10 Days Best China Silk Road Group Tour (Xinjiang, Gansu & Qinghai)

After breakfast, begin a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (天山天池), one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Northwestern China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located about 70 kilometers from Urumqi, the scenic drive takes around 1 to 1.5 hours through dramatic mountain landscapes and forests at the foot of the Tianshan range.

Situated at an altitude of nearly 2,000 meters, Heavenly Lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense spruce forests, and crystal-clear waters that mirror the majestic Bogda Peak (博格达峰). The scenery changes beautifully throughout the seasons, with vibrant greenery in summer and snow-covered landscapes in winter. The lake has deep cultural significance in Chinese mythology and is associated with the legendary Queen Mother of the West (西王母).

Upon arrival, you will take a sightseeing bus through the scenic mountain area before walking to the lakeside. Stroll along the peaceful pathways around the lake, breathe in the fresh alpine air, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The tranquil environment makes this one of the most iconic natural attractions in Xinjiang.

Optional activities are available for travelers who wish to explore further. You may choose to take a boat ride across the lake for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains reflected on the water, or ride the cableway to Mayashan Mountain (马牙山) for even higher panoramic viewpoints over Bogda Peak and the Tianshan range.

After returning to Urumqi in the afternoon, visit the lively Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar (新疆国际大巴扎). Combining Islamic architecture with traditional Silk Road culture, the bazaar is a perfect place to experience the region’s ethnic atmosphere. Wander through countless shops selling silk scarves, handicrafts, jade, carpets, spices, dried fruits, musical instruments, and traditional Uyghur clothing. The market is also one of the best places to taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine including roasted lamb skewers, polo rice, big plate chicken, naan bread, and hand-pulled laghman noodles.

After the tour, transfer back to your hotel in Urumqi.

Accommodation: Urumqi
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private coach & sightseeing bus

After breakfast, depart Urumqi and drive approximately 180 kilometers to Turpan (吐鲁番), one of the most historically important oasis cities along the ancient Silk Road. The journey takes around three hours and passes vast desert landscapes, wind farms, and the dramatic scenery surrounding the Tianshan Mountains.

Located in the famous Turpan Depression (吐鲁番盆地) at 154 meters below sea level, Turpan is one of the hottest and driest places in China. Despite its harsh desert environment, the region flourished for centuries as a vital Silk Road trading center thanks to its ingenious irrigation systems and fertile oasis agriculture.

Your first stop is the legendary Flaming Mountains (火焰山), made famous worldwide through the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West (西游记). Stretching across the desert with striking red sandstone ridges, the mountains appear to glow like flames under the intense desert sun. Their unique colors and dramatic formations create one of the most iconic landscapes in Xinjiang.

Continue into the peaceful Tuyoq Valley (吐峪沟) and visit ancient Mazar Village (麻扎村), regarded as one of the oldest surviving Uyghur villages in China with a history of more than 1,700 years. Hidden beneath the Flaming Mountains, this traditional mud-brick village preserves authentic Uyghur architecture, local customs, and a tranquil rural atmosphere. Narrow alleys, earthen homes, grape trellises, fruit trees, and colorful wooden doors create a picturesque scene full of Silk Road charm.

Next, explore the remarkable Jiaohe Ancient City (交河故城), one of the best-preserved ancient earthen cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on a natural plateau surrounded by deep river valleys, Jiaohe once served as an important political and commercial center of the Silk Road over 2,000 years ago. Unlike ordinary ancient cities, many of its buildings were carved directly into the loess earth rather than built upward. Walking through the ruins, you can still clearly see ancient streets, temples, residences, Buddhist stupas, government offices, and defensive structures that reveal the sophisticated urban planning of ancient civilizations.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Karez Irrigation System (坎儿井), one of the greatest engineering achievements in ancient China. Built over two thousand years ago, the underground water channels successfully transported glacier meltwater from the mountains to the oasis while minimizing evaporation in the desert climate. Often called the “Underground Great Wall,” the Karez system transformed the barren desert into fertile farmland and made the prosperity of Turpan possible.

Later, continue to the elegant Emin Minaret (额敏塔), also known as Sugong Ta (苏公塔), the tallest Islamic minaret in Xinjiang. Built in 1778 using sun-dried bricks, the 44-meter-high tower features exquisite Uyghur-style geometric brickwork and beautiful Islamic architectural details. The adjoining mosque and peaceful surroundings offer insight into the region’s Islamic culture and artistic traditions.

After the sightseeing tour, transfer to your hotel in Turpan for overnight stay.

Accommodation: Turpan
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private coach

After breakfast, continue your Silk Road adventure from Turpan (吐鲁番) to the legendary oasis city of Dunhuang (敦煌) in Gansu Province (甘肃省). Depending on the transportation schedule and seasonal arrangements, the transfer will be arranged either by high-speed train or domestic flight.

