never seen before. It’s the perfect escape from our city life to enjoy with family and friends. You will be taken to the most classic and highlighting sights to take photos on our well-paced tour.

6 Days Qinghai Lake Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains Dramatic Tour

Ease into the simple joys of natural travel that you can only find in northwestern China – vast plateau lake, mirror-like salt lake, rainbow mountains, hanging temples stretching out from caves… this is what our 6 days dramatic tour will bring to you.

Urumqi - Window of Xinjiang’s Culture & History

Get the first impression of Xinjiang!

As Xinjiang’s capital receiving convenient flights from many other cities of China, Urumqi always serves as the starting point of a Silk Road Tour. It is worth strolling among the exhibitions displayed in Xinjiang Regional Museum, experiencing local life in the busy bazaars, tasting featured local food, and most importantly enjoying the scenic beauty of the Heavenly Lake.

• Best Places to Go: Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang Regional Museum, Xinjiang International Grand Mountains, Nanshan Pasture…
• Recommended Activities: Biking, Hiking, Cruising, Photography…

6 Days Urumqi to Kashgar Dream Tour - Best Xinjiang Tour for the First-timers

Urumqi and Kashgar are the two Must-go destinations for all the first-timers. They are the very essence of Xinjiang, no matter you are seeking for Silk Road history, authentic local culture, or marvelous scenery.

4 Days Urumqi Holiday Tour with Southern Pasture Landscape and Kazak Culture Experience

This is a leisure holiday in Urumqi as well as a unique Urumqi trip. It is strongly recommended for families with kids, photographer and natural lovers.

Jiayuguan - Crucial Transportation Hub on the Silk Road

See the westernmost fortress of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty!

Jiayuguan is most famous for its fortress situated at the end of the portion of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty. Unlike other sections built with stones or bricks, Jiayuguan Great Wall was built with rammed earth. The yellow hue of the pass blends harmoniously with the surrounding desert. Till now, it is still a great stop between Zhangye and Dunhuang for travelers.

• Best Places to Go: Jiayuguan Pass, Great Wall Museum, Overhanging Great Wall
• Recommended Trip Length: 1 ~ 2 days

6 Days Zhangye Jiayuguan Dunhuang Tour

Memorable trip to discover three most glorious destinations in Zhangye, Jiayuguan and Dunhuang - diverse experience, enjoyable pace, budget price!

Price from $946

11 Days In-depth Wild Silk Road Adventure Tour

An in-depth Silk Road adventure takes you to explore the most outstanding destinations in northwest China’s Gansu and Xinjiang and encounter both historic heritages and amazing natural landscapes.

Zhangye - Magical Rainbow Mountains

Be awed at the most spectacular Danxia Landform and Grottoes Temple Hanging on the Cliff!

Zhangye, literally translated as extending arm, excerpted from a phrase “to extend the arm of the country through to the Western Realm”. It is an important trade center holding a strategic position in the Hexi Corridor. Many historic sites can be found in Zhangye. Now, it is also attractive with its beautiful Rainbow Mountains in Danxia Geopark - colorful Zhangye Danxia.

• Best Places to Go: Zhangye Danxia, Matisi Temple, Dafo Temple
• Recommended Activities: Photography, Hiking
• Recommended Trip Length: 2 ~ 2 days

3 Days Zhangye Danxia Classic Private Tour

Explore Zhangye with the classic itinerary, covering Zhangye Danxia Geo Park, Binggou Danxia, Giant Buddha Temple, Matisi Grottoes.

Price from $342

10 Days Qinghai Gansu Highlights Tour

Start from the stunning Qinghai Lake to the famous Buddhist monastery - Labrang, then travel northward to explore Zhangye Danxia, Jiayuguan Fort and Mogao Grottoes.

Price from $1647

Lanzhou - Transfer Center in Northwestern China

Enjoy an easy transfer to Lanzhou and start to discover the essence of the Silk Road!

3 Days Lanzhou Short Break

Visit the best city highlights to meet Yellow River culture of Lanzhou and explore hidden Buddhist cave art existed over 1,600 years.

Price from $489

China Silk Road Travel Guide Useful Articles

Silk Road is really a precious cultural treasure for human beings and a wonderful travel route for explorers. Do you want to know more about it? Such as how the Silk Road got its name, where the Silk Road started and ended, how long it took to cross the Silk Road in ancient times, who traveled on the Silk Road… Or do you want to have more travel information about it? Such as how to plan a Silk Road tour, what the top destinations on the Silk Road are, how the accommodation condition is, some important travel tips, etc. Just browse the following Silk Road articles for a better understanding of the Silk Road, as well as a more efficient Silk Road exploration.

Silk Road Facts

There are many fun facts about the Silk Road that travelers might be interested in. Here, we have 12 most commonly asked questions about the silk road, and these interesting facts will broaden your horizon to learn beyond just routes and ancient relics, and help you have more vivid background knowledge before your Silk Road adventure.

Silk Road History

The ancient Silk Road has experienced several important stages since it was originally started in the Western Han Dynasty (202 BC ~ 8 AD) and ended in the Qing Dynasty (1936 ~ 1912). Want to find out how it started, evolved and declined? Check its history to learn the complete history of the Silk Road, including its beginning, flourishing and fading.

Silk Road Routes

The Silk Road is a network which can be generally divided into the Land Silk Road and the Maritime Silk Road. However, the Land Silk Road in China contains the Northern Route and the Southern Route, and the Northern Route split again in Kashgar.

Silk Road Maps

It is not easy to "follow" the Silk Road on the map, because there are several main routes that also have many branches. Don't worry, we will make your study easier. Check our Silk Road map to trace back to the glorious ancient times.

How to Plan A Silk Road Trip

The beauty of the Silk Road needs immediate action and a well-organized tour will help you enjoy a much more efficient tour. Silk Road trip planner here helps you figure out the best attractions, activities, best time, great accommodations, suggested itinerary, etc.

Tourist Cities along the Silk Road

To help you find Silk Road travel inspirations, we select the most popular and recommended China's tourist destinations along the Silk Road based on the original ancient Silk Route from central China to north western China, including Luoyang, Xian, Ningxia, Tianshui, Lanzhou, etc.

Tourist Attractions along the Silk Road

Many historical sites along the Silk Road, like ruins of ancient cities, Buddhist grottoes, temples, tombs, palaces, thus have been preserved in the original state. Besides, natural beauty can be savored as well while traveling along the Silk Road. Check the top tourist attractions to enjoy a wonderful Silk Road adventure.

Silk Road Accommodations

There are always comfortable hotels to stay in major cities along the silk routes such as Luoyang, Xi'an, Lanzhou, Xining, Urumqi, where there are hotels from economy class to luxury class. However, if you explore the Silk Road in depth, you need to go to some remote towns where the accommodation conditions are generally very basic.

Silk Road Travel Tips

Here we collect frequently asked questions and practical travel tips to make sure you enjoy an easy and safe Silk Road travel, such as best gateway cities, convenient transfer ways, packing ideas, payment, shopping, taboos, time difference, etc.

Silk Road Photo Gallery

The spectacular geographic environment along the Silk Road is diverse. You can see many ancient historical relics as well as various stunning landscape of mountains, prairie, desert and lakes. Get a visual feast first now.

