City Info: Turpan, Xinjiang Autonomous Region

Turpan, also referred to as Tulufan or Turfan, lies on the north branch of the Silk Road on the way to Urumqi. Turpan is a peaceful oasis town of about 200,000 people, 75 percent of the population being Uygur. The central Asian influence here is very strong. Visitors can attend performances of traditional music and colorful folk dances and see several unusual sights in and around Turpan. The city produces a splendid local wine and grows the seedless white Turpan grapes. The famous Hami melon also is well worth a taste.

Population
200,000

Cuisine
Turpan fare includes shish kebabs, flat, unleavened bread, raisins, peanuts and famous Hami Melon

When to Go
Spring and fall are best, as summers are exceedingly hot and winters bitter cold

Railway Station Info
Turpan railway station in Daheyan town, about 40 kilometers from Turpan City to Daheyan town.

Accommodations

Main Scenic Spots

Around Turpan

Official Websites
(only in Chinese version)
- Xinjiang Municipal Government

Museums
- Turpan Museum
The museum contains a lot of written material, excavated from some of the Tang tombs. Most interesting is the exhibits from the old Uyghur capital at Gaochang, including documents relating to land tenure in the early 7 century.