Do not worry, my dear Friends. I am still in a good mood and excited by the new adventures. But Turpan where I am is in the desert depresion: 154 m below sea level – they say… Temperatere during the day reaches 32 deg Celsius – I have a hard time visiting the area. Emin Hoja Mosque from 1777 (known fr locals as Sugong Tower) is the main attraction of the town – located some 3 kms on the outskirts of the town. In the Lonely Planet guide they do not write that bus 102 (1 youan) goes there. Museums are free in China but unfortunately China authorities charge quite a lot for the entry to the monuments. Here it is 50 yuan – and no discounts!~ Think twice – for me the outside pictures were enough. Sorry, I am the budget traveller!
On the Takla Makan Desert around Turpan there are interesting spots like Flaming Mts, ruins of Jahoe ancient town and Buddha caves. The best solution is to take a tour to get there: they will take you to all places for 80 yuan. The desert scenery around the caves is just great and you have a chance to ride camels there if you like!
