Gansu Travel Itineraries, How to plan a trip route

There are many different travel itineraries that can be planned for a trip to Gansu, depending on your interests and how much time you have. Here are a few examples of itineraries that highlight some of the province's most popular tourist destinations:

Dunhuang and Jiayuguan: This itinerary is ideal for those interested in history and culture. Begin in Dunhuang, where you can visit the Silk Road Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes and the Dunhuang Museum. Then, head to Jiayuguan, where you can explore the Jiayuguan Fort and the Great Wall of China.

Natural Beauty of Gansu: This itinerary is ideal for nature lovers. Start in Lanzhou, where you can explore the Yellow River and the Bingling Temple Grottoes. Then, head to Zhangye, where you can visit the Danxia Landform and the Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple. Finally, finish your trip in the Gobi Desert, where you can explore the desert landscape and take a camel ride.

Buddhist Grottoes and Silk Road: This itinerary is perfect for those interested in Buddhism and the Silk Road. Start in Tianshui, where you can visit the Maijishan Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, head to Lanzhou, where you can visit the White Pagoda Hill and the Dafo Temple. Finally, finish your trip in Dunhuang, where you can explore the Silk Road Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes and the Dunhuang Museum.

The best travel itinerary for Gansu

Day 1-2: Lanzhou

Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu, is known for its Yellow River scenery and delicious local cuisine. Spend a day or two exploring the city's attractions, such as the Yellow River Mother Sculpture Park, Zhongshan Bridge, and the Waterwheel Garden. Don't forget to try the famous Lanzhou beef noodle soup, a local delicacy.

Day 3-4: Zhangye

Zhangye is famous for its Danxia landform, which features colorful rock formations that look like painted mountains. Spend a day exploring the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park and the Mati Temple, a Buddhist temple built during the Western Xia dynasty.

Day 5-6: Jiayuguan

Jiayuguan is home to the Jiayuguan Pass, the western end of the Great Wall of China. Spend a day exploring the pass and its adjoining museum, which provides insights into the construction and history of the Great Wall. Visit the nearby Overhanging Great Wall and the Wei and Jin Tombs.

Day 7-8: Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a historic city that was once an important stop on the Silk Road. Visit the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains a collection of Buddhist art and murals. Explore the Mingsha Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake, and take a camel ride through the desert.

Day 9-10: Tianshui

Tianshui is known for its Buddhist grottoes and temples. Visit the Maijishan Grottoes, a collection of more than 7,000 Buddhist statues carved into the mountainside. Explore the Fuxi Temple, which honors the mythical creator of Chinese civilization.

Birding Itineraries

It is worth noting that Gansu is a vast province and these itineraries are just a starting point, you could explore more places and customize your trip, also depending on your travel style, budget and time. It is always recommended to check with local travel agency and have a detailed plan before you start your journey.

Travel itineraries for birding in Gansu >>

Photography Itineraries

Gansu province is home to a variety of stunning photography destinations including the breathtaking multicolored Danxia Landform of Zhangye, the mystical Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring oasis in Dunhuang, the dramatic Mati Temple Grottoes in Zhangye, the ancient and atmospheric Labrang Monastery in Xiahe, and the awe-inspiring Jiayuguan Pass, the western end of the Great Wall.

Travel itineraries for photography >>