Get Inspired by Our Customers’ Amazing Silk Road Travel Stories

We have helped numerous customers complete their Silk Road holiday in China. Are you curious about what they saw, did and felt about their tours.. Here we select some of the top inspiring travel stories to let you know not only the wonderful highlights they had enjoyed but also the forever unique memorable moments! Now, it’s your turn and your time to unveil your own story! >> Read All Our Customers Travel Stories during 2011-2024

2024-2025 China Silk Road Tours with More Fun

Want to enjoy a longer Silk Road holiday in China and visit more valuable destinations for more fun? China Discovery offers you more choices. You can visit the most classic destinations together with Silk Road destinations in one go! If you are a first timer to China, we suggest you get a first touch of China by visiting Beijing, Xian, Shanghai and Guilin - where China’s history, culture, nature and city view can be exhibited perfectly. Yangtze River Cruise is also a great option added into your itinerary for a leisurely experience. Besides, many travelers prefer an adventure to Zhangjiajie for an jaw-dropping view of the Avatar World. Moreover, you can step into Yunnan (Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La) and Anhui(Huangshan, Jiuhuashan) to have minority fun, Shanxi (Datong, Pingyao, Wutaishan…) and Henan (Luoyang, Zhengzhou…) to discover the civilization of ancient China. There are lots of wonders in China awaiting your exploration. Just select your favorite or customize your own tour according to your own interest and preference as well.

Beijing / Xian / Shanghai

from $1,432

Lanzhou / Zhangye / Jiayuguan / Dunhuang / Turpan / Urumqi / Kashgar

from Request

Xining / Zhangye / Jiayuguan / Dunhuang / Turpan / Urumqi / Kashgar

Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Yangshuo / Shanghai

from $1,999

Beijing / Xian / Guilin / Yangshuo / Yangtze Cruise / Shanghai

from $2,478

Kashgar / Tupran / Dunhuang / Jiayuguan / Zhangye / Xian / Beijing

Beijing / Xian / Dunhuang / Turpan / Urumqi

Beijing / Xian / Lhasa / Chengdu / Chongqing / Yangtze Cruise / Shanghai

from $3,499

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Wander-Lush

20 Incredible Modern-day Silk Road Cities You Can Visit

Nothing sparks a traveller’s imagination like the fabled Silk Road.

Once a network of trading routes that stretched from the Korean Peninsula all the way to Istanbul, the Silk Road was the original bridge between Asia and Europe, East and West.

Walking in the footsteps of merchants and pilgrims, retracing the route caravans of camels once plied, modern-day travellers will discover that the Silk Road is still a gateway to some of the planet’s most incredible cultural heritage and exquisite landscapes.

A thousand years of Silk Route history lives on in the many and varied outposts and trading hubs that popped up along the route, from Japan to Azerbaijan.

Here are 20 modern-day Silk Road cities that are worth visiting as part of any Silk Route adventure.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

20 incredible modern-day Silk Road cities

Ground zero for the collision of two continents, the Silk Road was the main arterial for ferrying goods between Asia and Europe – including, most famously, silk.

This was the original information highway; a means by which ideas could permeate otherwise impenetrable mountain passes, cross vast deserts and navigate treacherous steppes. Along with earthly goods, knowledge, philosophy and religion also coursed along the Silk Road, harnessed to the backs of merchant camels and tucked away in pilgrims’ rucksacks. No thoroughfare has played a more important role in shaping the world as we know it than the Silk Road.

As traders carved their paths across Central Asia, they set down roots for a string of cities and towns along the way. Endowed with great bazaars, caravanserais and anything else a Silk Road trader could want or need, each of these outposts grew to embody the essence of the trading route.

Today, they carry on that legacy for us modern travellers to enjoy.

1. Istanbul, Turkey

The single most important city on the Silk Road was its final terminus: Istanbul (Constantinople). It was here that traders wound up their westward journey before their goods were spirited deeper into Europe, to the marketplaces of Venice and Rome.

From the 4th century onwards, all ancient roads led to Constantinople. Almost everything you see in Turkey’s biggest city today has some connection to that time of great financial and intellectual prosperity, when the city profited from its prime location on the cusp of two continents. Christianity emanated from the cloisters of the 6th century Hagia Sophia and started its march east with Constantinople as its origin point. The Bosphorus Strait took on its persona as a lively hub for sea trade.

When it fell to the Ottomans in 1453, the city’s name was changed, but its new rulers made sure its reputation as a trading centre was still cultivated. The Grand Bazaar was established to centralise goods and still dominates Istanbul’s centre to this day.

A walk through the alleys of the Spice Bazaar and the halls of the Grand Bazaar is a highlight of any visit to Istanbul. Stop for a Turkish coffee, one of Istanbul’s most beloved traditions , before picking up a few authentic souvenirs .

2. Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgia has always enjoyed a position at the geographic and conceptual crossroads of Europe and Asia, but it wasn’t until relatively late – around the 6th century – that Tbilisi became a fixture on the Silk Road. Around this time, conflict started brewing between Byzantium and Iran, necessitating the development of a new trading route that bypassed the Mediterranean.

The first caravans loaded with Chinese silk passed through Georgia in the 560s, tracking their way from the Caspian coast through the west of the country towards Constantinople. Tbilisi flourished as a trading point.

You can detect hints of Tbilisi’s Silk Road past in the crumbling mansion houses built by merchants who made their riches on successive trade routes and in the carpet shops that overflow with colourful textiles . The Meidan Bazaar, Tbilisi’s undercover marketplace, harks back to this period in time while the Dezerter Bazaar and the Dry Bridge Market – although established much, much later – echo the animated trade atmosphere Tbilisi was known for.

Anyone interested in investigating this epoch should visit the State Silk Museum, a grand (and slightly mothball) institution in Tbilisi’s Tsereteli neighbourhood. It’s wholly dedicated to documenting Georgia’s history of silk cultivation and displays a monumental collection of cocoons and silk-related study materials collected from around the world. Georgia’s climate, perfect for cultivating mulberry trees, made it the epicentre of sericulture under the Soviet Union .

3. Sheki, Azerbaijan

Sheki is Azerbaijan’s most charming and atmospheric city, thanks in no small part to its connection with the region’s Silk Route heritage.

Sheki is best-known for its twin Khan’s Palaces, summer and winter residences built for the region’s ruling family in the 18th century. These, along with Sheki’s citadel, were recently recognised by UNESCO for their value to cultural heritage.

Around the same time as Sheki’s skilled craftspeople were working on the palaces, fashioning shebeki window panes using coloured glass from Burano, carving ornate window frames and painting the interiors with detailed miniatures, the city started hosting traders from far-flung places.

A new tributary of the Silk Road that passed directly through Sheki made the city an important rest stop, transforming Sheki’s urban landscape in the process.

A huge caravanserai was constructed to accommodate overnight guests and their livestock. It’s still operational today, serving as a basic hotel with a beautiful green courtyard at its centre, and shops and restaurants on its lower levels. Craft workshops and a Soviet-era silk factory also speak to Sheki’s past.

The religious philosophies that moved along the Silk Road had a huge impact on Sheki. Albanian churches, some of the first in the region, popped up here as Christianity started to spread east. Visitors can see one such church in the village of Kis just outside Sheki.

4. Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Samarkand is the most popular destination in Uzbekistan and one of the most iconic stops on the Silk Route. It’s also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 6th century BC. The real development of the city happened during the Silk Road time, when Samarkand was the largest city in Central Asia.

Today you can admire numerous monuments from that period. The most important is, of course, Registan, a complex of three madrases – the oldest one completed in 1420. The architecture and decorations are stunning and will surely take your breath away. Be sure to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. While you’re there, don’t skip Gur-e-Amir, the mausoleum dedicated to the conqueror of Central Asia, Amir Timur (known also as Tamerlane).

Another beautiful place you should see in Samarkand is Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Built in the 15th century as a gift from Amir Timur to his wife, it was counted among the most impressive mosques in the world. The last important place in Samarkand is Shah-i-Zinda, a cemetery with beautiful mausoleums, some of them from as far back as the 9th century.