If traveling by high-speed train, you will be transferred to Turpan North Railway Station (吐鲁番北站) to board the train toward Liuyuan South Station (柳园南站). Along the journey, admire the vast Gobi Desert landscapes, barren mountains, and endless horizons that once formed part of the ancient Silk Road trade route. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will meet you and escort you on a scenic drive to Dunhuang.

If traveling by flight, you will be transferred to the airport for a short flight across Northwestern China’s dramatic desert scenery, arriving directly in Dunhuang.

Known as the “Pearl of the Silk Road,” Dunhuang was one of the most important oasis cities connecting China, Central Asia, Persia, and Europe. For centuries, traders, monks, and explorers stopped here before crossing the dangerous deserts of Central Asia. Today, Dunhuang remains famous for its Buddhist grottoes, desert landscapes, and rich Silk Road heritage.

After hotel check-in, the rest of the day is free for leisure exploration. You may choose to wander through the lively Shazhou Night Market (沙州夜市), one of the most famous night markets along the Silk Road. The market is filled with local snacks, colorful handicrafts, souvenirs, jade carvings, and Silk Road specialties. Taste authentic local cuisine such as donkey yellow noodles, grilled lamb skewers, apricot products, handmade yogurt, and regional desserts while experiencing Dunhuang’s vibrant evening atmosphere.

For photography lovers, the sunset over the desert city creates a magical scene with golden light reflecting across the surrounding sand dunes and ancient-style streets.

Accommodation: Dunhuang
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: High-speed train or flight & private coach

Today is one of the cultural highlights of the entire Silk Road journey as you explore the world-famous Mogao Grottoes (莫高窟) and the spectacular desert landscapes of Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring (鸣沙山月牙泉).

After breakfast, begin your visit to the legendary Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “Treasure House of Eastern Art.” Carved into desert cliffs over 1,600 years ago, the Mogao Caves preserve one of the world’s greatest collections of Buddhist art, murals, manuscripts, and sculptures.

Your visit starts at the Mogao Digital Exhibition Center (莫高窟数字中心), where immersive films introduce the history, culture, and artistic significance of the caves and the Silk Road. Afterwards, take a shuttle bus to the grotto area and follow professional site interpreters through selected caves.

The cave complex contains hundreds of Buddhist caves created during different dynasties including the Northern Wei, Sui, Tang, Song, and Yuan periods. Inside the caves, you will admire exquisite murals depicting Buddhist stories, Silk Road trade scenes, flying apsaras, celestial musicians, and daily life from ancient China and Central Asia. Massive Buddha statues, colorful wall paintings, and delicate sculptures showcase the fusion of Chinese, Indian, Tibetan, and Persian artistic influences.

Important caves may include the towering Nine-Storey Tower (九层楼), home to a giant Buddha statue, the famous Library Cave (藏经洞) where ancient manuscripts were discovered, and caves featuring remarkable Tang Dynasty Buddhist art. The Mogao Grottoes provide a vivid window into the religious, cultural, and artistic exchanges that flourished along the Silk Road for centuries.

In the afternoon, continue to the breathtaking Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Spring Scenic Area (鸣沙山月牙泉景区). The golden sand dunes of Mingsha Mountain rise dramatically from the desert, while the crescent-shaped oasis lake rests peacefully among the dunes, creating one of China’s most iconic desert landscapes.

The mountain gets its name from the mysterious sound produced by shifting sands when the wind blows across the dunes. Climb the dunes for panoramic desert views or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The contrast between the endless golden sands and the emerald-colored Crescent Spring creates an unforgettable natural wonder.

Optional desert activities are available for those seeking adventure, including camel riding, sand sliding, desert motorcycles, off-road vehicles, and helicopter experiences. Many visitors also enjoy wearing traditional costumes for memorable Silk Road-style photography sessions among the dunes.

As sunset approaches, the desert scenery becomes even more magical, with warm golden light illuminating the dunes and reflecting across the oasis waters. After the tour, return to Dunhuang city for overnight stay.

Accommodation: Dunhuang
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private coach

After breakfast, depart Dunhuang and travel eastward through the vast Gobi landscapes toward Jiayuguan (嘉峪关), one of the most important military strongholds along the ancient Great Wall. The journey covers approximately 400 kilometers and offers spectacular views of deserts, distant mountains, and Silk Road scenery.

Upon arrival, first visit the dramatic Overhanging Great Wall (悬壁长城), built along steep mountain ridges during the Ming Dynasty. Constructed using gravel, yellow earth, and local materials, this section of the Great Wall appears to cling vertically to the mountainside, earning its nickname “the hanging wall.” Climbing the steep stone stairways rewards visitors with magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding desert, oasis landscapes, and distant Qilian Mountains (祁连山).

