Miraculous Qinghai and Legendary Silk Road Tour
8-Day Qinghai Lake, Zhangye, and Dunhuang Tour
This itinerary includes Qinghai and Gansu, which were two very important regions during the history of the ancient Silk Road. Qinghai is famous for high plateau lakes and grasslands as well as exotic ethnic culture, while Gansu features the Gobi Desert landscapes, Danxia landforms, Buddhist grottoes, and Great Wall culture.
Travel from Xining to dreamlike Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake, and then go to Zhangye with its unique Danxia — red sandstone landforms. End the trip at the mysterious city of Dunhuang, where you will enjoy the spectacular desert landscapes and experience unique ancient Silk Road culture.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Feast Your Eyes on the Spectacular Landscapes of Two High Plateau Lakes.
Visit picturesque Qinghai Lake, which was selected as "the Most Beautiful Lake in China" by China's National Geographic, and be amazed by the stunning landscape around it. Also, take a train ride through "the sky mirror" — Chaka Salt Lake.
Trace the Roots of China's Brilliant Buddhist Culture on the Ancient Silk Road.
Admire exquisite architecture in celebrated Ta'er Monastery in Xining and Giant Buddha Temple in Zhangye. Appreciate amazing murals, sculptures, and grottoes in the mysterious Mogao Caves.
Enjoy the Stunning Views of Wild China
Explore the famous Zhangye Danxia Geopark and take great photos of the Rainbow Mountains. Capture spectacular desert views of Echoing-Sand Mountain, Crescent Moon Spring, and Devil City — Yadan National Geological Park.
Why Choose Us
Your Wellbeing is Our Priority.
- 1-to-1 travel expert
- Vaccinated guides
- Private Rides
Your Trip is Perfectly Planned.
- No crowds
- Exclusive Exciting Experiences
Your Booking is Risk-Free.
- No cancellation fee
- Free changes
Finish Your Booking in as Quick as 1 Day
1. Tell us your dream travel idea
2. Work out your unique plan with 1 to 1 expert advice
About China Highlights
Since 1998 we've guided everyone ranging from US presidents, Australian Geographic and retired backpackers. Our goal is to create unique trips that take you off-the-beaten path, helping you discover China in a more authentic way. Our motto: "Discovery Your Way!"
Xian 2022 Trip
Went on a family vacation to Xian and thanks to #chinahighlights my kids and I had a truly enjoyable time. #Christy arranged our tour and #Helen was our tour guide. #Helen did a great job of leading us around the Muslim Quarter, the Terra-cotta Warriors, walking up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, bell and drum towers, riding on the Xian city wall, visiting the Shaanxi History Museum and watching the Legend of the Silk Road show. She was especially knowledgeable of the areas history. The kids and I enjoyed the paper cutting and making terra-cotta warriors out of clay activities as well as watching the Shadow Puppet Show. Despite the COVID restrictions and excessive bureaucracy that now exists for foreigners traveling in China, #Helen did a great job meeting the unique needs of my family and I highly recommend her services. more
Tour Map
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
Airport or railway station pick-up
Ta'er Monastery, Erlangjian Scenic Area, and Qinghai Lake boat ride
Qinghai Lake sunrise, Chaka Salt Lake
Zhangye Danxia Geological Park
Giant Buddha Temple, Wooden Tower
The Mogao Caves, the Singing Sand Mountains and Crescent Moon Spring, Camel Riding
Dunhuang Museum, Yadan National Geological Park, Yumen Pass, the Great Wall of the Han Dynasty
Airport or railway station drop-off
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.
Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: gq-1
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