In the northwest in October, autumn is already strong. Under the blue sky, the vast desert and the boundless Gobi are endless. The rough, majestic and vast wilderness is showing its soft and beautiful side after retreating from the intense heat.
Under autumn, from the blue lake to the yellow sand in the Gobi, from the fiery red danxia to the golden Populus euphratica, there are the most beautiful colors and the most abundant landforms; there are also magical legends that touch the Silk Road all the way and the most strong western customs; more autumn The most beautiful Populus euphratica with deep meaning, golden splendor, all kinds of strange things, standing here for three thousand years, is waiting for you.
If you love someone, take her to see the autumn in the northwest, because this is a paradise of beauty; if you hate someone, take her to see the spring in the northwest, because this is a terrible hell!
Self-driving the Gansu-Qinghai Inner Mongolia Hexi Corridor Grand Ring Road, walking into the vast Gobi, the vast desert and the Populus euphratica intoxicated for thousands of years, experiencing this place that touches the soul and experiencing the life-shaking autumn scenery has long been our long-cherished wish and dream!
【Preparation before departure】
1. Homework
When making an appointment to travel, the purpose, route, and method of travel must be negotiated and deliberated repeatedly. If you decide to travel by self-driving, the necessary accurate navigation arrangements such as road books and guides are naturally indispensable; checking information, borrowing experience, pushing routes, setting itineraries, finding scenic spots, and finding accommodation, although time-consuming and laborious, it is time-consuming and labor-intensive to hold road books and guides. Natural and relaxed.
2. Traffic guarantee
Although we used the whole trip by self-driving, if there is no special need for sightseeing on the way from the departure point to Lanzhou or Xining, we strongly recommend that you take a plane or high-speed rail to Lanzhou or Xining, and then rent a car or charter a car journey, which saves time and reduces fatigue.
For self-driving trips throughout the journey, it is necessary to perform maintenance on the vehicle beforehand to ensure that the tires are relatively new; bring a tow rope, spare tire, tire replacement tool, warning triangle, fire extinguisher, insurance card, driving license, vehicle emergency contact information, and cigarette lighter charging head, emergency flashlight, etc. Renting a car or chartering a car must also put forward the above requirements to the merchants to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Routinely check whether the tire pressure, glass water, various instruments, brakes, steering, wipers, horns, lights, etc. are normal before leaving the car every day; the communication signal in many places on the Northwest L For the convoy, it is best to keep a walkie-talkie in each car, and it is most appropriate to be prepared for emergency communication interruptions; keep a distance between cars, drive at a medium speed, pay attention to the conditions of other cars, and remember to fasten your seat belt.
When driving in the desert, there is only the sky and the desert in front of you, and there is no other reference to adjust the line of sight. Long-distance driving is very easy to fatigue. Therefore, it is extremely important to ensure safety by at least two skilled drivers for each car.
When crossing the no-man's land in the desert, please be sure to pay attention to the fuel level of the vehicle. Even if there is a service area in the navigation, you may encounter the phenomenon that the door is closed.
The traffic signals at intersections in many towns in Gansu and Qinghai (including Lanzhou and Xining urban areas) are very strange. When the signal light of our straight lane is green, the green light of the left-turning lane will also be released at the same time, which is very likely to cause traffic accidents. Therefore, when driving in these places, you must pay attention to the traffic and avoid accidents.
3. Luggage
Traveling to the northwest desert in October, due to the large temperature difference between day and night, strong ultraviolet radiation, relatively poor food and accommodation conditions, long drive to the plateau, and the need for beautiful scenery and pictures, it is necessary to prepare personal information before departure. required items.
1. Shoulder bag (essential), which is comfortable to carry and can hold the change of clothes for the day; waist bag or shoulder bag or camera bag; suitcase, should not be too large, otherwise it will be difficult to place in the trunk of the vehicle;
2. 1 set of fleece jackets or down jackets, some thermal underwear or thin sweater pants, skin clothes, spring and summer loose jackets and trousers (preferably can be worn many times), some T-shirts, red, white, green, light blue One pair of long skirts, several colorful scarves, gauze scarves, scarves, at least one sun hat (preferably one that can prevent wind and blow away), some socks with good sweat absorption and non-grinding feet, one set of emergency cooling gloves and hat;
3. A number of anti-wind and sand masks, sunscreen masks, 1 pair of sunglasses, an outdoor water bottle, and a convenient raincoat, and 1 pair of comfortable flat and soft-soled outdoor shoes, sports shoes, and slippers;
4. Sunscreen (over 30+), skin cream, lip balm, lipstick, facial mask, moisturizing spray, hand cream, etc.;
5. Toothbrush, toothpaste, towels, laundry soap, shampoo, shower gel, nail clippers, razors, toilet paper, wet wipes (in large quantities), garbage bags, neck pillows, etc.;
6. Tea, coffee, mineral water, drinks, snacks, chocolate, self-heating rice, fruit, fruit knife, etc.;
7. Heat-clearing and anti-heat stroke medicines, anti-diarrheal medicines, anti-inflammatory medicines, cold medicines, band-aids, vitamin lozenges, iodine tincture, cotton swabs, anti-mosquito medicines, glucose, motion sickness medicines;
8. Cameras, mobile phones, charging treasures, selfie sticks, etc.;
9. ID card, driver's license, special certificates for preferential treatment, appropriate amount of cash (prepare some change notes).
