A compilation guide of the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop that you won't get tired of even after repeating it ten thousand times

1. Overall Route Planning 1. Prefer the counterclockwise reverse route to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more pleasant travel experience. 2. Alternate between highways and national roads to speed up travel. The most beautiful scenery is on the road, not in the scenic spots. Highly recommend taking the national road in the Guazhou section 🦋, where you can not only enjoy pasture views but also savor the sweet and soft African honey melon. 2. Recommended Attractions and Warnings Special Tip 🕶: The attractions on the loop are highly weather-dependent. Be sure to travel during clear weather; otherwise, the scenery will be greatly diminished. Recommended 1. Gangshika Snow Mountain: Few people and beautiful scenery. Horseback riding to and from the snow mountain base camp takes two hours (200 RMB/person). Trust me, horseback riding is worth it. 2. Shuangta Reservoir: A wild spot, drive directly there for few crowds, beautiful scenery, and great photo opportunities. 3. Dacaidan Emerald Lake: Be sure to spend 20 RMB to go up the viewing platform; only from above can you truly appreciate its beauty. 4. Chaka Salt Lake: Choose the Mirror of the Sky scenic area for better photos. 5. Driving around Qinghai Lake offers even more beautiful scenery. 6. Wusute Water Yadan: The only place in the world where water scenery and Yadan landforms intertwine. It’s recommended to bring some snacks to feed the seagulls. Warnings 1. Yulin Caves and Dunhuang Mogao Caves: Unless you are especially interested in cultural sites, it is not recommended to visit. 2. Zhangye Danxia Landform: Requires strong post-processing skills for photos. 3. Special Reminders 1. Altitude Sickness: Nearly half the trip is above 3,000 meters. Be sure to prepare glucose, oxygen cans, and ideally a chemical oxygen generator. 2. Sun Protection: Almost all attractions are outdoors at high altitudes with strong UV rays. Pay attention to sun protection. 3. Animals: Cattle and sheep often appear on the national roads; drive safely. In pastoral areas, marmots and even bears may appear; keep your distance. Water sources in pastoral areas may contain parasites; avoid them as much as possible.