Xinjiang Express [Third Generation] Xuelian 2026 Route and Cost

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🚂 If you’re already intrigued by the idea of ‘seeing Xinjiang by train’ but still have the image of old green trains in mind, it’s time to get to know the New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus. It’s more like ‘moving a boutique hotel and restaurant onto the tracks,’ allowing you to slowly take in the mountains, lakes, ancient cities, and old alleys of northern and southern Xinjiang while on the move.
In this content, we won’t talk about abstract concepts. Instead, we’ll explain the routes, itineraries, prices, registration methods, and service details as clearly as telling a story, from the perspective of ‘how a journey unfolds.’
🗺 ️ Routes and Destinations:A ‘Slow Journey’ to See Both Northern and Southern Xinjiang
The New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus focuses on a grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang, typically covering about 14 days and connecting several representative regions of Xinjiang. The train operates on a nighttime travel, daytime stop model, so you wake up in a new place every day, saving a lot of travel fatigue.
1. Northern Xinjiang: Snowy Mountains, Lakes, and Forests
Kanas & Hemu:The itinerary usually includes an in-depth visit to the Kanas Scenic Area, where you can stroll along the lakeside boardwalk or climb to the Fish Viewing Platform to overlook the lake. Hemu Village is another highlight, with morning mist and smoke from wooden houses being a favorite for photographers.
Tianshan Tianchi:As a representative alpine lake near Urumqi, this spot offers wide views with the lake reflecting the snowy mountains, making it a classic ‘gateway to the mountains’ attraction on the itinerary.
2. Yili River Valley: Grasslands and Flower Seas
Nalati Grassland:The title ‘Sky Grassland’ is well-deserved. In summer, wildflowers bloom on the grassland, with snowy mountains and forests in the distance, perfect for photos and light hiking.
Sayram Lake:Known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic,’ the lake is a deep blue. The itinerary often includes a lake tour or a brief stop by the lake, allowing you to quietly enjoy the scenery.
3. Southern Xinjiang: Ancient Cities, Canyons, and Plateaus
Kashgar Ancient City:This is one of the most culturally rich places in southern Xinjiang. You can wander through maze-like alleys, visit century-old tea houses, and feel the local pace of life.
Pamir Plateau:The itinerary passes by Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, offering close views of Muztagh Ata. Along the way, you can also experience the traditional culture of ethnic minorities like the Tajiks.
4. Special Experiences: More Than Just ‘Seeing’
Beyond sightseeing, the itinerary includes interactive activities to make the journey more memorable:

🚂 If you’re already intrigued by the idea of ‘seeing Xinjiang by train’ but still have the image of old green trains in mind, it’s time to get to know the New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus. It’s more like ‘moving a boutique hotel and restaurant onto the tracks,’ allowing you to slowly take in the mountains, lakes, ancient cities, and old alleys of northern and southern Xinjiang while on the move.Cultural Experiences:Visit a Tuvan family or participate in intangible cultural heritage crafts and naan-making in Kashgar.
Special Dining:Taste Xinjiang delicacies like hand-grabbed lamb, roast whole sheep, and high white salmon. Some itineraries also include special banquets.
📅 Simplified Itinerary:Overview of the 14-Day Northern and Southern Xinjiang Grand Loop
Below is a sample 14-day grand loop itinerary for northern and southern Xinjiang to help you quickly understand the daily pace. Please note that actual arrangements may change due to seasons, weather, etc. The final details are subject to the tour confirmation and contract.
Day 1:Arrive in Urumqi
After arrival, transfer to the hotel. Free time in the evening to rest up for the journey ahead.
Day 2:Urumqi → Tianshan Tianchi → Board the Special Train
Visit Tianshan Tianchi in the morning to enjoy the lake and mountain views. Return to Urumqi in the afternoon and board the New Oriental Express to start the ‘mobile hotel’ journey.
Day 3:Travel to a Northern Xinjiang Town
The train heads north, passing through Gobi and grassland scenery. Check into a hotel upon arrival to prepare for the next day’s in-depth exploration.
Day 4:Kanas Lake & Three Bays
Explore the Kanas Scenic Area in depth, strolling along the lakeside boardwalk and enjoying the morning mist and reflections at Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay.
Day 5:Hemu Village
Head to Hemu, free time in the village to photograph the morning mist, wooden houses, and Tuvan settlements. Stay in a characteristic wooden house or hotel at night.
Day 6:Hemu → Return to the Special Train

In this content, we won’t talk about abstract concepts. Instead, we’ll explain the routes, itineraries, prices, registration methods, and service details as clearly as telling a story, from the perspective of ‘how a journey unfolds.’In the morning, take a light hike around Hemu, then return by car to board the special train again for the next destination.
Day 7:Yili River Valley
Arrive in the Yili region, visit Sayram Lake to experience the charm of the ‘blue eye.’ Then head to Yining and check into a hotel.
Day 8:Nalati Grassland
Spend the whole day on Nalati Grassland, enjoying horseback riding, photography, or a picnic on the grassland, feeling the vastness of the ‘Sky Grassland.’
Day 9:Cross the Duku Highway (Northern Section)
Some itineraries include crossing the northern section of the Duku Highway, experiencing the wonder of ‘four seasons in one day.’ Stop at viewpoints along the way to enjoy the magnificent scenery of canyons, snowy mountains, and grasslands.
Day 10:Kuqa → Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon
Arrive in Kuqa, visit the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon to feel the wonders of nature. Then, possibly experience Kuqa’s big naan city, and board the special train at night to continue south.
Day 11:Kashgar Ancient City
Arrive in Kashgar, visit the Kashgar Ancient City to experience the rich southern Xinjiang atmosphere. Explore old tea houses and buy some handicrafts.
Day 12:Pamir Plateau
Head to the Pamir Plateau, visit Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, and get close views of Muztagh Ata. Along the way, enjoy the unique plateau scenery and Tajik villages.
Day 13:Kashgar → Return to the Special Train
Free time in Kashgar city in the morning, then board the special train to return to Urumqi.