There are plenty of accommodation options in Samarkand, but you should choose a place close to all the attractions. Visit local restaurants to try delicious Uzbek food, itself reason enough to visit Uzbekistan .

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

5. Shiraz, Iran

Shiraz was once the capital of Persia and as one of the biggest cities south of the Zagros mountains, an important place on the ancient Silk Road. Trade caravans passed through Shiraz on their way to and from the Persian Gulf.

Known as the city of flowers, Shiraz has always been a beauty , but had its share of misfortunes as well. In its long history, it was damaged by earthquakes and Mongol invasions. Most of what we see today comes from the 18th century Zand dynasty, when Shiraz developed into a true multicultural city with markets, gardens, palaces, wealthy merchant houses, mosques and madrassas.

Walking through the ancient Vakil Bazaar still gives you that ‘Silk Road feeling’. The city is full of beautiful Islamic architecture – from the lush and symmetrical Eram gardens to the colourful pink mosque, and the visually appealing Vakil hammam.

Another Silk Road experience is dining at the Saray-e-mer tea house in the heart of the Vakil Bazaar. This restaurant not only serves tea, but also traditional Persian dishes such as eggplant stew and chicken in walnut and pomegranate sauce. The interior is like a journey back in time, when places like this catered to hundreds of merchants from all over the world every day.

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

6. Dunhuang, China

Dunhuang, a city in Gansu province of northwestern China, was one of the most important stops on the Silk Road. It was a major trade centre and military outpost during the Sui and Tang dynasties (581-907).

When Buddhism reached China via the Silk Road, Dunhuang was the first stop for monks arriving from the west. They built the Mogao Caves (also known as the ‘Caves of a Thousand Buddhas’) for meditations, pilgrimage and worship. Today, Mogao Caves famously holds the world’s largest collection of Buddhist art, including murals, sculptures, artefacts, printed images, textiles, and cave art.

Another notable sight is Yumen Pass (also known as Jade Gate). Located at the west of Dunhuang, Yumen Pass was an important gateway for the ancient Silk Road. Nature lovers should not miss Yadan National Geological Park, a collection of rock formations in the Yadan desert that’s said to be over 700,000 years old.

For an unforgettable gastronomic experience in Dunhuang, visit Shazhou Night Market on Yangguan Road. It’s the perfect place for tourists to sample local delicacies and fruit. The top must-try foods are donkey meat with yellow noodles, apricot peel water, lamb noodle soup, and dried fruits (raisins, dried Goji, and dried apricot).

Finally, Dunhuang is very popular among domestic travellers. It’s advisable to avoid visiting Dunhuang (or China in general) during Golden Week and the summer holiday. Instead, the best time to visit Dunhuang is May through June, and September through October, when the weather is agreeable and there are no annoying crowds.

By Ming from Flyerism

7. Karimabad, Pakistan

Sheltered by a barrage of high mountains that encapsulate it like a rare diamond, Karimabad, the main settlement in the Hunza Valley of Pakistan, probably still looks much as it did when it was an important stop along the Southern Silk Road between China and the Indian Subcontinent.

Set along the stunning Karakoram Highway that connects Islamabad to Kashgar in China’s Xinjiang province, Karimabad has developed into a tourist hotspot.

It couldn’t not have – Karimabad is nearby Ultar Peak (7388m) and its glacier, and set above the ancient village of Ganesh, with its ancient wooden mosque and traditional homes. Watched over by mount Rakaposhi (7788m) and Diran (7270m), Karimabad is as beautiful as it is peaceful. There’s no better way to soak up the scenery than by driving up to the Eagle’s Nest viewpoint at sunset.

The Altit and Baltit forts, two of Pakistan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites , have protected the two opposite sides of Karimabad for 800 years, and are the perfect places to start discovering the town’s Silk Road heritage. Start by exploring the small passageways within the forts that lead up to open roofs and turrets perched above deep gorges and ravines.

Then it’s time to experience the modern face of Karimabad. Cafe de Hunza is an unmissable bakery where you must try the valley’s famous walnut cakes and apricot jams. All this while you sip on real espresso and surf the web on Hunza’s fastest WIFI!

Karimabad’s central strip is lined with all the small cafes, restaurants, pizzerias and guesthouses you can expect from a tourist town – remember that you won’t get the same level of facilities anywhere else on Pakistan’s Karakoram Highway, so enjoy all of it while it lasts.

Serena Inn Hunza, one of Pakistan’s best boutique hotels, is the most expensive and atmospheric choice in town, and it will throw you back to a caravanserai atmosphere. Highly recommended for a stylish stay.

By Marco from Monkey Rock World

8. Baku, Azerbaijan

Much of modern-day Baku’s skyline has been shaped by the country’s oil wealth. As black gold started flowing in the Land of Fire, silk and other goods that flooded in via the Silk Road added to the city’s prosperity.

Baku sits on the Caspian Sea and was the main port that received goods from Central Asia, a maritime iteration of the Silk Road. The city still revolves around the seafront, with the massive Bulvar boulevard wrapped around its coast.

The Icherisheher (‘Inner City’) is home to many of Baku’s must-see monuments, including the Maiden Tower. This edifice has a connection to Zoroastrianism, a transformative religious force that wielded great influence along the Silk Road and had strong roots in Baku.

A number of Silk Road-era relics can also be found inside the Old City: caravanserais, hammams, madrassas, tea shops , and more.

9. Almaty, Kazakhstan

Almaty is another of the historic epicentres of the Silk Road. The country of Kazakhstan is heavily investing in reviving places related to this chapter of history. Their goal is to increase Silk Road tourism and make the road more accessible to visitors.

One complication that the country is facing is that the nature of the Silk Road, which served as a connector between different cities, means that there aren’t many physical sites left from the period.

One place you can visit as a day trip from Almaty is Tamgaly Tas, a Buddhist Rock Art Sanctuary. The petroglyphs here were created by Buddhist monks and are a great reminder of Almaty’s role on the East-West corridor. You can also see yurts here and you can visit Nomad’s Land, a former movie set turned tourist site.

While in Almaty, make sure to see Big Almaty Lake outside of the city, as well as other Almaty highlights like Zenkov’s Cathedral. This is also a great place for Red Tourism . Make sure to visit the memorial to the victims of the Kazakh Famine, which was as devastating to Kazakhstan as the famine in Ukraine was. You can also stay in a former Soviet Hotel, the Kazakhstan Hotel.

By Stephanie from History Fangirl

10. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek is an eclectic mix of its Silk Road past, nomadic Kyrgyz influence, and Soviet-era relics. The city doesn’t ooze charm in the way many tourist destinations do – but if you look a little deeper, there are plenty of quirky and interesting things to see and do around the city.

There are the main attractions such as Ala-Too Square, which boasts large concrete buildings and the token Lenin statue of most post-Soviet cities. One of the buildings houses the State History Museum which illustrates all eras of Kyrgyzstan’s past.

For those wanting a throwback to the Silk Road times, head to the Osh bazaar where you’ll find everything from souvenir stands to food, traditional dress to instruments, and everything in between. The low numbers of foreign tourists in Kyrgyzstan mean that visiting the market is still an authentic experience. You’ll have to dodge your way through crowds of men in kalpaks (traditional hats) and people spruiking their wares.

With such a rich history, Bishkek has done well to keep up with the times and also offers visitors a great cafe, restaurant and craft beer scene. Tucked in corners around the city you can find delicious traditional cuisine (try Navat) as well as popular Western options.

For great craft beer and food from the restaurant next door, head to Save the Ales, a female-run brewery which employs lesbian women who struggle to find work elsewhere due to Kyrgyzstan’s conservative attitude towards the LGBT community.

