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How to Get to Urumqi

How to Get to Urumqi

Urumqi Xinjiang, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Urumqi Diwopu International Airport URC

URC is the main airport, acting as a air gateway for Xinjiang. It handles domestic and a limited number of international flights.

Airlines & Routes

  • Domestic: China Southern, Air China, Hainan Airlines, and others.
  • International: Limited direct routes, mainly Central Asian cities.
  • Most international travelers connect via major Chinese cities (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

URC has two operational terminals (T2, T3) with various amenities for travelers.

Facilities & Transport

  • Duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi.
  • Airport transfer service buses to the downtown area (10-15 CNY).
  • Taxis/Didi available (50-80 CNY to city center).

Flight Booking

Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals. Prices higher in summer/holidays.

Seasonal Pricing

Peak season (June-August) and major Chinese holidays see higher flight prices.

Metro Link

Urumqi Metro Line 1 joins the airport directly to the city center (2-7 CNY).

Departure Information

Timing Recommendations

  • International Flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 2-2.FIVE hours before departure.
  • Train Departures: Arrive 60-90 minutes before departure.
  • Be prepared for thorough security screening in Xinjiang.

Airport/Station Facilities

  • URC: Waiting lounges, restaurants, shops, duty-free for international.
  • Urumqi Railway Station: Large waiting areas, restaurants, convenience stores.
  • Free Wi-Fi generally available in terminals.
  • Confirm flight/train schedule 24-48 hours before departure.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Urumqi is a major rail hub on the Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway.

Rail Services

  • Urumqi Railway Station: High-speed (G/D) and conventional (Z/T/K) routes.
  • High-speed connects to Lanzhou (~11-12 hrs), Xi'an (~13-14 hrs).
  • Book tickets via 12306.cn, Trip.com, or at stations (passport required).

Long-Distance Buses

Several long-distance bus stations (e.g., Nianzigou) connect Urumqi to towns within Xinjiang.

Bus Travel Notes

  • Economical for shorter distances within the region.
  • Slower and less comfortable for long journeys.
  • A viable option for smaller towns not served by train.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

Self-driving for foreigners in Xinjiang is highly restricted and complex.

Driving Rules

  • Foreign driver'a driver's license is not valid.
  • Car hire possibilities include a local driver (DiscoverCars.com for driver-inclusive options).
  • Many parts of Xinjiang may yet require a local guide or special permits.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major roads and highways are well-maintained. Be aware of varying driving standards.

On the Road

  • Traffic in Urumqi can be heavy.
  • Winter: Road conditions deteriorate due to snow/ice.
  • Security checkpoints are common; provide your passport and cooperate.

Sea/River Arrivals

No Sea or River Arrivals

This section is not applicable for Urumqi, which is an inland city without sea or river ports for passenger arrivals.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes for departing China by air or land for tourists. The ticket price typically includes all taxes.

Departure Timing

  • International Flights: 3 hours prior to departure.
  • Domestic Flights: 2 to 2.5 hours prior to departure.
  • Train Departures: 60-90 minutes prior to departure.

Departure Facilities

Airport and train station facilities cater to departing travelers, making the wait comfortable.

Amenities

  • URC: Waiting lounges, restaurants, shops, duty-free (international).
  • Urumqi Train Station: Large waiting areas, convenience stores.
  • Be prepared for thorough security screening.

Departure Reminder

Always confirm your flight or train schedule 24-48 hours before departure using official apps (e.g., Trip.com, 12306.cn).