4. Fee reference
With 12 people and 3 vehicles, we traveled 6,700 kilometers and lasted 19 days. The per capita cost totaled 6,500 yuan. Mainly: accommodation fee 1,800 yuan/person, meal fee 1,200 yuan/person, ticket 1,400 yuan/person, entertainment items in scenic spots 300 yuan/person, vehicle refueling fee 940 yuan/person, vehicle toll fee 360 yuan/person (excluding National Day Free tolls during the period), vehicle maintenance fee 300 yuan/person, miscellaneous fees 200 yuan/person.
5. Matters needing attention
1. The Northwest diet is mainly beef, mutton, and pasta, and the taste is heavy, you need to adapt;
2. Many places are Muslim-inhabited areas. When eating in any halal restaurant, be careful not to bring in non-beef and mutton food from outside, do not drink alcohol, and try not to waste food;
3. Do not enter the kitchen without permission in Muslim areas, and non-Muslims are generally not welcome to visit;
4. The climate in most areas is dry. In order to enhance the resistance, you should eat more vegetables and fruits, drink plenty of water, and avoid unrestrained consumption of mutton to prevent gastrointestinal discomfort;
5. Tourism in Northwest China is lagging behind inland, and accommodation and food conditions are not as good as inland. You need to adjust your mentality, adapt to the environment, and look at everything with a happy mood; psychological preparation;
6. The temperature difference between day and night in Northwest China is large. When sleeping at night, the air conditioner should be turned on to a moderate level, and a quilt should be covered when sleeping to avoid physical discomfort;
7. When buying goods, try not to have quarrels; the ethnic minorities in the western region are relatively straightforward. When shopping, you must first see the price and unit of measurement and discuss it properly before buying; do not stop and watch, and bargain after confirming that you really need to buy something ;
8. It is recommended to buy enough food, water and other reserves before leaving for other attractions;
9. Respect the customs of ethnic minorities, and do not mention topics that are taboo by ethnic minorities;
10. Please pay attention to personal safety when riding a horse or camel, do not stand behind the horse's buttocks, and do not frighten the horse during the riding process;
11. It is strictly forbidden to take photos of Buddha statues in temples or temple halls, and pay attention to the precautions in front of the temple gate.
6. Disclaimer
A pre-departure disclaimer is also important.
1. All the participants of this trip have normal capacity for civil conduct, they travel together spontaneously, no one is the organizer, and it is purely voluntary; during the trip, accidents and injuries caused by personal factors and irresistible natural factors, other All members are free from legal, economic and medical responsibilities.
2. When physical injury is caused by unpredictable factors such as accidents and acute diseases, the accompanying members are obliged to do their best to rescue them, but if irreversible permanent damage is caused, other accompanying members shall not bear any responsibility.
3. Any member of the same group should participate in the trip in accordance with the principle of "trying to rescue and taking the risk at your own risk". The trip itself has certain risks and unforeseen features, and the participants should be responsible for their own actions. Accidents and legal responsibilities, you are responsible for yourself.
【My Line】
Zunyi - Hanzhong - Lanzhou - Xining - Qinghai Lake - Dachaidan - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Ejina Banner - Jiuquan - Zhangye - Lanzhou - Tianshui - Langzhong - Chongqing - Zunyi.
【Detailed itinerary】
D1. (October 3) With excitement, head towards the desired land
Zunyi—713㎞—Hanzhong, stay at Hanzhong Sakura Fashion Hotel. Driving for about 8.5 hours, the whole journey is high speed and the road condition is good. High-speed traffic is free today.
Before 8:00 a.m., each vehicle will pick up the designated occupants of the vehicle according to the pre-allocation plan, and gather at the right side of the entrance of Zunyi Station on the expressway; distribute walkie-talkies, and reconfirm whether the required important documents and items are all in place. After the car was filled up at the Gaoping service area, we officially started our pleasant journey. Today is the first day of travel, and the driving time is long. Safety is the first priority. Only by starting well can we maintain a good mood.
D2. (October 4) Bright smile and happy mood
Hanzhong—645㎞—Lanzhou, staying at Ruiyun Hotel in Lanzhou. About 8 hours of driving, the whole journey is high speed and the road condition is good. High-speed traffic is free today.