By Rohan from Travels of a Bookpacker

11. Bhaktapur, Nepal

Bhaktapur is known as Nepal’s cultural capital. If you’re a keen cultural observer, you must stay here for at least a couple of nights in order to trace back all the invisible links to the ancient Silk Route that connected a vast part of Asia.

Bhaktapur rose from the rubble of the 2015 Gorkha earthquake, but unfortunately the natural disaster claimed most of the remnants of her glorious past. Back then, tradesmen trod all the way from the coast of the Andaman sea, braved the Himalayas, and walked still further. Bhaktapur was one of their pit stops, and the town benefited substantially as a strategically important link on the Silk Road. 

Every stone of Bhaktapur bears some kind of religious semblance. The city’s intricately carved windows and art testify to Bhaktapur’s rich heritage. Each of its temple is rich with Newari architecture and styled with a pagoda as its top, various pillars and staircases. The most famous temples of Bhaktapur are Dattatryara, Nyataponla (the contemporary of the Taj Mahal), Pashupatinath, and the most important of all, Taleju Bhabani. Only Hindus are allowed inside the latter temple complex, however anyone can see the stunning golden gates.

Apart from traditional Newari cuisine, must-eats in Bhaktapur include Juju Dhau, curd with a crunchy layer on top. Black clay pottery is a famous handicraft from Bhaktapur and you must visit the local village where this art is practiced.

Dress modestly, and be aware that Hindu religious involving animal sacrifice are common practice (during a half day tour of Bhaktapur, I came across at least two sites where an animal was sacrificed).

By Madhurima from Orange Wayfarer

12. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar is one of those cities where what you see isn’t exactly what you get.

Everyone knows (or thinks they know) the stories and legends surrounding the country’s most regaled ruler/warrior (you know the one), but it isn’t until you see the 40-metre tall Chinggis Khaan Equestrian Statue, or visit the city’s National History Museum, or hear locals speak about the Great Khaan and everything he once accomplished and how he shaped the modern world today, that you start to understand who the man behind the legend actually was, for better or worse.

(You also won’t be able to escape his image in the city – from being the face on local currency, to adorning vodka bottles, and sitting guard in front of the capital’s parliament building – he still watches over Mongolia and it’s people with a watchful eye, more than 800 years later.)

Once ruler of half the world, and an important overseer of the development of the Silk Road route, Ulaanbaatar and the ancient capital city of Kharkhorin, and the surrounding countryside, are still home to nomads and thousands of years of traditions.

Mongolia is sometimes reminiscent of a land that time forgot. It’s a truly surreal experience to live like this – drinking airag , herding horses, living life in a ger – even just for a few days, putting into perspective what life in the 13th century must have been like.

By Breanna from Meanwhile… in Mongolia

13. Xi’an, China

No list of Silk Road cities is complete without the Eastern departure point, often dubbed the ‘start’ of the Silk Road: Xi’an. This Chinese city has a rich history stretching back to the Zhou dynasty in the 11th century BC; but it’s the confluence of cultures about 1,000 years ago during the Western Han dynasty that truly put Xi’an on the map.

A noted trading post and hub for merchants in China, Xi’An saw silk, ceramics and spice traders from Arabia and Persia flock to the city, most of them settling in what is now known as the ‘Muslim Quarter’. The Quarter is a must-see for anyone visiting this captivating city, not just to explore the ancient attractions of the Hanguang Gate, the City God Temple and the Grand Mosque, but also to tuck into the unique dishes, where meat-lovers will delight in beefy steamed sandwiches and local delicacies like pao mo , a bread and mutton soup.

Silk Road adventure seekers should also spend a few hours walking the old city walls – claimed to be the largest in the world. The 14km loop was constructed to protect the city from invaders and is the oldest military defensive system on the planet, now best enjoyed on a very long walk or by meandering along on one of the bicycles available for rent.

You can’t go to Xi’an without visiting the legendary Terracotta Warriors, of course, as well as climbing the beautiful Bell and Drum Towers, soaring structures built to signal the start and end of the working day.

By Lee from The Travel Scribes

14. Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Bukhara is another of the most popular tourist destinations in Uzbekistan. In medieval times, the city was one of the main stops on the Silk Road and specialised in the trading of carpets. It was also a cultural and religious centre.

Bukhara has around 140 monuments, so visitors are spoiled for choice. The best thing to do in Bukhara is wander around the historical centre with no particular destination in mind. This place still witnesses trading and is home to many remnants of the country’s glorious past, boasting magnificent mosques, madrassas, and other monuments.

People interested in the Silk Route shouldn’t miss the three main bazaars, where people buy and sell just as they did in Silk Road times. A visit to a rug shop is an interesting experience. A stop at the UNESCO Carpet Weaving Shop is highly recommended.

Make time to visit at least one religious complex to admire the monumental architecture decorated with blue tiles so typical of Central Asia. The Mosque Kalon or Friday Mosque is a good example of this kind of design. It’s one of the oldest mosques in the city (8th century) and also the biggest, with a capacity of more than 10,000 worshippers.

During the hottest hours of the day, look for a shady cafe to sip a mint tea. This drink is very typical of Bukhara – and Uzbekistan in general – plus it’s a good opportunity to meet the locals.

By Elisa from World in Paris

15. Nara, Japan

Nara was the eastern end of the Silk Road and was also the capital of Japan from 710 AD to 794 AD. It was not just silk but also religion that spread along the Silk Route, and Nara became an important religious centre for followers of Shintoism as well as Buddhism.

The city’s most impressive man-made site is the Great Buddha statue ( Daibutsu in Japanese). This gigantic bronze edifice sits inside the Todai-ji Temple, which still today is the largest wooden building in the world.

This temple, along with an important Shinto shrine and several other historical and religious monuments, are all contained within the very green Nara Park. In addition to its monuments, the park is most famous for the semi-tame deer who live there.

Most people visit Nara as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, but it’s definitely worth spending at least one night. That way, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the park before the hordes of tourists arrive, and you can see the spectacular sunset from Nigatsu-do, a sub-temple of Todai-ji.

Ramuna Cafe makes a convenient lunch stop as it’s near all the main sights. It’s one of several restaurants that offer delicious vegan food in Nara . Hiloki Hostel is a solid budget accommodation option, offering dorms as well as private rooms.

By Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

16. Gyeongju, South Korea

Located on the south-east coast of South Korea, Gyeongju is a must for your Korea bucket list . This city is known for its fascinating history, acting as the capital of the Silla dynasty for almost a millennium, which flourished from BC 57 to AD 935 under the rule of 56 different kings.

In the 7th century, Gyeongju became the main trading port on the Korean Peninsula, greeting merchants who came by both land and sea from China, Japan and the Arabian Peninsula via the Silk Road. Over time, the different influences and ideas they brought with them permeated local culture, turning Gyeongju into a dynamic cultural hub.

For history lovers, there are few better stops in Korea than Gyeongju, which is often called the ‘museum without walls’. Morbid as it may sound, one of the best things to do is wander Tumuli Park where a collection of man-made pyramids house the remains of the kings, many found buried with decadent gold, jewels, and the bones of their servants who would have been buried alive with them, apparently the ultimate honour!

Other things to do in Gyeongju include visiting Bulguksa Temple, which dates back to 528, and hiking up to Seokguram Grotto just above it, home to a 1,000-year-old Buddha statue. You’ll need to catch a bus to these two attractions; on the way back, stop off at Gyeongju National Museum to learn about the Silla Dynasty.

You shouldn’t miss the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia, Cheomseongdae Observatory Tower, located close to Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, a colourful palace complex that’s also worth exploring.

