2025 Sunan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

This Qingming Festival short break, embark on a unique Northwest adventure! This 6-day tour of Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Jiuquan offers an off-season visit to the Mogao Caves, where you'll see 10 physical caves. Plus, explore the stunning Binggou Danxia. Don't miss out! -- 🚩Itinerary: D1: Arrive in Lanzhou - City Tour Upon arrival in Lanzhou, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. Afterward, explore the city at your leisure. Visit local attractions, savor authentic cuisine, and experience Lanzhou's unique charm. D2: Exploring the Zhangye Colorful Danxia Spend the day exploring the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, marveling at nature's artistry, and immersing yourself in the vibrant colors of the Danxia landforms. D3: Binggou Danxia In-depth Tour - Jiayuguan Pass Historical Journey Enjoy an off-season visit to Binggou Danxia, exploring its unique geological landscape. Afterward, journey to the Jiayuguan Pass and experience the profound history of the ancient city walls. D4: Mogao Caves Art Feast - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring Excursion The highlight of today's itinerary is a visit to the Mogao Caves. We've increased the number of physical caves you'll see from 8 to 10, offering a more comprehensive appreciation of the artistic beauty of the murals and sculptures. In the afternoon, head to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring to experience the magical combination of desert and oasis. D5: Yumen Pass Ruins - Yadan National Geological Park Adventure Explore the ancient ruins of Yumen Pass and reflect on the passage of time. Afterward, journey to Yadan National Geological Park to admire the unique landforms and breathtaking natural scenery. D6: Farewell to Lanzhou As your delightful Northwest journey concludes, enjoy a private transfer to the airport or train station. We look forward to seeing you again soon! Please schedule your departure after 1:00 PM to ensure ample time. -- Essential Travel Tips: - Photo Ops 📸: The colorful Zhangye Danxia landforms, the majestic Jiayuguan Great Wall, and the technologically advanced Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center all provide excellent backdrops for photography! - Must-Try Cuisine 🍜: Don't miss the hand-pulled mutton and donkey meat yellow noodles in Jiuquan. Jiayuguan also offers authentic roasted whole lamb, combining deliciousness with local characteristics. - Airport Transportation 🚗: Plan your route from the airport to the attractions in advance. You can choose to rent a car or use local transportation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. -- Walk through the Danxia of Zhangye, traverse the majestic Jiayuguan Pass, and savor the stories of Jiuquan. This journey will be truly unforgettable! Remember to like and save this post, and share it with your fellow travelers! ✨

The beauty of snow-capped mountains and the charm of the Hexi Corridor. "Once we pass Wushaoling, the quiet and secluded mountains stretching out in the southern sky are projected into our deep eyes. Reflecting the light blue sky, the pure ridgeline of the snow-capped ridge winds and undulates, extending all the way to the horizon, biting off the complete clear sky piece by piece" - "Qilian Snow". "Qilian" is the transliteration of "sky" in the Xiongnu language, and the Qilian Mountains are the Tianshan Mountains of the Xiongnu people. In the second year of Yuanshou, Huo Qubing attacked Qilian Mountain, captured five Xiongnu kings, and took over the Hexi Corridor in one fell swoop. Since then, Huo Qubing became the young god of war in the eyes of the Xiongnu people: "The loss of Qilian Mountain has caused my livestock to stop breeding. The loss of Yanzhi Mountain has caused my women to lose their color." The Hexi Corridor also began to be incorporated into China's territory, becoming the cradle of the future Silk Road. I was completely shocked after watching the documentary "Hexi Corridor". The most beautiful thing is not the snow on the Qilian Mountains, but the young Han people who were full of vigor and vitality two thousand years ago. Because of the young god of war Huo Qubing, he has always wanted to go to Qilian Mountain in person to see this land of war and iron cavalry. At the age of 24, Huo Qubing's life was as dazzling yet short as a comet across the sky, leaving the Han Dynasty with endless sorrow and regret. The herds of cattle and sheep are still there, and the military horses are still galloping in the wind. That man is gone, but he will always exist on this land, never leaving. Hexi Corridor

⛪️ Mati Temple Grottoes, located in Gansu, China, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. As someone who loves exploring ancient sites, I found this complex of caves and temples to be absolutely stunning. The intricate carvings and sculptures inside the grottoes are a testament to the incredible skill and artistry of the people who created them so many centuries ago. 🤩 One of the highlights of my visit to Mati Temple Grottoes was the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible walks inside the rocks of these ancient structures. The attention to detail and dedication of the original artists is truly remarkable, and it's heartening to know that these cultural treasures are being preserved for future generations to enjoy. We stayed at a local hotel nearby, which was really nice to wake up and just walk to the temple. There are plenty of beautiful surrounding walk, and I would highly recommend going and walking up the many steps to the viewing platform opposite the stupas! Winner views!!! ⛰️ Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Mati Temple Grottoes for anyone traveling to Gansu. The combination of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty makes for a truly unforgettable experience. #roadtrip #tripleblazer #ancientlandmark

Getting There - 30min drive from West gate of Danxia Park Attractions - futuristic park with mountains of different colours and shapes. We were staying near Danxia Park and were offered to go to the Binggou Scenic Area. It took us about 30min to get there, the entrance was about 170rmb. You can drive your car around the park or use a public transport (van, car or bus). Important: the ticket office is about 25min away from the park entrance, make sure you buy your ticket first and then go to the entrance. The scenery was very satisfying, we enjoyed walking around different areas of the park. There was no crowds and it felt like we are the only people there! #couplestrip#hikingtrails

🔥【Visual Spectacle】Series: 1. "God spilled the paint palette! Are these colors of Zhangye Rainbow Mountains real?🌈 2. "This 'Flaming Mountain' in Zhangye, Gansu hides alien-like terrain! Aerial views are god-tier!👽" 3. "Warning! Hiking through Zhangye Pingshanhu Grand Canyon left my legs shaking for 3 days - totally worth it!⚠️" 📸【Photo Ops】Series: 4. "Found the real-life 'A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains' painting location in Zhangye! Ancient artists didn't lie!🎨 (Includes secret photo spots)" 5. "Gansu locals' best-kept secret: The stunning Zhangye National Highway 227 - every frame could be a Windows wallpaper🛣️" 6. "This little-known Zhangye grotto is more impressive than Mogao Caves! 99% don't know this Western Region gem🕌" 🍜【Foodie Heaven】Series: 7. "Zhangye night market packed at 2am! This beef noodle soup made southerners switch loyalties!🍜8. "How hardcore are Gansu breakfasts? Zhangye minced-noodle soup + stir-fried offal will carb-bomb you into bliss!💥" 🎒【Immersive Experiences】Series: 9. "Became a shepherd for a day in Zhangye! Stayed in yurts drinking butter tea, sunset over grasslands took my breath away🐑" 10. "Journey through Hexi Corridor! Climbing Matisi Temple's Thirty-Three Heaven Caves reveals ancient devotion🙏" 💎【Hidden Gems】Series: 11. "Gansu's ultimate off-the-beaten-path spot! Zhangye Shandan Horse Ranch - where General Huo Qubing bred warhorses 2000 years ago🐎12. "Zhangye Wetland Park hides a Jiangnan-style paradise? Boating through reeds feels like Baiyangdian!🚣♀️"

Northwest China in July and August is at its most beautiful peak🤩! Travel through Qilian Grassland🌿, Rainbow Mountains, deserts and gobi, mountains and lakes... every kilometer hides a surprise✨, with ever-changing scenery~ —— Follow Xiao Ye for 8 days to unlock the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, staying at the top luxury wild hotels in Northwest China🏨—【Lonely Star Gobi + Dongyi Dunhuang】, immersive experiences including desert camel riding🐫, ATV off-road through Yadan, horseback riding on the grassland, custom desert dinners🍲… Slow down and take in the natural scenery and cultural history of Northwest China👀, easily enjoying a top luxury, high-quality vacation🥰~ —— 【⭕Top Luxury Vacation · Northwest Grand Loop 8 Days 7 Nights】 ✅Private tours starting from 2 people, no sharing with strangers ✅Luxury business vehicles for travel🚗, VIP window seats for everyone ✅Gold medal🥇 driver-guide with attentive service, 24h airport transfers + drone aerial photography ✅Years of deep experience in Northwest China, carefully planned itinerary🙌🏻 ✅7 consecutive nights in luxury brand hotels, quality + scenic views ✅Official long-established travel agency, electronic contracts + PICC travel insurance ✅All-inclusive price covering attraction tickets + shuttle buses + special experiences (including Mogao Caves A ticket + independent guided tour of Jiayuguan) · 【🚗8-Day Recommended Route, adjustable as needed】: D1: Xining airport pickup — free activities D2: Menyuan rapeseed flowers — horseback riding and lake exploration in Qilian Grassland — Rainbow Mountains D3: Jiayuguan Fortress — custom desert dinner + camel riding D4: Mogao Caves — half-day free time in Dunhuang D5: Dunhuang — drone aerial photography at Heidushan — Lonely Star Gobi D6: Water Yadan — Highway 315 — Dacaidan Emerald Lake D7: Delingha — Chaka Salt Lake package — scenic stay at Qinghai Lake D8: Qinghai Lake VIP — airport drop-off · 【🏨Selected Wild Luxury Scenic Hotels】 Dunhuang Hotel Hidden deep in the desert🌿, a high-end wild luxury hotel showcasing Oriental aesthetics, with artistic interior design and rooms offering distant views of Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake Star Gobi Wild Luxury Hotel The "Mars Base" on Yadan landforms, with a striking hexagram exterior! Also a famous local stargazing base✨, a must-visit for star lovers! Biyue Hotel A luxury brand hotel under SLH! Regularly hosts art events, was an instant hit upon opening, and is a highly sought-after hidden gem~ · 【🔥Wild Luxury Experience Highlights】 🔸Mogao Caves A ticket! Visit 8 caves + 2 digital films 🔸Jiayuguan VIP independent guided tour, understand the millennium history of the frontier 🔸Camel riding🐫 on Mingsha Mountain, chase a stunning desert sunset 🔸ATV crossing the Gobi Yadan, explore ancient lake relics 🔸Horseback riding and lake exploration in Qilian Grassland🌊, enjoy custom local hotpot under snowy mountains🍲 🔸Chaka Salt Lake by small train, travel through the "Mirror of the Sky" 🔸Custom desert dinner in Dunhuang, private chef cooking on site 🔸Drone aerial photography📸, check in at Heidushan + Dacaidan Emerald Lake 🔸Qinghai Lake VIP ticket (including guided tour, sightseeing train, welcome ceremony) 🔸Lonely Star Mars Park + desert hot springs + fireworks🎇 party ·

