Here is a remarkable journey through the heart of ancient China, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge on an extraordinary route aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. This exclusive itinerary traverses a captivating landscape of Imperial capitals, desert oases, and ancient cities, transporting guests through Beijing, Xi’an, Dunhuang, Hotan, Kashgar, and beyond. Along the way, you will encounter the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors, walk the revered Great Wall, and explore the majestic Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with exquisite Buddhist art.
On board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, experience unparalleled luxury with spacious en-suite cabins, world-class cuisine, and refined service. From the floor-to-ceiling windows of the observation car, take in sweeping vistas of China’s diverse landscapes, from the verdant valleys surrounding Xi’an to the ethereal sands of the Gobi Desert. At each stop, the expert guides will bring each site to life, sharing tales of emperors, traders, and pilgrims who once journeyed along these fabled paths. This meticulously planned journey promises to be a luxurious and enriching adventure into China’s timeless heritage.
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Accommodating a maximum of just 80 guests, the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express has been carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind and provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys combining vibrant cultures and legendary landscapes that have inspired travellers for centuries. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
2027 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Urumqi, China.
Fly by indirect scheduled flight.
Day 2 Urumqi.
Arrive today and transfer to the Conrad Urumqi for an overnight stay. This city is the cosmopolitan capital of Xinjiang, home to numerous ethnic groups and brimming with the vibrant energy of East meets West. Join your fellow travellers for an exclusive welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Day 3 Urumqi to Turpan.
After a restful morning in Urumqi, we board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, our luxurious home for the next leg of the journey. Settle into your elegant suite before enjoying a welcome lunch in the dining car, as we begin our journey eastwards in true comfort towards our first stop of Turpan.
Day 4 Turpan.
This morning we explore the Ancient City of Gaochang, an ancient Silk Road outpost that once served as a vital trading hub. After lunch, we marvel at the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that has provided water to this arid region for centuries. We then visit Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city carved from rock, whose unique architecture reflects the ingenuity of its former inhabitants.
Day 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’s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality. Enjoy an exclusive visit to Hotan’s 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’s 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’s 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 “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” 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’an.
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’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the largest of any train in China, or unwind in the bar car. This evening we arrive into Xi’an 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’an.
Day 10 Xi’an.
In Xi’an, we explore the ancient city walls and the historic Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. Later, we visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army – a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China’s 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’s capital city this morning and bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express. We will enjoy a comprehensive tour of Beijing’s historic heart which reveals the grandeur of China’s 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’s modern allure with a tour of contemporary landmarks: marvel at the architectural feats of the Olympic Village and the iconic “Bird’s Nest” Stadium, glimpse the striking design of the CCTV Tower, and explore the National Museum for a modern-day perspective on China’s 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. In the afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore Beijing’s lively mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. This evening, we gather for a dining experience at a celebrated Peking Duck restaurant. This Beijing speciality, cherished for centuries, is expertly prepared and carved at your table, offering a delectable insight into Chinese culinary mastery.
Day 13 Beijing to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to London.
2026 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Beijing, China.
Fly by overnight scheduled flight.
Day 2 Beijing.
Arrive today and transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel Beijing for a two night stay in five-star comfort. This evening, join your fellow travellers for the welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 Beijing.
Our adventure 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. In the afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore Beijing’s lively mix of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. That evening, we gather for a dining experience at a celebrated Peking Duck restaurant. This Beijing speciality, cherished for centuries, is expertly prepared and carved at your table, offering a delectable insight into Chinese culinary mastery.
Day 4 Beijing.
Today, a comprehensive tour of Beijing’s historic heart reveals the grandeur of China’s 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, take a tour of Beijing’s contemporary landmarks: marvel at the architectural feats of the Olympic Village and the iconic “Bird’s Nest” Stadium, glimpse the striking design of the CCTV Tower, and explore the National Museum for a modern-day perspective on China’s cultural evolution. In the evening, we board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, our luxurious home for the next leg of the journey. Settle into your elegant cabin before enjoying a welcoming dinner in the dining car, as we begin our journey westward in true comfort.
Day 5 Xi’an.
In Xi’an, we explore the ancient city walls and the historic Great Mosque, one of China’s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. Later, we visit the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army – a life-sized army of soldiers, chariots, and horses, buried with China’s 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, 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’an.
Day 6 On board the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.
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’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the largest of any train in China, or unwind in the Bar Lounge Car.
Day 7 Dunhuang.