Get up early for breakfast, and continue to Lanzhou at 8:00. On the way, bursts of laughter came from the intercom from time to time, talk shows were endless, and a relaxed and happy mood hung on everyone's faces. At dinner time, I came to the Nanguan National Flavor Street, which is very close to the hotel and where locals often check in. There are all kinds of barbecue, thick and thin Lanzhou ramen, stuffed skin, milk fermented glutinous rice, gray beans, sweet fermented grains, hand-caught lamb, yellow rice Braised lamb, grilled skewers and other Lanzhou delicacies are available at reasonable prices.
D3. (October 5th) Visit Zhongshan Bridge, view the sculpture of the Yellow River Mother, read the history of Yellow River civilization
Lanzhou—2㎞—Zhongshan Bridge—3㎞—Mother of the Yellow River Sculpture—5㎞—Gansu Provincial Museum—212㎞—Xining, stay at Xining Motel 168 Hotel (Wangfujing West Street). About 4 hours of driving, the road condition is good. High-speed traffic is free today.
Get up early and eat a bowl of authentic Lanzhou beef noodles at the snack street. Since parking at the Zhongshan Bridge scenic spot is very inconvenient, and it is not far from the hotel where we stayed, it is better to walk, both to visit the city and exercise.
The first bridge of the Yellow River in the world - Zhongshan Bridge.
The most beautiful sculpture of the Yellow River Mother.
Gansu Provincial Museum, read the 8,000-year history of the Yellow River civilization.
The Zhongshan Bridge, the Yellow River Mother Sculpture, and the Gansu Provincial Museum are all free of charge.
In the afternoon, leave Lanzhou for Xining.
Xining Shuijing Lane Food Street is a must-see for tourists. Qinghai old yogurt, stuffed skin, kang pot mutton, yak bone soup, roast mutton, sheep intestine noodles and other Xining delicacies are waiting for foodies.
D4. (October 6) Tibetan Buddhist Kumbum Monastery, Plateau Sapphire Qinghai Lake
Xining—29㎞—Tar Monastery—90㎞—Riyue Mountain—12㎞—Daotang River—52㎞—Erlang Sword—82㎞—Qinghai Lake Net Red Sunrise Viewing Spot—14㎞—Heimahe Town, Suheima Heli Lake Hotel. Driving about 6 hours, the road condition is good. High-speed traffic is free today. Early hotel breakfast. Then go to Kumbum Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug Sect (Yellow Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism in China. Tickets are 70 yuan per person (free for those over 70 years old).
Kumbum Monastery is managed by the monks of the monastery and does not provide interpretation services. There are many tour guides at the gate of the temple, many of whom explain well, but there will also be some guides who will let you meet the living Buddha during the explanation process, let the living Buddha touch the top for you, consecrate the light, etc. , you are not a religious believer, it is best not to go, to avoid disputes and displeasure.
The famous scenic spots in the temple include Dajinwa Temple, Dajing Hall, and Babao Ruyi Pagoda. Duixiu, murals and butter flowers are known as the three wonders in the temple.
"I turned mountains and rivers and pagodas, not to cultivate the afterlife, but to meet you on the way." Here you can experience piety, receive spiritual purification, and meet Tibetans and lamas who turn scriptures.
After lunch, drive to Qinghai Lake, passing Laji Mountain Pass, Riyue Mountain, Daotang River and Erlangjian Scenic Area on the way. In view of the time and the suggestions of tourists in the guide, we did not buy tickets to enter when we passed the Riyue Mountain Scenic Area, Daotanghe Scenic Area, and Erlang Sword Scenic Area. We only took pictures at the gate of the scenic area to visit here.
Just arrived at the section of National Highway 109 near the shore of Qinghai Lake, there are several privately contracted areas surrounded by fences. Props and yaks for taking pictures are usually charged at 10 yuan per person.
We played and took pictures here, and we reluctantly left until the afterglow of the setting sun was about to pass away.
The clear blue sky and rippling lake water of Qinghai Lake allow me to have a deep glimpse of the breathtaking scenery of the lake.
The accommodation in Heimahe Town is very limited, mostly self-built bungalows, public toilets and bathrooms. But for the most beautiful sunrise in Qinghai Lake, it is still worth going. If it is the peak season, there will be a Tibetan bonfire party every night, and you can have a carnival with tourists from all over the world.
D5. (October 7) The most beautiful sunrise in the Black Horse River, the mirror of the sky, and the Sky Gobi Highway
Heima River - 23㎞ - Rubber Mountain - 61㎞ - Chaka Salt Lake - 445㎞ - Dachaidan Emerald Lake - 13㎞ - Dachaidan, Delingha City, Huating Business Hotel, Dachaidan Town. Driving about 7 hours, the road condition is good. High-speed traffic is free today.
