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Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
7 Days Qinghai Gansu Classic Tour: Nature & Legendary Silk Road Legacies
7 days
Have you ever dreamed of wandering the legendary Hexi Corridor? Why not embark on a one-of-a-kind journey blending nature and culture, starting from Xining in Qinghai Province? Seamlessly connected to Gansu Province, Qinghai serves as a gateway to the Gansu section of the ancient Silk Road—boasting awe-inspiring natural wonders like Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake.
Join our 7-day Qinghai-Gansu Classic Tour to discover all the unmissable highlights of these two provinces. Your adventure kicks off in Xining, the gateway to the majestic Qinghai Lake, where crystal-clear azure waters stretch to meet endless golden rapeseed fields beneath vast, cloudless skies. Next, venture to the surreal Chaka Salt Lake, famous for its mirror-like surface that casts flawless reflections—an absolute delight for photographers and nature lovers alike.
From Xining, journey onward to Zhangye’s Danxia Landform, a geological marvel sculpted over millions of years, featuring striking rock formations in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Stand in awe at Jiayuguan Pass, the westernmost gateway of the Great Wall and a symbol of ancient Chinese defense. Continue your expedition to Dunhuang, where history springs to life at the Mogao Caves—home to priceless Buddhist art masterpieces spanning centuries. Finally, conclude your journey amid the serene beauty of Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, a magical landscape where rolling desert sands embrace a tranquil, oasis-like lake.
Embark on this 7-day odyssey across Qinghai and Gansu, and immerse yourself in diverse landscapes—from lakes and salt flats to colorful rock formations and deserts—paired with unparalleled cultural richness. This is a journey you won’t soon forget!
Itinerary Quick Look
Day 1: Arrival in Xining | Airport/Train Pick-Up & Ta’er Monastery Tour
Nestled in eastern Qinghai Province and the northeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Xining—Qinghai’s capital—serves as the eastern gateway to the plateau. Steeped in history, it was a vital hub on the ancient Silk Road and Tang-Fan Road, with its name (meaning “peaceful western frontier”) dating back to the Northern Song Dynasty. Renowned as “China’s Summer Capital” for its mild summer climate (average 17-19°C), Xining is a gateway to extraordinary cultural and natural treasures, including the iconic Ta’er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery) and the breathtaking Qinghai Lake.
Ni Hao! Welcome to Xining! Upon your arrival at Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN) or Xining Railway Station, your guide and private driver will greet you at the exit. You’ll then be transferred to Ta’er Monastery (approximately 55 km from the airport, a 1-hour drive)—one of the six great monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism’s Gelugpa sect and Qinghai’s most sacred Buddhist center. Founded in 1577, the monastery surrounds the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the revered founder of the Gelugpa school. It is renowned for its three artistic masterpieces: intricate butter sculptures, vivid murals, and exquisite appliqué thangkas, all embodying the unique artistic heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.
During your tour, admire the harmonious fusion of Tibetan and traditional Chinese architecture as you explore the monastery’s iconic halls and structures. Highlights include the Eight-Treasure Auspicious Pagoda, Small Golden-Roofed Hall, Longevity Hall, Kalachakra Pagoda, Great Scripture Hall, Great Golden-Roofed Hall, Maitreya Buddha Hall, Nine-Room Hall, Kalachakra Scripture College, Butter Sculpture Hall, and Scripture Library—each offering profound insights into the monastery’s spiritual significance and artistic brilliance. You’ll also marvel at majestic Buddha stupas, sacred wall paintings, and prayer wheels as you wander through the serene complex.
After the monastery visit, you’ll be transferred back to downtown Xining to check into your hotel and relax.
Xining Arrival Information (For Reference)
- Airport: Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN) is 30 km from downtown, with domestic flights connecting to major cities: Beijing (2.5-3 hrs), Xi’an (1.5 hrs), Shanghai (3.5 hrs), Urumqi (2.5 hrs), Chengdu (1.5-2 hrs), Chongqing (2 hrs), Guangzhou (3.5-4 hrs), Shenzhen (3.5-4 hrs), Lhasa (2 hrs), and Kunming (2.5 hrs).