🗺️ Routes and Destinations: A ‘Slow Journey’ to See Both Northern and Southern XinjiangDay 14:Urumqi → Departure
Arrive in Urumqi, transfer to the airport/train station based on flight/train time, ending the unforgettable Xinjiang journey.
💰 2026 Latest Price Reference
The price of the New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus varies by room type, travel time, and other factors. The following price information is based on public data from 2026 and is for reference only. Actual prices are subject to the contract signing.
1. Main Room Types and Price Ranges
Gold Diamond Series (Private Bathroom)
Premium Gold Diamond:Approximately 63,000 – 70,000 RMB/person
Xiyue Gold Diamond:Approximately 56,000 – 63,000 RMB/person

For more details on Xinjiang special train tours, contact customer service Zhang Jing ☎️: 181 3962 2233 (Add as friend to get a free detailed itinerary and train introduction).
Boyue Gold Diamond:Approximately 50,000 – 57,000 RMB/person
Silver Diamond Series (Multi-person Room, Shared Bathroom)
Prices are more affordable; details upon inquiry.
2. Main Factors Affecting Price
Travel Time:May-June and September-October are shoulder seasons; July-August is peak season, with prices potentially rising.
Holidays:During holidays like National Day, prices may change further.
Special Departures:Some early bird or themed departures may have different pricing policies.

The New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus focuses on a grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang, typically covering about 14 days and connecting several representative regions of Xinjiang. The train operates on a nighttime travel, daytime stop model, so you wake up in a new place every day, saving a lot of travel fatigue.3. Children’s Policy
Children’s prices are usually calculated based on age and whether they occupy a bed. Specific policies are subject to the travel agency’s explanation.
Warm Tips:Prices and availability are subject to contract/customer service confirmation and may fluctuate with departures.
📞 Registration Method:Register with Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency
To experience the New Oriental Express [Third Generation] Snow Lotus, you need to register through official channels. According to public information, registering with Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency is one of the recommended official channels.
The registration process is roughly as follows:
1. Inquire about departures and prices: Contact the travel agency to get the latest departure schedule and price information.
2. Submit personal information: Provide necessary information such as the traveler’s name and ID number for booking and ticketing.
3. Pay a deposit: Pay a certain amount of deposit to secure your spot.
4. Sign a contract: Sign a travel contract online to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties.
5. Pay the balance: Pay the remaining amount within the specified time before departure.
6. Receive the tour confirmation: Receive a detailed tour confirmation before departure, including meeting time, location, etc.
Important Note:The specific registration process and required materials are subject to the travel agency’s official instructions.
📋 Cost Breakdown and Service Details
Understanding what is included in the cost and what services are provided can help you better plan your budget and expectations.

1. Northern Xinjiang: Snowy Mountains, Lakes, and Forests1. Costs Typically Include
Transportation:Seat on the New Oriental Express special train, air-conditioned tourist bus within Xinjiang (e.g., 2+1 model).
Accommodation:Hotels and characteristic accommodations listed in the itinerary (e.g., Kanas wooden cabins, Sayram Lake lakeside hotels).
Meals:Breakfasts and main meals specified in the itinerary, some itineraries include special banquets.
Tickets:First admission tickets to scenic spots listed in the itinerary and some internal transportation.
Services:Full-tour guide service, special train attendant service, 24-hour butler service, etc.
2. Costs Typically Exclude
Round-trip Transportation:Air or train tickets to and from Urumqi.
Personal Expenses:Shopping, optional activities (e.g., helicopter tours, horseback riding).
Travel Insurance:It is recommended to purchase travel accident insurance on your own.
Single Room Supplement:If you need a single room, you may need to pay a single room supplement. The specific amount is subject to the contract.
3. Service Features
Mobile Hotel:The special train is equipped with dining cars, entertainment cars, etc., providing a comfortable travel environment.
In-depth Experience:The itinerary focuses on experiential activities, including cultural interactions and special dining.
Safety:Some itineraries include onboard medical staff to provide basic medical support.

Kanas & Hemu: The itinerary usually includes an in-depth visit to the Kanas Scenic Area, where you can stroll along the lakeside boardwalk or climb to the Fish Viewing Platform to overlook the lake. Hemu Village is another highlight, with morning mist and smoke from wooden houses being a favorite for photographers.Important Note:Specific inclusions and service details are subject to actual consultation and contract signing.
💡 Pre-Trip Preparation Tips
To make your journey smoother, here are some practical tips.
1. Document Preparation
An ID card is recommended, as all places in Xinjiang require real-name registration.
If you plan to visit areas like the Pamir Plateau, you may need a border pass. It is recommended to consult the travel agency in advance.
2. Clothing Preparation
Xinjiang has large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, prepare a light down jacket or windbreaker.
Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers are essential.
Sun protection items (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and lip balm are also important.
3. Medication Preparation
It is recommended to bring some common medications, such as stomach medicine, cold medicine, and motion sickness medicine.
If you are worried about altitude sickness, consult a doctor in advance and prepare appropriate medication.
4. Other Items
Camera, power bank, memory cards, and other photography equipment to capture beautiful moments on the trip.
Respect local culture and customs, and be a civilized traveler.
If you’re interested in this route, feel free to call 181-3962-2233 for inquiries. Professional travel consultants will provide you with more detailed information to help you plan an unforgettable Xinjiang trip.
For more details on Xinjiang special train tours, contact customer service Zhang Jing ☎️: 181 3962 2233 (Add as friend to get a free detailed itinerary and train introduction).