There are multiple tourist routes from Ningxia to Xinjiang. The following is a recommendation for a classic self-driving tour route:?
This route starts from Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia, and heads west along the traces of the ancient Silk Road to Xinjiang. The specific itinerary is planned as follows:?
Day 1: Yinchuan to Alxa Left Banner. Depart from Yinchuan and drive about 4 hours along G18 Rongwu Expressway to reach Alxa Left Banner. Here, there are unique desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, such as Alxa Left Banner Museum and Badain Jaran Desert, where you can feel the magical charm of nature and learn about the local history and culture.?
Day 2: Alxa Left Banner to Jiuquan. Continue west to Jiuquan, which is not only a space launch base but also has a long history and culture. Visit attractions such as Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, Jiuquan Museum, and Han Great Wall Site.?
Day 3: Jiuquan to Jiayuguan. Arrive in Jiayuguan, which is a necessary pass on the Silk Road and the western terminus of the Great Wall. Visit attractions such as Jiayuguan City Tower and the Wei-Jin Tomb Mural Museum.?
Day 4: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang. Head to Dunhuang to visit attractions such as Mogao Caves and Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring. Mogao Caves is one of China’s Four Great Grottoes and is known as the "Treasure House of Oriental Art", while Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring is another iconic landscape in Dunhuang.?
Day 5: Dunhuang to Hami. Continue west to Hami. Hami melons are renowned for their sweetness and deliciousness, and there are also abundant historical relics and cultural landscapes here, such as Hami King’s Tomb and Hami Museum.?
Day 6: Hami to Turpan. Arrive in Turpan, where there are famous attractions such as Flaming Mountain and Grape Valley. You can taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine such as grilled mutton skewers and big plate chicken, and also visit historical and cultural sites such as Jiaohe Ancient City and Karez Wells.?
Day 7: Turpan to Urumqi. Finally, arrive in Urumqi to visit attractions such as Hongshan Park and Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, experiencing the rich ethnic flavor.?
In addition, depending on your time and interests, you can also choose other routes, such as taking G7 Beijing-Xinjiang Expressway or G30 Lianhuo Expressway to Xinjiang. These two routes have their own characteristics. G7 Beijing-Xinjiang Expressway passes through Inner Mongolia, offering richer scenery, while G30 Lianhuo Expressway is more direct.?
During the trip, you can choose suitable accommodation based on personal preferences and budget, such as hotels or homestays in Alxa Left Banner and hotels around Kanas Lake.?
. Meanwhile, please pay attention to protecting the environment and supporting the local economy by purchasing local specialty goods and tasting local cuisine.?
I hope this route can provide useful reference for your trip to Ningxia and Xinjiang!?