Arriving in Dunhuang, we explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient Buddhist art. This “Cave of a Thousand Buddhas” 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 a delightful lunch, we 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 8 Golmud.
Our day in Golmud includes an enlightening lecture at the Hilton Qinghai-Golmud on the Silk Road’s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between East and West. You may choose to explore the Chaerhan Salt Lake, a surreal landscape of salt flats and mineral deposits, or enjoy a guided tour through Golmud’s vibrant city streets, before we re-board the train.
Day 9 Hotan.
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board before an exclusive visit to Hotan’s Atlas Silk and Carpet Workshop. Here, witness master artisans create intricate silk fabrics and carpets using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. In the evening, 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’s rich legacy as a nexus of trade and spirituality.
Day 10 Kashgar.
Today, we delve into Kashgar, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures, religions, and architecture. Begin 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 journey.
Day 11 Turpan.
Arriving in Turpan, we explore the Ancient City of Gaochang, an ancient Silk Road outpost that once served as a vital trading hub. After lunch, we marvel at the Karez irrigation system, an engineering marvel that has provided water to this arid region for centuries. We then visit Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city carved from rock, whose unique architecture reflects the ingenuity of its former inhabitants. In the evening, join us for a farewell dinner aboard the train.
Day 12 Turpan & Urumqi.
After a restful morning on board, join a captivating lecture exploring the legacies of the Silk Road. Following a leisurely lunch on board, we bid farewell to the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express and disembark in Urumqi where we will enjoy an overnight stay. This city is the cosmopolitan capital of Xinjiang, home to numerous ethnic groups and brimming with the vibrant energy of East meets West.
Day 13 Urumqi to London.
Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your indirect scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 20 September to 2 October 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Cabin | £15995 | |
| Han Dynasty Suites | On Request | |
| Superior Cabin for sole occupancy | £25495 | |
| 1 to 13 April 2027 • 10 to 22 September 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Superior Cabin | £15995 | |
| Han Dynasty Suites | On Request | |
| Superior Cabin for sole occupancy | £25495 | |
Tour Reference Code: LAANCIENTCHINA
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation in Urumqi & two nights hotel accommodation in Beijing • Eight nights aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express Train • All meals • All drinks aboard the train (excluding premium wines) and with included lunches & dinners off the train • Excursions • Hotel Porterage • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, China visa.
Important Information: Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 10% deposit, except where the booking is made within 90 days of departure, in which case full payment will be required at the time of booking. Please also note that nonstandard cancellation fees terms apply to bookings for this holiday. Please contact us for further information.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Golden Eagle Silk Road Express
We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Accommodating a maximum of just 80 guests, the luxurious Golden Eagle Silk Road Express has been carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind and provides the ideal base for a series of spectacular private rail journeys combining vibrant cultures and legendary landscapes that have inspired travellers for centuries. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
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Train Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the train or click on the booklet to download.We are delighted to be working with Golden Eagle Luxury Trains in offering a selection of cabins aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express which was specially built to cater for the demands of today’s most discerning traveller. Carefully designed with comfort and enjoyment in mind, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express provides the ideal base for some of the most spectacular private rail journeys through China, providing a unique way to absorb the rich culture and cinematic landscapes. On board, the spacious and comfortable cabins, the high-quality dining and the attention to detail of the staff combine to create what is effectively a rolling luxury hotel.
ACCOMMODATION
The accommodation on board has been crafted to offer the ultimate in luxury. Choose from two elegantly designed cabin classes: the Superior Cabin or Han Dynasty suite. Each cabin blends the ornate design of the Orient with the grandeur of a bygone era, providing an exquisite home as you embark on your adventure.Superior Cabin: There are 16 double and 20 twin bedded superior cabins on board the train which offer 11 square metres of thoughtfully designed space. By day, relax in two single sofas, perfect for unwinding as you take in the scenery. By night, the cabin transforms into your choice of twin beds or a large double bed. All superior suites feature a private en-suite bathroom with smart TOTO toilet and full power shower. Amenities include a wardrobe, bathrobes, slippers, personal safe, mini bar and fridge, Dyson hairdryer and toiletries.
Han Dynasty Suite: The two Han Dynasty suites offer an expansive 22.2 square metres of space and provide the ultimate in comfort and elegance. They feature a large double bed, double sofa, dressing table, separate living room and a table for in-cabin dining. The 5.2 square metre en-suite bathroom features a bathtub, shower, double sinks and a TOTO smart toilet. Amenities include a full-length wardrobe, personal safe, bathrobes, slippers, Dyson hair dryer and luxury toiletries.