The beauty of the Great Northwest is truly breathtaking! And the fatigue from the journey is equally real! Each day felt like an intense hiking drill, more exhausting than military training... Waking up at 7 AM daily and returning to the hotel by 9 PM, covering 500-600 kilometers with 6-8 hours of driving each day. If you're tired of the daily grind, a trip to the Great Northwest might make you miss your routine. By the later stages of the trip, it was hard to muster the energy to appreciate the scenery, resorting to quick check-ins before moving on. Yet, every attraction had its unique charm, showcasing the diverse landscapes of our country and the cultural history of the Hexi Corridor. My personal favorites: 🏅 **Zhangye Danxia Landform** – Truly deserving of its National Geographic recommendation, magnificently breathtaking and grand! 🥈 **Chaka Salt Lake, Qarhan Salt Lake & Emerald Lake** – Like God spilled a palette of green apples🍏 and Tiffany blue. Unfortunately, Chaka Salt Lake was hit by a storm, so we missed the "Mirror of the Sky" effect, but Qarhan and Emerald Lake more than made up for it. 🥉 **Yardang National Geological Park & Crescent Moon Spring** – The large-scale water-eroded Yardang landforms are a must-see, while the oasis of Crescent Moon Spring in the desert offers a profound experience of solitude under the vast sky, desert sunsets, and lively nighttime gatherings. A pre-trip concern was the dreaded dry toilets, but luckily, we didn’t encounter any. Rest stops and scenic area restrooms were generally clean and adequate. In emergencies, our driver took us to gas station toilets🚾. Overall, it’s worth the trip—photos turn out amazing—but be mentally prepared! **Recommended Itinerary: 8-Day Qinghai-Gansu Tour** D1. Xining airport/train pickup (overnight) D2. Xining - Riyue Mountain (drive-by) - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka/Delingha (overnight) D3. Chaka/Delingha - Qarhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan (overnight) D4. Dachaidan - U-shaped Highway - Dongtaijinaier Lake (pass by) - Yardang National Geological Park - Nanbaxian Yardang - Dachaidan (overnight) D5. Dachaidan - Emerald Lake - Oil Town - Dunhuang (overnight) D6. Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Crescent Moon Spring - Dunhuang (overnight) D7. Dunhuang - Guazhou - Jiayuguan Pass - Zhangye Danxia Landform - Zhangye (overnight) D8. Zhangye - Biandukou - Qilian Mountain Grasslands - Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view) - Menyuan (pass by rapeseed flower fields, blooming July-August) - Xining. *Text and images sourced online; please contact for removal if infringing.*

In July, when popular tourist destinations are overwhelmed by crowds and scorching heat🌡️, why not choose reverse travel? Head to these lesser-known yet treasure-filled cities to enjoy tranquility and beauty all to yourself. Here are 5 perfect cities for a July reverse getaway. 1. **Anshun, Guizhou 🌊: A Cool Oasis of Waterfalls** Anshun, a city overshadowed by the fame of Huangguoshu Waterfall yet brimming with unique charm, shines in July. While other places swelter, Anshun remains pleasantly cool thanks to its abundant mountains and rivers. Beyond the renowned Huangguoshu Waterfall, it hides many off-the-beaten-path gems. Tianlong Tunpu, with its Ming Dynasty heritage, locals dressed in traditional Fengyang Han attire, and ancient stone architecture, feels like a journey through time⏳. Anshun’s cuisine is equally remarkable: crispy and fragrant Guojuan rolls, colorful Siwawa with rich toppings🥗, and refreshing rose-flavored ice jelly🍧 to beat the summer heat. Here, you can slow down and savor the unique culture of central Guizhou. 2. **Zhangye, Gansu 🏜️: A Dreamy Desert Wonderland** In July, Zhangye’s Danxia landforms look even more spectacular under blue skies and white clouds☁️. Unlike the humid south, Zhangye boasts the vast, bold beauty of the northwest. The Rainbow Mountains resemble an artist’s palette🎨, their vibrant colors awe-inspiring. The Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon, dubbed "China’s answer to the Grand Canyon," features deep gorges and towering peaks—hike through it to witness nature’s artistry. Local delicacies like chewy beef rice🍚 and stir-fried Pao noodles, paired with a bowl of Jiangshui noodles🍜, are both appetizing and refreshing. Escape the crowds in Zhangye and find serenity in this desert wonderland. 3. **Quanzhou, Fujian 🕌: A Historic Port City Alive with Culture** In July, Quanzhou offers deep historical roots and vibrant local life without Xiamen’s bustle. Stroll through West Street, where ancient arcades and the incense-filled Kaiyuan Temple whisper tales of a millennium-old past. Quanzhou’s diverse religious culture—mosques, churches, and temples coexisting harmoniously—reflects its inclusivity. The food is irresistible: sticky and savory rice dumplings🍙, smooth and comforting vermicelli soup🥣, and cooling shihu jelly🍨. Sit in a small eatery, listen to the Minnan dialect, and savor Quanzhou’s unique flavors. 4. **Yichun, Heilongjiang 🌲: A Forest Retreat to Beat the Heat** Yichun, hailed as a "natural oxygen bar," is the ultimate summer escape in July. With dense forest coverage, places like Wuying National Forest Park offer towering trees and wooden trails where you can breathe in the fresh air🌬️ and wash away fatigue. Maolangou National Forest Park, nicknamed "the Jiuzhaigou of the North," dazzles with streams and peculiar rock formations. Feast on Northeast Chinese specialties: tender fish stew🐟, fragrant pork ribs with beans🥘, and crisp fresh veggies with dipping sauce🥗. In Yichun, leave the city behind and embrace a cool summer in the woods. 5. **Mangshi, Yunnan 🌴: A Hidden Frontier of Ethnic Charm** This small city in western Yunnan is rich in ethnic culture and tropical allure. In July, Mangshi is warm and lush. Buddhist temples like Bodhi Temple and Wuyun Temple showcase unique architecture and mystique. In Dai villages, experience folk traditions and authentic Dai cuisine: lemongrass-grilled fish🐟 and pineapple sticky rice🍍, bursting with tropical flavors. Slow down and soak up Mangshi’s local vibe, or venture into the mountains to uncover nature’s secrets. **July Reverse Travel:** Skip the crowds and uncover these hidden gems. Book your tickets and hotels🚗🏨 on Trip.com for a unique journey—you might just stumble upon unexpected delights! Pack your bags for a spontaneous July reverse adventure~

Beyond the Rainbow Danxia Landform and the Giant Buddha Temple in Zhangye City, Gansu Province, lies another heavyweight scenic area—the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone centered around the Mati Temple Grottoes, which is truly awe-inspiring. Located in Mati Tibetan Township, Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye City, the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone is a national 4A-level tourist area that combines grotto art, religious culture, ethnic customs, and natural scenery. [TeaDrinker] 【Main Attractions】 1. Mati Temple Grottoes The Mati Temple Grottoes were carved during the Northern Liang period of the Sixteen Kingdoms, dating back over 1,600 years. They consist of seven sites—Shengguo Temple, Puguang Temple, Thousand Buddha Caves, Upper, Middle, and Lower Guanyin Caves, and Jinta Temple—spread across an area of over 100 square kilometers. These include the Thousand Buddha Caves, Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, and King Gesar Hall, preserving the simple yet majestic early forms, statues, and murals that showcase the unique charm of grotto art. 2. Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes Carved into a cliff in the shape of a 7-story, 21-cave pagoda, this site is magnificent and breathtaking. Visitors must climb using both hands and feet, offering a unique adventure experience. 3. Thousand Buddha Caves Home to numerous Buddha statues and four special caves, this is one of the key areas for visitors to explore. 4. Stupa of Elder Monk Dijing [Coke] Visiting Time: It is recommended to allocate around 3 hours to fully appreciate the beauty of each attraction. Transportation: Self-driving is the best way to explore the Mati Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone. Private vehicles can enter the scenic area, or you can take a shuttle bus to Mati Temple, which stops at key areas like the Thousand Buddha Caves and Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes. 🏖️ 【Overview】 The Northern Mati Temple is large in scale, grand in architecture, and the most incense-laden, serving as the center and main body of the entire Mati Temple Grottoes. Also known as Puguang Temple, it is the core part of the Mati Temple Grottoes. In the 14th year of the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, the emperor bestowed the name "Puguang Temple." Historical records indicate that the grottoes were first carved during the Jin Dynasty when Guo Yu carved them for seclusion, writing, and teaching. Later generations expanded the grottoes, turning them into a renowned temple. The Puguang Temple Grottoes consist of numerous caves, including the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes, Tibetan Buddha Hall, Mati Hall, Horse King Hall, and Medicine Buddha Hall, with a history of about 1,600 years. In the 17th year of the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, when a high-ranking official petitioned the emperor for an inscribed plaque, news of a military victory in the south arrived, leading to the temple being named "Puguang Temple." [Kiss]

