Turpan (also spelled Tulufan) is a historical Silk Road city in Xinjiang, China, known for its blazing hot climate, ancient ruins, and grape-filled valleys. Located in the Turpan Basin, this desert oasis holds records as one of the hottest and lowest places in China. Despite its extreme weather, Turpan is a land of rich Uyghur culture, ancient cities, and breathtaking landscapes.
From the flaming red mountains of the Flaming Mountains to the thousand-year-old Karez irrigation system, city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in ancient Silk Road ruins, exploring Uyghur markets, or tasting delicious grapes, Turpan is a must-visit destination in Xinjiang.
Essential Information
- Location: Eastern Xinjiang, about 200 km southeast of Ürümqi
- Altitude: 30m below sea level (one of China’s lowest regions)
- Climate: Extremely hot summers (40-50°C) & mild winters (-5 to 10°C)
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) & Autumn (September-October)
- Language: Uyghur, Mandarin Chinese
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Interesting Facts About Turpan
- The Hottest City in China 🌞 – City holds the highest recorded temperature in China at 49.6°C (121.3°F)!
- One of the Lowest Places on Earth 🌍 – The Turpan Depression is -154 meters below sea level, making it the second-lowest point in the world after the Dead Sea.
- The Grape Capital of China 🍇 – Turpan is famous for its sweet seedless grapes, and it produces 80% of China’s raisins.
- A Gateway to the Ancient Silk Road 🏺 – Turpan was a major trade hub connecting China to Central Asia and Europe.
- An Underground Water System Over 2,000 Years Old 💦 – The Karez irrigation system is an engineering marvel that still provides water to Turpan’s vineyards today.
How to Get to Turpan
By Air ✈️
- Turpan Jiaohe Airport (TLQ) – Small airport with flights from Ürümqi, Xi’an, and Beijing.
- Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) – The largest airport in Xinjiang, with connections to Shanghai, Guangzhou, and international cities. From Ürümqi, you can take a train or bus to Turpan.
With Train 🚆
- Ürümqi to Turpan: High-speed trains take about 1 hour.
- Beijing : Around 20-24 hours by train.
- Lanzhou : About 11-13 hours.
By Bus or Car 🚗
- Ürümqi to Turpan: About 2.5-3 hours by bus or 2 hours by car on the G30 Expressway.
Best Things to Do in Turpan
1. Explore the Ancient City of Jiaohe 🏛️
- A 2,300-year-old Silk Road city, entirely carved into the earth.
- One of the best-preserved ancient cities in China, with temples, houses, and streets still visible.
2. Visit the Flaming Mountains 🔥
- A dramatic red mountain range, made famous by the “Journey to the West” legend.
- The hottest place in China, often reaching 50°C (122°F) in summer!
3. Discover the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves 🏞️
- An ancient Buddhist cave complex with over 77 caves filled with colorful frescoes.
- Once a major religious center along the Silk Road.
4. Walk Through the Grape Valley 🍇
- A lush green oasis filled with vineyards and shaded trellises.
- Taste fresh grapes, raisins, and traditional Uyghur snacks.
5. Marvel at the Karez Underground Irrigation System 💧
- A 2,000-year-old water system, designed to bring melted snow from the Tianshan Mountains to Turpan.
- Visit the Karez Museum to see how this ingenious system still works today.
6. Visit the Emin Minaret (Sugong Pagoda) 🕌
- The tallest minaret in China (44m), built in 1777.
- A beautiful example of Islamic architecture in Xinjiang.
Best Accommodation in Turpan
Luxury Hotels (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
- Huozhou Hotel Turpan – Comfortable rooms with modern amenities & great views.
- Turpan Grand Hotel – One of the best hotels in the city, featuring Uyghur-style decor.
Mid-Range Hotels (⭐⭐⭐)
- Atour Hotel Turpan – Stylish and comfortable, located in the city center.
- Shuangcheng Hotel – A great choice for travelers looking for convenient and affordable accommodation.
Budget Stays & Guesthouses
- Turpan Silk Road Lodges – A cozy traditional guesthouse with friendly local hosts.
- Grape Valley Homestays – Stay inside the vineyards, offering Uyghur hospitality and homemade food.
Cultural & Modern Attractions
Cultural Highlights
- Uyghur Night Markets – Try roasted lamb skewers, naan bread, and local fruits.
- Turpan Museum – Learn about ancient Silk Road history and Uyghur culture.
Modern Attractions
- Gaochang Night Market – A lively spot to enjoy street food, music, and cultural performances.
- Turpan Desert Park – Experience camel rides and desert jeep tours.
Dining & Nightlife in Turpan
Best Local Dishes to Try
- Lamb Kebabs (Yangrou Chuanr) 🍢 – Spicy and grilled to perfection.
- Uyghur Polo (Pilaf) 🍚 – A delicious rice dish with lamb, carrots, and raisins.
- Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken) 🍲 – A famous spicy chicken dish with potatoes and noodles.
- Fresh Grapes & Raisins 🍇 – The sweetest in China!
Best Restaurants
- Grape Valley Restaurant – Authentic Uyghur dishes in a vineyard setting.
- Bazaar Food Street – A great place for local snacks and grilled kebabs.
Nightlife
- Uyghur Music & Dance Shows 💃 – Experience traditional Uyghur performances at local restaurants.
- Desert Star Gazing 🌌 – Head to the Flaming Mountains for a stunning night-sky experience.
Best Day Trips from Turpan
1. Gaochang Ancient City 🏰
- A 2,000-year-old Silk Road city, once the capital of an ancient Uyghur kingdom.
- Features massive ruins, Buddhist temples, and royal tombs.
2. Tuyuq Valley 🏞️
- A remote Uyghur village known for its old mud-brick houses and Buddhist caves.
- One of the most peaceful spots in Turpan.
Getting Around
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing 🚕 – Affordable and the best way to get around the city.
- Public Buses 🚌 – Limited but available in downtown Turpan.
- Bicycles & Walking 🚲 – The best way to explore Grape Valley and local markets.
Practical Tips for Visiting
- Stay Hydrated 💧 – City is extremely dry and hot.
- Wear Sun Protection 🧢 – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essential!
- Learn Some Basic Uyghur Phrases 🗣️ – Locals appreciate it!
- Visit in Spring or Autumn 🍂 – Avoid the summer heat!
Conclusion
Turpan is a must-visit Silk Road destination, offering a mix of ancient ruins, Uyghur culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring Jiaohe, Grape Valley, or the Flaming Mountains, Turpan promises an unforgettable adventure in Xinjiang! 🌍
