Things To Do
in Turpan
Turpan is a bustling oasis city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. Known for its unique landscape, Turpan is one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth, with the Emin Minaret standing as a prominent landmark. The city sits along the ancient Silk Road and boasts a rich history with well-preserved ruins such as the Jiaohe Ancient City.
Turpan is also famous for its delicious grapes and extensive grape vineyards, offering visitors a taste of the region's renowned sweet fruits.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Turpan Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Explore ancient artifacts that showcase the intricate culture of the Silk Road.
Head to the Jiaohe Ruins, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. Walk through the remnants of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and imagine what life was like during its peak.
Enjoy dinner at a local Xinjiang restaurant, sampling the region's famous lamb kebabs and polo rice. Catch the sunset over the desert landscapes for a perfect end to the day.
After breakfast, embark on a camel ride through the GobI desert to experience the spectacular dunes up close. Don't forget to capture the scenic views on your camera!
Visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves to see stunning ancient murals and sculptures. This tranquil site offers a peek into the spiritual world of the early inhabitants.
Return to your accommodation, relax over tea, and share stories of your day's adventures. Consider visiting a local bazaar if you're up for some evening shopping.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, including ancient Silk Road sites
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Gobi Desert and the Flaming Mountains
- Unique local cuisine and agricultural products, such as grapes and melons
- Warm climate, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun
- Various festivals and events that celebrate local traditions and culture
- Extreme temperatures can be a challenge, with hot summers and cold winters
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities
- Air quality concerns due to dust storms and pollution in the region
- Language barriers for travelers, as English is not widely spoken
- Potential cultural misunderstandings for tourists unfamiliar with local customs
Best Activities in Turpan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visiting the unique and breathtaking Flaming Mountains, known for their striking red color and impressive desert landscape.
Exploring the grape vineyards, tasting local produce, and enjoying the picturesque scenery in the Turpan Grape Valley.
Visiting the ruins of Jiaohe Ancient City, an important historical site with well-preserved ruins and stunning views.
Tours
Uncover the best of Turpan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Turpan
Visit one of these nice places.
Grape Valley offers stunning views of lush vineyards against the backdrop of the Flaming Mountains, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The Emin Minaret provides panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape and an excellent vantage point for capturing the beauty of Turpan.
The iconic Flaming Mountains display captivating hues at various times of the day, making it a prime location for breathtaking photographs.
Tuyoq Valley features picturesque landscapes and ancient cave dwellings, offering photographers a unique and historical backdrop for their shots.
Food in Turpan
Turpan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender skewers of succulent lamb or mutton, seasoned with cumin, chili, and various spices. Can be found at street food stalls throughout Turpan.
Must-Try!
Freshly pulled long, chewy noodles served in a flavorful broth with your choice of meat or vegetables. Look for small noodle shops or Uighur restaurants for an authentic experience.
Delicious baked pastries filled with juicy minced lamb, onions, and spices. Best enjoyed at local bakeries or Uighur eateries.
Turpan's grapes and melons are famous for their exquisite sweetness. Visit the city's fruit markets or farms to savor these refreshing treats.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Turpan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An expansive market offering a wide variety of local food products, including dried fruits, nuts, aromatic spices, and street food stalls selling kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and more.
A bustling night market where visitors can sample an assortment of Uighur snacks, from spiced skewers to hearty dumplings, amid a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Turpan, it is important to show respect towards elders through polite greetings and deferential behavior.
When meeting someone in Turpan, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and a slight nod of the head.
Hospitality is highly valued in Turpan, and it is customary to offer guests food and drink as a sign of welcome and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Turpan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Turpan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected or practiced in Turpan, China. It is not a customary part of the culture and is not required at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Turpan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and some upscale shops, but it's always good to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also becoming increasingly popular in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Turpan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit, as the weather is mild and the famous Grape Festival takes place in April.
Hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). It is recommended to stay hydrated and seek shade while exploring the attractions.
Cooler temperatures make it another suitable time to visit. The popular Turpan International Grape Festival is held in late August or early September.
It can get quite cold, with occasional snowfall. While the weather might not be as favorable for outdoor activities, the winter landscapes can still be quite picturesque.
Turpan at Night
Hiking in Turpan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dramatic range of mountains known for its unique coloration and steep landscapes offering various trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Located in the Tianshan Mountains, this scenic area features beautiful lakes and hiking trails surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
A park that includes pathways suitable for hiking, with views of local flora and cultural landmarks specific to the Uyghur heritage.
A large grassland area featuring gentle hills and scenic views, ideal for hiking and experiencing the natural beauty of Xinjiang.
Explore the ancient water conservation system and surrounding areas through various trails, providing both cultural insights and beautiful desert views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Turpan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Turpan by plane.
The largest international airport in the Xinjiang region, located approximately 200 kilometers from Turpan. It serves as a major hub for flights connecting to domestic and international destinations.
Situated about 450 kilometers from Turpan, this airport serves the city of Kashgar and offers flights to several domestic and limited international destinations.
Located approximately 600 kilometers from Turpan, the airport serves the city of Hotan and connects with a few domestic flights.
Around 800 kilometers from Turpan, this airport serves the city of Yining in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture and has domestic flight services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Turpan, comprising a significant portion of the population, particularly in urban areas.
A prominent ethnic minority in Turpan, the Uyghurs are a Turkic ethnic group with a rich cultural heritage and history in the region.
Another ethnic group present in Turpan, the Hui people are Chinese Muslims, and they contribute to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller minority group in Turpan, the Kazakhs are a nomadic Turkic people known for their pastoral lifestyle.
Includes various other small ethnic groups that may reside in Turpan, contributing to its multicultural landscape.
The Soul of Turpan
Discover the essence of Turpan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Turpan, with many local courts and community teams engaging in regular games and tournaments.
Soccer enjoys a significant following in Turpan, with local youth leagues and outdoor matches commonly played in parks and fields.
Due to its indoor nature, table tennis is a favored pastime in Turpan, with many recreational clubs and schools offering opportunities for play.
Including events like horseback riding and wrestling, traditional Uygur sports celebrate local culture and attract participants during festivals.
With the picturesque landscapes of Turpan, running is a popular activity, with many residents participating in marathons and jogging in the scenic areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turpan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat features prominently in local cuisine, some eateries may offer vegetarian alternatives like stuffed peppers, vegetable stews, and dairy-based dishes. Communicating dietary preferences clearly to the staff is advised.
Gluten-free options can be limited, but dishes like grilled meats, vegetable stir-fries, and rice-based meals may suit those with gluten restrictions. Checking with restaurant staff about ingredients and cooking methods is recommended.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Turpan with these cultural adventures.