By Rose from Where Goes Rose

17. Jaisalmer, India

Jaisalmer rises straight up out of the flat sands of the Rajasthani desert like a fantasy from the Arabian nights. A sandstone fortress that sits atop a rocky outcrop in the middle of the desert, this is India’s famed Golden City. Seeing Jaisalmer from afar at twilight, when it glows in the light of late afternoon, is a breathtaking experience that you will never forget.

Built in the 12th century, Jaisalmer was a major stopover on the southern tributary of the Silk Route. It’s possible to recreate the old Silk Road experience today in several ways. Modern-day travellers can imagine what it was like to be a merchant by taking an overnight or multi-day camel safari into the nearby That Desert , visiting tiny tribal villages and sleeping on sand dunes under the stars. There are many travel agencies in town that can arrange these trips.

Or step back in time exploring Jaisalmer Fort. The fort, which dominates the town, is a living city, and gives travellers a real sense of what life was like back in the old Silk Road days. There are several hotels inside the fort itself, as well as many nearby hotels with views of the fort.

Jaisalmer is home to many ornate Jain temples that date from between the 12th and 16th centuries, as well as many incredible havelis (merchant houses). The best havelis ones are covered in incredibly elaborate carvings. Many of the smaller houses have been converted into comfortable guesthouses that are full of character and mystical charm.

Jaisalmer is an absolute must-stop on every Silk Road trip (and every journey to India!)

By James Ian from Travel Collecting

18. Leh, India

Leh is a beautiful Indian town situated in Ladakh in the heart of the Himalayas. During Silk Road times, it was an outpost on the mountain pass that connected India with Tibet to the east and Kashmir and the Karakoram mountains to the north and west – a vital route for trading much-sought-after pashmina wool.

Salt, cotton, silk and spices flowed along this route until as recently as the 1940s, with Leh serving as the Western Himalayas’ main marketplace for the exchange of goods between India and Tibet.

The landscape around Leh is diverse and there are many stunning places for nature lovers to explore. Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and Khardung La Pass are unmissable. While in Leh city, be sure to visit the famous Shanti Stupa and the Leh Palace. The bustling Leh Main Bazaar is a hive of activity and another must-see for anyone interested in Silk Route heritage.

Be sure to try the local food as well. Thukpa is an exceptionally tasty noodle soup that is typical to the town. Tibetan-style dumplings are a must-try. Kashmiri cuisine, including yakhni (mutton with yogurt and saffron), is a testament to the exchange of recipes and spices along the Silk Road.

The helpful and kind people of Leh make visiting this town even more special.

By Merryl from Merryl’s Travel and Tricks

19. Yazd, Iran

Yazd, a charming city in the south of Iran, is one of the most interesting places to visit in the country. Together with the smaller cities of Kashan, Nain and Kerman, the Silk Road crossed Yazd on its way through southern Iran.

Yazd was famous for its silk and carpet production, and the centre of the town during its Silk Road heyday was the bazaar, which remains a hub to this day. Caravanserais, mosques, bathhouses, schools and other infrastructure were built in the vicinity.

The old part of Yazd is a labyrinth of mud houses with typical wind chimneys called badgir . A unique water pipe system called qanat provided much-needed water from the mountains and contributed to the prosperity of Yazd and its textile production.

A large caravanserai can be visited on the outskirts of a village called Kharanaq, about an hourlong drive from Yazd. Visitors can also admire Yazd’s Zoroastrian sights, since the town has always been home to a large Zoroastrian community, the dominant religion before Persia’s turn to Islam.

Yazd shouldn’t be missed – it’s recommended to visit as part of a two week Iran itinerary .

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

20. Yerevan, Armenia

Armenia isn’t always associated with the Silk Road, but because of its location, caravans couldn’t help but pass through the Caucasus nation as they crisscrossed from east to west via the Ararat valley. Yerevan and other Armenian cities benefited from the exchange of goods and ideas just as much as more established outposts in Central Asia did.

More than being conveniently positioned, Armenia was always looked on as a land of infinite cultural and artistic riches. Armenian wine, dyes, carpets – and even horses – were exported to Babylon and Persia from as early as the 5th century BC. Merchants naturally gravitated towards Armenia’s craft workshops and marketplaces when looking for new objects to buy and sell.

Yerevan’s history reaches far further back than its Silk Road days, yet reminders of this time can be felt everywhere, from the sprawling Vernissage Market where modern-day artisans ply their trades, crafting beautiful woodwork, textiles and souvenirs , to the Tufenkian Historic Hotel where fine Armenian carpets are displayed.

It’s also interesting to note the ways Armenia resisted the influence of the Silk Route – the globalisation force of its time. The first state to adopt Christianity as its religion, its many churches, including the oldest in Yerevan, Katoghike Church, are a testament to how this country held onto its religious and cultural convictions in the face of great change.

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Very nice! I was in Thailand and Indonesia just before the pandemic started. I didn’t make it to Australia. Perhaps next time.

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Best Times to Visit the Silk Road: A Month-by-Month Guide

The Silk Road in China stretches from Xi'an to the westernmost region of Xinjiang, delving deep into northwest China. This area is vast and encompasses deserts, grasslands, temples, and Buddhist grottoes.

The best times for travel vary due to the diversity of landscapes and the unique features of different cities.

Our article provides specific recommendations for the best times to visit based on your preferences and interests in exploring this region.

Content Preview

• Best Time for Good Weather
• Best Times for Families
• Best Times for Couples
• Guide by Month

The Best Times to Visit the Silk Road for Good Weather

The best times to visit the Silk Road for good weather generally fall in the spring and autumn months when the weather is more temperate and pleasant.

Below, we've provided a breakdown of the best times to visit different sections of the Silk Road for favorable weather conditions.

1. The Start of the Silk Road (Xi'an, Lanzhou…):

• Best times: spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November)
• Reason: These seasons offer mild temperatures with pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming flowers while autumn features colorful foliage.

2. Central Section (Dunhuang, Zhangye…):

• Best times: spring (April to early June) and autumn (late September to October)
• Reason: These periods provide relief from the extreme summer heat and the bleak winters, making it more comfortable to explore the desert landscapes and historical sites.

3. The Western End (Xinjiang):

• Best times: late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (late August to October)
• Reason: These months offer a balance between the extreme cold of winter and the intense heat of summer in the western regions. The weather is generally milder, making it suitable for travel.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

The Best Time to Visit the Silk Road for Family Travel

For families with school-age children, the summer break is often the only significant free time to travel, but it aligns with China's hot and rainy season. Despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions, with thoughtful planning and preparation, you could maximize your vacation experience and still create quality family time.

• Rainfall is not a big problem: The Silk Road is in a dry area. There is not much rain so the rain would not affect your Silk Road trip. Your family could have many outdoor experiences, such as sand skiing and camel riding.
• Don't be discouraged by the heat: Along the Silk Road, there are many cool, scenic, and less-visited destinations, such as plateau areas with Tibetan villages, lakes, grasslands, and glaciers. Choosing the right time of day to explore is also a great solution, such as visiting the desert just before sunset. This is when the desert is less crowded and relatively cool. Plus, you could witness a beautiful desert sunset.
• Explore indoor activities: The Silk Road also has no shortage of interesting indoor activities. You could consider visiting museums, making your own mini terracotta warrior, or choosing a grotto mural sample to create your own mud slab copy to take home.

No matter in what season you visit, we would carefully customize your itinerary to balance the interests of your family and create quality family time without any hassles. Just contact us .

The Best Times to Visit the Silk Road for Couples

Couples often have more flexible schedules, especially retired couples. So, couples can often choose an ideal travel time, allowing for both good weather and a relatively peaceful touring environment.

April to early June (except for the first week of May) and September and October (except for the first week of October) are the best times for couples to explore the Silk Road.