The autumn sunrise of Heima River is the most beautiful sunrise in Qinghai Lake. We got up early at 5 o'clock in the morning and rushed to the intersection of Huanhu West Road, which is only more than 1 km away from the town, to watch the sunrise by the lake.
Although the clouds covered the sun, the moment the golden sun jumped out of the mountains, a golden light illuminated the sky and the lake. I was bathed in the glow, as if I was in a fairyland. The beauty is hard to describe in any language.
Under the high sky, facing a vast blue lake and facing the rising sun, my heart suddenly opened up, and I only hoped to freeze time.
After watching the sunrise, have a quick breakfast and head to Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area. On the way, we climbed over the 3817-meter rubber mountain pass, where you can have a panoramic view of Qinghai Lake. After passing the pass, I entered the Qaidam Basin that I dreamed of and looked forward to.
Chaka Town is the east gate of the Qaidam Basin. Chaka Salt Lake is known as the most beautiful "mirror of the sky" in China. It is a must-see for all tourists visiting Qinghai Lake. It is about 3 kilometers from the entrance of the scenic spot to the lake, and about 6 kilometers into the innermost salt lake mining field. The mining field is the best place to play in the salt lake and the best place to shoot the mirror of the sky. It is recommended to take a small train to go. Tickets are 70 yuan per person (free for those over 70 years old), and small trains are 50 yuan per person for one way.
When we arrived at the scenic spot, the sky was gloomy, so we decisively decided to check in at the gate of the scenic spot, leaving more time for the Dachaidan Emerald Lake, which is even worse.
Leaving Chaka, driving on the Dexiao Expressway, you will officially enter the Qaidam Basin. Large areas of Gobi, Danxia landforms, and groups of wild camels on the roadside provide a panoramic view of the beautiful scenery along the way.
When passing Keluke Lake, Tuosu Lake, and the alien ruins, because the ruins are closed, and some vehicle tires in the convoy have problems, they must be dealt with immediately. It took nearly 3 hours to replace them successfully in the urban area of Delingha, so it was cancelled. I made a plan to visit these three niche attractions.
After driving all the way, we finally arrived at Dachaidan Emerald Lake before sunset.
Emerald Lake is a brine lake in the mining area on the edge of the Great Qaidam Lake. From a distance, it looks like a few small pools. The lake is deep and has various colors. There are white salt particles on the surface of the lake, and the background is the steep peaks. The reflection is deeper and brighter than Chaka Salt Lake, and it is more quiet and peaceful.
When you go deep into the lake and are curious to explore the mysterious crystal world at the bottom of the lake, your beautiful reflection has already jumped into the lens of others. Hurry up and pose in various shapes, leaving the most beautiful shadow, and taking enviable blockbusters in minutes.
D6. (October 8) Yadan Devil City, Petroleum Town, Yangguan Ruins
Dachaidan—103㎞—South Eight Immortals—2㎞—Dachaidan Devil City—6㎞—Yadan Landform—240㎞—Dangjin Pass—25㎞—Nine-story Demon Tower—91㎞—Yangguan Ruins—64㎞—Dunhuang , Stay at Dunhe Hotel in Dunhuang City. After driving for about 10.5 hours, the road condition is good, and the high-speed traffic resumes toll collection.
Today's journey is long, and we have to cross the longest uninhabited area of this trip. There are basically no people along the way, and it is difficult to resupply, so we have prepared some drinking water and dry food in advance, and the vehicle has enough fuel. Practice has proved that these preparations are correct. In the only service area in this section, all services are completely stopped.
In the early morning, drive on the road to Nanbaxian Yadan Devil City. Go to the Liuge Expressway for about 40 kilometers. After passing the Yuka service area, immediately drive out of the expressway at the Nanbaxian Exit, and follow the old National Highway 315 (Xisha Line) to the direction of Nanbaxian.
Under the morning light, the mysterious, quiet and grotesque Yardang landforms gradually come into view. The road is quiet and windy, desolate and endless, and the strange Yadan is just like entering the city of devils. It makes people feel frightened and deeply feels the mystery of nature.
This is an undeveloped Yardang landform. The strong wind shuttles between the steep hills and roars; the iron-rich mountains and strong geomagnetism make mobile phones, GPS, compass, and walkie-talkies come here. will fail.
Leave Nanbaxian, re-enter the Liuge Expressway, and head towards Dunhuang.
The straight roads in the uninhabited area of the Qaidam Basin look like the avenues leading to the sky, and on both sides of the road are the western styles that are common in movies.
After crossing the Dangjin Pass, it means that we have traveled from the south side of Qilian Mountains to the north side of Qilian Mountains, and also entered Gansu from Qinghai.
