The conservation of the Mogao Grottoes is an ongoing challenge due to environmental factors such as sandstorms and fluctuating temperatures. Efforts to preserve this cultural heritage site have involved international collaboration and advanced scientific techniques to safeguard the fragile murals and artifacts.
Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes comprise 735 caves, with the walls and ceilings adorned with exquisite paintings and intricate carvings depicting Buddhist sutras, deities, and celestial beings.
Zhangye Rainbow Mountain, also known as Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, is a stunning geological site located in Zhangye, Gansu Province, China. It is famous for its vibrant and colorful rock formations that resemble a rainbow.
Ta'er Monastery, also known as Kumbum Monastery or Ta'er Temple, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Huangzhong County, Qinghai Province, China.
The Mogao Grottoes, also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes, were built over a period of about 1,000 years, from the 4th to the 14th century.
The Mati Temple Grottoes, also known as the Horse Hoof Temple, is a complex of Buddhist grottoes located in Gansu Province, China. It is believed to have been built during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 AD).
You can view the frescoes during guided tours of the Dunhuang Mogao caves, but photography and touching the artwork are strictly prohibited to preserve their integrity.
The Jiayuguan Pass is also known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven" and has been a symbol of China's frontier defense for centuries.
Echoing Sand Mountain, also known as Mingsha Mountain, is a famous sand dune located near Dunhuang in Gansu Province, China.
Despite being situated in a desert environment, the Cresent lake has managed to maintain its water source for centuries.
The temperature at Qinghai lake can drop significantly at night, so it is advisable to bring warm clothing.
The best time to visit Chaka Salt Lake is during the dry season, which is from May to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the lake is at its most beautiful with its crystal clear water and stunning reflections.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

DAYS CITIES  TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ACCOMMODATIONS
1 Dunhuang Arrival Airport/Train Station Pickup Hotel
2 Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes, Echoing Sand & Crescent Lake, Shazhou Night Market Hotel
3 Jiayuguan-Danxia High-Speed Train Dunhuang-Jiayuguan, Jiayuguan Pass, Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park Yurt Guesthouse
4 Zhangye Sunrise of Rainbow Mountains, Mati Temple Grottoes Hotel
5 Xining Bullet Train Zhangye-Xining, Qilian Mountain, Ta’er Monastery Hotel
6 Chaka Biking or Hiking for 2hrs around at Qinghai Lake Hotel
7 Xining Departure Chaka Salt Lake, Transfer from Chaka to Xining Caojiabao Airport /

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

PRICE INCLUDES PRICE EXCLUDES
Trains: 2nd-class seat tickets on a high-speed train from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan, and Zhangye to Xining. China Visa: You should apply for it in your country. If any visa invitation is needed, please inform us. Visa Invitation is a free offer.
Accommodations: Well-selected 3/4-star hotels with breakfasts (or you can upgrade to better levels with extra charges). Yurt guesthouse at Danxia Geopark. Flights: No international or domestic arrival/departure flights are included on the 1st day and the last day.
Transport: From 5-seat cars to 61-seat tour buses, different types based on group size, but all are well-maintained and comfortable. Gas fees and parking fees are all included. Meals: No lunches or dinners included (your guide can make recommendations according to your needs).
Entrance Tickets: All included except for optional activities. Tips: Tips to tour guide and driver.
Guide: Licensed local English-speaking guides. Personal Expenses: Laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks, optional tour activities such as boating, camel riding, performances, etc.
Travel Insurance: A free one from a Chinese insurance company, but you should buy one from your country for better insurance services. Extra Expenses: Additional days’ cost caused due to unexpected situations such as natural disasters, political incidents, or any other force majeure.

If you’ve ever fantasized about stepping back in time to traverse the same paths as Silk Road merchants or gazing at landscapes that feel like they’re painted across the sky, then this is the journey for you. Unlike any other tour, we offer an unprecedented fusion of history, spirituality, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Let’s witness the breathtaking fusion of natural beauty, ancient history, and rich cultural diversity on this Silk Road trip.

Dunhuang: Marvel at the ancient Mogao Caves – a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Buddhist art. Get lost in the echoing chants and intricate murals that transport you to a different era.

Jiayuguan: Step into the ‘Mouth of China‘ at Jiayuguan Fort. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the fort marks the western end of the Great Wall and stands as an indomitable symbol of China’s history.

Zhangye: You won’t believe your eyes as you stand before the Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. Their vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange look as if they were carved by the gods.

Xining: Visit the Tibetan Plateau and find your moment of zen at the Ta’er Monastery. Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and experience the soul-stirring tranquility of this sacred space.

Chaka: End your journey by reflecting on its magic at Chaka Salt Lake. Known as the ‘Mirror of the Sky‘, this mesmerizing lake offers the perfect finale to a week of wonder.

Popularity 99%
Difficulty 9%
Cost Performance 99%
SEASON PRICE
Off Season (Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb.) US$869
Shoulder Season (Mar., Apr., May) US$919
Busy Season (June, Oct.) US$969
Peak Season (July, Aug., Sep.) US$999

  • RECOMMENDED seasons being May, June, and October to avoid crowded Chinese tourists and the excessively hot climate while other best time to join this group is from March to October.

  • DAILY complimentary two bottles of mineral water.

  • FREE days in Xining can be arranged.

  • BIG discounts for kids or seniors. Please consult your travel advisor for more information.