Ta’er Lamasery (Kumbum Monastery)

Located in Xining, Ta’er Lamasery, also known as Kumbum Monastery, is one of the most famous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China. Built in the 16th century, it holds a prominent place in Tibetan culture and is an important site for Tibetan Buddhists. The lamasery features stunning architecture, including a silver pagoda built around a sacred peepal tree. The murals and butter sculptures found here are renowned for their intricate craftsmanship, showcasing Buddhist stories, religious symbols, and everyday life from various dynasties.

Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake is the largest saltwater lake in China, located amidst vast grasslands and majestic mountains. Known for its serene beauty, the lake is especially breathtaking during the summer months when the surrounding fields are dotted with bright yellow rape flowers. The area around the lake is home to various wildlife, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to admire its natural splendor from a different perspective.

Chaka Salt Lake

Often referred to as the “Mirror of the Sky,” Chaka Salt Lake is famous for its reflective surface, which creates the illusion of walking on water. The lake is covered with a crystalline salt bed that produces a strikingly beautiful mirror effect, especially on clear days. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountains, making it an ideal location for photography. Visitors can explore the area via a scenic tourist train that stops at key viewpoints, offering unforgettable photo opportunities of the salt flats and the surrounding landscapes.

Zhangye National Geopark (Qicai Danxia)

Zhangye National Geopark, also known as Qicai Danxia (Rainbow Mountains), is famous for its striking red, yellow, and green sandstone formations. These surreal landscapes were created over millions of years through tectonic shifts and erosion. The vibrant colors of the mountain ridges, along with their unique shapes, create a landscape that seems to belong to another world. This stunning geological site is a UNESCO World Heritage nominee and attracts travelers from all over the globe for its breathtaking beauty and geological significance.

The Giant Buddha Temple

In Zhangye, the Giant Buddha Temple is home to China’s largest reclining Buddha, measuring an astonishing 34.5 meters in length. Built during the Western Xia Dynasty in 1098, this architectural marvel is one of the most significant cultural relics in Gansu Province. The Buddha lies in a peaceful posture, with its size and detail leaving visitors in awe. The temple complex also houses smaller statues, murals, and historical artifacts, providing an insight into ancient Chinese religious art and architecture.

The Mogao Caves

The Mogao Caves in Dunhuang are one of China’s most important Buddhist sites, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast cave complex contains over 40,000 square meters of murals and over 2,000 Buddhist statues. These artworks span more than a thousand years and depict religious scenes, daily life, and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road. The caves are famous for their well-preserved frescoes and sculptures, which offer a unique window into the history and culture of ancient China.

Echoing-Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake

In Dunhuang, Echoing-Sand Mountain (Mingsha Shan) is a natural wonder, with golden sand dunes that “sing” when disturbed by the wind. The dunes, which can reach heights of 100 meters, create a mesmerizing sound as the sand shifts. At the foot of the mountain lies Crescent Lake, a small oasis surrounded by desert. The contrast between the lush greenery of the lake and the barren desert sands makes it one of the most photogenic locations along the Silk Road. Visitors can enjoy activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and ATV rides across the dunes, immersing themselves in the desert adventure.

Yumen Pass & The Great Wall of the Han Dynasty

On the journey from Dunhuang to Turpan, Yumen Pass is an ancient checkpoint along the Silk Road. Built during the Han Dynasty, it was a strategic military post that controlled trade and cultural exchanges between China and the Western regions. The Great Wall of the Han Dynasty is a more ancient version of the famous Great Wall, built in the 2nd century BC to protect the empire from invasions. Although mostly in ruins, the remnants of the wall offer a fascinating glimpse into the early defense systems of the Han Empire.

Jiaohe Ruins

The Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan are the remains of an ancient city that once thrived between two river valleys. Dating back over 2,000 years, this city was an important military and trade hub on the Silk Road. The ruins are known for their impressive preservation, with earth and mud buildings still standing in remarkable shape. Situated atop a cliff, Jiaohe offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, adding to the sense of mystery and history surrounding the site.

Tuyugou Village

Tuyugou Village, with its history spanning over 1,700 years, is a cultural gem in Turpan. This Uyghur village offers visitors the chance to experience the traditions, lifestyle, and hospitality of one of China’s most distinctive ethnic groups. The village is nestled in a valley, surrounded by mountains, and has remained a significant cultural and religious site throughout the centuries. Visitors can explore ancient mosques, walk through narrow streets, and interact with the friendly locals, who maintain many of their traditional customs.

Flaming Mountains

Located near Turpan, the Flaming Mountains are a natural wonder, famous for their striking red sandstone formations. The intense summer heat makes the mountains appear to “burn,” giving them their fiery name. The vivid red color is most dramatic during the peak of summer when the sun casts a scorching glow over the terrain. The Flaming Mountains have been featured in numerous historical texts, and they continue to be a significant natural and cultural landmark in the region.

Heavenly Lake

Situated in the Tianshan Mountains, Heavenly Lake is one of the most beautiful spots in Xinjiang. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, the lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the grandeur of the mountains, creating a picturesque scene. The area is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for hiking, boating, and photography. The lake’s tranquil beauty, combined with the backdrop of Bogda Peak, makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to experience Xinjiang’s alpine landscape.

International Bazaar

In Urumqi, the International Bazaar is a bustling marketplace that reflects the multicultural essence of Xinjiang. Here, you’ll find a blend of traditional Uyghur architecture, exotic spices, textiles, and a variety of handcrafted goods. The bazaar is also a great place to sample local Uyghur delicacies, such as lamb kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread. The lively atmosphere, combined with the diverse range of products and performances, offers an authentic cultural experience.