The cost of traveling to Xinjiang by train varies greatly depending on seat type, travel duration, and the selected level of specialized train service, making it impossible to provide a unified cost figure. Here is a detailed cost analysis:?
I. Costs of Hard Seat or Hard Sleeper Berths?
If choosing a regular train’s hard seat or hard sleeper, the cost will be relatively lower. For example, estimates show that the lowest cost for a round-trip hard seat train ride around Xinjiang is approximately 500 yuan.?
. The hard sleeper ticket prices differ based on seat type and travel duration. One travel guide mentions that the hard sleeper ticket price is approximately 168 yuan.?
II. Costs of Soft Sleeper Berths?
For tourists seeking a more comfortable travel experience, soft sleeper berths can be chosen. The fees for soft sleeper berths in Xinjiang tourist trains vary based on the premium or economy version, as well as whether it is an upper or lower berth. For example, the upper berth fee for a 4-person soft sleeper in the premium version of the Xinjiang’s Chief National Train may reach up to 7999 yuan per person or higher, with the lower berth being even more expensive; whereas the fees for the 6-person hard sleeper in the economy version are relatively lower.?
III. Costs of Specialized Train Tours?
Additionally, there are specialized tourist trains, such as the Tianshan Train’s 13-day Xinjiang tour. The detailed costs are not directly provided, but can be referenced based on other specialized trains. For example, the cost of the 18-day North-South Xinjiang + Duku Highway air-conditioned train tour may start from 7980 yuan, while the cost of the regular group’s 18-day North-South Xinjiang air-conditioned train tour + Duku Highway may start from 5980 yuan.?
. The cost of the Xinjiang tourist train, the New Oriental Express, is even higher. The fees for the Gold Diamond and Blue Diamond carriages vary based on the number of passengers and carriage type, potentially reaching tens of thousands of yuan per person.?
IV. Other Expenses?
Besides the cost of train tickets, other expenses such as accommodation, dining, and scenic spot tickets also need to be considered. These costs vary from person to person, depending on individual travel plans and spending habits. For example, one travel guide mentions that the total cost of the entire trip (including round-trip tickets, accommodation, dining, souvenirs, etc.) is approximately 8000 yuan.?
, while another travel guide estimates the total cost of a private train tour for one adult and one child (including accommodation, transportation, tickets, etc.) to be around 2000 yuan.?
In summary, the cost of traveling to Xinjiang by train varies due to multiple factors. It is recommended to choose the appropriate seat type and travel plan based on personal needs and budget.?