Continue to go north and come to the oil town of the old county of Aksay Kazak Autonomous County, where the 3D disaster adventure film "Nine-story Demon Tower" was filmed. Tickets are 20 yuan/person (free for over 70 years old).
The ruins of the town and the deserted factory area make people feel the vicissitudes of time here.
Yangguan is an important pass on the ancient Silk Road, and it is here that "West out of Yangguan without old friends" comes from. Tickets are 40 yuan/person (free for those over 70 years old), and scenic spot battery cars are 10 yuan/person.
Here, you can experience the infinite desolation faced by the ancients in the Gobi.
After arriving in Dunhuang in the evening, have dinner at Shazhou Night Market, the largest snack street in the city. There are a variety of delicacies and snacks here, and it is very lively. You can open your stomach and eat to your heart's content. But I also have to say that although the taste is good, the price is ridiculously high, and there is a phenomenon of ripping off customers!
D7. (October 9) Wonders accompanied by sand springs, thousand-year art treasures, desert camping
Dunhuang—11㎞—Mogao Grottoes—13㎞—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Desert Camp. Su Warrior outdoor desert camping base.
Mogao Grottoes is what we are most looking forward to in this trip. The ancient Silk Road, 3,000 years of history, and the integration of four ancient civilizations have formed a unique culture of Dunhuang. The full price of tickets is 238 yuan per person for ticket A (including 180 yuan for Mogao Grottoes + 48 yuan for Mogao Grottoes Digital Exhibition Center + 10 yuan for transportation to and from Mogao Grottoes, and you can visit all 8 open caves); special discount ticket 20 yuan / People (over 70 years old, including big ticket free + digital exhibition center free + transportation 10 yuan + explanation 10 yuan, visiting the cave is the same as ticket A). These two types of tickets must be reserved on the official website of the Dunhuang Academy www.mgk.org.cn or on the official account of “Mogao Grottoes Visiting Reservation Network” on WeChat. The number of Mogao Grottoes entering the scenic spot is limited to 6,000 people per day. Tickets must be purchased online with real names 30 days in advance, and each person can purchase up to 5 tickets. Otherwise, you can only buy type B tickets (visit 4 small caves) upon arrival.
According to the appointment time for advance ticket purchase, we rushed to the gate of the Mogao Grottoes Digital Exhibition Center before 9 o'clock as required, picked up the tickets, waited in line, and watched two films in the Digital Exhibition Center at 10 o'clock according to the appointment time. The formation history of Mogao Grottoes , construction, excavation and impact, etc. have a preliminary understanding. After that, take the scenic bus to enter the core area to visit the thousand-year art treasures.
Approaching the Mogao Grottoes, the mysterious Dunhuang culture unfolds before your eyes. The extensive Buddhist culture has taken root here, and despite the ups and downs and human destruction, it is still the greatest treasure house of existing Buddhist art.
After visiting Mogao Grottoes, drive to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring Scenic Spot. Tickets: 120 yuan/person (free for over 70 years old, unlimited access within three days), 100 yuan/person for camel riding, 10 yuan/person for one-way battery car.
Entering the gate of the scenic spot, we first go to the camel camp on the right side of the gate to experience the experience of riding a camel in the desert. The route of riding a camel is from the gate through the sand dunes on the left, and then to the vicinity of Crescent Lake. The whole journey takes about 30 minutes. Each camel has a number. Which camel to sit on is determined according to the number on the ticket. It will also be exchanged according to the situation of tourists and camels. For example, bad-tempered camels usually arrange young people and men.
Riding a camel to feel the ancient Silk Road, swinging on the camel's back, listening to the camel bell, watching the long camel team, as if traveling back to the ancient times.
After experiencing the fun of riding a camel, you can enjoy the panoramic view of Crescent Spring at the foot of Mingsha Mountain, and leisurely enjoy the wonders of Crescent Spring along the green path, just like a lost traveler looking forward to the miracle of the next life in the vast desert.
The sand does not cover the springs, and the springs depend on each other. The natural wonders here are amazing.
Originally, we expected to feel the artistic conception of "the lonely smoke in the desert, the long river to set the sun" on Mingsha Mountain, and watch the shocking sunset in the desert, but because the clouds and fog rose near the time, we missed the beauty of the sunset.
At dusk, head to the outdoor camping base in the Warriors Desert.
Here we indulge in sandboarding, ride desert motorcycles, play interactive games, drink and revel, and experience a different kind of desert camping.