- Train: Xining Railway Station offers high-speed train links to Xi’an (4-5 hrs), Lanzhou (1-1.5 hrs), Zhangye (1.5-2 hrs), Dunhuang (6 hrs), Beijing/Shanghai (10 hrs), Chengdu (7-8 hrs), and Chongqing (8-9 hrs).
Day 2: Xining → Qinghai Lake (Erlangjian Scenic Area) → Chaka Town
This morning, depart downtown Xining for Qinghai Lake (approximately 145 km, 2.5-3 hours’ drive)—a natural wonder perched at 3,194 meters above sea level. As China’s largest inland saltwater lake (covering over 4,400 sq km), it is framed by majestic mountain ranges: the snow-capped Kunlun Mountains to the south and the Qilian Mountains to the north. The landscape transitions from vast grasslands at the mountain foothills to the lake’s shores, where summer brings a stunning contrast of golden canola flower fields and endless blue waters. Dotted with wildflowers, cattle, and sheep, the scenery resembles a serene, pastoral painting. Dubbed “China’s Most Beautiful Lake” by National Geographic China and listed as one of the “55 Must-See Places in a Lifetime,” Qinghai Lake’s mild summer temperatures (average 15°C) make it a popular retreat for relaxation and photography.
En route, you’ll pass through vibrant rapeseed fields—a sea of golden blooms stretching to the horizon (best viewed July-August, when the weather is pleasant and nature is in full bloom). Upon arrival, explore Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake’s premier sightseeing spot. Immerse yourself in panoramic views of the turquoise lake, with distant snow-capped mountains visible on clear days. Discover the area’s cultural heritage, including a grand sacrificial altar, fluttering prayer flags, a mysterious statue of the Queen Mother of the West, auspicious symbols, and a serene Buddha statue.
Optional Activities (Self-Paid)
- Cruise: Choose between a High-Speed Cruise (25-minute one-way, CNY140) or a Catamaran Cruise (50-minute round-trip, CNY180) to experience the lake’s vastness in comfort.
- Horseback Riding/Biking: Explore the lakeshore on horseback or by bike for a more active adventure.
After exploring Erlangjian Scenic Area, continue west along Qinghai Lake’s picturesque shores to Chaka Town (3,100 meters above sea level)—a charming town famous for its proximity to Chaka Salt Lake. The drive is approximately 153 km (2.5 hours). Check into your hotel in Chaka Town for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake (“Mirror of the Sky”) → Zhangye City
This morning, transfer from Chaka Town to Chaka Salt Lake (4 km, 10-minute drive). Derived from the Tibetan word for “salt lake,” Chaka is one of the birthplaces of China’s salt culture. Nestled between snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, this brine lake blends liquid water and crystalline salt flats, creating a natural masterpiece adorned with unique salt formations. Its shimmering blue waters, set against mountain backdrops and gentle grasslands, make it a feast for the eyes.
Visit the “Mirror of the Sky” Scenic Area, renowned for its ethereal reflections. Begin by climbing the Observation Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the entire lake. Next, explore the Salt Sculpture Group—the world’s largest outdoor salt sculpture display, showcasing Chaka’s rich history and culture. For a deeper immersion, board the sightseeing train to the lake’s core (away from crowds) and stroll back to the entrance (approximately 40 minutes). Alternatively, return by train (additional cost) if you prefer not to walk.
Along your walk, visit the Qianying Muxue Area, where the lake and distant snow-capped mountains merge into a breathtaking panorama. Stop for photos at Tianlu Yingchen Station and Tianji Xinyue Station, where iconic signs like “I Love Chaka” and “Love Crystals” provide perfect backdrops.
Useful Travel Tips for Chaka Salt Lake
- Wear disposable shoe covers (CNY10, optional) to walk on the lake surface and capture the “Mirror of the Sky” effect—feeling as if you’re walking among clouds.
- The sightseeing train offers stunning views of endless white salt flats reflecting the blue sky.
- Top photography spots include Romantic Tianjing (featuring props like crystal bubble chairs, a swing, heart-shaped decorations, and the “Chaka’s Melody” red piano sculpture), Qianying Muxue, the Water Train, and the salt sculpture area.
