A 7-Day Trip to Xining and Surrounding Areas: Your Ultimate Guide

First time in Xining and nearby areas? Don't miss this curated 7-day itinerary! Camp in the desert, stay in a hotel, or sleep under the stars—the choice is yours. A jam-packed itinerary awaits! . 🚗Itinerary: DAY 1：🏞️Riyue Mountain -> Daotang River Scenic Area -> Qinghai Lake/Heima River -> Xiangpi Mountain Start your journey by traversing the magnificent Riyue Mountain and exploring the unique landscape of Daotang River. In the afternoon, arrive at the Heima River area of Qinghai Lake and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the lake and mountains. Finally, ascend Xiangpi Mountain for a panoramic view of the vast plateau. DAY 2：🌊Chaka Salt Lake -> Dachaidan Emerald Lake On the second day, journey to the dreamlike Chaka Salt Lake and experience the magic of the "Sky Mirror." Afterward, head to Dachaidan Emerald Lake to admire the emerald green waters and enjoy nature's gifts. DAY 3：🛣️U-shaped Highway -> Wusute Water Yadan Geopark -> Xitaijinair Lake -> Nanbaxian Devil City Day three begins with a drive on the spectacular U-shaped Highway, followed by a visit to the unique landforms of Wusute Water Yadan. Pass by Xitaijinair Lake and witness the mystery of the two-colored lake. Finally, delve into Nanbaxian Devil City and listen to the legends carried by the wind. DAY 4：🎬Aksai Borzhuanjing Film and Television Base -> Yangguan Pass Scenic Area Day four takes you to Aksai Borzhuanjing Film and Television Base to experience the charm of a Western film set. Afterward, journey to Yangguan Pass Scenic Area, trace the ancient history of the Silk Road, and appreciate the weight of history. DAY 5：🏯Mogao Caves -> Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring Day five is dedicated to exploring the Mogao Caves, a World Cultural Heritage site, and admiring the artistic treasures of this ancient Buddhist kingdom. In the evening, head to Mingsha Mountain to listen to the songs of the sand sea and witness the miracle of Crescent Moon Spring, an oasis in the desert. DAY 6：👶Big Earth -> Jiayuguan Fort -> Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park On the sixth day, begin with a visit to the thought-provoking Big Earth sculpture. Then, proceed to Jiayuguan Fort and experience the grandeur of the Great Wall and the vicissitudes of history. Finally, arrive at Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park and marvel at nature's colorful magic. DAY 7：🌾Qilian Grassland -> Gangshika Snow Peak -> Menyuan Rape Flower Fields On the last day of the trip, stroll through the vast expanse of Qilian Grassland, then climb Gangshika Snow Peak in the Qilian Mountains to admire the magnificent snow-capped peaks. Afterward, immerse yourself in the golden world of Menyuan's vast rape flower fields, bringing your journey to a perfect end.🌼🎉 . **Recommended Attractions**: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park** Address: Nantai Village, Ni'jiaying Town, Linze County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province Opening hours: Mar 21–Apr 27, 06:00–18:00 Visit duration: 3–5 hrs Zhangye Danxia, with its colorful and spectacular scenery, is like stepping into a natural oil painting. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Jiayuguan Fort** Address: Guancheng South Road, Yuquan Town, Jiayuguan City, Gansu Province Opening hours: Mar 15–Oct 31, 08:30–18:00 Visit duration: 2–4 hrs Jiayuguan Fort, magnificent and full of historical charm, seems to echo with the stories of millennia told by its ancient walls. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Dachaidan Emerald Lake** Address: Dachaidan Town, Dachaidan Administrative District, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: 09:00–18:00 Visit duration: 1–2 hrs Dachaidan Emerald Lake, with its clear, azure waters and picturesque scenery, is a captivating paradise on earth. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ **Gangshika Snow Peak** Address: Northern Menyuan Hui Autonomous County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province Opening hours: Open all day Visit duration: 4 hrs Gangshika Snow Peak, with its snow-capped summit and colorful hues at sunset, is an ideal destination for mountaineering, hiking, and photography. . Travel Checklist: 🧳 👕 **Clothing**: Pack mainly spring and autumn clothes, but bring a thick jacket as the temperature difference between day and night in Xining can be significant. 🎒 **Accessories**: Sunglasses and a sun hat are essential for sun protection! Also, don't forget an umbrella, as the plateau weather can be unpredictable. 📋 **Documents**: Always carry your ID card, student ID, etc., for identification and potential discounts. 💊 **Medicine**: Pack Rhodiola, cold medicine, etc., to prevent altitude sickness and colds. 🔋 **Other**: A power bank and charger are crucial, as taking photos can drain your battery quickly. That's all! Have a wonderful trip to Xining! . This concludes our Xining journey. We hope you leave with cherished memories and joy. See you next time! 👋✨