10-Day Essential Journey through Northwest China
10 Days · From $3,199
Explore the natural wonders and ancient Silk Road culture of Northwest China on a 10-day journey through Qinghai, Gansu, and Xinjiang, including Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Dunhuang, Turpan, and Urumqi.
Itinerary
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Day 1: Arrival in Xining
Upon arrival in Xining, your private guide and driver will welcome you and escort you to the hotel for rest.
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Day 2: Xining
Visit Ta'er Monastery, known for its stunning butter sculptures, murals, and embroidery, as well as its rich collection of Buddhist scriptures and scholarly works. After lunch, travel to Qinghai Lake, a vast inland saltwater lake known for its turquoise waters, surrounding mountains, and pastoral scenery.
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Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake
Drive to Chaka Salt Lake, often called China's"Sky Mirror", famed for its reflective surfaces and ethereal scenery. Return to Xining in the afternoon.
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Day 4: Zhangye
Explore Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, famous for its rainbow-colored sandstone formations resembling an artist's overturned palette. A perfect place for photography and enjoying Northwest China's rugged yet delicate landscapes.
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Day 5: Zhangye to Dunhuang
Visit Zhangye Sleeping Buddha Temple, home to a 34.5-meter-long reclining Buddha, a masterpiece of Buddhist art. In the afternoon, take a high-speed train to Dunhuang.
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Day 6: Dunhuang
Visit the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then explore Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring, renowned for the singing sands and a crescent-shaped oasis in the desert.
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Day 7: Dunhuang to Turpan
Tour the Han Dynasty Great Wall ruins, China's oldest defensive system. After lunch, take a high-speed train to Turpan.
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Day 8: Turpan
Visit Jiaohe Ancient City, a mud-brick archaeological site, then explore the Karez irrigation system and the scenic Grape Valley, with opportunities to taste fresh grapes and witness Uyghur cultural performances.
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Day 9: Urumqi
Visit Heavenly Lake, an alpine lake at 1910 meters with snow-capped mountain reflections. In the evening, stroll the International Grand Bazaar, enjoy local music, folk performances, and shop for traditional crafts.
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Day 10: Departure
Your driver will transfer you to the airport according to your flight schedule, marking the conclusion of your Northwest China journey.
What's Included
- ✓Costs for a private, air-conditioned business vehicle throughout the tour.
- ✓Services of a private English-speaking tour guide.
- ✓Hotels, entrance fees to scenic spots (first gate tickets), and meals as listed in the itinerary.
- ✓Travel insurance coverage during the tour (details available on the Insurance Policy page).
- ✓Inter-city flights or high-speed train travel.
- ✓24-hour customer service support during the trip.
- ✓Service fees, covering tour planning, handling, operation, and communication costs.
- ✗Chinese Visa fees.
- ✗Round-trip ticket. (We offer Air Ticket Booking Service, if you need it, please let us know.)
- ✗Personal expenses.
- ✗Meals, transportation transfers, and tourist attraction fees not listed in the itinerary.
- ✗Optional activities recommended at scenic spots or other commercial establishments.
- ✗Luggage overweight charges.
- ✗Optional activities provided by the driver or guide.
- ✗Personal Accident Insurance during Travel .
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