Embark on a 7-day Xian-Lanzhou-Zhangye-Xian Muslim Tour that explores China’s rich Islamic history, culture, and landmarks. This tour will take you through key cities in the northwest, offering a deep dive into the Islamic heritage of China, from historical mosques to local Muslim communities.

Day 1: Arrival in Xian

• Arrive in Xian: Begin your journey in Xian, the starting point of the ancient Silk Road.
• Visit the Great Mosque of Xian (西安大清真寺): A historically significant mosque located in the heart of Xian, showcasing a blend of Islamic and traditional Chinese architectural styles.
• Explore Muslim Quarter: Wander around the bustling streets filled with Muslim-owned shops, markets, and halal restaurants. Enjoy local delicacies like lamb skewers, biangbiang noodles, and roujiamo (Chinese hamburger).

Travel Tip: Take a walk around the Muslim Quarter in the evening to experience the vibrant night market, where you can try street food and buy local handicrafts.

Day 2: Xian to Lanzhou

• Morning Train to Lanzhou: Take a train or a flight from Xian to Lanzhou (approximately 3-4 hours by train).
• Visit the Lanzhou Great Mosque (兰州大清真寺): A beautiful mosque with a rich history, located in Lanzhou’s central area. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and prayer.
• Explore Lanzhou: Visit local markets and halal eateries, where you can try Lanzhou’s famous hand-pulled noodles (拉面).

Travel Tip: Lanzhou is known for its hearty halal cuisine, especially noodles. Don’t miss out on trying the signature Lanzhou Beef Noodles.

Day 3: Lanzhou to Zhangye

• Morning Drive to Zhangye: After breakfast, head to Zhangye by car or train (approximately 4-5 hours).
• Visit the Zhangye Grand Mosque (张掖大清真寺): Located in the city center, this mosque combines both Islamic and traditional Chinese architectural features.
• Explore Zhangye’s Muslim Community: Learn about the history of Islam in the region and explore local markets and Muslim communities.

Travel Tip: Zhangye is a quieter city compared to Lanzhou, offering a more intimate experience with the local Muslim culture.

Day 4: Zhangye – Danxia Landform & Local Exploration

• Morning Excursion to Danxia Landform (张掖丹霞地貌): A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful rock formations and stunning landscapes. Take a scenic hike and explore the beauty of nature.
• Afternoon Visit to Local Muslim Villages: Interact with local Muslim families, learn about their customs, and explore their lifestyle.

Travel Tip: The Danxia Landform is best viewed in the morning or late afternoon when the lighting enhances the vibrant colors of the rock formations.

Day 5: Zhangye to Xian

• Morning Departure to Xian: Take a train or flight back to Xian (approximately 6-7 hours by train).
• Rest & Relax: Spend the afternoon resting at your hotel or enjoying leisure activities in Xian.
• Evening Visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔): Although not Islamic, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is an iconic landmark of Xian and offers panoramic views of the city.

Travel Tip: If you arrive early, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in the evening for beautiful night views and a relaxing stroll around the park.

Day 6: Xian – Hanyang Tomb & Xi’an Muslim Culture

• Visit the Hanyang Tomb (汉阳陵): Explore the tomb of the Emperor of the Han Dynasty, which offers insights into ancient Chinese burial practices.
• Visit the Xi’an Islamic Culture Center: Learn more about the local Muslim culture, customs, and history.
• Shopping at Muslim Markets: Visit markets that offer halal food, Islamic books, and Muslim clothing.

Travel Tip: Xi’an’s Islamic Culture Center is a great place to learn about the city’s long Islamic history and its influence on local culture.

Day 7: Departure from Xian

• Free Time in Xian: Spend your final day exploring Xian at your leisure. You can visit the Terra Cotta Warriors or relax at one of the city’s many tea houses.
• Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and prepare for your departure.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers; sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge; government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• Domestic high speed train tickets;

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

Note:

The quotation is different for China Public Holidays. For instance, Chinese Spring Festival,Tomb-sweeping Festival, Labor Day, Dragon-boat Festival, Mid-autumn Festival, China National Day, etc.