Here’s a 7- to 10-day Silk Road travel itinerary covering Shaanxi, Gansu, Ningxia, and Xinjiang, allowing you to experience the unique charm of these four regions.

7-Day Itinerary

– Day 1: Xi’an, Shaanxi
Morning: Visit the Terracotta Army to feel the grandeur of ancient military power. Afternoon: Explore the Shaanxi History Museum to admire its rich collection of historical relics. Evening: Wander Datang Everbright City for an immersive experience of the prosperous Tang Dynasty.
– Day 2: Xi’an, Shaanxi
Morning: Tour the Big Wild Goose Pagoda to explore Buddhist culture. Afternoon: Ride a bike on the Xi’an City Wall to enjoy urban views. Evening: Taste local snacks near the Bell and Drum Towers and admire the night scenery.
– Day 3: Yinchuan, Ningxia
Morning: Arrive in Yinchuan and visit the Western Xia Imperial Tombs to learn about the mysterious Western Xia culture. Afternoon: Explore Zhenbeibu Western Film Studio to experience the unique atmosphere of a film set.
– Day 4: Zhongwei, Ningxia – Lanzhou, Gansu
Morning: Head to Shapotou in Zhongwei to experience the magical intersection of desert and the Yellow River. Afternoon: Travel to Lanzhou; evening: Stroll along the Yellow River Scenic Belt, enjoy the night view, and taste Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles.
– Day 5: Lanzhou, Gansu – Zhangye, Gansu
Morning: Depart Lanzhou for Zhangye. Afternoon: Visit the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark to admire the stunning colorful Danxia landforms.
– Day 6: Zhangye, Gansu – Dunhuang, Gansu
Morning: Travel from Zhangye to Dunhuang. Afternoon: Tour the Mogao Grottoes to appreciate exquisite mural art. Evening: Visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake to marvel at the oasis in the desert.
– Day 7: Urumqi, Xinjiang
Morning: Depart Dunhuang and arrive in Urumqi. Afternoon: Visit Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) on Tian Shan to enjoy its beautiful lakes and mountains.

8- to 10-Day Itinerary (Extended)

– Day 8: Urumqi, Xinjiang – Burqin, Xinjiang
Morning: Depart Urumqi for Burqin, enjoying northern Xinjiang’s scenery along the way. Afternoon: Explore Wucai Beach in Burqin to admire the colorful banks of the Irtysh River.
– Day 9: Burqin – Kanas
Spend the whole day in Kanas Scenic Area: enjoy the mysterious beauty of Kanas Lake, walk along the lakeside plank road, and visit the Fish-Watching Platform for a panoramic view of the lake.
– Day 10: Kanas – Hemu – Urumqi
Morning: Travel to Hemu Village to experience its primitive rural charm. Afternoon: Return to Urumqi, concluding the journey.