Northwest Travel Essentials: 7 Days and 6 Nights in Qinghai and Gansu

You must experience the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop at least once! The stunning salt lakes and diverse landscapes will leave you in awe of nature's beauty. Capturing these moments in photos makes it all worthwhile! 😍 - ⭐ Northwest Travel Packing List 🔸 Essential Documents: ID card, student ID, driver’s license 🔸 Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, etc. 🔸 Toiletries: Skincare products, shampoo, makeup remover 🔸 Electronics: Chargers, power banks, drone 🔸 Other Items: Thermos, wet wipes, disposable underwear - 🚗 Transportation Options: ✈ Flights: Opt for direct flights to Lanzhou, Xining, or Dunhuang to save time. 🚄 Trains: Major cities offer train routes to the Northwest. High-speed trains are recommended for comfort and scenic views. 🚌 Group Tours: Convenient, hassle-free, and budget-friendly. - 🌟🌟🌟 Qinghai Lake, Dunhuang, Zhangye, and Chaka Salt Lake 7-Day Grand Loop: Day 1: Xining ---- Riyue Mountain ---- Qinghai Lake (Heimahe) ---- Chaka Salt Lake (Overnight) Day 2: Chaka ---- Chaka Salt Lake ---- Golmud (Overnight) Day 3: Golmud ---- U-shaped Highway ---- Dongtai Jinel Lake ---- Water Yadan ---- Dachaidan Emerald Lake (Overnight) Day 4: Dachaidan ---- Heidushan ---- Silk Road Heritage City ---- Dunhuang City (Overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang ---- Mogao Caves (Best to book tickets for around 9 AM) ---- Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake ---- Shazhou Night Market ---- Dunhuang City (Overnight) Day 6: Dunhuang City ---- Passing Jiayuguan ---- Zhangye Rainbow Mountains ---- Zhangye (Overnight) Day 7: Zhangye ---- Biandukou ---- Qilian Mountains and Grasslands ---- Gangshika Snow Peak (Distant View) ---- Xining (End of Trip) - ✅ Highlights: 1️⃣ Mogao Caves: Marvel at the grandeur of Dunhuang murals. 2️⃣ Qinghai Lake: Admire the vast fields of golden rapeseed flowers. 3️⃣ Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake: Experience the majesty of endless deserts. 4️⃣ Chaka Salt Lake: Witness the dreamlike, colorful scenery. 5️⃣ Zhangye Rainbow Mountains: Encounter a surreal palette of colors. - ⭕️ Northwest Travel Tips: ✨ Xining’s climate is dry, and while lamb dishes are delicious, overeating may cause discomfort. Prepare supplements to avoid health issues. ✨ Plan your itinerary in advance and purchase tickets on time! During peak travel seasons, secure return tickets early. Elderly travelers should carry a guide map to avoid unnecessary detours. ✨ The high-altitude region has intense UV rays, so prioritize sun protection! Bring sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, and a hat. ✨ Xining has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, nighttime temperatures may drop below 10°C, so ensure proper warmth. - 💗 Tips: Northwest attractions are spread out, and self-driving can be exhausting and may lead to unnecessary trouble. Whether joining a group tour or traveling independently, finalize your itinerary in advance.