These periods not only ensure a comfortable travel experience but also provide more opportunities for privacy and romantic moments at historical sites and in natural settings.

Couples, our private tours offer you customized options and more personal space with your own private guide. You would have a more in-depth and less-touristy experience as well as a worry-free tour. Just contact us and we'll create a hassle-free trip for you.

By-Month Silk Road Travel Guide

The silk road in january.

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: -3–5°C (27–41°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: -15–-1°C (5–30°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: -16–-8°C (3–18°F)

In January, the Silk Road's vast expanse experiences diverse weather conditions. In western regions, such as Xinjiang, you would encounter continuously well-below-freezing temperatures and occasional snowfall, while Xi'an has very cold weather hovering around freezing.

This bitter cold would allow you to explore ancient cities, markets, and historical sites with fewer crowds.

The Silk Road in February

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 0–9°C (32–48°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: -10–5°C (14–41°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: -14–-6°C (7–21°F)

February continues to offer a variety of cold-to-frigid conditions along the Silk Road.

Visiting the ancient cities, markets, museums, and mosques, as well as enjoying other sightseeing activities are no problem.

In the afternoon, when the sun is bright, you could also try some outdoor activities, such as riding a bicycle on Xi'an City Wall.

For a unique experience, celebrate the Chinese New Year in cities like Xi'an. Witness vibrant parades, traditional performances, and the warmth of local hospitality.

The Silk Road in March

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 6–17°C (43–63°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 0–16°C (32–61°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: -2–7°C (28–45°F)

March welcomes spring along the eastern Silk Road, bringing milder temperatures and blossoming landscapes, while Xinjiang remains locked in winter. The pleasant weather and fewer tourists make for an enriching experience.

It's a quiet time to explore historical sites, such as visiting the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang or exploring the ancient city of Kashgar.

The Silk Road in April

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 11–24°C (52–75°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 6–23°C (43–73°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 7–18°C (45–64°F)

April is a delightful time to explore the Silk Road's historical and natural wonders. Visit the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, where cherry blossoms bloom, or trek across the Heavenly Mountains in Xinjiang. The weather is pleasant and nature comes alive with color.

The Silk Road in May

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 17–28°C (63–82°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 11–28°C (52–82°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 13–24°C (55–75°F)

May offers travelers a best time to enjoy the Silk Road's full diversity. You would be able to do all activities comfortably in May's weather.

Explore the stunning Flaming Mountains in Turpan. Experience nomadic life with a yurt stay and Kazakh culture near Sayram Lake. Visit old caves as well as ancient towns and ruins along the Silk Road.

The Silk Road in June

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 22–33°C (72–91°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 17–33°C (63–91°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 19–29°C (66–84°F)

June marks the beginning of summer along the Silk Road. At the start of summer, with lot of sunshine and little rain, many activities are appropriate, though avoiding the mid-day sun is advisable in some places.

Explore the bustling markets of Kashgar in Xinjiang, where traders have convened for centuries.

Explore the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang. You could see elaborate murals and copy one yourself to take home as a souvenir.

Go to Zhangye Danxia National Geopark to see multicolored ridges of weathered strata stretch to the horizon.

The Silk Road in July

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 21–31°C (70–88°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 19–35°C (66–95°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 25–35°C (77–95°F)

In July, the natural scenery along the Silk Road is at its best. Vibrant fields of golden-yellow rapeseed blossoms stretch out as far as the eye can see around Qinghai Lake. Heavenly Lake's crystal-clear waters take on a deep emerald hue and are surrounded by lush green forests.

To avoid the heat and summer crowds, Gannan is a good option for both adults and kids. Explore diverse highland natural sceneries, including mountains, valleys, gorges, wetlands, and meadows. Experience cultural immersion by visiting Tibetan villages and temples.

The Silk Road in August

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 23–33°C (73–91°F)

August is suitable for visiting highland lakes and gorges, such as Heavenly Lake. Xinjiang's Ili is also a good option for its cool weather and stunning scenery. Ili's valleys come alive with lush greenery. The fields and meadows are carpeted with a rich tapestry of wildflowers and grasses, making it a good place for outdoor activities, such as hiking.

Some indoor activities are also a good way to avoid the heat, such as visiting a cave workshop and trying to make a mini clay warrior when visiting Xi'an's famous Terracotta Army.

The Silk Road in September

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 18–27°C (64–81°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 10–28°C (50–82°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 13–23°C (55–73°F)

September ushers in the autumn season along the Silk Road. It could be the best month for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

September offers nice weather and fewer tourists compared to summer vacations and the Golden Week holiday in the first week of October.

Everywhere is suitable to visit in such a nice month. The cooler weather makes outdoor exploration even more enjoyable, such as a trip to the desert or even camping out in the desert under the starry night sky.

The Silk Road in October

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 12–21°C (54–70°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: 2–20°C (36–68°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: 5–14°C (41–57°F)

October offers pleasant temperatures and vibrant fall foliage along the Silk Road. If you don't like big crowds, avoid the first week of the month.

The golden Euphrates poplar forests in Inner Mongolia's Ejina Qi are at their best for viewing.

October is also a good time to capture spectacular views of the Zhangye Danxia Landform under the clear sky.

Visiting historic sites, old towns, deserts, and valleys is also ideal in October with its cool temperatures.

The Silk Road in November

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: 4–13°C (39–55°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: -6–9°C (21–48°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: -5–3°C (23–37°F)

The Silk Road is already getting a little chilly in November, especially in western areas (Xinjiang).

Only some outdoor activities are suitable. Some of the usually-crowded tourist spots become quiet.

Explore the stunning ancient Buddhist sculptures and murals in Dunhuang's Mogao Caves and copy a sample mural on a mud slab with your own hands.

Xinjiang shows its simplicity and uniqueness in the late autumn when there are fewer people. Visit ancient towns, lively bazaars, mosques, and museums.

The Silk Road in December

• Xi'an's average daily temperature range: -2–7°C (28–45°F)
• Dunhuang's average daily temperature range: -13–1°C (9–34°F)
• Urumqi's average daily temperature range: -13–-5°C (9–23°F)

December brings very cold weather and occasional snowfall in the Silk Road cities. Kanas in Xinjiang is a great place to enjoy snowy landscapes. Natural snowfall provides excellent conditions for Xinjiang's ski resorts.

Historical sites along the Silk Road in December present a quiet and solemn façade in winter. In the markets and on the streets, there are many more local residents than tourists.

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All of our tours can be adjusted or customized based on your requirements. Just contact us if you have a good idea of what you want to do. You could also start from one of our popular Silk Road itineraries:

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By: History.com Editors

Updated: June 6, 2023 | Original: November 3, 2017

The Silk Road was a network of trade routes connecting China and the Far East with the Middle East and Europe. Established when the Han Dynasty in China officially opened trade with the West in 130 B.C., the Silk Road routes remained in use until A.D. 1453, when the Ottoman Empire boycotted trade with China and closed them. Although it’s been nearly 600 years since the Silk Road has been used for international trade, the routes had a lasting impact on commerce, culture and history that resonates even today.

The Silk Road may have formally opened up trade between the Far East and Europe during the Han Dynasty , which ruled China from 206 B.C. to A.D. 220 Han Emperor Wu sent imperial envoy Zhang Qian to make contact with cultures in Central Asia in 138 B.C., and his reports from his journeys conveyed valuable information about the people and lands that lay to the West. But the transport of goods and services along these routes dates back even further.

The Royal Road, which connected Susa (in present-day Iran) more than 1,600 miles west to Sardis (near the Mediterranean Sea in modern Turkey), was established by the Persian ruler Darius I during the Achaemenid Empire—some 300 years before the opening of the Silk Road.

