Travel Guide to Xian

Embassy of India
5, Liang Ma Qiao Bei Jie
Chaoyang District
Beijing 100600
China
Contact Number: (+86) 10 8531 2500, (+86) 10 8531 2501

• Original passport and old passports, if any
• The passport should be valid for at least six months from the day of arrival in China, with a minimum of two blank pages
• Confirmed return air tickets
• Day-wise itinerary of the stay in China
• Visa application form duly filled and signed
• Two recent passport-size colour photographs (not more than three months old) taken against a white background with matte-finish
• Cover letter with all details of travel, traveller, purpose of visit and the duration of stay. The letter should be duly signed by authorised signatory with company stamp and addressed to the ‘Consulate General of the People's Republic of China, Mumbai or Kolkata or New Delhi as per the jurisdiction.
• Original bank statements reflecting transactions of the last six months with a minimum balance of Rs 1,60,000 per traveller
• Hotel reservation
• Travel insurance

Xi’an is the capital city of Shaanxi Province in central China. Earlier called Chang’a (symbolising Eternal Peace), the city is the birthplace of ancient Chinese civilisation and is home to many local dynasties from the past. When here, the travellers like to spend time knowing the history, clearly making it one of the preferred things to do in Xian. For example, the archaeological sites surrounding the city plains are famous for its historical relevance and include a tour down the memory lane by observing simple things, like the life-size, hand-moulded figures nicely preserved. Interestingly, it belongs to China’s first emperor- Qin Shi Huang.

One of the most famous places in Xi’an is- Terracotta Army. There are more places to visit in Xian, which adorn the ancient, historical and cultural heritage of China/Xian in high esteem. De facto; tourist places in Xian are a testimony to the 3,000 years, rich history of China.  

Terracotta Army is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the important Xian points of interest. A tourist will look at many cultural artefacts here and further witness a sight full of other memories of Terracotta Warriors and Horses, belonging to the Quan dynasty. There is a massive collection of terracotta sculptures formed during the battles. These portraits are life-size found during a significant excavation of the 20th century, the time when the site was founded.

Xian City Wallis one of the fully-accomplished city walls which has survived in China and is an ancient military defensive system. The wall encircles the today Xian boundaries and has 18 city gates, all of which are not open for public view.  Depending upon their exact location, tourists at the site can see the wall from the South Gate, Small South Gate, East Gate, West Gate, North Gate, Heping Gate, Wenchang Gate and Hanguang Gate. Ascending only one gate is sufficient to get a complete view of the City Wall.

The Bell Toweris a traditional state building and is a central point among the places to visit in Xian on tour. A visit to this landmark point means that you can see down the East, South, West and North Streets and also, catch a glimpse of the East, South, West and North Gates of the City Wall of the Ming Dynasty. One can also enjoy the first sight of the Wooden Tower which is the largest and the most preserved tower of China at 36m of height.

Muslim Quarteris where the Muslim community resides in the city. There is a population of more than 20,000 members here and ten mosques to visit the traditions of the community. The most famous is the Great Mosque in the Huajue Lane. Tourists can also savour the community food and cherish shopping in the souvenir market.

Mt. Huashanis located in Huayin City which is about a 120-km distance from Xian. It is a place full of natural attractions and experience of steep and narrow paths, smooth cliffs, and a massive mountain range. There are five famous peaks, and each has its own distinctive charm. East Peak, for example, is the best place to witness the sunrise charm; the highest altitude is at the South Peak; West Peak appears the most elegant and North Peak has the famous Cloud Terrace Peak and Middle Peak. There are several Taoist temples reflecting upon the religious activities performed by the ancient dynasties here.

Big Wild Goose Pagodais an ancient building and another Buddhist Holy Place located in the suburb region of Xian City. It houses the famous Da Ci'en Temple complex, which is famous for its wonderful built and decoration. There are beautiful gardens and facilities available in the area.

Xian Xianyang International Airport is at a distance of 47km from the Xian city centre. The city is well-connected to/via Hangzhou, Moscow, Kuala Lumpur, Paris and via Singapore. There is an Airport Shuttle Bus & Intercity Bus & Taxi.

Xian is also an integrated part of the magnificent Chinese Railway System, linking it further to China’s major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tibet, etc. One can reach many tourist cities such as Guilin, Dunhuang, Luoyang, Suzhou, Qingdao, etc., in a jiffy.

The prime passenger transport means is the stretched network of city buses and the bus stations. These bus stops are located centrally, in the urban city area. In addition, there are many small stations lining the city. Most of these buses move in the same direction to reach other city points and countries. So, if you know your direction, you are likely to reach the right destination effortlessly.

Like any urban city, Xian has ample options to tour the city at convenience. The public buses are the most comfortable, regular and hence, very dependable means to reach important tourism points within the city. There are dedicated tourist bus lines as well.

There is a Xian metro service available too. There is also an option to board the huge number of taxis plying on the roads in Xian. It is easily available on the street except during the evening hours. Taxis here are clean, comfortable and happy to serve the tourists well.

Xian weather is mild and has a warm, hot summer and a cool autumn, chilly winter. The summer storms can also lead to rainy days in autumn.