Don't just travel—experience the journey | Complete guide to Sunan tourism If you yearn for a trip that takes you far from the hustle and bustle, reconnects you with nature, and offers deep immersion in ethnic culture and historical heritage, then Sunan Yugur Autonomous County is undoubtedly your perfect choice. Located in Zhangye, Gansu, this hidden gem of the northwest boasts stunning ecological beauty, magnificent natural landscapes, rich ethnic traditions, and abundant historical relics, waiting for you to unveil its mysteries. I. Pre-trip Preparation 1. Documents: Bring your ID card and any discount cards (student ID, senior citizen card, etc.) to enjoy ticket discounts. 2. Clothing: Sunan has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, pack a thick jacket. Spring and autumn are windy with sandstorms, so windproof clothing is recommended. In winter, bundle up with down jackets, snow boots, and other warm gear. 3. Sun protection: The UV rays are strong here, so sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and UV-protective clothing are essential. 4. Medicine: Prepare common medications like cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills in case of discomfort. 5. Other: Power bank, camera, and some cash (mobile payments may not be available in remote areas). II. Transportation Guide 1. External Transportation - By air: Fly to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport, then take a 1.5-hour bus ride to Sunan. - By train: Arrive at Zhangye Station or Zhangye West Station, then take a bus to Sunan from Zhangye South Bus Station. There are frequent departures, making it very convenient. 2. Local Transportation - Public transport: Buses and coaches connect Sunan to major attractions, but schedules are limited, so check timetables in advance. - Private car/rental: For more freedom, renting a car is ideal. You can find rental companies in Zhangye or Sunan, with prices varying by vehicle type and itinerary. The scenic routes are perfect for spontaneous photo stops. III. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Barsi Snow Mountain: Dubbed the "Oriental Alps" and known as the "Secret Land of Western China," it ranges from 3,500 to 5,100 meters in elevation, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Try paragliding for an adrenaline rush, challenge yourself with mountain climbing, or relax at a snow mountain café while soaking in breathtaking views. At night, camp under a sky full of stars, feeling as if you could touch the Milky Way. 2. Alien Valley Interstellar Theme Park: Its rare, dreamlike, and mysterious Danxia landforms resemble an alien world. Marvel at the surreal red cliffs like "Louvre Phantom" and "Camel Greeting," showcasing nature's artistry. Dress in futuristic gear for cyberpunk-style photos. 3. Mati Temple Grottoes: Carved during the Northern Liang period, these grottoes are one of the "Three Great Buddhist Art Treasures" of the Hexi Corridor, alongside Mogao and Yulin Caves. The "Thirty-Three Heavens" grotto is particularly awe-inspiring, with 21 caves carved into a 30-story-high cliff. The climb is thrilling, and the summit offers panoramic valley views. Around June, you can capture the stunning contrast of snow-capped peaks and ancient Buddhist caves. The grottoes house exquisite murals and statues, rich in Buddhist heritage. 4. Yugur Cultural Corridor: Here, you’ll encounter sacred snow mountains, vast grasslands, endless forests, and pristine blue skies. Immerse yourself in Yugur culture through traditional performances and local delicacies like hand-grabbed lamb and butter tea. Spin the world’s largest prayer wheel, the Sunan Shangri-La Chörten, a Guinness World Record holder, to bless your loved ones. 5. Sacred Deer Park: Get up close with the gentle red deer of the Qilian Mountains. The picturesque grasslands, with deer grazing against a backdrop of distant snow peaks, evoke a poetic scene straight out of ancient verses. IV. Food Recommendations 1. Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Made from local highland sheep, the meat is tender and barely gamey. Simply boiled and dipped in salt and pepper, it’s juicy and deeply satisfying. 2. Fried Liver Wrapped in Fat (Zhire): Wrapped in sheep net fat and stuffed with blood and liver, it sounds strong but tastes mild. Fried after stewing, it’s crispy outside and soft inside, with a lingering flavor. 3. Stuffed Sheep Intestines: Minced lamb neck and tenderloin mixed with spices and fried flour are stuffed into intestines. Sliced and served with garlic sauce and vinegar, it’s rich but not greasy, delicious hot or cold. 4. Butter Tea: A blend of rich milk and tea, it’s creamy and warming—a staple in Yugur daily life. 5. Shaokezi (Baked Bread): Dough the size of a pot is buried in burning sheep dung until golden and crispy outside, soft inside, with a unique smoky aroma. V. Accommodation Options 1. Sunan County Hotels: Options like Xizhi Hazhi Hotel and Yuxin Business Hotel offer convenience and amenities, priced between ¥200–500. 2. Yugur Homestays: Near attractions like Alien Valley and Binggou Danxia, these homestays (¥300–800) immerse you in ethnic culture with traditional décor. 3. Scenic Campgrounds: Campsites like Barsi Snow Mountain are perfect for nature lovers. Sleep under the stars to the sound of wind and insects, but bring gear or book rentals in advance. VI. Itinerary Suggestions 3-Day Trip: - Day 1: Zhangye → Alien Valley → Yugur Cultural Corridor → Yugur Homestay - Day 2: Sacred Deer Park → Barsi Snow Mountain (optional camping) - Day 3: Mati Temple Grottoes → Return 5-Day Trip: - Day 1: Jiayuguan → Wenshu Temple → Barsi Snow Mountain - Day 2: Barsi Snow Mountain → Sacred Deer Park → Yugur Homestay - Day 3: Yugur Cultural Corridor → Alien Valley - Day 4: Binggou Danxia - Day 5: Free time/shopping → Return VII. Tips 1. Respect local customs and religions, especially in temples—avoid loud noises and unauthorized photography. 2. Some high-altitude areas may cause altitude sickness; avoid strenuous activity. 3. Drive cautiously on mountain roads. 4. Be mindful of food hygiene to prevent stomach issues. 5. Protect the environment—no littering! Sunan’s beauty lies in its harmony of nature and culture, history and modernity. Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey!

🌈 God's spilled palette 🎨, Zhangye Danxia Landform enters the World Heritage Tentative List! Just now! The Zhangye Danxia in Gansu has stunned the world—in July 2025, UNESCO officially added it to the World Heritage Tentative List! This 135-million-year-old geological epic dazzles with fiery reds, golden yellows, and glacial whites, tearing through ordinary landscapes. Step into the gods' oil painting gallery 🎨! This is China's only composite wonder of Danxia and colorful hills, where 50 square kilometers of land cascade like a rainbow. Ascend to the Rainbow Glow Platform at sunset, and watch the mountains transform into a burning rainbow—every snapshot is a viral masterpiece 📸. Venture into the Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley, where Buddhist grottoes and sphinx-like formations morph mysteriously in the light, making every step a scene from a sci-fi blockbuster! Unlock divine experiences: - Hot air balloon freedom: Soar into the clouds at 7:30 AM for 1,280 yuan, claiming the rainbow mountaintop and gazing down at the earth's veins. - Nighttime fluorescent wonder: On full moon nights, 198 yuan opens a portal to a magical realm, where blue-purple glows ripple across the rocks like Pandora's alien world. - Camel ride through time: Traverse the Silk Road skyline on camelback, touching 70 million years of geological history. 📅 Must-do itinerary: Golden hour: Dusk after rain (19:30-20:30), when the Rainbow Glow Platform becomes a heavenly furnace. Ticket perks: 74 yuan = 54 yuan entry + 20 yuan shuttle, with free re-entry at dawn the next day for sunrise chasing! Travel hack: Direct buses from Zhangye West Station (10 yuan/person), or rent a car for more freedom (from 150 yuan/day). "China's No. 1 colorful hills!"—exclaimed Professor Huang Jin, the father of China's Danxia research. Now it's your turn to witness it. Note: Latest opening hours (peak season): 06:30-18:00.

Having been to so many places, honestly, the Qinghai x Gansu Grand Loop family trip is the most amazing! While temperatures in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai soar to ~40°C, we enjoyed a summer of just over 20°C with the kids—plus lakes, deserts, grasslands, and so many stunning views in one go! The kids didn’t want to leave. Sharing my itinerary here—parents can just copy it directly🌹 ✅Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou Took the kids to Dazhong Lane—super close with tons of food options. The little ones especially loved Lao Mou’s yogurt and egg milk rice wine. ✅Day 2: Lanzhou → Wuwei → Mars 1 Base In the morning, we visited the Tiantishan Grottoes with 18 caves! The 28-meter-tall Tang Dynasty Buddha statue in Cave 13 was awe-inspiring from below, and you could even see the intricate patterns on the Buddha’s robe up close! In the afternoon, we headed to Mars 1 Base—China’s version of "Lonely Planet." The kids got to learn about super plant experiments and even planted their own, feeling super accomplished~ At dusk, we suited the kids up in astronaut gear, turning them into tiny "Martian explorers," and snapped tons of photos for a major social media flex. ⭐Tip: Bring mosquito repellent! The "alien creatures" of the Gobi are way too friendly.) ✅Day 3: Jinchang → Rainbow Danxia → Desert Camp Rainbow Danxia’s multicolored terrain is truly nature’s "palette"—illegally beautiful. ⭐Tip: Wear solid colors for photos—the backdrop is already too vibrant!) In the afternoon, we hit the desert camp. The kids rode camels with the guide while I enjoyed some solo time with a desert spa. At night, the family tour group set up a wild desert dinner—my first time eating in the dunes! ✅Day 4: Desert Camp → Qilian Morning: Biandukou Flower Sea—a vast field of rapeseed flowers stretching as far as the eye could see. Afternoon: Hiked through Binggou Forest with a guide, breathing fresh air in this natural oxygen bar. The kids loved spotting sika deer, staying excited like little explorers the whole time. ✅Day 5: Qilian → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake Blue skies, white clouds, and green grasslands dotted with herds of sheep and cows—pure therapy. Saw the dramatic Qinghai Lake cliffs, and the kids cuddled ultra-soft lambs (so huggable!). Finally, the legendary "Mirror of the Sky"—Chaka Salt Lake—where you can literally see salt crystals! The kids even wanted to taste-test if it was real salt. ✅Day 6: Chaka Salt Lake → Xining Got a one-day Tibetan experience card: dressed in traditional clothes with the kids, made butter tea and tsampa, joined games like handkerchief toss, kite flying, and jump rope... In the afternoon, we strolled along Qinghai Lake on horseback—wind in our faces, the lake’s blue waters against the grasslands were breathtaking. For parents, I highly recommend booking a family tour like I did—private transport makes everything easy, letting you relax and enjoy the trip hassle-free.

