Xinjiang rewards time. Its cities, mountain roads, grasslands and lakes do not sit close together, so the way you travel between them matters as much as the stops. Three journeys in the Huayun collection offer different combinations of rail comfort, guided exploration and time away from the train.
Compare the right products
| Journey | Length | Starting point | Train accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Oriental Express | 15 days, 14 nights | Urumqi | Private cabins with private bathrooms |
| Panda Express–Chengdu | 16 days, 15 nights | Chengdu or an available Lanzhou boarding option | Leisurely Home or Poetic Residence, both with private bathrooms |
| Panda Express–Shifang | 16 days, 15 nights | Chengdu or an available Lanzhou boarding option | Four-berth compartments with shared carriage-level facilities |
Boarding options and the precise route depend on the departure. Ask about a shorter segment if you cannot travel for the full itinerary.
Where the route takes you
Southern Xinjiang brings Kashgar's old city and the Pamir landscapes around Karakul Lake and Tashkurgan. Northern sections bring grasslands, Sayram Lake, Kanas and Hemu. These are rail-led holidays with substantial road excursions, rather than a continuous train ride from one attraction to the next.
For Chengdu's summer departures, the southern section of the Duku Highway is part of the proposed route. Autumn departures emphasise seasonal colour around the northern lakes. Mountain-road access can change; confirm your departure's itinerary rather than assuming the seasons are interchangeable.
Privacy changes the experience
New Oriental Express and Panda Express–Chengdu use private cabins with private bathrooms. Exact room types and bedding belong to the dated tour details.
Shifang takes a different approach: four fixed berths in one compartment, with toilets, washstands and showers shared at carriage level. Decide how much privacy matters before comparing routes. Use Cabins & Suites for the maintained room and facility facts.
Choose a dated departure
Start with the New Oriental Express, Panda Express–Chengdu and Panda Express–Shifang pages. Routes, boarding points and available segments can change by departure. Share your dates, party size and privacy preference to receive the current itinerary and quote for a departure you can take.