As you stand atop the wall, imagine the strategic importance of this frontier defense system centuries ago when soldiers guarded the western gateway of the Chinese empire against invasions and protected Silk Road trade routes crossing the Hexi Corridor.

Next, continue to the magnificent Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关关城), the westernmost fortress of the Ming Great Wall and one of the best-preserved military fortresses in China. Built in 1372, Jiayuguan was historically known as the “First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven (天下第一雄关)” due to its strategic location controlling passage between Central China and the Western Regions.

The fortress complex includes fortified gates, watchtowers, defensive walls, inner and outer cities, and ancient military facilities that demonstrate the advanced engineering and defensive strategies of the Ming Dynasty. Walking through the massive gates and ancient courtyards, you can deeply feel the historical atmosphere of the Silk Road frontier.

Jiayuguan was also closely connected with many famous historical figures and Silk Road stories. Ancient envoys, traders, monks, and travelers including Zhang Qian (张骞), Xuanzang (玄奘), and even Marco Polo once passed through this strategic gateway while traveling between China and Central Asia.

From the fortress walls, enjoy panoramic views of the endless Gobi Desert, the winding Great Wall, and the snow-capped Qilian Mountains rising in the distance. The scenery perfectly captures the grandeur and loneliness described in classical Chinese frontier poetry.

After the tour, transfer to your hotel in Jiayuguan for overnight stay.

Accommodation: Jiayuguan
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: Private coach

After breakfast, depart Jiayuguan (嘉峪关) and travel eastward through the scenic Hexi Corridor (河西走廊) toward Zhangye (张掖), another important Silk Road oasis city rich in history, culture, and geological wonders. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours and offers impressive views of deserts, farmlands, snow mountains, and traditional villages along the ancient trade route.

Today’s highlight is the spectacular Zhangye National Geopark (张掖国家地质公园), home to the world-famous Zhangye Danxia Landform (张掖丹霞地貌), often called China’s “Rainbow Mountains.” This extraordinary geological landscape is considered one of the most beautiful Danxia formations in the world and has become a paradise for photographers, geologists, and nature lovers.

Formed over millions of years through tectonic movement, erosion, and mineral deposition, the mountains display stunning layers of red, orange, yellow, green, and white sandstone that resemble a giant natural painting. Under changing sunlight, the colors become even more vivid and surreal, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Inside the scenic area, sightseeing buses connect several observation platforms where visitors can admire the colorful hills and unique rock formations from different angles. The most popular viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic scenes of rolling rainbow ridges stretching endlessly across the landscape. Some formations resemble castles, giant waves, sleeping dragons, or layered cakes created by nature itself.

Walking along the wooden pathways and viewing platforms, you will experience one of China’s most visually stunning natural landscapes. The dramatic terrain also served as a filming location for movies including The Great Wall (长城) and Disney’s Mulan (花木兰).

After exploring the Danxia landscape, continue to downtown Zhangye and visit the historic Dafo Temple (大佛寺), also known as the Big Buddha Temple. Originally built during the Western Xia Dynasty over 900 years ago, this ancient Buddhist temple is one of the most important historical and religious sites in the Hexi Corridor.

The temple is famous for housing the largest indoor reclining Buddha statue in Asia, measuring over 34 meters long. The massive statue depicts the peaceful image of Buddha entering Nirvana and is surrounded by beautifully preserved murals, scriptures, and ancient Buddhist artwork. The temple complex also preserves valuable cultural relics related to Buddhism and Silk Road history.

One of the most fascinating features of the temple is the ancient mural series inspired by the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West (西游记). These murals predate the famous novel itself and provide insight into the evolution of Chinese mythology and Buddhist storytelling traditions.

The peaceful atmosphere, ancient architecture, and historical significance of Dafo Temple make it a perfect cultural complement to the natural wonders of Zhangye Danxia.

After the tour, transfer to your hotel for overnight stay in Zhangye.

Accommodation: Zhangye
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Transportation: Private coach

After breakfast, transfer to Zhangye Railway Station (张掖站) and board a high-speed train to Xining (西宁), the capital of Qinghai Province (青海省) and an important gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. During the train journey, enjoy magnificent scenery as the landscapes gradually change from arid Silk Road deserts to vast grasslands and alpine mountain regions.

Upon arrival in Xining, your guide and driver will meet you at the railway station and continue the journey toward the breathtaking Qinghai Lake (青海湖), located about 150 kilometers from the city.

Situated at an altitude of over 3,100 meters, Qinghai Lake is the largest inland saltwater lake in China and one of the most beautiful highland lakes in Asia. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, grasslands, Tibetan villages, and endless skies, the lake is often described as one of the most peaceful and majestic landscapes in Northwestern China.

Along the drive, especially during summer, you will pass through vast golden rapeseed flower fields blooming beside the deep blue lake waters. The striking contrast between yellow flowers, green grasslands, white clouds, and turquoise lake creates unforgettable scenery that attracts photographers from around the world.