The desert camping project is booked online in advance, and the cost includes: tent + car pick-up service + unlimited sandboarding + desert motorcycle experience + local hot pot + unlimited beer and mineral water + barbecue + singing and dancing performance + bonfire party + Set up a tent and watch the desert sunset, starry sky, and sunrise by yourself. At 17:00 in the afternoon, you can drive into the camping base by car or pick up at the agreed location, and send it to the urban area after watching the sunrise the next day. When traveling in the desert, pay special attention to sun protection. Sunglasses, outdoor headscarves, hats, sunscreen, body lotion, mosquito repellent ointment, and sunscreen coats are must-haves. Bright long silk scarves, colorful clothes or skirts are a must for taking beautiful photos flying in the wind. There are also gliders, helicopters and other recreational items in the scenic area, so pay attention to consulting the price in advance. The sand quality of Mingsha Mountain is relatively fine, so it is necessary to protect the camera and mobile phone to prevent the fine sand from falling into the sand.
D8. (October 10) to adjust the rest
Camping base to Dunhuang city. Stay in Dunhuang City. Yesterday's carnival was released, and everyone was already covered in fine sand. The camping base does not have the cleaning conditions, so I decided to return to Dunhuang City today to adjust and rest, so as to facilitate the subsequent itinerary.
D9. (October 11) Jiayuguan, the most powerful pass in the world
Dunhuang City—122㎞—Guazhou—251㎞—First Pier of Jiayuguan Great Wall—15㎞—Suspended Great Wall—8㎞—Jiayuguan City—9㎞—Jiayuguan, stay at Home Inn in the urban area. The driving is about 5.5 hours, the whole journey is high speed and the road condition is good. Jiayuguan Guancheng, the first pier of the Great Wall, and the hanging wall of the Great Wall are package tickets of 110 yuan per person (free for those over 70 years old), and battery tickets can also be purchased.
After breakfast, bid farewell to Dunhuang and proceed to Jiayuguan. Say goodbye to the barren Qaidam Gobi Desert, walk in the Hexi Corridor, watch the Gobi windmills along the way, taste the sweet melons in Guazhou, and the land moistened by snow-melt rivers is more fertile and beautiful.
Arrive at the first pier of the Jiayuguan Great Wall, and experience the vicissitudes and historical changes that the Beacon Tower has endured.
Visit the Great Wall of China hovering over the Black Mountain.
Visiting Jiayuguan, listening to the wind of the Gobi tell the story of thousands of years ago, touching the city wall defended by the brave men on the border, the feeling of admiration arises spontaneously.
D10. (October 12) Populus euphratica forest in Ruoshui Jinsha Bay
Jiayuguan—270㎞—Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center—147㎞—Ruoshui Jinsha Bay—31㎞—Ejina Banner, Ejina Banner Moshang Huakai Family Apartment. About 6 hours of driving, the whole national road, the road condition is good.
The next few days starting today will be the most important, most anticipated, and most unforgettable journey of our trip—the trip to Populus euphratica forest.
Populus euphratica, known as the hero tree by the world, will not die for a thousand years, will not fall for a thousand years after death, and will not rot for a thousand years when it falls to the ground. "Pullar euphratica for three thousand years" has been standing there waiting for you.
Every October, the leaves of Populus euphratica trees all turn golden. Under the blue sky, the golden Populus euphratica forest reflects the desert in the northwest, making this place a paradise for tourists.
After breakfast, leave Jiayuguan, go along the Jiuhang Expressway and Aerospace Avenue, and enter the management area of the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Base. Due to unknown reasons, the satellite launch center that was originally open to tourists now needs to present a letter of introduction from a unit above the military regiment. Entering the tour, you have to watch it from a distance.
In the afternoon, arrive at Gate 1 of Populus euphratica Forest Scenic Spot in Ruoshui Jinshawan, Ejina Banner. Ruoshui Jinshawan Populus euphratica Forest, Heicheng, and Strange Forest Scenic Spots are closely adjacent to each other and have been integrated into one scenic spot. The ticket price is 200 yuan/person (free for over 70 years old), and the shuttle bus is 20 yuan/person. The scenic spot can enter the park for free for the second time, but you need to register and buy a ferry ticket.
We calculated the time and felt that it might be difficult to watch the strange forest at sunset, so we decisively decided to enter the park for the second time.
On both sides of the upper reaches of the Ruoshui River, the natural beauty of desert, Shenshui and Populus euphratica is perfectly combined. It is not only endowed with the love theme of "Three Thousands of Ruoshui, Take Only One Scoop", but also given "Pulphus euphratica Baimeisheng, trapped in Ruoshui". The eternal tenderness.
The natural beauty here is authentic, the golden Populus euphratica is reflected in the sparkling waves, and the scenery is graceful and graceful.
Heicheng is not the ruins of the ancient city on the ancient Silk Road, but a replica of the original appearance and size of the ruined ancient city about 20 kilometers away in the Heicheng Scenic Area. The long yellow sand and five ancient pagodas are its main attractions.