AIR-CONDITIONING & HEATING
All public cars are fitted with air-conditioning. Each cabin features remote controlled air-conditioning, heating and humidifier. The air-conditioning will only work satisfactorily if the windows and doors are closed.DAILY PROGRAMME
A day to day itinerary is placed in all cabins detailing train arrival and departure times, the latest weather forecasts for the next destination and information on the following day’s excursions and activities.DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. Once on board, please speak with the Chef on arrival to reconfirm and the onboard staff will endeavour to accommodate your needs. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed.DINING & DRINKING
All meals are freshly prepared on board by expert chefs. Menus are crafted to reflect both Western culinary tradition and local influences, with ingredients sourced locally, every dish offers a taste of the destinations traversed. Meals are served in one sitting for all passengers across both restaurant cars, and there is an open-seating policy. Breakfast is served as a buffet with hot dishes to order. A choice of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes will be offered at every lunch and dinner.
All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including beer, spirits, local wines and soft drinks from the standard bar list are included without charge for all guests, including with lunch and dinner on the train. Premium wines are available for an additional cost.DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate whereas the evenings are smart casual.ELECTRICITY
The sockets on the train and in your compartment are a combination of standard Chinese and two-pin European style, with electricity operating on 230 volts. A limited number of adaptors are available on request. USB ports are also available in all cabins.EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your journey, please remain calm and follow the instructions of the train staff. The train will be brought to a halt for any required action. Do not jump from a moving train.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.LAUNDRY SERVICE
A laundry service is available on board. This is complimentary for guests in Han Dynasty suites, and an additional charge will apply for guests in superior cabins. Most items (except heavy materials, such as jeans) are delivered to your cabin within 24 hours. There are no dry-cleaning facilities en-route or on board the train.LUGGAGE STORAGE
All compartments have limited in-cabin storage. Once unpacked, any larger cases can be removed for storage. These will be returned to you upon request as well as prior to arrival at your final destination.LOST PROPERTY
Before you leave the train, please check your compartment carefully to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and to advise of any associated costs.MEDICAL FACILITIES
A UK-registered doctor is available 24 hours a day.ONBOARD ACCOUNT
Currency on board the train is the US Dollar. Onboard purchases can be charged to your cabin account and settled aboard the train prior to departure by cash or credit card. Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards are accepted.PASSPORTS
All passports are collected by the Train Manager upon embarkation. Passports are necessary to facilitate immigration formalities between borders. If required, your Train Manager will provide the necessary forms for you to fill out. Passports will be returned to passengers prior to the end of the journey.PUBLIC AREAS
The Bar Car is the social heart of the train. It offers a great place to relax and settle into the unhurried pace of life on board. Unwind and watch the world go by as you get to know your fellow passengers or enjoy an evening drink whilst listening sound of the resident pianist playing. Every night, the bar stays open until the last person leaves.
The Observation car is a comfortable, relaxing space which features a stunning 270° panoramic window, allowing guests to effortlessly capture the ever-changing scenery during their journey.
There are two unique dining cars aboard the train. The Western-style restaurant car offers banquet dining in the company of your fellow travellers. Here five-star service meets silver service tradition with steward service and liveried wait staff committed to delivering an impeccable experience. For those who prefer a more intimate setting, the Chinese-style restaurant car offers booth seating and has been designed to reflect the local culture.QUESTIONNAIRE
Your comments are important to us; therefore we ask that you fill in a questionnaire prior to disembarkation from the train. We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and in order to do this we request feedback from our guests.SECURITY
Each car has two car attendants, one of whom is always on duty. All cabins on the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express have a safe which is located inside the wardrobe. The attendants remain with the train during the city tours.SERVICE
Your car attendant provides general housekeeping, nightly turndown service, and a full daily service during daytime hours and the evening. Complimentary tea, coffee, beer, wine, soft drinks and bottled water is available from your cabin staff. Towels in cabins are changed regularly.SMOKING POLICY
Smoking is strictly prohibited aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express.TRAIN TOUR MANAGER
The Train Tour Manager is there to coordinate all elements of the tour and, if you encounter any problems, you should approach them directly and they will do their best to assist. Your Train Tour Manager will greet you when you arrive and travel with you throughout the tour.TELEPHONE CALLS
There is no telephone system on board.WI-FI
Starlink Wi-Fi available free of charge in all areas of the train except the restaurant cars. Please note, a VPN may be needed to access certain websites, apps and messaging services in China.Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000