6 Days Qinghai Lake Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains Dramatic Tour

Ease into the simple joys of natural travel that you can only find in northwestern China – vast plateau lake, mirror-like salt lake, rainbow mountains, hanging temples stretching out from caves… this is what our 6 days dramatic tour will bring to you.Xining, a unique city where Chinese, Tibetan, and Muslim cultures intertwine, serves as a captivating starting point for your journey. Over the course of two remarkable days, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake, two breathtaking plateau lakes each offering their own distinct wonders.

• Make sure everyone bring passport with
• Full names and passport numbers are required to book tickets for attractions.

Itinerary Quick Look

Day 1 Xining Arrival

Welcome to Xining , the capital city of Qinghai Province in northwestern China. Upon arriving at Xining airport/train station, your private guide and driver will pick you up and then drive about 26km (1 hour) to visit the famous Taer Monastery. This peaceful monastery is a must-visit, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. The journey itself is a scenic drive, giving you a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes that surround Xining. The monastery’s architecture and cultural significance make it a perfect destination for immersing yourself in Tibetan culture and spirituality.

After the monastery visit, drive to Xining downtown. You will then be taken to visit Dongguan Mosque, the largest mosque in Qinghai.The mosque in Northwest China holds a significant place for Muslims, being one of the four greatest mosques in the region. Originating from the early Ming Dynasty, it serves as a sacred sanctuary and the highest-level institute of Islamic study. This historical and religious center plays a crucial role in the spiritual and academic life of the Muslim community in the area.

Day 2 Xining – Qinghai Lake – Chaka (B, L )

After breakfast, drive around 150 km to see the picturesque Qinghai Lake，Driving through picturesque landscapes can be like flipping through a photo album. The vibrant green grasslands, the endless blue skies, fluffy white clouds, and herds of animals grazing create a captivating scene that keeps boredom at bay. Each sight along the way adds to the visual feast, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.

The Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake offers a spectacular view of one of the most beautiful spots in the region. The serene waters of the lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, create a tranquil and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy. The essence of the whole Qinghai Lake area is encapsulated in the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty that can be found at Erlangjian.

Day 3 Chaka Salt Lake – Xining (B, L )

If weather permits, and you don’t mind walking about 3km  to the sunrise location, you can get up early to watch the breathtaking sunrise  at Chaka Salt Lake.

Chaka Lake is a rare geographic wonder as well as an important salt production center on the ancient Silk Road. The breathtaking scenery on clear days, with the azure sky, floating clouds, and distant lofty mountains, creates a natural mirror-like effect. The beauty of nature is truly beyond imagination in these moments, where everything seems to blend seamlessly into a picturesque landscape that captivates the senses.

There are many ways to explore Chaka Salt Lake.Taking a sightseeing train to the lake’s hinterland allows you to escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil journey. From there, leisurely exploring on foot from the hinterland to the entrance offers a more immersive and serene experience, ensuring you can fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings at your own pace.

Day 4 Xining – High Speed Train to Zhangye (B, L )

After breakfast, you will take a morning high speed bullet train to Zhangye city in Gansu Province from Xining . Enjoy the beautiful landscape along the road. After arrival at Zhangye West Railway Station, you will be met by local tour guide. Let’s get ready for the trip!

In the afternoon, drive about an hour to visit the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geographical Park. The Danxia landform in Zhangye, with its striking red sandstones and conglomerates, is a breathtaking example of petrographic geomorphology. This unique landscape, dating back to the pre-Jurassic Age, showcases the power of natural forces in shaping our world. The vibrant colors and intricate formations of the Danxia landform in Zhangye offer a glimpse into the Earth’s ancient history and the fascinating processes that have created such a mesmerizing sight.

Day 5 Binggou Danxia – Matisi – Zhangye (B, L)

After breakfast, you will go to visit Binggou Danxia Landform. the Binggou Danxia Landform Scenery Area offers a more serene and intimate experience. While Linze Danxia dazzles with a vibrant palette of hues, Binggou captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty and lesser-known allure. The fewer crowds allow for a more personal exploration of the unique rock formations and stunning landscapes that define this hidden gem.

Finishing the tour at Binggou Danxia Landform Scenic Area, you will drive about 105km to visit the Matisi Temple，Matisi Temple, constructed during the Northern Liang period, is a unique blend of Buddhist culture, grotto art, the stunning Qilian Mountain landscape, and elements of Tibetan culture. This fusion creates a rich tapestry of history, art, and spirituality in a single site, offering visitors a glimpse into the diverse influences that shaped this ancient place of worship.

Day 6 Zhangye Departure (B, L)

Today is free for you to relax until your tour guide escort you to catch your flight/train to next destination. Currently, you can take high speed trains to Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Lanzhou, Turpan, etc. from Zhangye, or take flights to Xian, Chengdu, Lanzhou, etc.

Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!

Free cancellation