Things To Do
in Turpan
Turpan is a historic oasis city located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It sits below sea level, making it one of the hottest places in China, surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains. The city is famous for its ancient trading routes along the Silk Road and is home to unique attractions like the Jiaohe Ruins and the Karez irrigation system.
Visitors come to experience its diverse culture, local cuisine, and beautiful desert scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city dating back to the 2nd century BC, showcasing impressive earthen architecture.
Head to the Karez Museum to learn about the advanced irrigation system used in Turpan, then visit the nearby Emin Minaret, a stunning architectural gem.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some traditional Uyghur dishes, followed by a stroll through the night market to experience local culture.
Begin your day exploring the Flaming Mountains, famous for their reddish hues and dramatic scenery, perfect for photography.
Visit the Turpan Grape Valley, where you can taste fresh grapes and wines produced in the region, and explore local vineyards.
Wrap up your trip with a cultural performance showcasing traditional Uyghur music and dance, followed by a relaxing dinner.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine | $10 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20 |
| 🧢Souvenir cap | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Unique desert landscapes and natural beauty.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Extreme summer temperatures can be uncomfortable.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián)" - How much?
- "我不懂 (Wǒ bù dǒng)" - I don't understand
- "再见 (Zàijiàn)" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Turpan
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient city with stunning earthen walls and structures, perfect for capturing historical architecture.
Famous for their vibrant red color, ideal for dramatic landscape photography.
A picturesque area with lush vineyards set against the backdrop of mountains.
Food in Turpan
Turpan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hand-pulled noodle dish served with stir-fried meat and vegetables.
Must-Try!
A spicy chicken dish with thick noodles, often garnished with potatoes and bell peppers.
Traditional Uyghur bread, baked in clay ovens, often served with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market filled with local street food vendors offering kebabs, fruits, and sweets.
Fresh fruit stalls selling local grapes and dried fruits, popular among tourists.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet elders first and show deference, reflecting the cultural norm of respect.
Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid pointing your feet at anyone.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Turpan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; round up the bill or leave small change.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments through WeChat Pay or Alipay are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect very high temperatures; early mornings or evenings are best for exploring.
Cooler weather and the harvest season bring beautiful fall colors and delicious fruits.
Cold temperatures can be expected, but the landscape offers a unique calmness and beauty.
Turpan at Night
Hiking in Turpan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike offering stunning views of the red rock formations and valleys.
Various trails suitable for different skill levels, with breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Turpan by plane.
Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and is the main gateway for travelers visiting Turpan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Turpan, known for their rich culture and traditions.
A significant demographic group that has settled in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime among locals, often played in parks and schoolyards.
Popular across various age groups, with local teams often competing in regional leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turpan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; however, it’s best to specify your dietary needs.
Most restaurants serve halal food, catering to Muslim dietary requirements.