- For unforgettable sunrise/sunset shots, head to the salt sculpture area or Chaka Xia Station.
After exploring Chaka Salt Lake, transfer to Xining Railway Station (approximately 3-3.5 hours) to board a high-speed train to Zhangye (2.5-hour journey). As you travel, you’ll pass through the oasis plains between the Qilian Mountains and Longshou Mountains, experiencing Zhangye’s unique geographical role as a key gateway of the “Hexi Corridor.” Situated in the narrowest section of this ancient trading route (just 50 km wide), Zhangye boasts fertile land and scenic beauty—earning it poetic praise: “Not seeing snow on the Qilian Mountains, mistaking Zhangye for Jiangnan” (“不望祁连山顶雪，错把张掖当江南”) and titles like “Jiangnan Watertown of Abundance in the Frontier Region” (“塞上江南”) and “Golden Zhangye” (“金张掖”). Formerly known as Ganzhou (the origin of the “Gan” in Gansu), it was renamed during the Han Dynasty by Emperor Wu to signify “extending the nation’s reach to connect with the Western Regions” (“张国臂掖，以通西域”), making it a crucial Silk Road node and Buddhist transmission hub. Notably, Zhangye’s airport retains the ancient name: Zhangye Ganzhou Airport.
Zhangye is also linked to cultural legends—it is believed to be the birthplace of Sun Wukong (the Monkey King from Journey to the West) and a stop on Monk Xuanzang’s pilgrimage to India. In the evening, explore Zhangye’s night market to savor local delicacies like donkey meat and apricot skin tea. Overnight in Zhangye.
Day 4: Zhangye → Jiayuguan | Dafo Temple & Zhangye Danxia National Geopark
Today, explore Zhangye’s cultural and natural highlights: Dafo Temple (Big Buddha Temple) and Zhangye Danxia National Geopark (Rainbow Mountains).
Dafo Temple (Big Buddha Temple)
A must-visit for Buddhist culture and ancient architecture enthusiasts, Dafo Temple is Zhangye’s iconic landmark—famous for housing a 34.5-meter-long reclining Buddha statue (earning it the local nickname “Reclining Buddha Temple”). Built in 1098 during the Western Xia Dynasty (1038-1227), it is one of China’s four remaining royal temples (alongside Beijing’s Lama Temple, Shaanxi’s Famen Temple, and Yunnan’s Chongsheng Temple). Legend has it that Kublai Khan, founder of the Yuan Dynasty, was born here, and Italian traveler Marco Polo was so captivated by the temple’s grandeur and Zhangye’s prosperity that he stayed for a year. Covering over 60,000 m², the temple once accommodated 5,000 worshippers simultaneously in the 16th century.
Inside, you’ll find the Grand Buddha Hall—preserving its original 900-year-old architecture—alongside the largest indoor reclining Buddha in Asia, complete copies of the Yongle Canon and Prajna Paramita Sutra, and a wealth of Buddhist art (architecture, sculpture, murals, carvings, scriptures, and calligraphy). The hall’s east and west walls feature murals depicting Journey to the West, Investiture of the Gods, and Classic of Mountains and Seas—notably, the Journey to the West mural predates the novel by 200 years, depicting Xuanzang’s pilgrimage in a comic-strip style (with episodes like “Fetching Water from the Motherhood River” and “Battle with Red Boy”). Interestingly, Zhu Bajie (Pigsy) is portrayed as honest and hardworking here, differing from his gluttonous literary counterpart. Zhangye’s region also boasts place names from the novel, such as Gaolaozhuang (Zhu Bajie’s hometown) and Liusha River (Sandy River).
Don’t miss the couplet outside the Grand Buddha Hall: “The Sleeping Buddha slumbers a thousand years without awakening; those who inquire will forever question, the answer remains elusive” (“睡佛长睡睡千年长眠不醒，问者永问问百世永问难明”)—and ask your guide to show you the Western Xia script version. The scripture hall houses Buddhist artifacts extracted from the Buddha’s abdomen, including a precious Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra written in gold and silver ink. Rare Persian silver coins found here are evidence of the Silk Road’s bustling trade.
