Among the many jewels that lay hidden within the folds of the Tianshan Mountains are the Tianchi and Sayram Lakes. The Tianchi or 'Heavenly Lake,' overshadowed by the ominous peak of Mt. Bogda(The Mountain of God), is the summer grazing home of large numbers of Kazak herdsmen. Tianchi itself, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful locations in China and the ascent to the Mt. Bogda base camp assures one of breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and conifer forests

Further to the West, on a high plateau ringed by formidable snow peaks is the Sayram Lake grassland, where graze the herds of differing Mongol and Kazak clans. Formerly, the royal pasture lands of Mongol Khans, Sayram is a rare sight in the summer, the green expanses of its vast grasslands are set in deep contrast to the aquamarine waters of the lake. Annually on July 13, thousands of local 'Chahra' Mongols converge onto the grassland to participate in the three day long `Nadam', a festive time of horse racing, wrestling tournaments, singing competitions and lively barter.

In constant contact with the lifestyles of the people along this route, one is rewarded with lasting impressions of a cultural continuum that has its roots in the beginning of Central Asian history. Moreover, with added side tours to the historic oasis of Turpan and through the fertile Ili Valley, where we witness the archery skills of the unique Xibo minority and the Kazak horse back games of 'Buz Kashi' and 'Girl Chase,' this program promises a rich cultural experience of the well-preserved traditions unique to this remarkable region.

ITINERARY:

DAY 1: Arrive Hong Kong
DAY 2: Hong Kong to Urumqi via Guangzhou
DAY 3: Urumqi to Heavenly Lake
DAY 4: Towards Bogda
DAY 5: To Base Camp
DAY 6: To Far End of Lake
DAY 7: To Urumqi
DAY 8: To Sayram
DAY 9-10: Around Sayram
DAY11: Along the Western Shore
DAY12: Artai to Ili
DAY13: Ili
DAY14: Ili to Urumqi
DAY15: Urumqi to Turpan
DAY16: Turpan
DAY17: Turpan to Urumqi
DAY18: Urumqi to Hong Kong via Guangzhou
DAY19: Exit Hong Kong

Price in USD/pax ( Land Cost)
Above 10 pax :2524
6 to 9 pax : 2670
4 to 5 pax : 3269
Single Supplement : 476

Land Cost in Mainland China includes: All transfers, all domestic flights/trains/local airport taxes, land transport, 3 meals daily, service of guide and driver, sightseeing & entrance fees, tourist class hotels on twin share basis, tents in camping section, support horses and herders during trekking, a welcome and a farewell banquet. In China Hong Kong includes: All airport transfers, bed and breakfast, tourist class hotel on twin share basis.

Landcost excludes: International flights and related airport taxes, supplementary trips and services not mentioned, personal expenses, visa costs, tips to tour guide and driver, supplement cost for those who wants to accommodate on a single basis.

Booking Information