Upon arrival, visit the famous Erlangjian Scenic Area (二郎剑景区), one of the best viewpoints around Qinghai Lake. Here, you can walk along the lakeshore, admire panoramic views of the endless blue waters, colorful Tibetan prayer flags, and distant mountain ranges, while enjoying the cool and refreshing plateau climate.

The area also reflects the rich Tibetan Buddhist culture of Qinghai, with prayer flags fluttering in the wind and sacred symbols scattered throughout the landscape. On clear days, the mirror-like lake surface beautifully reflects the sky and surrounding mountains.

Optional activities are available for travelers who wish to explore the lake further, including lake cruises, horseback riding, cycling, and photography experiences along the shoreline.

After sightseeing, continue driving westward along the picturesque lakeside road toward Chaka Town (茶卡镇). The journey itself is highly scenic, passing grasslands, yak herds, Tibetan settlements, and open plateau landscapes beneath vast skies.

Arrive in Chaka Town in the evening and check into your hotel, preparing for the next day’s visit to the famous “Mirror of the Sky” salt lake.

Accommodation: Chaka Town
Meals: Breakfast
Transportation: High-speed train & private coach

After breakfast, drive from Chaka Town to the famous Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖), one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Known as the “Mirror of the Sky,” this magical salt lake creates dreamlike reflections where the blue sky, white clouds, and distant mountains appear perfectly mirrored on the water surface. The Tibetan word “Chaka” means “salt pond,” and the lake has been an important source of salt for centuries along ancient trade routes.

Upon arrival, enter the scenic area and enjoy panoramic views from the observation platforms. The endless white salt flats, shimmering crystal surfaces, and vast open landscapes make this one of China’s most photogenic destinations. Visitors can walk across the shallow reflective waters wearing protective shoe covers and capture stunning mirror-effect photos that resemble walking through the sky.

You will also have the opportunity to ride the famous sightseeing train that stretches deep into the center of the salt lake. Along the route, admire artistic salt sculptures, colorful railway scenes, crystal-clear reflections, and snow-capped mountain backdrops. The scenery changes beautifully with shifting sunlight, creating a surreal atmosphere throughout the day.

Inside the scenic area, you can explore popular photography spots including the “I Love Chaka” sign, crystal installations, sky mirrors, lakeside walkways, and artistic sculptures scattered across the salt fields. During sunny weather, the reflection effect becomes exceptionally vivid, while cloudy skies create a mysterious and poetic landscape unique to the plateau.

After the visit, return to Xining (西宁) through the vast grasslands and highland scenery of Qinghai Province. Along the drive, enjoy views of yak herds, Tibetan villages, rolling hills, and the open plateau landscapes that define western China. Upon arrival in Xining, check in to your hotel and enjoy free time to explore the city or taste local Qinghai cuisine.

Distance & Drive Time:
Chaka Town → Chaka Salt Lake: about 4 km, 10 minutes
Chaka Salt Lake → Xining: about 300 km, 3.5–4 hours

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Xining

After breakfast, visit the famous Ta’er Monastery (塔尔寺), also known as Kumbum Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism. Located about 30 km from downtown Xining, this sacred monastery is the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelug sect, and remains the most influential Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Qinghai Province.

Founded in 1577, the monastery combines traditional Tibetan and Han Chinese architectural styles, creating a magnificent religious complex filled with golden rooftops, colorful prayer halls, spinning prayer wheels, white stupas, and incense-filled courtyards. Surrounded by mountains and prayer flags, the atmosphere here is peaceful, spiritual, and deeply cultural.

During your guided visit, explore important halls and monasteries including the Great Golden Roof Hall, Great Scripture Hall, Butter Sculpture Hall, Maitreya Hall, and the impressive Buddhist pagodas. Learn about Tibetan Buddhist traditions, monastic life, sacred rituals, and religious art forms that have been preserved for centuries.

Ta’er Monastery is especially famous for its “Three Artistic Wonders” — exquisite butter sculptures, vibrant murals, and delicate embroidered Thangka artworks. These masterpieces showcase the extraordinary craftsmanship and religious devotion of Tibetan Buddhist culture. The monastery also provides valuable insight into the spiritual traditions of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the cultural diversity along the ancient Silk Road.

After the visit, transfer to the airport or railway station in Xining for your departure. Your memorable 10 Days Classic Silk Road Group Tour across Xinjiang (新疆), Gansu (甘肃), and Qinghai (青海) comes to a successful end.

Thank you for traveling with Yaso Trip. We look forward to welcoming you again for another unforgettable journey across China and Asia.

Distance & Drive Time:
Xining Downtown → Ta’er Monastery: about 30 km, 40 minutes

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A (Departure Day)