Optional: Zhangye City Museum (Closed on Mondays)
Located opposite Dafo Temple, the museum houses over 10,000 cultural relics spanning the Neolithic Age to the Ming and Qing Dynasties (bronze ware, pottery, jade, and Silk Road artifacts). Highlights include a 1:1 replica of the Golden Tower Temple grottoes.
Note: The reclining Buddha statue is undergoing digital restoration (scaffolding in place) and is expected to be completed by June 2025.
Zhangye Danxia National Geopark (Rainbow Mountains)
After lunch, head to Zhangye Danxia National Geopark—world-renowned for its vibrant, rainbow-hued rock formations. A paradise for geologists and photographers, this site is China’s only area combining Danxia landforms with colorful hills, honored as one of the world’s top ten geographical wonders, 22 most unforgettable landscapes globally, and a filming location for The Great Wall (Zhang Yimou) and Disney’s Mulan.
Formed over 135-65 million years ago during the Cretaceous period, the landforms emerged from the Himalayan orogeny, water/wind erosion, and weathering. Sandstone and mudstone strata—deposited in dry, hot conditions—turned red as divalent iron oxidized to trivalent iron; later wetter environments created brown, yellow-green, and bluish-gray hues, resembling a spilled paintbox. The term “Danxia” (rosy clouds) derives from a poem by Cao Pi, chosen by geologists for the landform’s cinnabar color.
The scenic area features five observation decks (with #2 and #3 merged), connected by shuttle buses (north gate entry/exit, stopping at #2-1-5-4). Top picks:
- Yunhai Platform (Observation Deck #1): The largest platform, showcasing panoramic views of the Danxia landscape and winding S-shaped roads (featured on tickets).
- Hongxia Platform (Observation Deck #4): Most popular for vibrant colors and sunset views—locals compare the layers to pork belly or strawberry cake.
Highlights include natural formations like Rainbow Screen, Sleeping Beauty, Giant Scallop, and Red Cliff Great Wall.
Tips for Zhangye Danxia
- Best photography times: Sunrise (soft light, vivid colors) and sunset (warm golden glow). After rain, colors appear even more intense.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uphill walks.
- Optional paid activities: Camel rides, hot air balloons, gliders, and helicopters.
In the afternoon, depart for Jiayuguan (210 km, 3 hours) via Jiuquan City. If time permits, arrive at the Overhanging Great Wall before 17:00 to hike and watch the sunset—embodying the poetic scene “In the boundless desert, lonely smoke rises straight; Over the endless river, the sun sinks round” (“大漠孤烟直，长河落日圆”). Overnight in Jiayuguan.
Day 5: Jiayuguan → Dunhuang | Jiayuguan Pass & Overhanging Great Wall
Today, explore Jiayuguan’s Great Wall highlights before traveling to Dunhuang (400 km, 5 hours).
Jiayuguan Pass (Jiayuguan Fortress)
Built in 1372, Jiayuguan Pass is one of China’s “Three Great Passes of the Great Wall” (alongside Shanhaiguan in the east and Zhenbeitai Terrace in the middle). As the westernmost pass of the Ming Great Wall and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is nestled in the Hexi Corridor—known as “The Impregnable Pass under Heaven” (“天下第一雄关”) for its strategic location and majestic architecture (backed by the Qilian and Heishan Mountains).
From the pass walls, admire the Great Wall stretching across deserts and Gobi, embodying the elementary school textbook description: “From Shanhaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west, spans over 13,000 li” (“从东头的山海关到西头的嘉峪关，有一万三千多里”). This historic site witnessed Zhang Qian’s Han Dynasty missions to the Western Regions, Huo Qubing’s campaigns against the Xiongnu, Xuanzang’s Tang Dynasty pilgrimage, Marco Polo’s Yuan Dynasty travels, and Lin Zexu’s Qing Dynasty exile journey (where he wrote “Southeast, who compares to this mighty pass” (“东南谁比此关雄”)).
Experience a time-honored tradition by purchasing an optional “pass permit” to simulate entering/exiting the pass as ancient travelers did—originating the Chinese phrase “qing duo guanzhao” (“请多关照，” meaning “please take care of me”), once used as a polite greeting for passersby.
