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Itinerary
Welcome to Lanzhou! Upon your arrival at the airport, our friendly guide will be there to greet you with a warm welcome. We’ll assist with your luggage and make sure you’re comfortably settled into your hotel. Once you’ve checked in and had a chance to relax, we’ll take you on your first adventure in this vibrant city.
This afternoon, we’ll head to Nanguan Ethnic Flavor Street—a lively, colourful street famous for its rich variety of local delicacies. As you stroll through the bustling market, you’ll have the chance to taste Lanzhou’s most iconic dishes, including its famous Lanzhou beef noodles—a steaming bowl of tender beef, silky noodles, and a broth packed with flavour. Don’t forget to try other tasty treats like shaobing (a traditional flatbread) and lamb skewers, each bite offering a true taste of Lanzhou’s culinary culture.
After your evening of food and fun, we’ll head back to the hotel, leaving you with plenty of time to rest and recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.
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Stay in Lanzhou
After a restful night in Lanzhou, it’s time to set off for Zhangye. Today, we’ll travel by high-speed train, covering the 510 km between Lanzhou and Zhangye in just about 3 hours. Relax in your comfortable seat and enjoy the scenic journey through China’s beautiful landscapes as we make our way to this fascinating city.
Upon arrival in Zhangye, we’ll begin the day with a visit to the Big Buddha Temple ( Dafo Temple). This ancient temple is home to a giant reclining Buddha that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. The peaceful surroundings and impressive statue provide a serene start to our exploration.
Next, we’ll visit Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its vibrant, multi-coloured rock formations. The breathtaking views of the rainbow mountains are a photographer’s dream, offering stunning landscapes that are truly unique to this region. You’ll have time to marvel at the natural beauty of the park, capturing memories to last a lifetime.
After a day of history and nature, we’ll return to your hotel in Zhangye to rest and prepare for another exciting day ahead.
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Stay in Zhangye
After breakfast, we’ll continue our journey by high-speed train, heading to Dunhuang. The distance from Zhangye to Dunhuang is about 590 km, and the journey will take approximately 4 hours. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as we make our way further west to the ancient Silk Road city of Dunhuang.
Upon arrival, we’ll visit Jiayuguan Fort, an important historical site that once marked the westernmost point of the Great Wall of China. The fort’s impressive structure and panoramic views provide a glimpse into the strategic significance of this desert fortress along the Silk Road.
Next, we’ll head to the iconic Echoing-Sand Mountain (Mingsha Shan), famous for its desert dunes that make a unique sound when the wind blows. Take a walk through the dunes or, for the more adventurous, try a camel ride across this vast, golden landscape.
Finally, we’ll visit Crescent Lake, a serene oasis nestled between the dunes. The lake’s crystal-clear waters offer a striking contrast to the surrounding desert, and it’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of Dunhuang.
After a day of exploration, we’ll return to your hotel for a restful night.
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Stay in Dunhuang
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic drive from Dunhuang to Golmud, a journey of about 560 km. The drive will take approximately 7 to 8 hours, but the beautiful desert landscapes and ever-changing scenery make the long journey an enjoyable experience. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the vast, empty spaces of the Gobi Desert, offering a rare sense of peace and tranquillity.
We’ll stop for lunch on the road to recharge before continuing our adventure. Upon arriving in Golmud in the afternoon, we’ll visit the famous Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient Buddhist murals and statues. These caves, carved into the cliffs over 1,600 years ago, hold some of China’s most impressive and well-preserved examples of Buddhist art. You’ll have time to explore the intricate paintings and learn about the history of the Silk Road through these incredible works of art.
In the evening, we’ll take a short detour to Emerald Lake, a stunning saltwater lake known for its striking turquoise waters. The lake’s natural beauty, set against the stark desert backdrop, makes it a perfect spot for photos and a peaceful walk to wrap up the day.
After a day full of exploration, we’ll head to our hotel for a well-deserved rest, ready for more adventures tomorrow.
