The Silk Road Rail Cruise

Xining, Bird Island, Qarhan Salt Lake, Dunhuang, Mogao Caves, Da Qaidam Emerald Lake

From HKD 36,000 per person on twin or double occupancy basis ( Rates subject to change based on seasonality)

The Silk Road, once a vibrant network of trade routes linking China with the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Europe, now comes alive through The Silk Road Express—a luxurious train journey that blends ancient grandeur with modern elegance. This high-end train, hand-painted by master artists from the Academy of Arts and Design at Tsinghua University, evokes the splendor of the Han Dynasty while offering contemporary comfort. Each exquisitely designed cabin features configurable double or twin beds, a private bathroom with a smart toilet and power shower, a mini bar with complimentary tea, coffee, and mineral water, and a full-length wardrobe. Guests enjoy personalized concierge service, private transportation, and expert English-speaking guides who illuminate the rich cultural heritage of the route. Onboard, two dining cars offer gourmet meals in both Western and Chinese atmospheres, creating a culinary experience as memorable as the journey itself. For those who seek to escape the ordinary and discover hidden wonders,the Silk Road Express promises a mesmerizing voyage.

What's Included

Accommodation on Twin sharing basis. Family cabins and Single cabins available at additional cost
Transportation for sightseeing and transfers
All sightseeing tours guided by dedicated vacation ambassadors in English
All meals included throughout the whole tour - Western and Chinese
Fees for all the attractions
A 24/7 service from a team of dedicated concierge
Bathrobes, slippers, Dyson hairdryer and premium toiletries provided
Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water in cabin available at all times
Complimentary beer, wine and cocktails from the Bar Lounge Car included (excluding Premium Wine List)
Complimentary laundry and turndown service

Travel Protection

For peace of mind against missed connections, delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, we strongly recommend purchasing a travel protection plan—regardless of provider—prior to departure.

Detailed Itinerary

1A - ROUTE START FROM XINING (5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS)
2A - ROUTE START FROM DUNHUANG

1A - ROUTE START FROM XINING (5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS)

Day 01
Day 02
Day 03
Day 04
Day 05

Day 01

XINING

Exclusive Welcome Dinner

Sofitel Xining Hotel

Dinner

Xining Railway Station or Airport meet and greet. Transfer by private chauffeured car to hotel

Day 02

XINING - GEERMU

Kumbum Monastery, Three Arts, Haiyan rapeseed flower field

On the Silk Road Luxury Train

Breakfast , Lunch , Dinner

The journey begins with a customized tour of Kumbum monastery called Ta'er Temple in Chinese. Visit this lamasery in the morning, where you will experience the serenity of the thousand-year-old Sanskrit sounds and witness the master's exquisite skill in painting thangkas. This monastery was founded in 1583 and is regarded as a sacred birthplace of Tsongkhapa. Next visit the "Three Arts " :vivid Yak butter sculptures and exquisite Murals. Next stop the Haiyan rapeseed flower field before getting on board The Silk Road Express, to continue your journey. Enjoy panoramic views along the way. When the train slows down to pass Niaodao Station, you can enjoy a close-up view of the magnificent QINGHAI LAKE as you enjoy your delicious dinner. Overnight on train.

Day 03

GEERMU - DUNHUANG

Dachaidan Emerald Lake

On the Silk Road Luxury Train

Breakfast , Lunch , Dinner

Begin your morning alongside your tour ambassador with a visit to the breathtaking Dachaidan Emerald Lake, with its shimmering green waters. This striking natural salt lake is composed of countless pools in varying sizes and hues, formed by mineral-rich waters that create a mesmerizing landscape. Take a leisurely stroll along the serene lakeshore, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. As evening descends, return to the train for another exquisite gourmet dinner, then unwind in the comfort of your private cabin and drift into restful sleep as the journey continues.

Day 04

DUNHUANG

Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain

Dongyl Dunhuang Hotel and resorts

Breakfast , Lunch , Dinner

At dawn, the train arrives in Dunhuang, where you’ll be granted privileged access to the Mogao Caves. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore three exclusive caves and eight general ones—without the hassle of queues—delving into centuries of Buddhist art and history. As the day unfolds, you’ll enjoy exclusive entry to the enchanting Crescent Spring at Mingsha Mountain. With the setting sun casting golden hues across the desert, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of natural wonder. Later, savor a specially prepared desert dinner while soaking in the serene beauty of your surroundings.

Day 05

-

Test Hotel

N/A

Transferred to airport by private chauffeured car.

2A - ROUTE START FROM DUNHUANG

Day 01
Day 02
Day 03
Day 04
Day 05

Day 01

DUNHUANG

Dunhuang International Hotel

Dinner

Meet and greet at Dunhuang Railway Station or Airport and transfer by private car to hotlel. In the evening enjoy an elebarote feast at the welcome dinner for all guests.

Day 02

DUNHUANG

Mogao Caves, Echo Shan Mountain

On the Silk Road Luxury Train

N/A

You will enjoy privileged access to the MOGAO CAVES-an expert-guided tour of the three special caves and the eight general caves with no queuing. There is also an exclusive access and car privilege for you in ECHO SAND MOUNTAIN to enjoy the desert wonder away from the hustle and bustle, and you can have a desert-style dinner while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Day 03

DAQAIDAM EMERALD LAKE

Daqaidam Emerald Lake

On the Silk Road Luxury Train

N/A

In the morning, you will enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and close interactions with yaks on the bank of the DA QAIDAM EMERALD LAKE. Afterwards, we will take the train to the QARHAN SALT LAKE and savor the delicious food while enjoying the fantasy of the MIRROR OF THE SKY. At night, enjoying a delicious dinner on the train, and sleeping peacefully in the room under the starry sky.

Day 04

QINGHAI LAKE

Xining Hotel

N/A

In the morning, When the train arrives at BIRD ISLANE STATION, you can enjoy a close-up view of the magnificent QINGHAI LAKE. After arriving at XINING at noon, you will enjoy a customized tour of TA’ER LAMASERY, where you will experience the serenity of the thousand-year-old Sanskrit sounds and witness the master's exquisite skill in painting thangkas. At dinner time, a private feast awaits you.

Day 05