Gansu Sample Itinerary

Overland from Sichuan Province

Day 1.
Journey by bus to Langmusi, a Tibetan village set amongst alpine fields. There are 2 monasteries here to explore as well as the beautiful Namo Gorge.​
Day 2 – Day 3.
For those of you who would like to see the surrounding country side from a different perspective as well as have an authentic homestay experience with Tibetan nomads, embark on a horse trek. A great option is a 2 day trek where you will overnight with a traditional Tibetan family within their tent compound. Alternative trip lengths are available.​

Flying directly into Gansu Province​

Day 1.
Arrive in to Tainshui and explore this vibrant city, taking note of the ancient Fuxi temple and the great food markets.​
Day 2.
​Take a day trip to the nearby Maiji Mountain to enjoy the impressive site of over 7,200 clay statues carved in to 194 individual grottoes, all easily accessible by the overhanging plank road that has been constructed to make viewing easy.
Day 3.
Head by train to Lanzhou, the main city of the region and get into the vibe at the colourful markets, temples and shops. ​

Both itineraries converge

Day 4.
​Make your way by bus from either Langmusi (overland itinerary) or Lanzhou (direct flight itinerary) to Xiahe, home to the famous Labrang Monastery with its resident 1,800 monks.
Day 5.
Take a tour of the monastery, walk up around the surrounding hills for spectacular views and join the worshippers as they circle the monastery walls, spinning the squeaking prayer wheels as they go.​
Day 6.
Head to Liujiaxia, the access point to Bingling Thousand Buddha Caves – a magnificent area situated amongst an ancient stone forest and only accessible by boat. Grab a taxi and visit the nearby convergence of the Daxia and Yellow Rivers enjoying the great views along the way.​
Day 7.
Spend the day exploring Bingling Si.​
Day 8.
​Make the short trip to Lanzhou before taking an internal flight further north to Jiayuguan, home to Jiayuguan Fort where the Great Wall of China comes to its end.
Day 9 – Day 13.
Take a guided tour of the surrounding area, taking in sights such as Qiyi Glacier, Qilan Mountain, Mogao Caves and the impressive Mingsha Dune. Your tour will finish in Dunhuang.​
Day 14.
Head to Dunhuang airport for the start of your journey home.​
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Total indicative cost of the above sample itinerary flying directly in to Gansu is NZD$3,000 - $3,800 depending on the level of accommodation chosen. For those travelling overland from Sichuan province and taking the 2 day horse trek option, a further NZD$500 should be added.
​This price is based on a family of 2 adults plus 2 children under the age of 12 and includes all accommodation, meals (where provided by the accommodation), guide services and internal flights. It excludes sundry expenses such as spending money, entrance fees to attractions, meals (where not provided by the accommodation), visas (where required) and international airfares.