11 days
Duration
Xining, Qinghai
Location
Silk Road
Destination

As you set foot on the vast expanse of China’s Great Northwest, it feels as though time slows, and the gentle breeze whispers secrets of the past. Before you, a magnificent panorama unfolds like a majestic scroll, revealing the timeless allure of the China Silk Road Trip. Join me on this captivating journey as we explore the splendor, serenity, and cultural treasures of this historic route.

Let this enchanting adventure immerse you in the breathtaking beauty and profound heritage of the Great Northwest. May it leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the region’s unparalleled charm. Wishing you a fulfilling and inspiring voyage!

China Silk Road Trip Detail

ARRIVEXining or Lanzhou airport/train station
DEPARTUREXining or Lanzhou airport/train station
MAXIMUM TRAVELLERS10+ people in the group (Contact us for solo or private tour price)
GENERAL INFORMATIONAdventure Tour
HIGHTLIGHTS
  • Qilian Droer Mountain
  • Danxia Landform of Zhangye
  • Jiayuguan ancient city and fortress
  • The Great Han Wu Emperor”
  • Dunhuang and Mogao Caves
  • Qinghai Lake
  • Qaidam Basin
  • Ta’er’si or Kumbum Monastery
INCLUDED
All necessary travel documentsTransportation
Accommodation with breakfastsAll entrance fee
Pick-up & drop-offProfessional local tour guide
A welcome dinner (with Tibetan cultural show)Mineral water
Oxygen tanks in the vehicleFirst aid & kit
NOT INCLUDED
Meal (Breakfasts included in Lhasa & Shigatse)
Travel insurance
Any domestic & international train/flight fare (We can help upon request. No booking fee is being charged once the trip is confirmed)
Personal expenses

Just feel free to send us an inquiry on the right side bar now. Adventures In Tibet Travel Tour is your right place. You can also consider overland tour from Chengdu to Shangrila for stunning landscape and cultural sense. Our Qinghai tour is another awesome adventure for your reference.

Additional information

Physicality6/10
MonthApril, August, December, February, January, June, March, May, November, October, September
1
Arrival at the Lanzhou or Xining Airport

Upon reaching Lanzhou or Xining airport, a reliable guide and driver will welcome you and transport you to the city center. If there is spare time, you can visit Dongguan Mosque and wander through the traditional old streets of Xining, immersing yourself in the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Enjoy an evening in Xining, embraced by the city’s luminous lights and vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Hotel

2
Set up to Zhangye via Qilian Droer Mountain. 360km

Leave Xining and journey towards Qilian Droer Mountain for an exploration. Explore the vast grasslands, marvel at the distant snow-capped peaks, and lush forests. Traverse through Qilian Grand Prairie to reach Zhangye. Witness the awe-inspiring Danxia Landform of Zhangye, a marvel of nature. Rest for the night in Zhangye, letting the serenity of the evening rejuvenate your weary self.

Overnight: Hotel

3
Drive to Jiayuguan. 224km

Start your day with a taste of a regional specialty, fried artillery, before proceeding on your trip to Jiayuguan. Stay overnight in Jiayuguan, where the historical ambiance of this ancient city will envelop you in its enchanting allure.

Overnight: Hotel

4
Visit Jiayuguan Fortress and Then Drive to Dunhuang. 150km

Following breakfast, explore the magnificence of Jiayuguan Fortress, delving into the splendor and legacy of ancient border defense. Proceed towards Dunhuang, passing through Guazhou to admire sculptures like “Earth Baby,” “Boundless,” and “The Great Han Wu Emperor,” blending art and nature seamlessly. Upon reaching Dunhuang, savor local delicacies at Shazhou Night Market, immersing yourself in the city’s nightlife. Stay overnight in Dunhuang, letting the artistic ambiance lull you to sleep.

Overnight: Hotel

5
Visit Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring

Explore the Mogao Caves, a globally renowned cultural treasure trove, and marvel at the intricate murals and sculptures carrying a millennium of history and art. Later in the day, venture to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, experiencing the marvels and serenity of the desert.

Opt for a camel ride over the sand dunes or relish the stunning sunset at Crescent Spring. Optionally enjoy the “Seeing Dunhuang Again” performance in the evening, further immersing yourself in Dunhuang’s enchanting stage presence. Rest in Dunhuang for the night, letting the artistry embrace your slumber.

Overnight: Hotel

6
Drive to Gulmud. 280km

Leave Dunhuang and travel through the Dangjin Mountain Pass, reaching the Salt Bridge, a prominent feature in the Qaidam Basin. Next, encounter the Chaerhan Salt Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake, where you can bask in the enchanting allure of the surroundings. Overnight in Golmud, letting the captivating beauty of the Salt Lake soothe you to sleep.

Overnight: Hotel

7
Drive to Duolan. 360km

Embark from Golmud and encounter the Qukui Tomb Group, a meticulously preserved collection of tombs. Witness the high-altitude foxtail millet field and Wolfberry field, immersing yourself in the vibrancy of nature. Stay overnight in Duolun, a serene small town, where you can embrace its tranquility and calm ambiance.

Overnight: Hotel

8
Drive to Chaka (Salted Lake) 150km

Leave Duolun and journey to the Chaka Sky No.1 Salt Lake, where you can delight in the stunning sky mirror reflections of the lake and mountains. Stay overnight in Chaka, a picturesque small town, where you can immerse yourself in its romantic and tranquil ambiance.

Overnight: Hotel

9
Explore Qinghai Lake by Bike or a Horse

Leave Chaka behind and journey towards the Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake. Immerse yourself in the splendor and beauty of Qinghai Lake, where you can opt for a bicycle ride or horseback excursion, reveling in the distinctive allure of the area. Later, settle in for the night at Xining, the vibrant capital city of Qinghai province, to fully experience its liveliness and dynamism.

Overnight: Hotel

10
Drive to Xining, Visit Ta’er’si or Kumbum Monastery en-route. 180km

Start your journey to Xining and make your way via Ta’er Monastery, where you can immerse yourself in the depth of Tibetan Buddhism. Indulge in a traditional Tibetan meal-sharing style lunch and savor the local delicacies. Afterwards, proceed to Xining City, offering you the freedom to explore at your leisure. Visit Tangdao 637 or Wanda Shopping Mall to acquire souvenirs or indulge in local specialties.

Overnight: Hotel

11
Transfer to Airport or Train Station

After breakfast, transferring to the airport or train station in Xining for your departure. Note: you can also depart in Lanzhou.

Dunhuang Tour
Silk Road Tour
Qinghai Tour