Here is a detailed guide to the Northwest Grand Loop:

Here is a detailed guide to the Northwest Grand Loop: 1. Itinerary The Northwest Grand Loop usually starts from Xining and covers many famous scenic spots in Qinghai and Gansu provinces. The recommended duration is 7-9 days. Here is a classic 7-day itinerary: • D1: Arrive in Xining, acclimatize to the high altitude, and enjoy free time to explore the city. • D2: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake, admire the beauty of the plateau lakes and salt lakes. • D3: Chaka Salt Lake → Datongdan, cross the Qaidam Basin and arrive at Datongdan. • D4: Datongdan → Jade Lake → Yadan Devil City, explore the unique landforms. • D5: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring, experience the charm of culture and nature. • D6: Dunhuang → Zhangye Seven-Color Danxia, admire the colorful Danxia landforms. • D7: Zhangye → Qilian Mountain Prairie → Xining, end the journey and return to Xining. 2. Transportation • To reach Xining: You can choose to fly to Xining Caojiabao Airport or take a high-speed train to Xining Railway Station. • Local transportation: In Xining, you can take buses, taxis, or online car-hailing services to visit the scenic spots. If you plan to drive yourself, please check the road conditions in advance and prepare your navigation device. In addition, you can choose to rent a car or join a local tour group to save time and effort. 3. Accommodation recommendations There are many accommodation options along the route, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations: • Xining: Vienna Hotel, with floor heating and airport pick-up service, good value for money. • Datongdan: Hongya Hotel, near Jade Lake, with central heating. • Dunhuang: Mingsha Hotel, located near the night market, with convenient transportation. 4. Scenic spots • Qinghai Lake: The largest inland lake in China, with stunning scenery. • Chaka Salt Lake: Known as the "Sky Mirror," the lake surface is like a palette of nature. • Jade Lake: The lake water is crystal clear and emerald green, with beautiful scenery. • Mogao Caves: A world art treasure house, with murals and sculptures from various periods. • Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: Golden sand dunes, clear spring water, and a beautiful sunset create a stunning picture. • Seven-Color Danxia: Famous for its unique colors and layered landforms. 5. Food recommendations The Northwest Grand Loop offers a variety of delicious food, including: • Mutton: Hand-grabbed mutton, mutton skewers, etc., with a strong aroma. • Baked cakes: Crispy and soft, delicious. • Butter tea: A specialty drink of the Tibetan people, salty and delicious. • Big plate chicken: Large portion, suitable for sharing. 6. Precautions • Altitude sickness: For first-time visitors to the plateau, please rest and avoid strenuous exercise. You can take red ginseng and other medications to prevent altitude sickness in advance. • Sunscreen and moisturizing: The Northwest region is dry and has strong ultraviolet rays. Please take sunscreen and moisturizing measures. • Respect customs: Along the way, you will pass through many ethnic minority areas. Please respect local customs and avoid unnecessary trouble. The above is a complete guide to the Northwest Grand Loop. I hope it will be helpful for your trip. Have a pleasant journey!