If you’re a travel enthusiast, you must visit Northwest China. This region boasts incredibly magical landscapes and terrains, making it a place brimming with mystery. So, how do you navigate a six-day Grand Loop tour of Northwest China? Read on to discover the exciting itinerary for adventurous travelers!
1. Itinerary
Day 1: Xining – Qinghai Lake – Chaka Salt Lake – Delingha
Day 2: Delingha – Water Yadan – Most Beautiful Highway – Da Qaidam
Day 3: Da Qaidam – Da Qaidam Emerald Lake – Oil Town – Dunhuang
Day 4: Dunhuang – Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring – Mogao Caves – Dunhuang
Day 5: Dunhuang – Jiayuguan Pass – Rainbow Mountains – Linze
Day 6: Linze – Qilian Grassland – Menyuan Rape Flower Field – Gangshishka Snow Peak – Disband in Xining
2. Food and Accommodation Guide
Xining: If you have ample time upon arriving in Xining, it’s recommended to visit the Kumbum Monastery or the Dongguan Mosque. Regarding food, Xining is a city with a significant minority population, and the main staple is noodles. Beef and mutton are prevalent. You can try Northwest hand-pulled noodles. For the best hand-pulled noodles, try Ma Yonghua’s Dongxiang Hand-pulled Noodle Delicacies, as they are truly delicious.
Delingha: Compared to Chaka Town and the Qinghai Lake lakeside, Delingha offers relatively better accommodation conditions. The altitude is not as high, and you can take a shower at night. However, be sure to dry your hair thoroughly and avoid alcohol. Even with better conditions, Delingha is still on the plateau. When traveling, safety is paramount!
Da Qaidam: Da Qaidam is a small town, but due to the presence of the Water Yadan Scenic Area, it experiences a surge in visitors during July and August. Accommodation is basic, prioritize cleanliness and hygiene. Remember, this is the uninhabited area of Haixi Prefecture, so consider the local capacity when planning your trip.
Dunhuang: “Dun” means “large,” and “huang” means “prosperous.” This small city boasts deep cultural roots. The Mogao Caves and the Mingsha Mountain with the Crescent Spring make this city truly extraordinary. Be sure to watch “Again, Dunhuang,” as it’s a breathtaking performance that might leave you in tears.
Linze/Rainbow Mountains: Today’s journey is relatively long. It’s recommended to stay near the Rainbow Mountains Scenic Area (Linze or the Rainbow Town). Accommodation prices here are relatively lower compared to other places on the loop, offering good value for money!
3. Ticket Guide
Qinghai Lake Adult Ticket: 90 yuan per person;
Chaka Salt Lake Sky Mirror: Peak season 60 yuan per person, off-season 30 yuan per person;
Da Qaidam Emerald Lake: 50 yuan per person
Water Yadan: 60 yuan entrance fee + 60 yuan environmental vehicle fee = 120 yuan per person
Menyuan Rape Flower Field: 60 yuan per person
Chaerhan Salt Lake: 100 yuan per person
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