7-Day In-Depth Tour of Zhangye's Rainbow Mountains Trip Overview Centered around Zhangye's Rainbow Danxia, this itinerary connects surrounding historical, cultural, and natural attractions, including Zhangye city center, Pingshanhu Grand Canyon, Mati Temple, and Shandan Horse Ranch. Experience the diverse charm of the Hexi Corridor with well-paced daily activities that balance exploration and relaxation. Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Zhangye, First Encounter with Ganzhou • Morning: Arrive at Zhangye Ganzhou Airport/Zhangye West Station. Take public transport or taxi to your downtown hotel (recommended to stay near Zhenyuan Tower, e.g., Zhangye Hotel, for easy access to the ancient city). Check in and rest. • Afternoon: Stroll through Zhangye's ancient city. Visit Zhenyuan Tower (free entry, panoramic city views) and Giant Buddha Temple (¥40 ticket, admire Asia's largest indoor reclining Buddha and learn about Western Xia history). Try local specialties like beef rice porridge (at Ganzhou Market's time-honored shops) and cuo yu noodles on Ming-Qing Street. • Evening: Night visit to Zhangye Wetland Museum (free, learn about wetland ecosystems) or enjoy the night view at Binhe New Area before returning to your hotel. Day 2: In-Depth Rainbow Danxia Tour (Part 1) • Morning: Head to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (¥74 for ticket + shuttle). First visit the Danxia Geological Museum (free) to learn about the formation and structure of Danxia landforms through models and multimedia. • Afternoon: Take the shuttle to visit Colorful Immortal Platform, Colorful Sea of Clouds Platform, Colorful Brocade Platform, and Colorful Rainbow Platform. Capture photos at each viewpoint and wait for sunset to see the Danxia's vibrant colors and shifting layers under the evening light. • Evening: Return to the city center. Try local favorites like chao pao (stir-fried noodles) and juan zi ji (rolled chicken) at Ganzhou Market, immersing in the local atmosphere. Day 3: In-Depth Rainbow Danxia Tour (Part 2) • Morning: Re-enter the Danxia park (same-day re-entry requires facial recognition upon first entry). Choose to hike or take a hot air balloon ride (extra ~¥200) for unique perspectives, exploring lesser-known viewpoints to capture Danxia's textures under different lighting. • Afternoon: Join a Danxia research activity (book in advance, e.g., geology workshops) to learn about Danxia landforms and create Danxia-themed crafts (e.g., sand art bottles). • Evening: Watch the "Return to Zhangye" live performance (~¥180) in the city, featuring dances and light shows that recount the history of the Hexi Corridor. Day 4: Pingshanhu Grand Canyon Adventure • Full Day: Take the scenic shuttle (or private car) to Pingshanhu Grand Canyon (¥130 for ticket + shuttle). Hike through the canyon, walk plank roads, and pass through narrow cliffs to experience its "rival to Zhangjiajie" wonders. Optional activities include camel rides (~¥50) and canyon ziplining (~¥80). Return to the city in the evening. Day 5: Mati Temple and Yugur Culture • Morning: Visit Mati Temple (¥48 ticket, includes Thousand Buddha Caves and Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes). Explore Tibetan Buddhist temples and unique cave complexes, climbing the cliffside plank roads of the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes to marvel at this religious architectural wonder. • Afternoon: Head to a Yugur cultural resort (e.g., near Kangle Grassland) to experience Yugur traditions. Visit the folk museum (free) to admire Yugur costumes and handicrafts, participate in cultural activities (e.g., archery, weaving), and try ethnic foods like butter tea and hand-grabbed mutton. • Evening: Return to the city. If time allows, explore Zhangye's night market for snacks like baked buns and yogurt. Day 6: Shandan Horse Ranch Exploration • Full Day: Take a bus or private car to Shandan Horse Ranch (free entry, some areas charge fees), the world's largest military horse ranch. Ride horses across the grasslands (~¥80/hour), witness herds of galloping horses, and visit the ranch's history exhibition (free) to learn about its pastoral legacy. Enjoy a grassland sunset in the evening. Day 7: Departure and Final City Explorations • Morning: Pack your luggage and visit a local morning market (e.g., Xiguan Comprehensive Market) for breakfast like sao mian noodles. Purchase specialties such as Zhangye jujubes and Linze wolfberries. • Afternoon: If time permits before departure, visit Zhangye Art Museum (free) or the library (free) for a cultural finale. Then head to the airport/station to conclude your seven-day Danxia adventure. Notes: • Danxia park has strong sunlight; wear sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen) in summer. Viewpoints can be windy—bring a light jacket. For Pingshanhu Grand Canyon hikes, wear comfortable shoes and carry water/snacks. • Some Mati Temple caves require climbing; follow safety rules and respect religious sites. When engaging with Yugur culture, participate politely and respect customs. • Shandan Horse Ranch has large temperature swings; even in summer, bring long sleeves. Follow staff instructions for horseback riding and prioritize safety.

‼️Must see sight in China! I visited the Rainbow Mountains last year in China, and could not recommend them more. 🌈I would suggest getting the more in-depth tour route as the colours of the additional viewing platforms are indeed more vibrant and in my opinion worth the price! We also chose to get an English tour guide (which means we ended up getting a private tour as no one else was on the English tour). Our tour guide was super friendly and informative, and even helped us to take photos. 🚶♀️ Our tour first took us through the quieter, extended parts of the in depth tour (as seen in the first three photos). We then took a walk through a variety of cool rock formations, before heading back to the classic viewing platforms of the Rainbow Mountains. ⏰ The whole experience lasted us just over 5 hours.

Here's a travel guide to the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: Transportation Guide Major Transport: Flight: Direct flights to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport are available from many cities in China. The airport is about 30 km from downtown, taking about 40 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle (fare: ¥15). High-speed Rail: Take the train from Lanzhou West Station to Zhangye West Station (approx. 2 hours, fare: ¥150). Direct trains are also available from Xi'an and Urumqi. Self-drive: Drive along the Lianhuo Expressway (G30). The scenic area is about 40 km from downtown Zhangye (50-minute drive), with beautiful views of the Qilian Mountains along the way. Scenic Area Transport: Chartered/Shared Taxi: About ¥80-100 one way from downtown (¥25/person for shared taxis with 4 people). It's recommended to book chartered services in advance via Trip.com. Tourist Bus: Direct buses depart from Zhangye West Bus Station (fare: ¥15/person, 1-hour ride). Self-drive Navigation: Set your GPS to "Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (North Gate or West Gate)". Parking fee: ¥10 per entry. Ticket Information Peak Season: ¥120/person (includes ¥40 shuttle bus fee), valid for 2 days. Off-season: ¥100/person. Best Time to Visit Season: June-September for the most vibrant colors; September-October for autumn foliage and fewer crowds. Time: Sunrise (around 5:30-7:00) or sunset (17:30-19:00) for soft lighting and excellent photo opportunities. Must-Visit Attractions Core Viewing Platforms: Colorful Cloud Sea Platform: 360° panoramic view of the Danxia peaks, especially magical with morning mist. Arrive before 6 am for sunrise photography. Fairyland Platform: The most colorful area with red, yellow, and white rock layers, perfect for backlit silhouette shots. Rainbow Glow Platform: The golden hues of Danxia at dusk create a "burning Danxia" spectacle with sunset, a must for photographers. Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley: Unique earth forest formations resembling natural sculptures like "Monks Worshipping Buddha" and "Dragon Playing with Fire". Special Experiences: Hot Air Balloon/Helicopter Tour: Aerial views of Danxia (¥200/person for balloons, ¥800/person for helicopters). Best 1 hour after sunrise. In-depth Tour: Includes restricted areas like Tegu Valley and Binggou Danxia. Requires advance booking (combo ticket: ~¥300/person). Nearby Attractions: Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple: Western Xia royal temple with China's largest reclining Buddha (34m long), featuring valuable murals and carvings (2 km from downtown). Matisi Temple: Cliffside grottoes blending Han and Tibetan Buddhist culture, including the "Thirty-Three Heavens" caves (70 km from Danxia). Recommended Itinerary Classic One-Day Tour (North Gate entry, downhill route): Fairyland Platform → Cloud Sea Platform → Brocade Platform → Rainbow Glow Platform. Practical Tips Gear: Sunscreen + sunglasses (strong UV), non-slip shoes (wet boardwalks after rain), warm jacket (large temperature differences). Avoid Pitfalls: Drones prohibited; pets require storage. Buy souvenirs in downtown Zhangye for better prices. Accommodation: Choose Danxia Pearl Hotel (opposite the park, convenient for night tours) or downtown Zhangye (more options, better value, 40-minute drive).

