10 Days China Silk Road Tour

You’ll arrive at the Xining Caojiabu International Airport, where our staff will meet you at the exit with a sign and help you transfer to your downtown hotel for check-in. Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is the starting point of your Silk Road journey. After settling in, feel free to explore the city. We recommend visiting Moga Street to try Qinghai’s local specialties like lamb hand-grab, liangpi (cold noodles), and Qinghai yogurt. In the evening, take a stroll around the city center to enjoy the peaceful night of a highland city

Morning drive to Qinghai Lake, where you can cycle or boat around the lake, admiring its azure waters against snow-capped mountains. After lunch, head to Chaka Salt Lake, known as the “Sky Mirror.” Walk barefoot across the salt flats and capture mirror-like reflections. Wear bright colors for stunning photos.

Drive through the Qaidam Basin to Golmud, passing Chaka Salt Lake’s “Salt Bridge” and salt fields. Learn about salt resource development. Upon arrival in Golmud, visit the Kunlun Tourism Area to explore the cultural significance of the Kunlun Mountains

Morning visit to Chaka Salt Lake to explore China’s largest salt production base and walk across the “Salt Bridge.” Afternoon at Yangguan Ruins, a historic Silk Road pass, where your guide will share stories of ancient traders and soldiers. Evening arrival in Dunhuang; free time to explore Shazhou Night Market for local snacks like Dunhuang liangpi and Xinghua Village wine

Morning visit to the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with千年-old Buddhist art. Your guide will explain the murals and Buddhas from various dynasties. Afternoon sandboarding at Singing Sand Mountain, followed by a stroll to Crescent Lake, a desert oasis where you can relax with a cup of tea.

Morning visit to Jiayuguan Pass, the western starting point of the Great Wall. Explore its historical and architectural significance. Afternoon climb at the Hanging Wall Section, a dramatic cliffside portion of the Great Wall with views of the Gobi Desert.

Visit Zhangye Danxia Landform, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful rock formations. Take a scenic bus or helicopter tour to see layers of red, yellow, purple, and green. Learn about the geological processes that created these wonders. Afternoon free time for photography or leisurely walks.

Morning visit to Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple to see China’s largest indoor reclining Buddha (35 meters long) and Ming Dynasty murals. Afternoon exploration of Mati Temple, a cliffside grotto complex with Buddhist art. Climb steep paths to discover its historical role on the Silk Road.

Traverse Qilian Grassland, one of China’s most scenic grasslands, with views of snow-capped mountains and yaks. Stop for photos of “clouds on cattle’s backs” or grassland sunsets. Afternoon visit to Kumbum Monastery, a major Tibetan Buddhist site. Explore its golden-roofed halls and learn about its murals, embroidery, and butter sculptures.

Private transfer to Xining Caojiabu International Airport based on your flight schedule. We look forward to welcoming you again for more Northwest China adventures!