The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is the most classic travel route in Northwest China

The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is the most classic travel route in northwest China. It spans the two provinces of Qinghai and Gansu, and along the way it features a variety of landscapes including plateau lakes, snow-capped mountains and grasslands, the Gobi Desert, Danxia landforms, and Buddhist grottoes. Here are some detailed recommendations on the best travel seasons and the most scenic spots: 1. Best travel season 1. Summer (June-August) Advantages: warm climate (15-25℃ during the day in Qinghai, 25-35℃ in Gansu), green grasslands, rape flowers in full bloom (Qinghai Lake and Menyuan are best in July), and excellent mirror-like effect of the salt lake. Disadvantages: The most tourists, higher accommodation and transportation prices, and some attractions are crowded. 2. Early autumn (September to mid-October) Best recommendation: sunny weather with little rain, suitable temperature (10-20℃), golden poplar forests (such as Jinta Poplar Forest), rich autumn colors on the grassland, fewer tourists, and soft light for photography. Note: The temperature in Qinghai may drop after October, so you need to bring thick clothes. 3. Avoid the season Winter (November to March): Qinghai Lake is frozen and the grassland is covered with snow. The scenery is bleak but there are few people. However, some scenic spots are closed (such as Zhuoer Mountain and Qilian Grassland), and the roads may be difficult to travel due to snow. 2. Beautiful attractions not to be missed Qinghai Section 1. Qinghai Lake Highlights: China's largest inland lake, rapeseed flowers and azure waters complement each other in July. You can get up close and personal with the lake by cycling around the lake or taking the herdsmen's trail. Best time: July-August (sea of ​​flowers), and in winter you can see the frozen lake. 2. Chaka Salt Lake Highlight: The reflection of the "Sky Mirror". It is recommended to shoot in the early morning or at dusk and wear a bright long skirt. Tips: Avoid the strong sunlight at midday as it may be crowded in summer. 3. Da Qaidam Emerald Lake Highlights: The scattered salt ponds present colors such as Tiffany blue and emerald green. The aerial photography effect is stunning and it is more tranquil than Chaka. 4. Yadan on the water (Usut Yadan) Highlights: The world's only Yadan landform on water. It is recommended to stay in the scenic area to watch the stars and sunrise. 5. Qilian Mountain Grassland Highlights: In summer, snow-capped mountains and grasslands are intertwined, herders’ tents are dotted, and you can experience the plateau pastures by horseback riding. 6. Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea (July) Highlights: Thousands of acres of golden flower fields cover the foot of the Qilian Mountains. The best photo spot is at the Yuanshan Observation Deck. Gansu Section 1. Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang Highlights: World cultural heritage, murals and Buddhist art treasures. Tickets must be booked in advance. Tip: Watch the show "Seeing Dunhuang Again" to gain a deeper understanding of history. 2. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake Highlights: The wonders of the desert oasis. Camel riding and sandboarding and sunset photography are recommended. 3. Zhangye Colorful Danxia Highlights: The colors are most intense after rain or at sunset, and the No. 4 Observation Deck (Hongxia Terrace) is the most beautiful. 3. Tips for your trip 1. Transportation: It is recommended to charter a car or drive yourself (SUV is preferred). The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is about 2,700 kilometers long. The road condition is generally good, but some sections (such as Eboliang) require off-road vehicles. 2. Altitude sickness: The Qinghai section is 2000-3800 meters above sea level. Avoid strenuous exercise and bring oxygen cylinders. 3. Sun and wind protection: Ultraviolet rays are extremely strong, so sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are essential; the Gobi Desert is windy and sandy, so bring a windbreaker. 4. Accommodation: Book a room in advance during the peak season (accommodation in Chaka, Daxiadan and Dunhuang is tight). You can choose from starry sky tents, desert camping and other special experiences. 5. Cultural respect: Do not take photos when visiting temples and grottoes, and respect Tibetan and Hui customs. The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is an ultimate feast of nature and humanity. If you choose the right season to set out, you will surely gain unforgettable memories of the Northwest! Please contact me via the link below for more details