This summer, I explored the Hexi Corridor and experienced the solitude of the Silk Road and the Gobi Desert! I started missing it the moment I returned—the charm of the northwest is simply irresistible. Words can't describe the awe-inspiring sights... Every frame from departure to return was unforgettable. I expected barren desolation, but instead found mountains, lakes🍃, the Gobi Desert, grasslands, snow-capped peaks, herds of cattle and sheep, and forests of populus euphratica—constantly marveling at China's vastness and the freedom of life! 🏨Luxury Wilderness Hotels Throughout: - **Dunhuang Dongyi Hotel**: A hidden luxury designer hotel in the desert, an oriental cultural outpost. - **Lonely Star (Gobi) Wilderness Hotel**: Terrain resembling an alien planet, with 360° indoor stargazing. - **Starry Sky Bubble Hotel (Chaka Salt Lake Sky No.1 Scenic Spot)**: Located within the Chaka Sky No.1 scenic area, offering a view of the starry sky from bed. - **Light and Shadow City Scenic Area Dachaidan (Grassland) Wilderness Hotel**: Daytime views of lakes and mountains, nighttime stargazing. 🚙Itinerary: 🔹D1: Pickup from Xining Caojiabao International Airport - Xining city. 🔹D2: Xining - Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park. 🔹D3: Danxia - Dunhuang · Jiuquan. 🔹D4: Dunhuang city tour (Mogao Caves, Crescent Moon Spring). 🔹D5: Dunhuang - Ulan Suhai Water Yadan Geological Park. 🔹D6: Water Yadan - Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area. 🔹D7: Dachaidan - Chaka Salt Lake. 🔹D8: Chaka Salt Lake - Xining drop-off. 🌟Exclusive Theme Experiences: 📸Photography guide + DSLR & drone accompaniment (Qinghai section). 🌅Panoramic view from Qinghai Lake Cliff. 🚞Take a mini-train into "Chaka Salt Lake." ⛵️Dachaidan Emerald Lake, "aerial glass boat." ✌️Check-in at Chaerhan Salt Lake · Salt Cliff. ✅Private photo spot at 315 U-shaped Road. ☀️ATV adventure to find the "Eye of Yadan" at Water Yadan. ❤️Aerial views of East & West Taijinar Lakes. 🛣️Interstellar journey - Mars No.1 Highway. 🎬Mogao Caves Class A ticket (includes digital film). 🎭"See You in Dunhuang" live performance. 🐫Camel ride at Crescent Moon Spring for sunset. 🌄Sunset at Danxia Landform. 🐎Horseback riding on Qilian Grassland. ⚠️Travel Tips: ✅Long route—self-driving is exhausting; small groups are recommended for a relaxed pace. ✅Includes hotels + private transport + tickets—parents can relax! ✅Stayed at the hard-to-book Dongyi Dunhuang Hotel, with a lake-view room at Qinghai Lake International Hotel. [Private Car Tours] [Custom Tours] [Private Groups] available~ How to get the same itinerary? Tap [Chat Now] at the bottom left 👇👇 for details!

Rainbow Mountains: The Earth's Fiery Tattoo When Cretaceous sandstone from 200 million years ago collides with snowmelt from the Qilian Mountains, the wind becomes nature's chisel, carving out this blazing visual spectacle—Earth's most fervent pulse, the cover page of a 65-million-year geological epic. At dawn, as light pierces the cold mist, striped ridges surge like molten lava, while ochre red, gilded gold, frosty white, and deep purple clash and swirl across the ravines, as if the gods overturned their palette into the crust, freezing into the wildest romance along the Hexi Corridor. 🌅 Two-Day Hidden Path: A Chromatic Revolution Through Time **Day 1 Symphony of Ice and Fire: Rainbow Mountains + Binggou Danxia** - **Sunrise Gilding** Head straight to Xianyuan Platform at 6 a.m. (¥75 ticket includes shuttle bus) to watch the first light ignite the blade-like ridges, sandstone veins exploding like phoenix feathers (⚠️ Check sunrise times in advance and secure a front-row spot). - **Journey to the Core** Take a helicopter tour (¥880/person) or hike the Yunhai Platform boardwalk to touch the "Dragon Playing with Fire" cliffs, where billion-year-old iron-calcium deposits crumble to dust at your fingertips. - **Medieval Castle** In the afternoon, venture to Binggou Danxia (¥40 ticket), weaving through the "Louvre Phantom" stone forest, where wind-carved holes cast Gothic light beams at sunset, perfect for cloaked photographers to capture *Game of Thrones*-worthy silhouettes. **Day 2 Cultural Palette: Life in the Danxia Heartland** - **Pilgrimage to the Western Xia Temple** Drive 40 minutes to Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple (¥41 ticket) to see a 34-meter reclining Buddha, its murals still glowing with millennium-old mineral pigments. - **Yugur Herder's Ballad** Visit a herder’s home on Kangle Grassland (¥50 experience fee), don deerskin coats to milk yaks, feast on wind-dried mutton by the bonfire, and listen to horsehead fiddle tales of the "Red Mountain Legend." - **Stargazing Over Danxia** Stay overnight in Danxiakou Town (¥200 homestay), escape light pollution, and use a star-track app to photograph the Milky Way arching over colorful peaks (Settings: f/2.8, ISO 1600, 20s). 📸 **National Geographic-Worthy Shots: Phone Photography Guide** | Location | Time | Pro Tip | | Jinxiu Platform | 9-10 a.m. | Use telephoto to compress ridges, capturing red-white stripes against oasis contrasts | | Hongxia Cliff | Within 2 hrs post-rain | Low-angle shots of puddle reflections boost sandstone saturation by 200% | | Binggou’s "Little Western Paradise" | 1 hr before sunset | Silhouette figures in cave openings, with light beams creating Tyndall effect through "church windows" | | Highway 227 | Anytime | Frame winding roads through colorful hills, using vehicles for scale | 🛠️ **Survival Guide** **Transport Hacks:** - Zhangye West Station → Shared vans to park (¥30/person, look for Gan G license plates)—avoid ¥150 scams! - Shuttle buses stop at 4 viewpoints (20 mins each); plan shooting order ahead. **Budget Eats & Stays:** - Dinner: Zhangye’s Ganzhou Alley "cuo yu" noodles (¥12) + stir-fried lamb offal (¥38) - Stay: On-site "Gonghanglv Danxia Pearl" hotel (low-season ¥280, VIP access included) or budget-friendly Danxiakou Hostel (¥50/bed). **Geology Nerd Add-Ons:** - Book free tours at the Geopark Museum (10 a.m./3 p.m. slots) to touch Jurassic plant fossils. - Bring tracing paper to record rock layers (⚠️ Research zones only—no damaging protected areas). ⚠️ **Pitfall Alerts** 1. **Color Secrets:** Overcast days turn Danxia dull—check forecasts! 2. **Photo Taboos:** No drones (radar interference) or trespassing (¥5000+ fines). 3. **Seasonal Tips:** - Best viewing: May-Oct (dry, vibrant) - Snow-reflected Danxia: Dec-Feb (-20°C, guard against frostbite) - Thunderstorm risks: July-Aug afternoons—pack rain gear. > 🌄 *"What Danxia teaches us: Time is the greatest artist."* > —When dusk tempers mountains into molten gold, when Qilian snowmelt etches new veins into colored canyons, you’ll decipher this 65-million-year silence. Bring a geologist’s curiosity to decode the Earth’s boiling DNA. *Note: Park hours—Summer 5:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Winter 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; slippery trails post-rain—watch your step!*

The beauty of the Molle Grassland lies in its pristine wilderness. Slow down your pace to hear the harmony of wind and pastoral songs. Best Travel Time - Summer (July-September): Golden season with average 15°C temperatures. Emerald grasslands bloom with wildflowers (rapeseed fields, alpine flowers), dotted with grazing livestock. - Autumn (October-November): Golden-hued landscapes under clear skies, perfect for photography; fewer tourists offer tranquil experiences. Key Attractions & Experiences Natural Wonders - Highland Flower Sea: Summer transforms the grassland into a "giant palette" with golden rapeseed and purple wildflowers. - Snow Mountains & Lakes: Admire Qilian Mountain's snow peaks and explore crater lakes/glacial relics. - Wildlife Spotting: Encounter wild yaks, Tibetan antelopes, and soaring eagles. Signature Activities - Horseback Riding: Gallop through flower seas (2-3 hour rides recommended). - Tibetan Culture Immersion: - Prayer rituals: Build mani stone piles for blessings. - Folk performances: Enjoy Tu/Mongolian dances and bonfire parties. - Nomadic Life Experiences: - Learn to make butter tea and tsampa, taste fresh yak yogurt. - Try yak lassoing, archery, or sheep herding. Cultural Highlights - Molle Grassland Station: Tibetan-style hub offering lodging, dining, and traditional costume photos. Local Cuisine - Must-try: - Roasted lamb/hand-torn mutton: Fresh and tender. - Yak yogurt: Naturally fermented, best with sugar. - Butter tea + tsampa: Tibetan energy food. - Deer antler wine: Local tonic (available at the station). Accommodation - Molle Grassland Station: - Features: 20+ Tibetan rooms with WiFi, organizes cultural activities. - Experience: Stargazing at night, waking to pastoral songs. - Alternative: Qilian County hotels (1-hour drive) for comfort seekers. Travel Tips Transport: - Best by car (4hrs from Xining). Download offline maps (weak signals). - No direct public transport; arrange private transfers via the station. Packing: - Summer: Sunscreen, sunglasses, light jacket (strong UV, cool nights). - Autumn: Windproof gear, thermal wear. - Essentials: Hiking shoes, camera, moisturizers. Cultural Etiquette: - Avoid trampling flowers/chasing livestock. - No photos at sacred sites without permission. - Receive khata scarves with both hands bowed. Pitfall Avoidance - Beware roadside "wild specialties" (fake herbs). Buy in town shops. - Horse riding: Choose licensed providers with clear insurance/rates. Sample Itinerary (2D1N) - Day1: Xining → Qilian → Molle Grassland (arrive noon) → Horseback riding → Tibetan dinner + bonfire → Station stay; - Day2: Sunrise photos → Yak interaction → Tsamba making → Glacier lake exploration → Return.