The best time to plan a trip to Xian is the springtime when the climate is pleasant and warm. The peak tourist season is, however, March to May followed by early autumn time in September and October.

Popular local events such as Xi'an City Wall Light Show, Tang West Market Spring Festival Fair, Xi'an Duchenghuang Temple Fair, Tang Paradise Spring Festival Light Show and Xi'an Silk Road International, give you more reasons to explore Xian at leisure.

The city welcomes the New Year with bright, colourful lights and cheers and through the Xi'an City Wall Light Show. The public mood is vibrant here with dragons, lanterns, animals, all brightened up. The festival begins, mostly in January to February and March every year.

Tang West Market Spring Festival Fair is another celebrity fair conducted in January. It is the city’s only temple fair up till now.

Tang Paradise Spring Festival Light Show is one of the many traditional events, held in June to highlight the history and culture of Xian. This public extravagance is an open invitation with no fee attached.

• If you are travelling from December to February, the city weather is cold and snowy. The temperature is between 10 ℃ - 23 ℃. So, carry your winter stuff like jackets, coats, gloves, hats, etc. Don’t forget the sunscreen lotions and other sun gear which you personally use.
• During the autumn period in Xian from September to November, the temperature is 10 ℃ - 23 ℃, and it is mostly raining. Therefore, carry light, comfort wears like T-shirts with cotton trousers, rain fleece, light winter wear, cardigans, and an umbrella or raincoat.
• June to August is the summer-time, and the temperature is 15 ℃ - 26 ℃. Carry soft clothes, and enough sun protection like sunglasses, sunscreen etc. It will rain, so be prepared and to avoid the slight cold, carry soft jackets, comfy trousers etc.
• Carry smart casuals or dresses to attire up for the events or the evening dine-outs.

Crumbled Flatbread-It is bread crumbs dipped in mutton stew.

Dumplings-It is a great variety of food connoisseurs is available in different the flavours, shapes, sizes and colours.

Gourd-It is a speciality, crisp, fried chicken (Hu Lu Ji), gourd-shaped.

Spicy Pig Kidney-A pig kidney dish prepared with fresh and delicious flavours.

Pig Tripe with Duck Gizzard-The main ingredients of this dish include white pig trip and red duck gizzard. It is prepared by putting them to a quick boil and applying seasonings.

Fish with White Soup-The main ingredients of this dish are carp stewed with duck, chicken and pig’s bone.

Redfort Cultural Restaurant

• Address:Hongbao Indian Section, Silk Road Street, No.118 Datang West Market, Laodong South Road | India Building, Silk Road, DaTang West Market, Lianhu District, Xi'an 710068, China
• Contact No.: +86 29 8411 3559

Ganges

• Address:A5-3 Happy Mall Food Court, Ci'en Road, Yanta District | East of the south gate of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda., Xi'an 710061, China
• Contact No.: +86 29 8931 8440

Delhi Darbar

• Address:No.3 East of Datang Tongyifang, Yanta West Road, Yanta District, Xi'an, China
• Contact No.: +86 29 8525 5157

Visit the Big Wild Pagoda is an important shopping centre. Here, you will find local artworks. Then, there is the famous Great Tang All Day Mall and most people are here to indulge in the cultural, commercial bonanza. Close by, there are two big electronic shopping malls, Seg Computer Plaza and Buynow Plaza. Spend time shopping for electronics here. Kangfu Lu and Northwest Light Industry are wholesale shopping areas. Buy everyday commodities here like clothes, shoes, electronics, bags and some extra stuff at very low prices. Souvenir markets in Xian like Tang West Market, Antique Market, Wenbaozhai Tour Shopping Center and Peasant Painting Gallery are suitable to shop for artworks.

• People's Hospital of Shaanxi Province (Shaanxi Sheng Renmin Yiyuan)
• Xi'an Gaoxin Hospital
• Xi'an No.4 Hospital
• Xijing Hospital
• Xi'an Central Hospital
• Xi'an Red Cross Society Hospital

Chinese Yuan or Renminbi short as RMB is the local currency. The Chinese currency symbol is . The local currency includes bills (in the denomination of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100) and coins (yuan or Kwai).

One RMB value is 10.01 INR. Use of foreign currency is generally now allowed, so always carry some local currency before landing in Xian. Also, currency exchange services can be accessed at Xian Xianyang International Airport and usually, in high-end hotels. All branches of Bank of China and other large banks facilitate currency exchange.

Guanzhong dialect is a Mandarin Chinese dialect spoken in Xian. The city is not up-to-date with English language proficiency for receiving the tourists. Therefore, it is important to know the street address in their language. The best thing to do is to keep a print copy of the street address with you, all the time. To look tourist-friendly, get to know some local greeting dialogues.

The following medical expenses are covered: 

• Travel insurance includes medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency medical evacuation. Even dental care expenses such as acute anesthetic treatment of teeth are covered.

“Deductible”means a cost-sharing requirement under this policy, that provides that the insurer will not be liable for a specified rupee amount or percentage of claim amount or number of days or number of hours, as specified in the policy schedule and which will apply before any benefits are payable by the insurer. A deductible does not reduce the sum insured and is applicable per event, upto the specified limits mentioned.

