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When you arrive in Xining, we’ll be waiting to welcome you at the airport exit. From there, we’ll take you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax or wander the city at your own pace.
Stay in Xining
Start your day at Chaka Salt Lake(茶卡盐湖). This lake is called the “Mirror of the Sky in China.” The lake is known for its natural crystal salt. The white surface reflects the sky, clouds, and even the colorful clothing of visitors. It’s a great spot for photographs. Don’t forget to wear bright clothes for better pictures.
In the afternoon, we will drive to Qinghai Lake(青海湖). The drive takes about 3 hours. Qinghai Lake is vast and beautiful. It is surrounded by desert, meadows, and yellow rape flowers. The lake is especially stunning in summer when the rape flowers bloom. You can also enjoy views from the cycling track around the lake.
B, L, D, Stay in Xining
In the morning, we will drive to Ta’er Monastery(塔尔寺). This monastery is one of the “Six Great Monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism Gelug Sect.” It is a famous site in Xining, Qinghai Province. Ta’er Monastery is the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug Sect. The monastery is also a respected place of higher learning in Tibetan Buddhism. Its history, culture, and art are impressive. Visitors can see pilgrims who come to pay their respects.
After the tour, we will drive to Xining City. The drive takes about 30 minutes. From there, you will take a high-speed train to Zhangye. The train ride lasts almost 3 hours. Upon arrival in Zhangye, our local driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel.
B, L, D, Stay in Zhangye
Today, we will hike through Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon(平山湖大峡谷). The canyon is located 25 km from downtown Zhangye. It takes about 1 hour to reach. This place is a hidden gem. It offers natural wonders, canyon adventures, and geological exploration. Visitors can also experience local culture and enjoy self-driving. It is a great spot for outdoor lovers and photographers. The landscapes here are stunning.
In the afternoon, we will visit Rainbow Mountain Scenic Area(彩虹山风景区). It is part of the Danxia landform and is the most famous highlight in Zhangye. In 2011, National Geographic listed it as one of the “10 Wonders of Nature in the World.” The mountain is known for its vivid colors. The best time to visit is at sunset. The colors of the mountain are even more beautiful in the warm light of the setting sun. After a full day of exploring, we will return to the hotel to rest.
B, L, D, Stay in Zhangye
In the early morning, we will drive you to Jiayuguan. After a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our 4-hour drive to the Jiayuguan Pass(嘉峪关). This historic Ming Dynasty fort guards the key Jiayuguan Pass. It is located at the westernmost point of the Great Wall and marks the final section built by the Ming Dynasty.
Next, we will visit the Great Wall Museum(长城博物馆). It is the first museum to present the culture and history of the Great Wall in a comprehensive way.
Afterward, we will head to the Weijin Tombs(魏晋墓). The tombs are about 20 km from Jiayuguan City, in the vast Gobi Desert. This site is known as the “underground gallery.” It features vibrant wall paintings that tell stories of ancient life. Beneath the yellow sands, there are around 1,400 ancient tombs. Only six are currently open to the public. The brightly colored murals show the lives of scholars and officials during the Weijin period. Your guide will share historical, cultural, and political insights to enhance your experience.
B, L, D, Stay in Jiayuguan
After breakfast, board the high-speed train to Dunhuang. The journey will take about 3 hours. Wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks for the ride.
Once you arrive in Dunhuang, enjoy lunch and take a short rest. Afterward, visit Crescent Spring(月牙泉) and Echo Sand Mountain(鸣沙山). The temperature will be more comfortable at this time. These two natural wonders are closely linked and have been shining along the Silk Road for centuries. The contrast between the spring and sand dunes is stunning. For a unique experience, take an optional camel ride at Echo Sand Mountain.
In the evening, explore the Shazhou Night Market(沙洲夜市). The market is illuminated by soft lights. You will be drawn to the delicious aromas from the food stalls. As you move through the crowds, you will feel the lively spirit of this remote northwest city.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the Mogao Grottoes(莫高窟). The Mogao Grottoes are the largest and best-preserved collection of Buddhist art in the world. They are known as “the pearls of Oriental art.” The site has 735 caves. Inside, you’ll see over 45,000 square meters of frescoes. There are also 2,415 painted sculptures. More than 4,000 depictions of Apsaras are featured. Apsaras are divine beings in Buddhism known for their beauty, music, and dance. The site also has 5 wooden structures from the Tang and Song Dynasties. You will find thousands of stone pillars and flagstones, all decorated with lotus carvings.
In the afternoon, we will explore the Dunhuang Museum(敦煌博物馆). Here, you will learn about ancient trade routes. You will also discover how goods, cultures, and ideas flowed along the Silk Road.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
On the last day, you can take the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace and purchase some souvenirs. Finally, the driver will take you to the Dunhuang airport or train station for your departure.
B, Dunhuang Departure
Yes! Activities are moderate: flat walks at Ta'er Monastery and guided paths at Mogao Grottoes. Vans handle long drives (e.g., Xining to Zhangye).
May–September: Mild weather (15–28°C) for Rainbow Mountain hikes and Mogao Grottoes visits. Avoid July crowds.
Absolutely! Add a 2-day Xi’an extension (Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter) with seamless flight connections from Dunhuang.
Absolutely! We design activities for all ages: camel rides at Echoing Sand Mountain, interactive storytelling at Karez Wells, and easy hikes at Heavenly Lake. Our guides adjust pacing for kids, and hotels include family-friendly amenities.
Lanzhou - Hezuo - Diebu County - Tangke County - Aba County - Hezuo - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Zhangye - Dunhuang - Golmud - Chaka - Xining - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Xining - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Jiuquan - Zhangye - Wuwei - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Xiahe - Langmusi monastery - Diebu County - Tanchang County - Tianshui - Lanzhou
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Darren Ng –
Epic. Small group = no chaos, more depth. Kashgar’s Sunday Market? Wildly colorful. Guides were legends—knew hidden gems.
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Rizal Mansor –
Uyghur family dinner in Turpan? Best meal EVER. Camel ride got me feeling like a Silk Road trader ?. Bring wet wipes—dust everywhere!
Unforgettable!
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