8D7N Imperial Treasures and Desert Wonders of Ningxia
Uncover the hidden treasures of Ningxia on this immersive 8-day journey through its imperial past, rich winemaking traditions, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Step back in time at the Western Xia Tombs, often called the "Oriental Pyramids," and explore the region’s cultural gems. Indulge in exclusive wine tastings at renowned wineries, then embrace adventure with off-road desert expeditions, camel rides, and sheepskin rafting on the Yellow River. From historical landmarks to luxurious stays in the heart of the desert, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of heritage, nature, and indulgence.
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Itinerary at a Glance:
Location | Suggested Hotel |
---|---|
5 Nights in Yinchuan | Hyatt Place Yinchuan / Helan Mountain Anmo or similar |
2 Nights in Zhongwei | Desert Stars Hotel or similar |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Yinchuan
Upon arrival in Yinchuan, your guide will meet and greet you at the airport. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel, the Hyatt Place Yinchuan or a similar hotel. After checking in, relax and unwind from your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Yinchuan’s signature lamb hot pot, offering a delicious introduction to Ningxia’s culinary delights.
Activities & Services:
- Airport Transfer
- Welcome Dinner with Yinchuan’s Signature Lamb Hot Pot
Included: Dinner
Day 2: Yinchuan – Western Xia Tombs & Winery Experience
Begin your day with a visit to the Western Xia Tombs and the Western Xia Museum, where you’ll explore the royal mausoleum of the Western Xia Dynasty, one of China’s largest and most well-preserved tomb complexes, often referred to as the "Oriental Pyramids." Next, head to Chandon Winery, Moët Hennessy’s first sparkling wine winery in China, for a vineyard tour, insights into French champagne-making techniques, and a sparkling wine tasting. Later, visit Hooke Park, China’s largest outdoor off-road park, for an exhilarating off-road adventure on the Great Wall Route 2. Return to Yinchuan for an overnight stay at your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Western Xia Tombs
- Explore Western Xia Museum
- Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting at Chandon Winery
- 4x4 Off-Road Adventure at Hooke Park
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Yinchuan – Historical & Cultural Exploration
Travel to Shuidonggou, a renowned Paleolithic cultural site known as the "Birthplace of Chinese Prehistoric Archaeology." Explore the museum, immersive experience hall, and enjoy a camel cart ride. Return to Yinchuan to visit the Old Town Drum Tower and Chengtian Temple, where a guided walk will immerse you in the city’s rich history. Spend the night at your hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Shuidonggou Paleolithic Site
- Explore Old Town Drum Tower & Chengtian Temple
- Camel Cart Ride
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Yinchuan – Helan Mountain & Wine Tasting
Visit Helan Mountain, home to ancient rock art dating back thousands of years. Explore the World Rock Art Exhibition Hall to learn about these fascinating relics. Then, head to Silver Heights Winery, one of Ningxia’s most acclaimed wineries, for a tour and wine tasting. Continue to Xia Mu Winery, known for its unique clay pot fermentation process, and enjoy a tour, clay pot wine tasting, and dinner. Overnight at the Helan Mountain Anmo Hotel.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Helan Mountain & World Rock Art Exhibition Hall
- Wine Tasting at Silver Heights Winery
- Clay Pot Wine Tasting & Dinner at Xia Mu Winery
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Yinchuan – Zhongwei Desert Adventure
Travel to Alxa Dream Park Desert Rest Stop, the starting point for your thrilling desert adventure. Switch to off-road 4x4 vehicles and journey through the vast desert to Ulan Lake, the breathtaking "Heart of the Earth," known for its vibrant colours and stunning aerial photography spots. Later, continue to Zhongwei and check in at Desert Stars Hotel, a luxurious desert resort. Enjoy a special dinner and spend the evening stargazing under the clear desert sky.
Activities & Services:
- 4x4 Off-Road Desert Adventure
- Visit Ulan Lake
- Luxury Desert Stay & Stargazing
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Zhongwei – Shapotou Desert Experience
Explore Shapotou, the "Disneyland of the Desert," and enjoy activities like sand sliding and a sheepskin raft ride on the Yellow River. Afterwards, visit the Yellow River Homestay Cluster, a serene riverside retreat. Spend the night in this peaceful setting, complete with a private dinner and overnight stay.
Activities & Services:
- Sand Sliding & Camel Riding at Shapotou
- Sheepskin Rafting on the Yellow River
- Private Dinner at Yellow River Homestay Cluster
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Zhongwei – Yinchuan & Historical Landmarks
Visit the 108 Pagodas of Qingtongxia, a remarkable Tibetan Buddhist site from the Western Xia period. Explore this largest and most complete pagoda complex in China before returning to Yinchuan for your last night at the Hyatt Place Yinchuan.
Activities & Services:
- Visit 108 Pagodas of Qingtongxia
- Return Transfer to Yinchuan
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Departure from Yinchuan
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Hedong Airport for your departure flight back to Singapore, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Ningxia.
Activities & Services:
- Airport Transfer
Included: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary is designed to give you an idea of what to expect on the tour but is not set in stone. What we actually do on a given day is flexible and can be tailored based on the interests of the group.
This itinerary and its package inclusions might be changed later in time, subject to availability.