· CN

Turpan

Turpan, Xinjiang, China

Journey to the Heart of the Desert: Turpan, Xinjiang Step into a world of ancient history, blazing desert landscapes, and sweet, sun-ripened fruit in Turpan, a captivating oasis city nestled in the heart of Xinjiang, Chi…

#Desert#Historical Sites#Grapes#Extreme Temperatures#Silk Road

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Turpan.

Top Hotels in Turpan

Top Flights to Turpan

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Turpan.

Tours

Exploring the Ancient City of Gaochang

Visit the ruins of Gaochang, an ancient city that was an important trading post along the Silk Road.

Discovering the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves

Explore the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a series of Buddhist grottoes dating back to the 5th century.

Shopping

Shopping at Turpan Night Market

Experience the local culture and taste traditional Uyghur food at the bustling night market.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Flaming Mountains

Hike the impressive Flaming Mountains, known for their intense temperatures and unique landscape.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Turpan.

Currency

¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan Renminbi

Population

Not Available

Languages

Uyghur, Uyghur, Mandarin

Average weather

Turpan

Jan

-2°-14°

Feb

4°-9°

Mar

15°0°

Apr

25°10°

May

32°16°

Jun

38°21°

Jul

41°25°

Aug

39°23°

Sep

32°16°

Oct

21°7°

Nov

10°-2°

Dec

1°-10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Turpan.

What people love

Turpan, located in Xinjiang, China, is a unique travel destination with several appealing attributes. Some of the pros of traveling to Turpan include:

Rich History: Turpan has a long and fascinating history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The city has been an important cultural and trading center along the ancient Silk Road, resulting in a diverse mix of cultures and influences.
Unique Landscapes: Turpan is known for its unique landscapes, including the Turpan Depression, which is one of the lowest and hottest places on Earth. Visitors can also explore the stunning Flaming Mountains and the picturesque Grape Valley, known for its lush vineyards and fruit orchards.
Cultural Diversity: As a part of Xinjiang, Turpan is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Han Chinese, and Hui Muslims. This diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.
Ancient Ruins and Sites: Turpan is home to several well-preserved ancient ruins and historical sites, such as the Jiaohe Ruins, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore these ancient sites to learn more about the region's history and culture.
Thermal Springs: Turpan is famous for its thermal springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in these natural hot springs, making it a popular destination for wellness tourism.

Overall, traveling to Turpan offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and unique experiences that are sure to captivate any traveler.

(Note: Please check for the latest travel advisories and restrictions before planning your trip to Turpan, Xinjiang, China.)

What to know

Traveling to Turpan, located in Xinjiang, China, may present some challenges and drawbacks due to its unique geographical and political situation. Here are some cons to consider:

Extreme Climate: Turpan is known for its extremely hot and arid climate, with temperatures often reaching well over 100°F (40°C) during the summer months. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even dangerous for some travelers.
Remote Location: Turpan is located in a remote area of Xinjiang, far from major cities and transportation hubs. This can make it difficult to access and may result in limited transportation options for getting in and out of the region.
Political Tensions: Xinjiang, where Turpan is located, has been the center of political tensions and security concerns in recent years. Travelers may encounter increased security measures, restrictions, and scrutiny from authorities while visiting the area.
Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in Turpan, so communication may be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Mandarin or Uyghur.
Cultural Sensitivities: Xinjiang is home to a significant Uyghur population, and there are ongoing cultural and political sensitivities in the region. Travelers should be respectful of local customs and traditions to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Turpan is not as developed for tourism compared to other popular destinations in China. This means that amenities, accommodations, and tourist services may be more basic or limited in the area.

Please note that the situation in Xinjiang can change rapidly, so it's important to stay informed about the current conditions and travel advisories before planning a trip to Turpan.

Turpan, located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is a city with a rich and diverse history shaped by its strategic location on the ancient Silk Road. Here is a detailed history of Turpan, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

Ancient Period:

Turpan Basin: The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Bronze Age.
Jushi Kingdom: In the early historical period, the region was home to the Jushi Kingdom, which was later conquered by the Han Dynasty in 60 BCE, marking the beginning of Chinese influence in the area.

Silk Road Era:

Key Trading Hub: As part of the Silk Road, Turpan became a critical trading hub that facilitated cultural, religious, and economic exchanges between China and the West.
Gaochang Kingdom: From the 5th to 8th centuries, the region was dominated by the Gaochang Kingdom, a significant center for trade and Buddhism. The ruins of the ancient city of Gaochang, located near Turpan, are a testament to this period.

Islamic Influence and Mongol Period:

Islamic Influence: During the 9th and 10th centuries, the region saw the introduction of Islam, which gradually became the dominant religion.
Mongol Empire: In the 13th century, Turpan came under the control of the Mongol Empire, further solidifying its role as a crossroads of cultures.

Ming and Qing Dynasties:

Ming Dynasty: Turpan maintained its strategic importance, and during the Ming Dynasty, it was a site of conflict with the Mongols.
Qing Dynasty: In the 18th century, the Qing Dynasty asserted control over Xinjiang, including Turpan, integrating it more closely into the Chinese state.

Modern Period

20th Century:

People's Republic of China: After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Turpan became part of the newly created Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. It has since undergone significant development while also facing challenges related to ethnic tensions and cultural preservation.

Historical Figures

Xuanzang (602–664 CE): The famous Chinese Buddhist monk and traveler passed through Turpan during his journey to India. His accounts provide valuable insights into the region's historical context.

Important Landmarks

Gaochang Ruins: These ancient city ruins are a major archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past.
Jiaohe Ruins: Another significant ancient city near Turpan, known for its well-preserved structures and strategic location atop a plateau.
Emin Minaret (Sugong Ta): Built in the 18th century, it is the tallest minaret in China and a symbol of Islamic architecture in the region.
Karez System: An ancient irrigation system that has been vital for agriculture in the arid region, showcasing the ingenuity of local engineering.

Turpan's history is characterized by its role as a cultural and trade bridge between East and West, making it a fascinating subject of study for those interested in the Silk Road and the diverse cultures of Central Asia.