• Medical Expenses (inclusive of Repatriation and Emergency Medical Evacuation), Daily Allowance in case of hospitalization, Compassionate Visit benefits, the following will not be payable for Any pre-existing condition, Routine examinations, Expenses for rest or recuperation at spa/ health resort/ sanatorium, Pregnancy (including childbirth, miscarriage, abortion or related complications ) or treatment relating to the removal of physical flaws or anomalies (cosmetic treatment or plastic surgery).
• Cosmetic surgery, unless such cosmetic surgery is rendered medically necessary as part of treatment for accidents and burns whilst being abroad.
• Suicide, attempted or wilfully self inflicted injury or illness, mental disorder, anxiety, stress or depression, venereal disease, alcoholism, drunkenness or the abuse of drugs, or any loss arising, directly or indirectly, from any injury, illness, death, loss, expense, or other liability attributable to HIV and/or any HIV related illness including AIDS and/or any mutant derivative or variation thereof however caused.
• Treatment which could be reasonably delayed until the Insured’s return to India, which will be decided jointly by the treating Physician and the Emergency Assistance Service Provider and shall be in accordance with accepted standards of medical care.
• The Insured taking part in naval, military or air force operations; war and nuclear perils.
• Insured engaging in air travel unless he or she flies as a Fare Paying passenger in an aircraft licensed to carry passengers.
• Participation of the Insured in winter sports, mountaineering and such other professional sports or any other hazardous or potentially dangerous sport for which the Insured members are adequately trained, physically fit and using proper equipment. and that too only if specifically agreed and mentioned in the policy schedule.
• Hazardous occupation, or if engaged in any criminal or illegal act.
• Medical Expenses in respect of Experimental, investigational or unproven treatments or treatments which are not consistent with or incidental to the diagnosis and treatment of the positive existence or presence of any Illness for which confinement is required at a Hospital. Any Illness or treatment which is a result or a consequence of undergoing such experimental or unproven treatment.
• Naturopathy treatment.
• Non Allopathic treatment e.g. - Ayurvedic, Yogic, Homeopathic, Unani treatment(s).
• Under no circumstances shall this insurance contract be deemed to provide cover and no liability be incurred to pay any claim or provide any benefit hereunder to the extent that the provision of such cover, payment of such claim or provision of such benefit would expose us to any sanction, prohibition, or restriction under United Nations resolutions or the trade or economic sanctions, laws or regulations of the European Union, United Kingdom, United States of America & India

You can avail the Travel Insurance online and enjoy the benefits offered by ICICI Lombard General Insurance (Bharti AXA General Insurance*)

Loss of passport and documents:

Reimbursement of actual expenses incurred in connection with obtaining a duplicate or fresh passport or reasonable cost of replacing/obtaining the stolen documents/ tickets if the passport belonging to the Insured / Insured Person be lost

Home Fire Insurance Contents & Home Burglary Insurance (contents):

Cover against any loss or damage of the Contents at Home of the Insured in India caused by Fire and Allied perils or through burglary and/or housebreaking while the Insured is on a trip abroad.

Hijack Distress Allowance

Payment of distress allowance in case of hijack of a common carrier for more than certain number of hours whilst on the trip. You can easily avail the allowance by filing a claim online through Travel Insurance cover online process.

Medical Expensesinclusive of Repartration  and Emergency Medical Evacuation

If you are sick or injured during the journey, your medical expenses can prove to be costly. In such cases,  Travel Insurance cover greatly helps. The insurance company also offers a cashless settlement with the network hospitals or you can also opt for the reimbursement process within 30 days of hospitalization.

Legal Expenses

Payment of legal costs and expenses incurred by the Insured towards claims from third Parties for compensation in respect of death or disablement arising due to an injury whilst on a trip abroad.

Personal Accident

Payment of compensation if the Insured sustains accidental bodily injury during a trip resulting in death or Permanent Total Disablement or Permanent Partial Disablement within 12 months of occurrence of such injury.

Trip Cancellation/Or Interruption

Payment towards the non-refundable prepaid payments incurred on the trip being cancelled and additional cost of transportation in case of Interruption: due to medical problems, personal employment problems or natural disasters or other listed reason in policy wordings.

Trip Delay

 Reimbursement of additional expenses if trip is delayed beyond a period, due to airline problems, medical problems, personal employment problems or natural disasters.

 Daily Allowance in case of Hospitalisation

 Payment of daily allowance for the days the Insured is hospitalised beyond a specified number of days, as mentioned in the Policy Schedule, for which a valid claim is admissible under the Policy whilst on a trip abroad.Emergency Accommodation

 Payment of compensation for the additional cost of emergency accommodation if the Insured/ Insured Person could not stay in the accommodation originally booked due to ­fire& flood, earthquake, storm, hurricane, explosion, outbreak of major infectious diseases.

During a trip there are chances of unfortunate events such as loss of checked in baggage, medical emergency, loss of passport that can spoil your international trip, be it business or leisure. Travel insurance can protect you from such events ensuring that you are left stuck in foreign land.