Weather

Conditions along the Silk Road vary from a typical continental climate around Xian to a desert climate as you travel westward. Average daily variation is about 12C. Temperature in certain desert areas may vary up to a maximum of 36C in one day between noon and midnight. Although the hottest, the summer months of June, July, August and September are a popular time to travel when the oasis towns are full of life, flowers are blooming, fruits are in season, and the fragrance of sweet melons and grapes fill the air. Spring and Autumn though short and barely noticeable, are a comfortable season to travel. Winter is cold but offers a different perspective in scenery.

Clothing

Light cotton dresses, sunglasses and a hat to guard against sunburn for the summer. Wool and fleece layers, topped with a down jacket with wind-breaking shell, scarves, gloves, hats and wollen socks for the winter. Wear layers that can be added on or discarded as weather changes. Comfortable rubber-soled shoes.

Transportation

The most efficient and comfortable way to travel is by air. Xian and Urumqi are two international airports served by foreign and Chinese Airlines . China North West Airlines and Xinjiang Airlines operate regular flights along the Silk Road cities using aircraft models Boeing 707, 737, 757, Airbus A320, British Aerospace BAE146, French ATR72 etc. In addition, the Lanzhou - Urumqi Railway line operates train service along the Silk Road. For the more adventurous travellers who prefer to trace the footprints of Marco Polo, they can consider entering China by road through the Khunjerab Pass from Pakistan on the Karokoram Highway, or by the International Railway from Moscow to Urumqi.

China Visa

A valid China visa is required on top of your travel documents.

Communication

Hotels in the major cities like Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi and Xian have IDD lines for making international calls. Cellular phone network in China is presently GSM which is different from CDMA used in the USA. Internet access is currently available at certain hotels in Xian and Urumqi.

Money

The local currency is called Renminbi (RMB) which is denominated in yuan. International credits cards like Visa, Master are accepted by hotels in the major cities. US Dollar Travellers Cheques are acceptable for money exchange in most hotels.