There is a classic self-driving route from Lanzhou to Xinjiang, which takes about half a month. It will take you to experience the magnificent scenery of northern Xinjiang. Here is the recommended itinerary:?
Day 1: Fly from your departure destination to Lanzhou. After arriving at noon, you can first check into a hotel to rest. In the afternoon, visit the landmark attractions of Lanzhou, such as Zhongshan Bridge, Baita Mountain Park, and Yellow River Ropeway. In the evening, go to Jianlan Road Pedestrian Street to enjoy local cuisine.?
Day 2: Continue exploring Lanzhou by visiting Gansu Provincial Museum, admiring the Mother Yellow River Sculpture, and then climbing Lanshan Park to overlook the scenery of the entire city. Stay overnight in Lanzhou.?
Day 3: Depart from Lanzhou for Zhangye to visit Zhangye Museum, Dafosi Temple, and Mutasi Temple. In the evening, taste the specialty dishes of Zhangye at Ganzhou Market and stay overnight in Zhangye.?
Day 4: Participate in a one-day tour of Colorful Danxia and Matisi Temple in Zhangye to admire the wonders of nature. Return to Zhangye downtown for accommodation in the evening.?
Day 5: Take a train or bus to Jiayuguan to visit Taolai River Valley, the First Pier of the Great Wall, and Jiayuguan Fort. Stay overnight in Jiayuguan.?
Day 6: Depart from Jiayuguan for Dunhuang. In the afternoon, visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring. In the evening, you can visit Shazhou Night Market to taste the special snacks of Dunhuang and watch a performance at Dunhuang Grand Theatre before checking in at a hotel in Dunhuang.?
Days 7-8: Deeply explore Dunhuang by visiting the Mogao Caves, a World Cultural Heritage site, and natural wonders in the west line, such as Yadan Devil City and West Thousand Buddha Grottoes.?
Day 9: Depart from Dunhuang for Hami to start a new journey in Xinjiang. After arriving in Hami in the evening, check in at a local hotel.?
Day 10: Visit Dahaitao in Hami for a unique one-day tour.?
In the following days, you can continue to explore more beautiful scenery and culture in Xinjiang, such as the Grape Valley in Turpan and the International Bazaar in Urumqi, until the end of the trip.?
This route passes through Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Hami, and finally arrives in Urumqi. Throughout the journey, you can not only admire the magnificent natural scenery but also deeply experience the local culture and history.?
During the trip, please selectively visit various attractions based on personal interests and schedule to enjoy an unforgettable journey to Northwest China.?