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10www.noble-caledonia.co.ukDay 5 Kashgar. Today, we delve into Kashgar, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architecture. Our exploration begins with a visit to the Apak Khoja Tomb, a stunningly adorned mausoleum considered the holiest Muslim site in Xinjiang. Wander through the Old Town, where narrow alleys and traditional homes provide a glimpse into local life, and explore the Gaotai folk houses, an area steeped in history and tradition. A wonderful lunch in a local restaurant introduces us to the diverse flavours of Uyghur cuisine before we return to the train to continue our eastward journey. Day 6 Hotan. We step back in time with a tour of Yotkan Ancient City. Once the heart of the Buddhist Kingdom of Khotan, this ancient city flourished along the Silk Road, its temples and cultural centres revealing Hotan%u2019s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality. Enjoy an exclusive visit to Hotan%u2019s Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop. Here, witness master artisans create intricate silk fabrics and carpets using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. Day 7 Golmud. Our day in Golmud includes an enlightening lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud on the Silk Road%u2019s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between East and West. You may also choose to explore the Chaerhan Salt Lake, a surreal landscape of salt flats and mineral deposits, or enjoy a guided tour through Golmud%u2019s vibrant city streets, before we re-board the train. Day 8 Dunhuang. Arriving in Dunhuang, we explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This %u201cCave of a Thousand Buddhas%u201d is a spiritual oasis that has inspired pilgrims and artists for centuries, adorned with vibrant murals and statues that date back over a thousand years. Local folk artists serenade us with music, adding an atmospheric touch to our journey through this sacred complex. After lunch we will embark on a camel trek along the Silk Road to the enchanting Crescent Lake, an oasis nestled among towering dunes. This tranquil crescent-shaped lake has endured millennia of desert winds and remains a cherished symbol of resilience and beauty. Day 9 On Board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express & Xi%u2019an. Today is a day of leisure as we traverse the Chinese landscape aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. Take in the panoramic scenery from the observation car%u2019s floor-to-ceiling windows, the largest of any train in China, or unwind in the bar car. This evening we arrive into Xi%u2019an and delight in an authentic Tang Dynasty dinner, where the ambiance is enhanced by a captivating performance of traditional music and dance, evoking the grandeur of ancient Xi%u2019an.Day 10 Xi%u2019an. In Xi%u2019an, we explore the ancient city walls and the historic Great Mosque, one of China%u2019s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. Later, we visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army %u2013 a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China%u2019s First Emperor to protect him in the afterlife. This UNESCO site, often hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World, offers a mesmerising insight into ancient Chinese beliefs and artistry. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner aboard the train.Day 11 Beijing. Disembark in China%u2019s capital city this morning and bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. We will enjoy a comprehensive tour of Beijing%u2019s historic heart which reveals the grandeur of China%u2019s ancient dynasties. Explore the Forbidden City, the sprawling Imperial palace where emperors ruled for nearly 500 years. Stroll through Tiananmen Square, a place of great historical significance, before discovering the Summer Palace, a serene retreat adorned with beautiful gardens, temples, and lakes. Alternatively, delve into Beijing%u2019s modern allure with a tour of contemporary landmarks: marvel at the architectural feats of the Olympic Village and the iconic %u201cBird%u2019s Nest%u201d Stadium, glimpse the striking design of the CCTV Tower, and explore the National Museum for a modern-day perspective on China%u2019s cultural evolution. Afterwards we will transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, for a two night stay in five-star comfort. Day 12 Beijing. Our day begins with a morning visit to the Great Wall at Badaling, one of the most iconic symbols of ancient China. Here, you can walk along a beautifully restored section, soaking in the breathtaking views and imagining the historical figures who once guarded this marvel. Crescent Lake, Dunhuang