—From Lanzhou to Dunhuang, Unlock the Vastness and Splendor of the Northwest✨ 🚗 Daily Itinerary **Day 1: Lanzhou → Wushaoling → Tiantishan Grottoes → Leitai Han Tomb → Western Xia Museum → Wuwei** ✔️ **Tiantishan Grottoes**: The origin of Chinese grottoes, showcasing the primitive style of Northern Liang Buddhist art! ✔️ **Leitai Han Tomb**: Discover the authentic "Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" (replica) and uncover the burial culture of Han Dynasty nobility! ✔️ **Western Xia Museum**: Artifacts from the Heishui City ruins, decoding the mysterious legacy of the Western Xia Dynasty! 🍜 **Stay in Wuwei**: Visit the Liangzhou Market Night Market—must-tries include lamb with rolled dough and the "Three-Course Meal" (noodles, braised meat, and almond tea)! **Day 2: Wuwei → Shandan Horse Ranch → Giant Buddha Temple → Zhangye** ✔️ **Shandan Horse Ranch**: Asia's largest horse ranch, lush green in summer—witness thousands of galloping horses! (Horseback riding available.) ✔️ **Giant Buddha Temple**: Home to a 34.5-meter indoor reclining Buddha, the largest in Asia, and legends of the "Western Xia Yipintang"! 🌃 **Stay in Zhangye**: Visit the Ganzhou Night Market for stir-fried dishes and sao noodles—full of local flavor! **Day 3: Zhangye → Mati Temple → Rainbow Danxia → Zhangye** ✔️ **Mati Temple**: Cliffside grottoes exploring Yugur culture—don’t miss the "Thirty-Three Heavens" Buddhist caves! ✔️ **Rainbow Danxia**: Capture sunset views like an oil painting! Recommended spots: Viewing Platform 4 (Rainbow Fan) and 6 (famous for its "Mazi Noodle Shop" angle). 📸 **Tips**: Wear bright colors for better photos! The shuttle bus costs 10 RMB one-way—don’t miss the sunset! **Day 4: Zhangye → Pingshanhu Grand Canyon → Jiayuguan Fort → Jiayuguan** ✔️ **Pingshanhu Grand Canyon**: A paradise for hikers! Take the "One-Line Sky" route for thrilling cliffside paths! ✔️ **Jiayuguan Fort**: Climb the "Mighty Pass" for views of the Qilian Mountains and snap a photo with the Overhanging Great Wall! 🌙 **Stay in Jiayuguan**: Try grilled meat with sand onions at Datang Food Street and explore the Tang Dynasty-themed night market! **Day 5: Jiayuguan → Shuangta Reservoir → Yulin Grottoes → Desert Baby → Dunhuang** ✔️ **Yulin Grottoes**: The sister caves of Mogao! Cave 25’s "Western Xia Water-Moon Guanyin" is stunning—join a guided tour! ✔️ **Desert Baby**: A giant infant sculpture in the Gobi—a striking contrast of desolation and tenderness (free to photograph)! 🚗 **Tips**: Stop by Shuangta Reservoir for its serene blue waters! **Day 6: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake** ✔️ **Mogao Caves**: With a Class A ticket, visit 8 caves! Book 30 days in advance and listen to stories of flying apsaras from guides! ✔️ **Singing Sand Dunes**: Enter after 4 PM—ride camels, sandboard, and watch the sunset! Optional desert camping with bonfire under the stars (extra fee). 🍹 **Must-try**: Apricot juice and Li Guang apricots at Dunhuang’s Shazhou Night Market! **Day 7: Dunhuang → Yumen Pass → Yangguan Pass → Yadan Devil City** ✔️ **Yumen Pass**: The historic site of "Spring Breeze Never Crosses Yumen Pass"—explore Xiaofangpan City and Hecang Fortress! ✔️ **Yangguan Pass**: Dress in Hanfu for epic "West of Yangguan" photos and visit the museum’s artifacts! ✔️ **Yadan Devil City**: Witness the sunset "Fleet Sailing" spectacle—bring snacks and water! **Day 8: Dunhuang → Departure**

In the vast hinterland of the Hexi Corridor, nestled within the folds of time at the northern foot of the Qilian Mountains, Zhangye Danxia emerges with breathtaking splendor. This secret realm sculpted by time resembles a colossal canvas meticulously painted by the earth over hundreds of millions of years, where fiery reds, golden hues, deep blues, and emerald greens blend in layers, creating a geological masterpiece that astonishes the world. Stepping into the scenic area feels like plunging into a carnival of colors. Spanning 50 square kilometers across Linze and Sunan counties, the Danxia wonders proudly bloom against the backdrop of deserts and snow-capped mountains. As a quintessential representation of Danxia landforms in China's arid northern regions, it is also one of the world's rare sites where Danxia and colorful hills coexist, a uniqueness that leaves geologists worldwide in awe. Among the undulating mountains, the multicolored rock layers overlap like the earth's fingerprints, each texture engraved with geological codes from the Cretaceous period 135 to 65 million years ago. The varying shades are imprints of time, written by tectonic movements and weathering, irreplaceable natural treasures. Following the winding boardwalks deeper into this hidden realm, every step unveils a new visual marvel. Standing at the core viewing platform, the breathtaking panorama leaves one breathless—the "Giant Scallop" outlines nature's rhythm with graceful curves, "Rainbow Clouds" cascade like sunset hues over the mountains, while formations like "Monks Worshipping Buddha" and "Wisdom Monkey Gazing at the Sea" are strikingly lifelike. The rolling colorful hills surge like vibrant waves, churning across the horizon. Moving to another vantage point, the intricate patterns of blues and purples, oranges and reds shift under the changing light, as if touching the pulsating heartbeat of the earth. As dusk falls, the Rainbow Glow Platform becomes the most enchanting stage. In the fleeting moments of sunset, golden light drapes the hills in splendor, intensifying the layers of color—flaming reds, dreamlike purples, and winding golden bands through the ravines, as if the sky and earth are ablaze with an eternal feast of hues. Raising a camera here captures not just a stunning interplay of light and shadow, but a profound dialogue with time spanning eons. For a full perspective, take to the skies. Drifting in a hot air balloon, the colorful hills unfold beneath like an endless brocade; aboard a helicopter, the knife-edged ridges and folded valleys rush by, revealing a breathtaking interplay of ruggedness and grace. From ground to cloud, Zhangye Danxia showcases nature's artistry in every dimension. More than a visual wonder, it is a three-dimensional geological encyclopedia. The layered rocks whisper tales of continental shifts, while the undulating terrain etches legends carved by wind and rain. Touching the weathered cliffs and gazing at the radiant colors, you step into a billion-year journey through time, encountering Earth's most magnificent geological poetry.

📍Location: Nijiaying Village, Linze County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province (Navigate to "North Gate of Colorful Danxia Scenic Area" - chosen by 90% of visitors!) 🚗Pro Travel Hacks: 🚌 **For High-Speed Rail Travelers: Arrive at "Zhangye West Station" → Turn right for scenic area shuttle (¥20/person, 50 mins direct to North Gate, frequent departures!) 🚗 Self-Driving Tips: Lianhuo Expressway → Exit at "Danxia" → Crucial: Set GPS to "North Gate Parking Lot" (West Gate is desolate like Mars!) 👍Must-See Viewing Platforms: 1. Colorful Sea of Clouds Platform (No.4): Charge at 6pm! Sunset turns stripes into golden-red cocktails. For portraits, stand at the 3rd turn of wooden walkway with flowing rainbow mountains as backdrop. 2. Rainbow Glow Platform (No.2): Find the "Turtle Asking Heaven" rock. Shoot upwards with phone wide-angle - red-white-gray layers resemble sliced layer cake! 3. Fairyland Platform (No.1): Dawn special! Mist + morning light make blue-purple stripes most enchanting. Fly drones for S-curved roads through colored hills (120m altitude limit!). 4. Hidden Tiger Gorge (Secret No.5 spot): Get off at 3rd shuttle stop from North Gate. Less crowded but most densely striped! Find "Tiger Skin Chili Rock" for foodie-baiting photos. 🎟️Ticket Secrets: ✅ Must-buy Combo: Entry ¥54 + Shuttle ¥20 (Worth it! Hiking causes heatstroke) 🌅 Night Surprise: Summer-only "Alan Ragda" light show (¥188), but locals prefer **free alternative: Shoot Danxia + Milky Way from homestay rooftops! 💗Pro Photographer Tips: 1. Weather Lottery Tricks: - Post-rain sunny days = MAX color saturation - Don't refund after sandstorms! "Dirty stripes" turn gilded at dusk 2. Outfit Game-Changers: - Avoid red! Bright yellow/white dresses = instant wow - Cowboy hat + sunglasses (sun protection + style combo) 3. Food Survival Guide: - North Gate's "Old Zhou Stir-Fry" (sizzling lamb platter, ¥40/full meal) - Bring cucumbers + cherry tomatoes (water ¥10/bottle inside) 4. Smart Accommodation: - Budget: North Gate farm stays (¥100/room, 5-min walk) - Splurge: "Gonghanglv Danxia Pearl Hotel" (¥800/night with window views) 5. Next-Level Experiences: - Sunrise hot air balloon (¥1280 but bargain to ¥900!) - Hike Binggou Danxia (30mins away, Jurassic-era castle peaks) 6. Scam Avoidance: - Skip "colored sand bottles" (just dyed quartz) - Reject "¥10 photo spots" (your 0.5x wide-angle works better) - Sit on shuttle's right side! 80% scenery there > When fingers trace 54-million-year-old rock patterns, you'll understand why geologists weep—this isn't stone, it's Earth's bare-faced beauty! 🌍