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Stay in Golmud
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey from Golmud to Chaka Town, a drive of about 470 km, which will take around 6 to 7 hours. As we drive through the vast, wide-open spaces of the Tibetan Plateau, you’ll enjoy the rugged, natural beauty of this remote region. The changing landscapes, from barren deserts to striking salt lakes, offer plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
We’ll stop for a relaxing lunch en route before continuing on to Qarhan Salt Lake. This massive salt lake, one of the largest in China, is an incredible sight, with its vast, white expanse stretching out under the clear blue sky. The area is known for its salt extraction, and you’ll have the chance to see how this ancient practice has shaped the local landscape.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Chaka Salt Lake, a magical spot that’s often referred to as the “Mirror of the Sky” due to its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. This natural wonder is a photographer’s dream, with the shimmering water and salt flats creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.
As the day winds down, we’ll drive to Chaka Town and check into our hotel for the night. After a full day of exploration, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy a peaceful evening in this remote part of the world.
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Stay in Chaka Town
After an early breakfast, we’ll set off from Chaka and drive 150 km to the stunning Qinghai Lake, a journey that takes about 2 hours. As we approach the lake, the landscape transforms, offering spectacular views of the vast blue waters, which stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Qinghai Lake is the largest saltwater lake in China and holds great cultural and religious significance. We’ll take some time to walk along the shores, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds us.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant near the lake, sampling the region’s unique cuisine, which is influenced by the Tibetan culture.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue our drive towards Xining, a journey of about 150 km, which will take around 2 to 3 hours. On the way, you’ll see the landscape gradually change as we approach the city. Upon arrival in Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, we’ll check into our hotel, giving you time to relax and unwind after the day’s travels.
In the evening, feel free to explore the city at your own pace, or simply enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel. After a day filled with breathtaking scenery, you’ll be ready to recharge for the adventures of tomorrow.
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Stay in Xining
After breakfast in Xining, we’ll head to the train station for our high-speed train journey to Lanzhou, just 220 km away. The journey will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, providing a comfortable and scenic ride as we speed through the stunning landscapes of Qinghai and Gansu provinces. Sit back and relax while the rolling hills and vast plateaus pass by.
Once we arrive in Lanzhou, we’ll first visit the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, an important site that reflects the rich fusion of Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhist traditions in this region. Here, you’ll explore the beautiful temple grounds and learn about the spiritual practices and cultural history that have shaped this part of China. The serene atmosphere makes it the perfect place for reflection and discovery.
For lunch, we’ll enjoy a delicious meal in a local restaurant, offering a taste of Lanzhou’s traditional flavours.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit Zhongchuan Village, a charming rural village known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional way of life. The village offers a glimpse into the local culture and rural life in Gansu, with its lush fields and peaceful environment.
After a full day of exploration, we’ll return to Lanzhou, where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel, preparing for your final day of the tour.
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Stay in Lanzhou
On the final day of your adventure, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before your guide assist you with your check-out. Depending on your departure time, you may have a few moments to explore the local area or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Your guide will ensure a smooth transfer to the Lanzhou airport or railway station, making sure you catch your flight or train in plenty of time.
As you depart, take with you the memories of the stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences you’ve had along the Gansu-Qinghai Loop. We hope you’ve enjoyed every moment of your journey and look forward to welcoming you on future tours with JustChinaTour. Safe travels!
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Lanzhou Departure
The best time to visit Qinghai and Gansu is from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the region’s stunning landscapes. However, avoid the peak summer months if you prefer less crowded experiences.
Yes, the Qinghai & Gansu Highlights Tour is suitable for families with children and seniors, as long as they are in good health. The tour has a moderate pace, and our guides will ensure that everyone has an enjoyable experience. However, please note that some attractions, like the Echoing-Sand Mountain, involve walking on dunes or uneven paths, which may be challenging for some.
You should pack light, breathable clothes for warmer weather and warmer layers for cooler evenings, especially if you're traveling during the spring or autumn. If you're visiting during winter, bring warm clothing, including a jacket and gloves. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Yes, Qinghai and Gansu are home to a mix of Tibetan, Mongolian, and Han Chinese cultures. When visiting religious sites like the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center or Mogao Caves, it’s respectful to dress modestly and be mindful of local customs, such as not pointing your feet towards sacred statues or entering prayer halls without permission.
Absolutely! We can tailor the tour to fit your interests, whether you're a photography enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover. Just let us know your preferences when booking, and we'll adjust the itinerary to ensure you get the most out of your experience.
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