The well-preserved pass features three defense lines (inner city, outer city, moat) and a military system of watchtowers, beacon towers, and fortresses. Despite its historical role as a battleground, Jiayuguan is now an oasis with lakes and greenery—a rare summer retreat.
Overhanging Great Wall
Next, climb the Overhanging Great Wall (“悬壁长城”)—hailed as the “end of the Great Wall.” Built in 1539 during the Ming Dynasty (only 750 meters remain), it extends north from Jiayuguan Pass, constructed with local gravel and loess along steep terrain (some sections reach 45 degrees). Renovated in 1987, it features parapets, crenellations, and three watchtowers. Climb over 400 kid-friendly steps to the highest tower for panoramic views of desert landscapes, oasis chimneys, and the contrast between ancient military wisdom and modern civilization.
Optional: The First Outpost of the Great Wall (Self-Paid)
En route to Dunhuang, visit this 10-meter-high platform perched on a 56-meter cliff above the Taolai River—the westernmost beacon tower of the Ming Great Wall. Explore intact historical relics and an ancient military camp to imagine frontier soldiers’ harsh lives.
Continue to Dunhuang via Guazhou. Formerly known as Suzhou (origin of the “Su” in Gansu), Dunhuang is part of Jiuquan City. Overnight in Dunhuang.
Day 6: Dunhuang Cultural Immersion | Mogao Grottoes, Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring
Today, embark on a captivating Dunhuang cultural journey featuring three iconic experiences: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mogao Grottoes (4-4.5 hours), the serene natural wonder of Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring, and an optional evening exploration of Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market—where delicious local flavors await.
Mogao Grottoes (Thousand Buddha Grottoes)
No trip to Gansu is complete without a visit to the Mogao Grottoes, a site steeped in global cultural significance. You may have encountered tales of Aurel Stein, the British archaeologist and explorer who uncovered a vast trove of artifacts—paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts—from the grottoes in the early 20th century, many of which now reside in London’s British Museum. Or you may have heard of Paul Pelliot, the French sinologist who similarly led expeditions to Dunhuang, with his collections now housed in Paris’s Guimet Museum. Now, step into the source of these world-famous “Dunhuang Manuscripts” (housed in Cave 16-17, known as the Library Cave) and uncover profound insights into the history, art, and cultural exchanges of the ancient Silk Road.
Acclaimed as the “Treasure House of Eastern Art,” the Mogao Grottoes boast 735 surviving caves, dotted along a 1,700-meter-long cliff face 15-30 meters high—forming a breathtaking spectacle of human creativity and devotion. Despite the loss of numerous artifacts to overseas museums, the grottoes remain one of the world’s largest and most richly endowed repositories of Buddhist art. Construction spanned over a millennium (from the Sixteen Kingdoms period to the Yuan Dynasty), encompassing dynasties such as Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, and Western Xia. The result: approximately 45,000 square meters of murals and 2,415 clay sculptures, each telling a story of faith and artistry.
The grottoes’ history dates back to 366 AD, when the monk Le Zun carved the first cave into the cliff. In the 7th century, the Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang (famous for his pilgrimage to India) translated Buddhist scriptures here. In 1900, Taoist priest Wang Yuanlu discovered the Library Cave, a hidden chamber filled with ancient texts and art. Decades later, from 1941 to 1943, the renowned Chinese artist Zhang Daqian copied 276 murals, preserving their beauty for future generations.
During your visit, explore diverse cave types—including large statue caves, Nirvana caves, central pillar caves, vaulted ceiling caves, and hall caves—and learn about the natural pigments used by ancient artists (cinnabar, orpiment, azurite, mica, gamboge, gold leaf, and shell powder). Admire narrative Buddhist murals (such as the life of Sakyamuni Buddha and the tale of the Nine-Colored Deer Sacrificing Itself to Save Others), intricate clay sculptures (Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, guardians, and deities), and vivid depictions of Tang Dynasty Flying Apsaras (Feitian) and Swirling Dances (Huxuan Wu). You’ll also gain insight into the attire, customs, and devotions of patrons from across dynasties, while witnessing the enduring legacy of the Silk Road and the tireless efforts of cultural preservationists like Chang Shuhong—known as the “Guardian of Dunhuang.”
