Things To Do
in Turpan
Turpan is an oasis city in Xinjiang, set in a dramatic basin surrounded by desert and mountains. It blends Silk Road heritage with Uyghur culture, in a landscape of ancient ruins, grape terraces, and dramatic red rock scenery. The city is famed for the Bezeklik caves, the Emin Minaret, and the ancient Karez irrigation system that keeps life thriving in an arid climate.
Visitors come for history, distinctive cuisine, and the stark beauty of the Flaming Mountains and surrounding desert.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the ancient city of Jiaohe, an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the ruins of this ancient city, marveling at the impressive mud-brick architecture and the stunning desert landscape surrounding it. Capture panoramic views of the ruins atop the hill, immersing yourself in the rich history of the Silk Road.
Head to the Turpan Museum to delve deeper into the region's history and culture through its extensive exhibits. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local specialties, such as hand-pulled noodles and succulent lamb skewers. After lunch, visit the Karez irrigation system, an ingenious underground water channel that has been sustaining local agriculture for centuries.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through Turpan's night market, where you can sample traditional snacks like dried fruits and nuts. Engage with the local vendors, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and the aroma of various delicacies. End your night with a refreshing glass of Turpan’s famous grape juice, a perfect treat after a day of exploration.
Start your day with a visit to the Grape Valley, a stunning oasis known for its lush vineyards and scenic beauty. Take a leisurely walk among the grape vines, learning about the different varieties of grapes cultivated here. Enjoy a sweet breakfast of fresh grapes right from the vine, savoring the natural flavors of this celebrated region.
After a delightful morning, join a local family for a cooking class where you'll learn to make traditional Uyghur dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal lunch, sharing stories and laughter with your hosts. Post-lunch, explore the valley further by renting a bike, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views at your own pace.
Return to the Grape Valley at sunset to witness the spectacular colors of the sky reflecting off the vineyards. Settle down for a picturesque picnic dinner, complete with local cheeses and breads, amidst the sprawling fields. As the stars come out, share stories around a small bonfire, experiencing the warmth of Uyghur hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $0.5-3 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.3-1 |
| 🚎Local transport ticket | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road history and unique Uyghur culture
- Iconic desert landscapes and ancient irrigation engineering
- Very hot summers and dry climate can be challenging
- Limited nightlife and some attractions have seasonal hours
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Turpan
Visit one of these nice places.
A cylindrical minaret set against a blue sky; iconic silhouette for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Rock-cut caves with ancient murals; dramatic light and desert surroundings for photography.
Desert plateau ruins with layered earth tones and sweeping horizons.
Crimson rock ridges that glow at sunset; striking landscape photography material.
Underground canals and surface wells offer geometric patterns and water-inspired imagery.
Lush vines set against arid backdrop; ideal for close-ups and wide landscape shots.
Food in Turpan
Turpan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy chicken stew with potatoes, peppers, and tomato-based sauce, often served with bread or noodles.
Must-Try!
Fragrant rice cooked with mutton, carrots, onions, and a mix of cumin and saffron.
Hand-pulled noodles tossed with a savory meat and vegetable sauce.
Char-grilled savory kebabs seasoned with cumin and chili.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, nuts, dried fruits, and stalls offering quick bites and snacks.
Popular stalls along canal paths offering seasonal snacks and fruit shakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or spiritual sites; remove shoes where required.
Many residents appreciate being asked; respect privacy and local customs.
Bargaining is common but stay friendly and fair.
Use the right hand or both hands when handing over items as a sign of respect.
A simple nod or friendly Mandarin or Uyghur greeting goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Turpan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips (5-10 CNY) can be given to guides or staff. Payment methods include cash (CNY) and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) widely accepted; credit cards are more common in larger hotels and tour operators; ATMs are available in town for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming fruit trees, and comfortable sightseeing conditions.
Hot and very dry; carry water, wear sunscreen, and schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days with cooler nights; excellent light for photography and vineyard visits.
Cold desert nights; some attractions reduce hours; dress in layers and be prepared for chilly days.
Turpan at Night
Hiking in Turpan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low hills with desert panoramas and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Desert ridge routes offering dramatic sunset views and photography opportunities.
Canyon and hillside routes near cave sites suitable for light hiking.
Airports
How to reach Turpan by plane.
Small regional airport connecting Turpan with Urumqi and other Xinjiang destinations; taxi or shuttle services available to the city.
Major international gateway for Xinjiang; frequent connections to major Chinese cities and select international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The traditional cultural group of the region, with distinctive language, music, and cuisine.
Significant presence in administration, business, and newer neighborhoods.
Kazak and other minority groups contribute to Xinjiang’s cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional competitive sport celebrated during festivals and public evenings.
Desert treks and photo opportunities; popular around the outskirts of Turpan.
Rides through desert roads, grape valleys, and oasis scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turpan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward dishes, request dairy-free options, and avoid lamb-heavy plates when possible.