D11. (October 13) Populus euphratica forest in Ejina Banner
Populus euphratica Forest Scenic Spot in Ejina Banner. There are eight bridges in Ejina Banner Populus euphratica Forest Scenic Area, and the scenery of each bridge is quite different. One Bridge Loves Shadow Forest, Erdaoqiao Reflection Forest, Three Bridges Red Willow Sea, Sidaoqiao Heroes Forest, Five Bridges Turhut Manor, Six Bridges are temporarily closed, Seven Bridges Dreamland Forest, and Badaoqiao Shahai Forest. The two, four, seven, and eight bridges in the scenic area are worth visiting.
Considering the flow of tourists, photography light, and the requirements for entering and exiting the scenic spot, our tour route is as follows: drive to the comprehensive customer service center of Ximen Scenic Area (one bridge) to park, exchange tickets, enter the scenic spot (get the scenic spot guide picture album at the service center), and take a tour Bridge and Erdao Bridge, take a scenic sightseeing bus at the exit of Erdao Bridge (you can only take the bus here, and after leaving Erdao Bridge, you can no longer return to Yidao Bridge and Erdao Bridge for free) to Sidao Bridge, Qidao Bridge, and Badao Bridge Bridge, then take a car directly back to the West Gate parking lot. You can take the scenic sightseeing bus to connect with the ticket for the whole journey. Tickets are 240 yuan per person (including 150 yuan for scenic spots + 50 yuan for Badaoqiao tickets + 40 yuan for sightseeing cars in scenic spots), and tickets are free for those over 70 years old, but you need to buy sightseeing tickets of 40 yuan per person. Badaoqiao desert off-road vehicle 110 yuan / person.
Entering the scenic area, the first thing that catches the eye is a bridge viewing area, Love Shadow Forest. Populus euphratica, wetlands, deserts and herdsmen in Love Shadow Forest are integrated into one, giving people a different kind of softness.
Erdaoqiao is relatively full of primitive features, where the waterways are wide, and there are sporadic yurts and stretching sand dunes as a foil, and the reflection of Populus euphratica is too beautiful to behold.
Under the azure blue sky, in the Yingying autumn water, golden reflections are reflected one by one, and the colors become more and more charming.
Sidaoqiao became famous because the movie "Heroes" was filmed here, and it is known as the "Hero Forest".
The Populus euphratica forest here has thick trunks, strong branches, and various shapes.
The golden and lush autumn colors are dazzling and intoxicating.
Populus euphratica in Qidaoqiao was the first to arouse people's affection for autumn. In the golden autumn, this place also became the beginning of the bright life of Populus euphratica.
D12. (October 14) Dawn and sunrise in Juyanhai, strange forests
Ejina Banner—61㎞—Juyanhai—45㎞—Ceke Port—136㎞—Strange Forest—30㎞—Ejina Banner. The sunrise, reeds and seagulls in Juyanhai are the beautiful scenery that every tourist who comes to Ejina Banner must experience for himself even if he is braving the cold wind and getting up early in the dark. "Sunrise river flowers are red like fire" and "reeds stretching to the sky like Jiangnan" are said here. Tickets are 60 yuan/person (free for those over 70 years old), and scenic transportation vehicles are 15 yuan/person.
Departing at 5:00 in the morning, there are travel agency buses and self-driving vehicles all the way. Although it is a highway, it can only travel slowly. When we arrived at the entrance of the scenic spot, there were already a sea of people. We quickly completed the ticket purchase, lined up to enter the scenic spot, and walked to the location to watch the sunrise. It was already a rush of time. Juyanhai is very cold in the early morning. When watching the sunrise, you must wear thick clothes and keep warm.
When the sun rises from the direction of Mongolia not far away, the lake surface is rippling, the reeds are swaying, and the water birds are flying. When everything in front of you is stained with psychedelic colors, the sun, reeds, and seagulls constitute a stunning and exquisite scene. picture scroll.
Leave Juyanhai and go to Zhongmengzeke Port for a short visit.
The strange forests are all poplars that have died for thousands of years. In the vast desert, the dead trees have different shapes and strange shapes, as if telling the world the strong desire for the water of life and the unyielding spirit of tenaciously fighting against the harsh natural environment.
The exhausted Populus euphratica is either tall and straight, or rickety, or screaming up to the sky, or compassionate, standing in the desert and refusing to fall down, just like a group of soldiers who died in the last battle, tragic and desolate.
At the same time, the dead Populus euphratica with "dead corpses" all over the field exudes a hideous and terrifying atmosphere, which is a bit creepy.
On a clear October day, when the sun is setting, you can enjoy the silhouettes of people and poplar euphratica trees in various poses and withered forms in the strange forest, leaving behind beautiful large films, which will surely make you longing and intoxicated.