Visiting Arrangements for Mogao Grottoes
Your experience begins at the Mogao Caves Digital Center, where you’ll watch a 40-minute immersive digital film introducing the grottoes’ history and art. 随后，board a shuttle bus to the cave site, where official interpreters will guide you through 8 sequential caves (with Ticket A; photography is strictly prohibited inside caves). Highlights may include:
- Library Cave (Caves 16-17): The legendary chamber housing the Dunhuang Manuscripts.
- Nine-Storey Tower (Cave 96): An iconic structure housing the grottoes’ largest Buddha statue.
- Nirvana Sutra Cave (Cave 148): Home to a serene reclining Buddha statue.
- Early Tang Treasures Cave (Cave 332) and Northern Wei Masterpieces Cave (Cave 257).
Note: The exact 8 caves visited are subject to site conditions.
For deeper exploration, visit the Cultural Relics Protection and Display Center to view 1:1 replicas of 8 special caves (including Caves 275, 249, 285, 419, 220, 217, 25, and 3)—where photography is permitted. After the tour, return to your hotel to rest; if time allows, consider an optional post-lunch visit to Dunhuang City Museum.
Optional: Dunhuang City Museum (Closed on Mondays; Reservation Required)
Boasting distinctive architecture blending Great Wall, beacon tower, and ancient castle motifs, the museum houses over 13,355 cultural relics spanning the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Treasures include Western Han Dynasty hemp paper writings (8 BC), a Han Dynasty reed torch, and the Beiliang Stone Pagoda. Don’t miss the 1:1 replica of Mogao Grottoes’ Cave 45 (Tang Dynasty, 8th century), offering an up-close chance to admire and photograph mural details.
Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring
In the afternoon, journey to Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring—a geological park celebrated for its unique coexistence of desert mountains, a tranquil spring, and shifting sands. Hailed as “one of China’s Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts,” “China’s Best Natural Landscape Tourist Destination,” and “China’s Most Beautiful Moon-Watching Spot,” this site is a feast for the senses.
Mingsha Mountain (Singing Sand Mountain) derives its name from the melodic sound produced by wind-blown sand—reaching up to 83 decibels, a phenomenon known as “Shaling Qingming” (Clear Sky Singing Sands) in the Dunhuang County Chronicles and the origin of Dunhuang’s ancient name, Shazhou (Sand State). Stretching 40 km east-west and 20 km north-south (from the Mogao Caves to the Dang River), the mountain is composed of fine sand in five hues: red, yellow, green, black, and white—carried by winds from the Gobi and Kumtag Deserts over millennia.
Nestled at the mountain’s foot, Crescent Spring earns its name from its crescent-moon shape. Spanning 242 meters east-west and up to 50 meters north-south (with an average depth of 1.5 meters), the spring is a desert oasis renowned as the “First Spring in the Desert.” Remarkably, despite surrounding sands, the spring has remained clear and abundant for centuries. Locals treasure its “Three Treasures”: Ironback Fish (a local species), Seven Star Grass (a medicinal herb), and Five-Colored Sand—all believed to bring good luck. Keep an eye out for these natural gems as you explore!
Optional Activities (Self-Paid)
Immerse yourself in the desert with activities like camel riding, sand sliding, desert motorcycle tours, off-road vehicle rides (3-seater), paragliding, or helicopter flights (3-seater). You’ll also encounter visitors dressed in traditional Hanfu or Flying Apsaras costumes, adding to the magical atmosphere. For a memorable moment, climb to the peak of Mingsha Mountain (1,715 meters) to watch the sunset over Crescent Spring—an unforgettable scene of golden light and serene beauty.
Optional: Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market
After exploring the desert, head to Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market to savor authentic local cuisine. Must-try snacks include Apricot Skin Water (a tangy, refreshing drink), Donkey Meat Noodles (a Dunhuang specialty), and Bubble Oil Cakes (crispy, sweet pastries). Locals excel at preparing lamb, chicken, and beef, as well as handmade noodles—offering a delicious taste of Dunhuang’s culinary heritage.
Important Notes
- Mogao Grottoes Ticketing: To protect the caves, a real-name timed reservation system is in place with daily visitor limits:
- Ticket A (Regular): 6,000 tickets/day, including 8 caves and 2 digital films.
