7-Day Trip from Xining, Qinghai to Dunhuang, Gansu: Must-See Sights

Hey friends, check out this super detailed guide for a seven-day trip from Xining, Qinghai to Dunhuang, Gansu! It's packed with useful tips for exploring the northwest. Don't miss out! -- 🛤️Itinerary: DAY 1: Riyue Mountain -> Qinghai Lake -> Erlangjian Scenic Area -> Chaka Salt Lake Cross Riyue Mountain, explore Qinghai Lake and Erlangjian Scenic Area, and finally immerse yourself in the magical Chaka Salt Lake. DAY 2: Qarhan Salt Lake -> Xiaochaidan Lake Experience the spectacular Qarhan Salt Lake and then head to the picturesque Xiaochaidan Lake. DAY 3: Hongya Mars Landform Scenic Area -> U-shaped Highway -> Qaidam Basin -> Wusute Water Yadan Geopark -> Dongtai Jinel Lake Explore the Hongya Mars Landform, drive on the U-shaped Highway, cross the Qaidam Basin, and visit Wusute Water Yadan and Dongtai Jinel Lake. DAY 4: Dachaidan Emerald Lake -> Nanbaxian Devil City -> Hei Du Shan -> Lenghu Oil Base Ruins -> Dunhuang Silk Road Heritage City From the magnificent Emerald Lake to the mysterious Devil City, passing through the unique Hei Du Shan and the historical Lenghu Oil Base Ruins, finally arrive at Dunhuang Silk Road Heritage City. DAY 5: Mogao Caves -> Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring -> Shazhou Night Market Immerse yourself in the artistic treasures of the Mogao Caves, experience the tranquility of Crescent Moon Spring, and stroll through the lively Shazhou Night Market in the evening. DAY 6: Big Earth -> Jiayuguan Pass -> Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park Visit the impressive Big Earth sculpture, explore the historical Jiayuguan Pass, and finally admire the colorful Zhangye Danxia landforms. DAY 7: Qilian Mountains Grassland -> Menyuan Rape Flower Sea -> Rape Flower Viewing Platform Experience the vastness of nature in the Qilian Mountains Grassland, then head to Menyuan to admire the vast rape flower fields and enjoy the panoramic view from the viewing platform. -- Recommended Attractions: 🏜️ Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: Known as the "Eye of the Desert," the rolling sand dunes here are truly spectacular. Crescent Moon Spring, like a pearl, shimmers eternally in the desert, creating a captivating scene. 🌈 Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: Zhangye's Danxia landforms are a masterpiece of nature. The interplay of red cliffs and colorful hills creates a series of vibrant and magnificent landscapes that will leave you mesmerized. ❄️ Chaka Salt Lake: The salt-covered lake surface is as white as snow, reflecting the colors of the sky like a pristine mirror. Walking here feels like stepping into a pure fairy tale world. -- Travel Tips: - March Climate: Xining has a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a warm jacket🧣. Dunhuang is relatively dry, so moisturizing is essential. - Airport Transportation: Dunhuang Airport is not far from the city center, and taxis are readily available🚖. From Xining Airport to the city center, you can take a bus or a taxi. - Local Customs: In Xining, experience Hui culture and respect local customs🕌. Dunhuang has a rich history, and the Mogao Caves are well worth a visit. - Souvenir Prices: Dunhuang's Li Guang apricots are particularly famous and reasonably priced, making them ideal souvenirs🎁. Xining's yak jerky is also a local specialty, so be sure to try it. -- 🎉One journey, two distinct experiences. The tranquility of Xining and the mystery of Dunhuang await your exploration. Have a wonderful trip!