The Persians also expanded the Royal Road to include smaller routes that connected Mesopotamia to the Indian subcontinent as well as northern Africa via Egypt.

Alexander the Great , ruler of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedonia , expanded his dominion into Persia via the Royal Road. Parts of the thoroughfare were ultimately incorporated into the Silk Road.

Silk Road History

The east-west trade routes between Greece and China began to open during the first and second centuries B.C. The Roman Empire and the Kushan Empire (which ruled territory in what is now northern India) also benefitted from the commerce created by the route along the Silk Road.

Interestingly, the ancient Greek word for China is “Seres,” which literally means “the land of silk.”

However, despite this obvious link to the name, the term “Silk Road” wasn’t coined until 1877, when German geographer and historian Ferdinand von Richthofen first used it to describe the trade routes.

Historians now prefer the term “Silk Routes,” which more accurately reflects the fact that there was more than one thoroughfare.

Silk Road to China

The Silk Road routes included a large network of strategically located trading posts, markets and thoroughfares designed to streamline the transport, exchange, distribution and storage of goods.

Routes extended from the Greco-Roman metropolis of Antioch across the Syrian Desert via Palmyra to Ctesiphon (the Parthian capital) and Seleucia on the Tigris River, a Mesopotamian city in modern-day Iraq.

From Seleucia, routes passed eastward over the Zagros Mountains to the cities of Ecbatana (Iran) and Merv (Turkmenistan), from which additional routes traversed to modern-day Afghanistan and eastward into Mongolia and China.

Silk Road routes also led to ports on the Persian Gulf, where goods were then transported up the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.

Routes from these cities also connected to ports along the Mediterranean Sea, from which goods were shipped to cities throughout the Roman Empire and into Europe.

Silk Road Economic Belt

Even though the name “Silk Road” derives from the popularity of Chinese silk among tradesmen in the Roman Empire and elsewhere in Europe, the material was not the only important export from the East to the West.

Trade along the so-called Silk Road economic belt included fruits and vegetables, livestock, grain, leather and hides, tools, religious objects, artwork, precious stones and metals and—perhaps more importantly—language, culture, religious beliefs, philosophy and science.

Commodities such as paper and gunpowder, both invented by the Chinese during the Han Dynasty, had obvious and lasting impacts on culture and history in the West. They were also among the most-traded items between the East and West.

Paper was invented in China during the 3rd century B.C., and its use spread via the Silk Road, arriving first in Samarkand in around A.D. 700, before moving to Europe through the then-Islamic ports of Sicily and Spain.

Of course, paper’s arrival in Europe fostered significant industrial change, with the written word becoming a key form of mass communication for the first time. The eventual development of Gutenberg’s printing press allowed for the mass production of books and, later, newspaper, which enabled a wider exchange of news and information.

Silk Road Spices

In addition, the rich spices of the East quickly became popular in the West, and changed cuisine across much of Europe.

Similarly, techniques for making glass migrated eastward to China from the Islamic world.

The origins of gunpowder are less well known, although there are references to fireworks and firearms in China as early as the 600s. Historians believe that gunpowder was indeed exported along the Silk Road routes to Europe, where it was further refined for use in cannons in England, France and elsewhere in the 1300s.

The nation-states with access to it had obvious advantages in war, and thus the export of gunpowder had an enormous impact on the political history of Europe.

Eastward Exploration

The Silk Road routes also opened up means of passage for explorers seeking to better understand the culture and geography of the Far East.

Venetian explorer Marco Polo famously used the Silk Road to travel from Italy to China, which was then under the control of the Mongolian Empire, where they arrived in 1275.

Notably, they did not travel by boat, but rather by camel following overland routes. They arrived at Xanadu, the lavish summer palace of the Mongolian emperor Kublai Khan .

In all, the explorer spent 24 years in Asia, working in Kublai Khan’s court, perhaps as a tax collector.

Marco Polo returned to Venice, again via the Silk Road routes, in 1295, just as the Mongolian Empire was in decline. His journeys across the Silk Road became the basis for his book, "The Travels of Marco Polo," which gave Europeans a better understanding of Asian commerce and culture.

HISTORY Vault: Ancient History

From the Sphinx of Egypt to the Kama Sutra, explore ancient history videos.

Silk Road: Ancient History Encyclopedia. Ancient.eu . List of Rulers of Ancient Greece . Metmuseum.org . Trade between the Romans and the Empires of Asia. Metmuseum.org . About the Silk Road: UNESCO. En.unesco.org . The Legacy of the Silk Road. Yale University . China’s Gift to the West. Columbia University . The Landmark Herodotus : The Histories. Edited by Robert B. Strassler. Royal Road. GlobalSecurity.org .

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Follow the footstep of Marco Polo to explore the fascinating histories of the ancient trading Silk Road route, enjoy the distinctive cultures and art, as well as the ethnic styles and folk customs. Our adventures begin from the start point of Xi'an , may add Luoyang. Express train to Qinghai Province or Hexi corridor of Lanzhou, Wuwei, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang , passes the vast Gobi desert and mountains to Xinjiang . Witness the wonders of Terracotta Warriors, the Buddhism treasure of Mogao Grottoes , the mystery of Taklamakan desert, the bustling Kashgar Bazaar . You can extend your overland trip to Central Asia of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan . As the Excellent Silk Road Tour Operators , we promise you a great holiday with our 15years' experience, the attention to detail, and offer of the best of everything!

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Traveling is one of the best ways to know new friends . Traveling Silk Road and China in a small group is afforable and more fun . There are thousands of travelers joined our small groups in the past years and 99% are very satisfied with our arrangements and service. We are here to provide inbound tourists and expats in China the most fantastic tours. No matter traveling along the silk road from Dunhuang, Gansu or Xi’an to the far west China like Xinjiang and Tibet .

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Silk Road Travel will provide a life-time adventure for you. Create your own silk road trip from the sample itineraries below. Our experts will tailor-made an intimate and delightful adventure to meet all your needs. The choices are endless!

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Lesley and her team have arranged 10000+travelers to fulfilled their dreamed adventure to silk road and other destinations of China. Her passion is to create fabulous,perfect memories for every client with her professional,dedicated and enthusiasm. We are very proud to have the excellent reviews.

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Here are the updated information along this mysterious route! Fresh ideas and tips about the destinations on the Silk Road Travel.From the starting city of Xi’an in China to the famous trading post of Bukhara in Uzbekistan.Our team personally visited most places on our website. Believe you will have a wonderful holiday with our authentic experience and knowledge.

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San Antonio's Silk Road: Creating a cultural corridor in heart of the city

S AN ANTONIO - Business owners along an increasingly international stretch of Wurzbach Rd. are working with city leaders to give this culturally diverse part of town a name and formally designate it the Silk Road Cultural Corridor.

For now, the boundaries of this corridor would begin at I-10 and Wurzbach and continue through the intersection of Fredericksburg and Wurzbach. It's here that you can find all sorts of restaurants, markets, and shops representing a wide variety of cultures, from the Middle East to South Asia to North Africa.

"You cannot drive up and down Wurzbach without realizing that you're in a very different special place," said District 8 Councilman Manny Pelaez, who's helping these business owners secure the designation. "The influence and the impact of having this many families and professionals from the countries represented along the ancient Silk Road, it's really making a difference in San Antonio."

Ashraf Nahil was born and raised in Kuwait before coming to the U.S. more than 40 years ago. In 1999, he opened Ali Baba International Food Market on Wurzbach Rd. with one goal in mind. "To get the community the items that they cannot find in the typical grocery store," he explained.

That's why San Antonio shoppers like Hamid Barakat and his wife Nejah, both originally from Iran, choose to do their shopping at the market all the time.