This can't be Earth, right?! Standing at Viewing Platform No. 4 waiting for sunset, this sentence was all I could think‼️ The layered colorful rock walls look like burning flames under the golden light🔥 It’s 100 times more breathtaking to the naked eye than in photos!! 📸【Top Photo Tips】** 1️⃣ Lock in Rainbow Platform No. 4!* 👉 Rush there one hour before sunset! The golden light shines on the red mountains, every shot is wallpaper-worthy! 👉 Stand by the railing on the viewing platform, use a telephoto lens to shoot silhouettes + panoramic views (see P2), full cinematic vibe! 2️⃣ Shoot the “God’s perspective” at Cloud Sea Platform No. 2 ✅ Use a wide-angle lens to shoot downward! The canyon textures look like a giant rainbow mille-feuille cake (P3) 3️⃣ Wear white or bright-colored dresses! ⚠️ Absolutely avoid red! It will blend into the background!! 💡【Great Experiences】 ✔️ **Take a hot air balloon for a full panorama! 🎈 Ascend at dawn/dusk (200r/10min), overlook thousands of acres of rainbow mountains, add this to your life list! ❗️A hard-learned lesson reminder ☀️ **Sun protection! Sun protection! Sun protection! The UV rays are so strong you’ll question life! Hat and sunglasses must be glued to your face! 🚫 Don’t step on the rock formations! *Fines start at 500r! Everyone is responsible for protecting the landscape! 📌Useful Info 🎫 Ticket: 93r (includes shuttle bus)｜⏰ Recommended visit time: 3-4 hours 🚗 Transport: Carpool from Zhangye West Station 30r/person direct 🌅 Best times to see: Sunrise 6:00 / Sunset 19:30 (summer)

Zhangye, a dazzling gem located in the Hexi Corridor, captivates countless visitors with its majestic natural scenery and profound historical heritage. If you're yearning for a soul-stirring journey, Zhangye is undoubtedly the perfect choice. Here's a detailed travel guide to help you explore this stunning destination. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Colorful Danxia: Known as the "palette of the gods," the undulating mountains are painted with vibrant hues by nature itself. Under the sunlight, every texture glimmers with enchanting brilliance, resembling a magnificent oil painting. It's recommended to visit in the afternoon to enjoy the breathtaking sunset views. 2. Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon: Dubbed the "Chinese version of the Grand Canyon," this deep canyon with unique rock formations feels like stepping into a mysterious maze. You'll marvel at the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of nature. 3. Mati Temple: Ancient grottoes embedded in steep cliffs exude grandeur. Inside, exquisite Buddhist murals and sculptures reflect a rich history and profound culture, radiating unique artistic charm. Travel Itinerary Three-Day Trip - Day 1: Arrive in Zhangye city, rest briefly, then visit the Giant Buddha Temple to admire Asia's largest indoor reclining Buddha and experience the solemnity of the Western Xia royal temple. In the evening, head to Ganzhou Market to savor various local delicacies. - Day 2: Spend the entire day exploring the Colorful Danxia. The best time to enter is between 5-6 PM. Start at Viewing Platform 4 to see hot air balloons and the sunset, then proceed to Viewing Platform 5 to appreciate the unique textures. - Day 3: Visit Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon and opt for the deep exploration route to enjoy the thrill of hiking through the canyon. Return to the city in the afternoon to prepare for departure. Food Recommendations 1. Beef Noodle Soup: Tiny, rice-like noodles paired with flavorful beef broth, garnished with green onions and cilantro for a smooth and rich taste. 2. Pinched Fish Noodles: Fish-shaped noodles with a chewy texture, available stir-fried or boiled, complemented by various toppings for a delicious meal. 3. Fried Pao: Uniformly thick noodles resembling firecrackers, stir-fried over high heat for a fragrant and springy bite. Helpful Tips 1. Zhangye has strong UV rays, so bring high-SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses for protection. 2. Attractions are scattered, so renting a car or joining a day tour is a convenient and hassle-free option. 3. Some sites are at higher altitudes; avoid strenuous activities to prevent altitude sickness.

Haven't decided on a family vacation destination yet? Don't worry, Xiao Ye has got you covered! ‼️Our carefully designed [Northwest RV Family Tour] is now available! Specially designed for families with children aged 4-15, this 8-day trip takes you through the highlights of Qinghai and Gansu provinces, showcasing breathtaking landscapes! ✨Each family gets their own RV, offering an upgraded experience that surpasses 99% of Northwest family tours~ · Why Choose an RV for the Great Northwest? 🍀Kids who've never experienced an RV will be full of curiosity—make unforgettable childhood memories with this family adventure 🍀The best transportation for family trips, with spacious interiors that fit 6 people and all your luggage 🍀An RV is a mobile home, equipped with beds, tables, chairs, a bathroom, kitchen, and basic utilities to meet all your needs on the go 🍀The Northwest loop involves long drives between attractions (often 1-2 hours), which can be uncomfortable in regular vehicles, especially for kids and seniors · 🌈Itinerary D1: Meet in Xining—Stay at Xining Allengo Garden Hotel D2: Xining—Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers—Secret Celebration in Qilian Grasslands—Zhangye D3: Zhangye Danxia Geological Park—Jiayuguan Little Ambassador Study Tour D4: Great Wall Restoration Experience in Jiayuguan—Dunhuang Desert Banquet + Stargazing Class D5: Exclusive Mogao Caves Tour—Dunhuang Academy Color Study + Clay Painting—Free Time in Dunhuang D6: Dunhuang—Yangguan Study Tour—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dachaidan D7: Dachaidan—Chaka Salt Lake—The Magical Salt World—Chaka Town D8: Chaka Town—Qinghai Lake—Depart from Xining · 🌈Family Activities🌈 ✔️Grassland Carnival: Horseback Riding in Qilian Grasslands ✔️Taste Local Hot Pot for a Flavor Explosion ✔️Archery in the Grasslands, Experience a Nomad's Life ✔️Desert Banquet with Fireworks Under the Stars ✔️Stargazing Class: Marvel at the Vast Desert Sky ✔️Desert Adventures: Camel Riding + Sandboarding + Desert UTV ✔️Exclusive Mogao Caves Tour with In-Depth Insights ✔️Mogao Academy Color Study: Mineral Pigment Grinding + Clay Painting ✔️Jiayuguan Cultural Ambassador: Receive a Personalized Pass from the Gatekeeper ✔️Little Craftsman Experience: Learn About Wall Construction ✔️Yangguan In-Depth Study: Understand the Challenges of Border Defense ✔️Yangguan Pass Ceremony: Obtain an Ancient Travel Document ✔️Chaka Salt Lake Museum: Handcraft Your Own Salt Sculpture · 🏆Other Inclusions 1️⃣Stay: 7 Nights in High-End Resort Hotels for Restful Sleep 2️⃣Transport: One RV90C per Family with a Driver/Butler 3️⃣Meals: Delicious Breakfasts + 7 High-Quality Dinners 4️⃣Tickets: All Attraction Entrances + Shuttle Buses + Guided Tours + Experiences 5️⃣Team: Local Experts, Family Guides, Photographers, and Support Staff 👉Interested? Drop your questions in the [comments] or customize your own route based on preferences and budget!

Awesome Danxia Pallette of Colours #danxiageopark #danxialandforms #travel #china #naturalwonders Danxia landform is formed from red-coloured sandstones and conglomerates of largely Cretaceous age. The landforms look very much like karst topography that forms in areas underlain by limestones, but since the rocks that form danxia are sandstones and conglomerates, they have been called "pseudo-karst" landforms Due to the combined endogenic (tectonic uplift) and exogenic (climatic, erosion, weathering) forces, and other factors, the Danxia landforms have been developed in red sedimentary sequences continuously from the Neogene until the present. Precipitated groundwater moves through the sandstone grains and deposits trace minerals in between the grains. This precipitate can build up to a point where there is no longer an pore space between the individual grains, cementing them in place. This process is what imparts the trace minerals mentioned below and allows for the otherworldly coloring of sandstones around the world. The primary color is a deep red sandstone, not unlike the Fountain Formation that outcrops in the Flatirons, Red Rocks Park, and the Garden of the Gods all in Colorado. The red coloring is due to an iron oxide coating and cementation, also known as hematite (Fe203), between the sandstone grains This is the exact same process that takes place when a piece of metal is left out in the rain and forms a red layer of rust around the outside. Weathering, mixed with water and oxygen oxidizes elemental iron into iron oxide, which is notable for its dark red coloring. The Rainbow Mountains are largely characterized by this iron oxide staining of its sandstone Danxia formation. Most of the time iron oxides impart a dark red pigment, however, there are instances where oxides form different colors. For example oxidized limonite or goethite will produce brown or yellow staining of sandstones, magnetite can form black staining of sandstones. If there is iron sulfide present, you will get a metallic yellow color imparted by the sulfur. Meanwhile, green coloring is often due to chlorite or iron silicate clays. These are just some examples of how sandstones can be altered in coloring during diagenesis. I wish I had my more time to wander around and take more photos. Definitely not a place to miss if given opportunity and time.

👋Hello~ I'm Li Zi🌰, a travel lover. Recently, I went on the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop. If you also love romance, the great northwest is not barren at all. From snowy mountains and lakes to deserts and gobi, from natural landscapes to cultural history, the beautiful scenery here can heal all your emo feelings! Even students on a budget can have an amazing time. 📝Here’s the travel guide for you to copy👇 - ✈️【Transportation Guide】: 1️⃣ Plane🛫: It’s recommended to land at Xining Caojiapu Airport. For the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, it’s best to enter and exit through Xining. The tour leader will pick you up from the airport, which is very convenient. 2️⃣ High-speed train🚅: Xining Station. If you are near Qinghai, you can take a high-speed train or regular train directly to Xining. 3️⃣ Self-driving🚗: Not recommended to drive alone; at least two or three friends should go together because driving the grand loop is very tiring. - 🗺️【Itinerary】: Recommended route for the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop‼️ Day 1: Xining → Riyue Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Town (overnight) Day 2: Chaka Town → Chaerhan Salt Lake → Emerald Lake → Dachaidan (overnight) Day 3: Dachaidan → Popular Road → Water Yadan → Dachaidan (overnight) Day 4: Dachaidan → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dunhuang Silk Road Heritage City → Dunhuang (overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring → Dunhuang Night Market → Dunhuang (overnight) Day 6: Dunhuang → Son of the Earth → Zhangye Danxia Landform → Zhangye (overnight) Day 7: Zhangye → Qilian Mountain Grassland → Gangshika Snow Peak → Xining (end) - 💰【Approximate Expenses】: ✈️ Airfare: Off-season Nanjing to Xining 510 RMB, Xining to Jinan 505 RMB 🎫 Tickets: Student tickets + tour guide ID saved me a lot💰, expenses around 350 RMB 🍽️ Food: Shared meals with group members, good food with low cost, about 400 RMB 🚩 Group tour: I went in the off-season, so the cost was low, tour fee + hotel 1200 RMB 🎊 Others: Makeup + souvenirs + entertainment and other small expenses 300 RMB - 📝 Essentials Checklist: ✨ High SPF sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours); lip balm + moisturizing cream (high altitude dryness causes peeling); moisturizing spray/mask/body lotion (relieves dry skin); ✨ Mineral water/thermos (recommended to drink warm water at high altitude); high-calorie snacks (chocolate, beef jerky, biscuits, for long drives) ✨ Power bank (recommended over 20,000mAh); offline maps (some areas in Qinghai and Gansu have no signal) ✨ ID card, student ID, tour guide ID, disability card (some attractions offer free admission) and other documents - 🌰Li Zi’s rambling: The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is definitely worth the trip. If you don’t know where to go for your graduation trip, Qinghai-Gansu is a great choice. But it’s really dry there, so I highly recommend carrying a small humidifier with you😭 Learned this the hard way from personal experience.