D13. (October 15) Jinta Beautiful Populus euphratica Forest
Ejina Banner—302㎞—Jinta Desert Populus euphratica Forest—77㎞—Jiuquan. Overnight in Jiuquan City. Drive about 5 hours. Jinta Populus euphratica Forest is a tourist attraction integrating ecological afforestation, wind and sand fixation, catering and entertainment, leisure and vacation, photography creation, and sightseeing. It is one of the most beautiful places in Gansu Province in autumn. Tickets are 65 yuan per person (free for those over 70 years old), 20 yuan per person for sightseeing cars in the scenic spot, and you can also drive into the scenic spot by self-driving car after paying 30 yuan per car.
When I came to the shore of Jinbo Lake, a large piece of Populus euphratica suddenly jumped into my eyes, which was as magnificent as a golden ocean. The shiny leaves shone brightly in the sun, as if entering a fairy tale world, the beauty was suffocating!
Different from the Populus euphratica forest in Ejina Banner, the Populus euphratica by the Jinbo Lake lies on the lake. The blue sky, floating white clouds, clear lake water, reflection on the water surface and golden Populus euphratica, the water and the sky are the same color, slender and beautiful without being coquettish, it really makes people's hearts pounding.
In the golden world, the scattered golden Populus euphratica is like a big golden umbrella, resplendent and dazzling, allowing me to fully enjoy the beauty and beauty bestowed by nature.
The blue waves of Jinbo Lake are rippling, the Populus euphratica forest is dazzling, and the jujube flowers are fragrant. Coming here will definitely bring you a strong shock of life, a quiet space for the soul, and a beautiful visual feast.
The setting sun is vast, and with a touch of sunset glow, Populus euphratica turns from golden yellow to golden red, and finally turns into a piece of maroon, gradually blending into the hazy night.
D14. (October 16) Magical Binggou Danxia, Colorful Danxia
Jiuquan—211㎞—Zhangye Binggou Danxia—18㎞—Colorful Danxia North Gate. Stay at One Meter Sunshine Inn at the north gate of Zhangye Colorful Danxia Scenic Area. It took about 3.5 hours to drive and the road conditions were good. After breakfast, proceed to Zhangye Binggou Danxia Scenic Area. Binggou Danxia landform is famous for its shape, majesty and magic. Tickets are 32 yuan/person (free for those over 70 years old), and scenic transportation vehicles are 20 yuan/person.
Rich types, peculiar shapes, various forms, lifelike images and pleasing to the eye.
Phantom of the Louvre
stone castle
Egyptian Pharaoh
Shen Luo welcomes guests
Taoyuan knot
Xuanwu Gate
mushroom stone
Yin-Yang Pillar
Jin Luo loves deeply
eagle head rock
Jinchan Guanxia
beer hall
Leave the Binggou Scenic Area, drive to the north gate of the Colorful Danxia Scenic Area, and take a scenic bus tour. Tickets are 55 yuan/person (free for those over 70 years old), and sightseeing cars are 20 yuan/person. You can enter the park again the next day, and you only need to buy a 20 yuan sightseeing ticket.
There are four main viewing platforms in the scenic area: Colorful Yunhai Terrace (No. 1), Colorful Xianyuan Terrace (No. 2), Colorful Xia Terrace (No. 4), and Colorful Jinxiu Terrace (No. 5).
The most beautiful scenery is No. 1 and No. 4. No. 1 is the check-in point for watching the sunrise, No. 4 is the best place to enjoy the sunset; No. 2 viewing platform is the highest, and you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Danxia landform.
Note that the entrance to the scenic spot is different, and the tour and bus routes are also different. We enter from the north gate, and the order of tour is as follows: North gate entrance, No. 2 platform, No. 1 platform, No. 5 platform, No. 4 platform, and North gate exit. When taking the bus on platform 4, be sure to see which gate you are going to exit.
The interlaced lines of Zhangye Danxia bedding, colorful tones, and dazzling and magnificent paintings form a colorful fairy tale world; she is the most typical and largest Danxia landform landscape in China, and it is the best-developed Danxia landform and landform. One of the richest styling areas.
sleeping Beauty
Returning to sail at sunset
Colorful screen
Monks worship Buddha
Silk Road
Yugur tassel
Chibi Great Wall
dragon play fire
Little Potala Palace
Turtle asks the sky
The colorful Zhangye Danxia is as colorful as a palette overturned by God.
D15-19. (October 17-21) exhausted return journey
Colorful Danxia Scenic Area—545㎞—Lanzhou—354㎞—Tianshui Street Pavilion—541㎞—Langzhong Ancient City—283㎞—Chongqing Hongya Cave—240㎞—Zunyi.
The main travel itinerary has basically come to an end. Turn on safe return mode. Along the way, they stayed in Lanzhou, Tianshui Jieting, Langzhong Ancient City, and Hongyadong in Chongqing respectively. After driving 1963 kilometers, they returned to their comfortable and warm home safely and smoothly with exhaustion and joy of traveling in the Northwest.
