A museum greets visitors at the entry of the town, revealing the ancient mysteries of the local Cheshi people. Jiaohe stands on a plateau 30 meters high, with a willow-leaf-like outline. Founded during the Han Dynasty (206BC-220AD) the city collapsed after wars and invasion.

Buddhist stupas and monasteries at the northwest of the ruins made me realize that the town had seen some very peaceful and harmonious times too. However, during our trek into the ruins of Jiaohe, that included mud-patched and sand residences of government officials and locals, I was drawn into thinking how fascinating it was that these sand structures had withstood the ravages of time.

Heading 46 kilometers southeast of Turpan you will discover Gaochang. The town was founded as a garrison under emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty and had about 30,000 inhabitants, 3,000 monks and more than 40 Buddhist monasteries. As we entered the gates on a mule cart, Gaochang was both daunting, because of its vastness and engaging owing due to its complex history. When Zhang Jun in the Liang Dynasty (502-577) set up Gaochang county, the area changed to one of attacks, captures and recap-tures by various tribes and nationalities.

With little time left to explore each division of this ruined city, we reluctantly had to return to our hotel in Turpan.

When dusk fell, my realization struck: While the day seemed to be coming to an end for my family and me, Turpanites were starting anew, starting afresh. Sounds of Turkish- Kazak music by the lakeside drew us too and so we went, leaving our fatigue behind. Nightlife in Turpan is something one should never miss and I for one, hungrily devoured the entertaining surrounds and the delicious chicken kebabs.

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