The Great Northwest boasts vast landscapes and diverse scenery, encompassing natural wonders like deserts, grasslands, snow-capped mountains, lakes, and Danxia landforms, as well as historical and cultural relics along the Silk Road. Below is a classic travel guide for the Great Northwest, suitable for 7-15 day itineraries, which can be adjusted flexibly based on time: --- ### **I. Classic Route Recommendations** **1. Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop (7-10 days)** **Route**: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha → Dachaidan → Dunhuang → Jiayuguan → Zhangye → Qilian Mountains → Xining **Highlights**: - **Qinghai Lake**: China's largest saltwater lake, where rapeseed flowers bloom against the azure waters in summer. - **Chaka Salt Lake**: The "Mirror of the Sky," offering stunning reflections on clear days (wear bright-colored clothes for photos). - **Dachaidan Emerald Lake**: Like scattered pieces of jade, perfect for aerial photography. - **Dunhuang**: Mogao Caves (advance booking required) and Crescent Moon Spring at Mingsha Mountain (a must-see for desert sunsets). - **Zhangye Danxia**: Colorful hilly terrain, especially vibrant at sunset. - **Qilian Grasslands**: Lush green pastures in summer with herds of cattle and sheep, dubbed the "Little Switzerland of the East." **2. Gannan Route (5-7 days)** **Route**: Lanzhou → Linxia → Xiahe → Langmusi → Zhagana → Ruoergai Grassland **Highlights**: Tibetan culture, grasslands, wetlands, and hidden gems—ideal for travelers who love a mix of culture and nature. **3. Northern Xinjiang Loop (10-15 days)** **Route**: Ürümqi → Tianchi Lake → Koktokay → Kanas → Hemu → Sayram Lake → Yili → Nalati → Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway **Highlights**: Kanas Lake, Hemu Village (a fairytale-like hamlet), Sayram Lake ("the last tear of the Atlantic"), and Yili Grasslands (lavender fields in summer). --- ### **II. Must-Try Experiences** 1. **Desert Camping**: Overnight at Mingsha Mountain in Dunhuang or Shapotou in Zhongwei, Ningxia, for stargazing. 2. **Cycling Around Qinghai Lake**: A scenic ride (best in July-August, with breathtaking views on certain stretches). 3. **Jiayuguan Pass**: Feel the grandeur of the "First Pass Under Heaven." 4. **Northwest Cuisine**: Hand-grabbed mutton, Lanzhou beef noodles, Dunhuang donkey meat noodles, Qinghai yogurt, Zhangye "cuoyu" noodles, and more. --- ### **III. Travel Tips** 1. **Climate & Clothing**: - Large temperature swings—bring a jacket even in summer; a down jacket is needed in winter. - Sun protection! The UV rays are intense—sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are essential. - The air is dry; stay hydrated and moisturize. 2. **Transportation**: - Recommended to hire a car or self-drive (some areas are remote; download offline maps in advance). - The Qinghai-Gansu loop has altitudes of 2,000-4,000m; altitude sickness is rare, but avoid strenuous activity. 3. **Cultural Respect**: - Parts of Gannan and Qinghai are Tibetan regions—respect local religious customs (e.g., no random photos of Buddha statues, walk clockwise around prayer wheels). 4. **Eco-Consciousness**: The ecosystem is fragile; do not litter, especially in salt lakes and deserts. --- ### **IV. Best Seasons** - **Ideal Time**: May-October (July-August for Qinghai Lake's rapeseed flowers, but crowded; September-October for golden poplar forests in Dunhuang and Ejina). - **Off-Peak**: For fewer crowds, visit in May-June or late September-early October. - **Winter**: Great for snowscapes (e.g., Kanas, Dunhuang), though some sites may close. --- ### **V. Budget Reference** - **Budget**: ¥300-500/day (hostels + public transport + simple meals). - **Comfort**: ¥600-1,000/day (private car/self-drive + mid-range hotels + local cuisine). --- The grandeur of the Great Northwest lies in its vastness and desolation. Plan your trip in advance but leave room for spontaneous exploration. For specific questions (e.g., route details, timing), feel free to ask!

In-depth Qilian Mountain travel guide is here! [Awesome] **📍 Location**: Straddling Qinghai and Gansu provinces, bordering the Hexi Corridor to the north and Qinghai Lake to the south **⏰ Best Seasons**: - **June-August**: Emerald grasslands, wildflowers in full bloom, cool climate (15-25°C) - **September-October**: Vibrant autumn colors, golden photography period - **December-March**: Snowy wonderland, ideal for winter photography (some routes closed) --- ## **🚩 Core Attractions** ### **【Qinghai Side】** 1. **Qilian Grassland**: One of China's top six most beautiful grasslands, horseback riding & Tibetan culture experiences 2. **Zhuoer Mountain**: Red-and-green Danxia landform with panoramic views (¥80 entrance fee) 3. **Arou Tibetan Monastery**: Lesser-known Tibetan Buddhist temple, more pristine than Ta'er Monastery 4. **Bayi Glacier** (temporarily closed): Up-close blue ice spectacle ### **【Gansu Side】** 1. **Shandan Army Horse Ranch**: Asia's largest military horse ranch, filming location for *The Herdsman* 2. **Biandukou**: Rapeseed flower seas + canyon scenery (best in July) 3. **Matisi Temple**: Cliffside grotto temple blending grasslands and Buddhist culture --- ## **🗺️ Classic Itineraries** ### **【3-Day Highlights Tour】** **Day1: Xining→Menyuan→Qilian Grassland** - Highlights: Endless rapeseed fields (July), distant view of Gangshika Snow Peak - Stay: Qilian County (Tibetan-style homestay recommended) **Day2: Zhuoer Mountain→Binggou Forest→Arou Monastery** - Highlights: Zhuoer Mountain sunrise, forest hiking, Tibetan prayer wheels - Stay: Grassland yurt (stargazing) **Day3: Qilian→Ebao Ancient City→Xining/Zhangye** - Highlights: Silk Road relics, Biandukou autumn views (Sep-Oct) ### **【5-Day In-Depth Loop】** **Day1-3**: Same as above **Day4**: Qilian→Yeniugou→Yanglong Township (explore uninhabited areas) **Day5**: Yanglong→Jiayuguan/Zhangye (connect to Hexi Corridor) --- ## **🌟 Unique Experiences** 1. **Horseback Herding**: Authentic nomadic life with local herders (¥50-100/hour) 2. **Tibetan Costume Photos**: Traditional outfits against snowy mountains 3. **Starry Camping**: Summer Milky Way visibility (bring cold-weather gear) 4. **Glacier Trekking** (if open): Close-up blue ice at Bayi Glacier --- ## **⚠️ Tips** 1. **Altitude Sickness**: Some areas exceed 4,000m—carry oxygen & glucose 2. **Road Conditions**: - Qinghai side: Better roads | Gansu’s Biandukou: Mountainous routes - Winter closures (Nov-April) due to snow 3. **Cultural Etiquette**: - No photos inside temples; circle prayer wheels clockwise - Avoid stepping on prayer flags or mani stones --- ## **🍜 Food Recs** - **Must-Try**: Yak hotpot, butter tea, tsampa (barley cakes), yogurt zanba - **Local Eats**: "Salar Restaurant" in Qilian Town, "Grassland Three Treasures" in Ebao --- ## **🚗 Transport Guide** - **Self-Drive**: Xining→Qilian (~280km/4hrs), scenic route - **Private Car**: ¥600-800/day (driver included, cheaper with 4 people) - **Bus**: Xining Station→Qilian County (3 daily, ¥55) --- ## **📸 Photography Tips** - **Best Spots**: - Zhuoer Mountain beacon tower (sunrise & sea of clouds) - Binggou Forest streams (slow-shutter water effects) - G227 Highway marker 227km (grassy S-curves) - **Gear Suggestions**: - Wide-angle lens (panoramic shots) - Telephoto lens (mountain details) --- ## **🏠 Accommodation** | **Type** | **Location** | **Price Range** | |----------------|-----------------------|---------------------| | Budget | Qilian town hotels | ¥150-300/night | | Unique | Grassland yurts | ¥200-400/night (meals included) | | Luxury | Zhuoer Mountain view hotels | ¥500-800/night | --- **💡 Pro Tips**: - Extend your trip to Qinghai Lake/Zhangye Danxia if time allows - Summer essentials: sunscreen + sunglasses (strong UV) - Ask permission before entering herders' grasslands (some charge ¥10-20) Customize this guide to your interests—let me know if you'd like more details! 🏔️