8-Day Trip Across Ningxia, Gansu, and Qinghai: Your Ultimate Guide to Northwest China

Hey there! Winter vacation is here! This time, we'll embark on a mystical journey through Ningxia, Gansu, and Qinghai, China. Over 8 days, we'll experience the unique landscapes of these three provinces. This is a travel guide you won't want to miss! Packed with practical information and money-saving tips, your trip will be stress-free and easy. Let's get started~ -- 🎉Itinerary: D1: Beijing -> Ningxia -> Zhongwei 🎈We'll depart from Beijing and head to the mystical and colorful Ningxia. Upon arrival in Zhongwei, our journey begins. D2: Danxiakou Cultural Tourism Town 🌼We'll spend the entire day exploring Danxiakou Cultural Tourism Town, experiencing the unique blend of local culture and natural beauty. D3: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park -> Big Earth -> Jiuquan Mirage -> Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring 🏞A visual feast awaits as we visit several scenic spots in one day: colorful rock formations, grassland scenery, mirages, and the desert oasis of Crescent Moon Spring. D4: Western Thousand Buddha Caves -> Dachaidan Emerald Lake 🎏From culture to nature, we'll experience ancient Buddhist culture followed by the breathtaking Emerald Lake. A full day of exploration. D5: Chaka Salt Lake -> Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area ⛵Walking on Chaka Salt Lake feels like walking in the clouds. Afterward, we'll visit the serene Erlangjian Scenic Area by Qinghai Lake. D6: Ta'er Monastery 🙏We'll find tranquility at Ta'er Monastery, experiencing the peaceful Buddhist atmosphere and admiring the Thangka art. D7: Xining -> Kunlun Jade Culture Expo Center -> Tibetan Medicine Experience Center -> Tibetan Ornament Culture Center -> Ningxia 💎Today is all about cultural immersion. We'll start with Kunlun jade culture, followed by Tibetan medicine and Tibetan ornament exploration. Afterward, we'll return to Ningxia. D8: Ningxia -> Beijing ✈️We'll bid farewell to Ningxia and fly back to Beijing, marking the end of our journey. -- Must-See Attractions: 💫💫💫💫💫 Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring Address: Mingshan Road, Dunhuang, Jiuquan Opening Hours: Nov 10, 2024–Mar 9, 2025, 07:30–18:00 Duration: 3–5 hrs 🎐Rolling sand dunes and shimmering spring water create a pearl nestled in the desert. 💫💫💫💫💫 Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park Address: Nantai Village, Ni Jiaying Town, Linze County, Zhangye, Gansu Opening Hours: Nov 1, 2024–Feb 28, 2025, 07:30–17:00 Duration: 3–5 hrs 🌈The interplay of Danxia landforms and colorful hills creates a spectacular, vibrant landscape. 💫💫💫💫💫 Chaka Salt Lake Address: 9 Yanhu Road, Chaka Town, Ulan County, Haixi Opening Hours: Oct 30, 2024–Feb 28, 2025, 08:15–19:30 Duration: 2–4 hrs ☁️Salt as white as snow and a mirror-like lake reflecting the sky form a stunning natural painting. 💫💫💫💫 Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area Address: 109 National Road, Qinghai Lake Scenic Area, Gonghe County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Opening Hours: 08:30–18:00 Duration: 2–4 hrs 🗡️A pointed peninsula, like a sword, pierces the lake, creating a magnificent view. -- 👜Packing List: 🧥Clothing: Given the February weather, pack warm winter clothes for your trip to Ningxia, Gansu, and Qinghai, China. Gloves, hats, and scarves are essential to protect against the cold wind. Waterproof shoes are also recommended for skiing. 📸Accessories: Don't forget your camera or phone for capturing countless beautiful moments in Ningxia's majestic deserts, Gansu's Yellow River Stone Forest, and Qinghai's pristine lakes. 🎫Documents: Bring all necessary personal documents, including your passport, ID card, and Household Registration (Hukou). Some places may require a health code. Also, remember to bring your hotel and flight booking confirmations from your email. 💊Medical and Other Items: Pack sunscreen and glasses to protect against wind and sand. Bring medication for altitude sickness, such as Rhodiola and Diamox. And of course, don't forget snacks and bottled water to stay hydrated and energized throughout your journey. -- That's my take on Ningxia, Gansu, and Qinghai. I hope your trip is as amazing as you expect!