How to get to Urumqi

Located in the very heart of Eurasia, Urumqi serves as a unique bridge between civilizations, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside the rich heritage of the ancient Silk Road. Surrounded by deserts and the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, this colorful metropolis attracts travelers with its unparalleled blend of cultures and landscapes. You can reach Urumqi in various ways: from a quick flight to an epic journey by train or car across the region's picturesque expanses.

The region's main air gateway is Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC), which receives flights from many major cities and ensures stable connectivity. The airport is conveniently located relative to the city center, allowing travelers to quickly begin their exploration of Urumqi immediately after landing.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighboring cities if direct flight tickets are unavailable. The nearest airports are located in the cities of Shihezi and Turpan, as well as in Jitai, from where you can continue your journey by ground transport.

Contrary to outdated information, Urumqi is a key railway hub for the region, welcoming both conventional and high-speed trains that connect Xinjiang with the eastern part of the country. The city's modern railway station services a multitude of routes, turning a rail trip into a comfortable journey through changing landscapes.

For those planning complex itineraries, the neighboring cities of Turpan and Shihezi can serve as convenient transfer points. Rail connectivity in this part of the country is well-developed, and the train ride often becomes a separate scenic adventure for tourists.

Bus services remain a popular and budget-friendly way to get to Urumqi from neighboring settlements. Regular routes connect the metropolis with cities such as Shihezi and Turpan, offering travelers the chance to enjoy views of the region from the window.

Although it is best to check the exact schedule on-site, bus stations usually offer frequent departures throughout the day. A bus trip may take longer than a high-speed train, but it is often compensated by the affordable cost of tickets and the wide geography of routes.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops at picturesque locations. One of the fastest routes is the drive from the city of Shihezi: the distance of 145 km can be covered in approximately 1.9 hours on a high-quality highway.

Directions from the east and south are also popular. The road from the city of Turpan (about 191.5 km) will take an average of 2.7 hours, while the route from Jitai, covering 203 km, requires about 2.5 hours. Taxis or hiring a car with a driver is a common practice in this region, though the cost of a trip over such distances will be significantly higher than a public transport ticket.

Preparing for a trip to Urumqi requires taking into account local climate and cultural nuances to ensure your journey goes as smoothly as possible. Here are several practical recommendations to help you feel confident.

1. Clothing and Climate. A sharply continental climate prevails here. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so layered clothing is your best choice. In winter, very warm clothes and thermal underwear are mandatory.
2. Transport. The city has a well-developed network of taxis and buses (BRT). Taxis are relatively inexpensive, but catching a car during rush hour can be difficult, so allow for extra time.
3. Finances. The main currency is the Yuan. International cards are rarely accepted. It is strongly recommended to install mobile payment systems (Alipay or WeChat Pay) and carry a supply of cash.
4. Health and Safety. The air here is very dry, so carry water with you constantly and use moisturizing creams. The city is safe, but it is best to always carry your documents for checks at checkpoints.
5. Communication. English is not widely spoken. Download an offline translator on your smartphone in advance and have a card with your hotel's name in Chinese for taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette. Respect the local traditions and customs of this multi-ethnic region. Shoes should be removed when entering mosques or the homes of locals.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph police stations, military facilities, or people in uniform without permission to avoid misunderstandings with authorities.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to try the local cuisine: lagman, samsa, and lamb kebabs are the true culinary hallmarks of the region and are widely available as Halal options.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid everyday inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the city's rich culture and attractions.