- Ticket B (Emergency): 12,000 tickets/day (for domestic visitors only), including 4 caves and the Cave Artifacts Conservation and Research Exhibition Center.
- Special Caves (Self-Paid): For enthusiasts, additional tickets for special cave lines are available on-site (may require queuing):
- Line 1: Caves 45, 320, 321, 420, 9.
- Line 2: Caves 275, 45, 156, 158, 159.
- Alternative Arrangements: If the Mogao Caves are unavailable due to the Dunhuang Cultural Expo, inclement weather, or other factors, we will refund the ticket cost or arrange a visit to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves.
- Visiting Order: The sequence of visiting Mogao Grottoes and Mingsha Mountain may be adjusted based on site conditions.
- Desert Activity Tips: Protect photographic equipment from sand damage. Follow staff instructions when mounting/dismounting camels.
- Optional Mingsha Mountain Extras: Shoe covers, sightseeing vehicles, and the activities listed above are available for an additional fee
Day 7: Departure from Dunhuang | Hotel Check-Out & Transfer Service
Today marks the conclusion of your unforgettable 7-day Qinghai-Gansu adventure! You’ll have some leisure time in Dunhuang to explore at your own pace—whether you want to pick up last-minute souvenirs, savor one final taste of local cuisine, or simply soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. When it’s time to depart, your guide will escort you to Dunhuang Airport or Railway Station for your onward flight or high-speed train to your next destination.Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China journey! We are dedicated to crafting seamless and memorable travel experiences, and we would be thrilled to welcome you back for your future adventures across Asia. Wishing you a safe, smooth journey ahead!Extension Options to Extend Your Adventure
- Extend in Dunhuang (1-2 Days): Dive deeper into the region’s cultural and natural wonders by adding visits to Yulin Grottoes, Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass, Yardan Landform Park, the Han Dynasty Great Wall, or the Thousand Buddha Caves.
- Explore More of Gansu: Expand your itinerary to discover other iconic Gansu destinations, including Wuwei, Jiuquan, Guazhou, and beyond—we’re happy to arrange tailored plans for you.
- Continue Your China Journey: If you’re looking to explore further afield, let us know! We can customize your trip to include other incredible Chinese cities such as Turpan, Urumqi, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xi’an, Beijing, or Shanghai, and assist with all travel arrangements.
Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!
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IncludedDay 7 Dunhuang Departure | Hotel Check-out & Airport see-off On this day, it is time to end your 7-day Qinghai Gansu Tour. You will have some free time in Dunhuang and explore more on your own till your guide escorts you to the airport or train station for your flight/high speed train to next destination. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China Tour, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to Asia. Safe journey! Extension Ideas: If you prefer to spend more time in Dunhuang, you can add a 1-2-days to include the Yulin Grottoes, Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass, Yardan Landform Park, Great Wall of the Han Dynasty, Thousand Buddha Caves... If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of Gansu, such as Wuwei, Jiuquan, Guazhou, and more, we can help you with the arrangements. If you plan to continue your exploration to other cities in China, such as Turpan, Urumqi, Chengdu, Lhasa, Xi'an, Beijing, and Shanghai, please feel free to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist you with travel arrangements.Attraction Tickets: All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary.Transportation: Airport transfers on arrival and departure. Private Vehicle for city sightseeing tours. Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets.Accommodation: Hotels are listed in the itinerary.Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel.Service fee: planning, handling, operational and communication charges
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Not IncludedTravel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included.Visa Fees: Cost of tourist visa if required, depending on the traveler’s nationality.Optional Tours and Activities: The cost of all optional activities in the itinerary is not included.Single Supplement: Additional charge for travelers who wish to have a private room.Tips and Gratuities: Tips for tour guides and drivers, which are optional and at the traveler’s discretion.Overtime Service Fees：Additional charges may apply for services requested beyond the scheduled hours.Personal Expenses: Shopping, additional meals, snacks, and beverages outside of those specified in the itinerary.Tax: Japanese municipal lodging tax and onsen (hot spring) tax, as well as consumption tax on purchases. These taxes are typically not included in the tour package price and are payable on-site as required.