"Yeah, we come 3 or 4 times a week, and we can find something from back home," said Hamid. "There are special beans we have back home, and they get it here. Some spices as well."

It brings them a sense of comfort to see such familiar products, owner Nahil said. "They like to see their name, the name of their country, the name of the product in their language on the shelf."

When Ali Baba International Food Market opened in 1999, it started with just 3,000 square feet of store space. Now, 25 years later, it has more than 30,000 square feet."

15,000 square feet retail area, 15,000 square feet bakery, and warehouse," Nahil explained. "95% of our products, are imported from outside the United States."

At nearby Baklovah Bakery and Sweets, all the family recipes come from the Middle East and date back to the 1920s.

"The cultures and the heritage and the cuisines that they've brought with them from their countries, they're able to preserve that," said Nadia Mavrakis, CEO of Culturingua, a nonprofit that works to promote and preserve the cultural and artistic heritage of the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.

That's what inspired Jenny Crow to open Sana All Authentic Filipino Cuisine last year near the corner of Wurzbach and Bluemel Rd.

"Most people are like, 'What's Filipino food?' because our food is not really popular yet," Crow said. "So, when they try it, they really like it, especially our lumpia and adobo."

Pasha Mediterranean Grill came to Wurzbach and Bluemel in 2008, opening up right next to Naara Cafe and Hookah.

The two have since been joined by places like Baklovah, Zaatar Lebanese Grill, and Silk Road Gallery.

"I've seen this whole stretch of Wurzbach just kind of grow into something really unique and really special," said business owner Bilal Deiri. "It's just been really cool to see, and I felt like it was really important that that gets recognition."

Councilman Pelaez heard the calls to designate this stretch of Wurzbach a cultural corridor that is formally recognized by the city.

Deiri suggested calling it the Silk Road Cultural Corridor, a reference to the ancient network of trade routes promoting economic and cultural interactions between the East and West.

"All of the cultures that are kind of represented here are really encapsulating what that trade of the old days really touched on," Deiri said.

Pelaez agreed. "I think it's time to recognize their contributions," he said. "Once we started repeating his idea around town, everybody agreed and so we got unanimous support from city council."

The city's Office of Historic Preservation is now getting input from business owners, non-profits, and advocacy groups on what they'd like to see.

"You're going to see signage," said Pelaez. "Eventually the plan is to make sure that we also have public art."

Creating a sense of place.

"And that it really becomes interwoven into the American cultural fabric and really the San Antonio cultural fabric," said Mavrakis of her hope for these plans.

"I think it'd be great for the area and great for the city," added Deiri.

Getting the cultural corridor designation is the first step. Securing federal and state grant dollars would be the next.

"It's recognition of their contributions," said Pelaez. "Make sure that we activate the North Side as it relates to cultural events and celebrations. And it's an economic development effort to make sure that we're paying attention and also advocating for the small businesses up and down that corridor."

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Silk road travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

What countries are on the Silk Road?

The Silk Road was originally an expansive region that covered Asia, Europe, the Middle East and parts of the Pacific. In modern times, the  World Tourism Organization  (UNWTO) classifies the Silk Road region as 34 countries.

While many of these countries retain remnants of the Silk Road era, we have highlighted several of the destinations that showcase this incredible history within our Silk Road tours. We are currently running Silk Road trips in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The following FAQ answers are related to these countries. 

What is the weather like in the Silk Road region?

In the Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan sections of the Silk Road, the weather is categorised as typically between moderate to arid continental. This means summers are hot and sunny, with winters between cold and freezing. There can be extreme temperatures in these seasons, with highs getting to 50ºC, typically in the desert regions and winter lows of -20ºC. There's also snow in the mountain regions. This region can also get sudden cold spells, heatwaves and intense winds, causing sand and dust storms.  

When is the best time to visit the Silk Road region?

The best time to visit the Silk Road for travel within Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan is from April to October, as the rainiest time of year typically falls from October to April. The shoulder months of March and November are also good times to visit as there shouldn't be as cold or get as much rain as in the winter months. It can get very hot from June to August, so if you'd prefer a more mild visit, visit in the spring and autumn seasons.

Do I need a visa to travel to the Silk Road region?

If you are travelling to countries in the Silk Road region, you should ensure you have checked the entry requirements for each destination you are visiting. Currently, in the countries we run trips in, a visa is required for entry into Turkmenistan.

Many nationalities are able to enter and travel within Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan for up to 30 days without a visa. This is extended to 60 days in Kyrgyzstan.

See visa travel advice for travellers from  Australia , the  United States , the  United Kingdom ,  Canada  and  New Zealand .

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Is tipping customary in the Silk Road region?

Tipping isn't universally done across the Silk Road region, however, it is becoming more popular in certain areas. In Kazakhstan, a service charge of 10% is typically included in bills, whereas in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, a tip of about 5-10% is welcome. Tippnig is not customary in Turkemenistan.

What is the internet access like in the Silk Road region?

Internet in countries throughout the Silk Road is typically accessible in cities and large towns. You can generally find internet in hotels and restaurants as well as in internet cafes. When outside of these major hubs, internet can range from reduced to non-existent.

In Turkmenistan, many sites, including social media, are blocked by the authorities.

Can I use my cell phone while in the Silk Road region?

Similar to internet use, cell phone access in the Silk Road region is typically good in cities and main towns. There can be limitations on using your device and home carrier, depending on the country you are travelling in and your provider. You may be able to purchase a local SIM card while abroad in this area. However, if you are planning on using global roaming, ensure it is turned on prior to leaving your home country.

What are the toilets like in the Silk Road region?

Toilets throughout the Silk Road area can vary from modern flushable toilets to outside drop toilets. Some areas in this region may not sanitize toilet facilities to the same standards as in Western countries and there may not always be hot water available.

Because there is so much variation, especially between the cities and remote areas, it is generally advised that you bring your own toilet paper, sanitizer and soap while travelling. 

Can I drink the water in the Silk Road region?

Travellers are advised not to drink tap water in Central Asia and while in the Silk Road regions. It is also a good idea to be careful when eating salads and other uncooked foods that may have been washed in water. Similarly, avoid ice, peel fruit before eating and ask for filtered water to be used for tea.

Are credit cards and ATMs widely accepted in the Silk Road region?

Credit cards are usually accepted in business in the major cities and hubs of this region of the Silk Road. Outside of cities, credit cards aren't typically used and you will need small local currency. You may find that foreign cards aren't as accepted, especially in Uzbekistan, so it's advised that you have enough cash to cover your daily expenses. 

Similarly, ATMs are usually commonly found in cities and large towns and not so much in rural regions. 

Is the Silk Road safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI+ travellers in this region of the Silk Road. In Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, same-sex relations are illegal and can incur prison sentences of up to two years. While in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, homosexuality is legal, however, attitudes are not accepting, especially outside of major cities. In this area of Asia, displays of affection between heterosexual couples are generally frowned upon and can even offend, so it is advised for all travellers to take care not to engage in any public displays of affection.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Firebird Travel

RUSSIA TRAVEL HOME

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RUSSIA TRAVEL PACKAGES A selection of Russian tours to take as they are or adjust to your needs.

THE GOLDEN RING Visit the heart of ancient Russia. What is the Golden Ring?

MOSCOW TOURS What you can see in Moscow.

MOSCOW DAY TRIPS Get out of Moscow and take a relaxing trip to some of these places

ST. PETERSBURG Some of the sights to see in Petersburg

LAKE BAIKAL TOURS Hiking and trekking around the world's deepest lake in the heart of Siberia

RUSSIAN DIGS Come and work in the field on a Russian Archaeological dig. Full training given on site.

TRAVEL TIPS & SERVICES Getting around in Russia

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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