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Step into the hidden wonderland of Alxa and conquer the world’s fourth great wilderness. When pushing your limits, the hardest rival to overcome is yourself...

This is an unparalleled desert adventure. Climb the world’s tallest sand mountain, listen to the temple bells echoing across this so-called "forbidden zone for life", and savour the genuine tranquility of existence. The journey involves tough treks and minor risks, yet it holds an irresistible allure.

Yinchuan (Wuhai) — Bayanhot (Guangzong Temple, Yanfu Temple, Rare Stone Street) — Yabrai Town (Badain Jaran Desert Adventure) — Jiuquan (Zhangye)

Meet the tour group in Yinchuan (Wuhai). Take a coach across the Helan Mountains to Bayanhot, the capital city of Alxa League. Overnight: Bayanhot

After breakfast, take a coach to Guangzong Temple (South Temple, 4A scenic spot) in the Helan Mountains. Pay homage to the Spirit Pagoda of the 6th Dalai Lama, the Yellow Temple, Red Temple and Thousand-Buddha Hall, then wander through the primeval Helan Mountain forest. Enjoy lunch in Mongolian yurts at the Oirat Nomadic Camp. In the afternoon, visit Yanfu Temple and Rare Stone Street, then head to Wurste Grassland Cultural Tourism Zone (3A) to watch horse and camel racing. Free time for shopping. Overnight: Bayanhot

Travel by coach via Yabrai Town to the fringe of Badain Jaran Desert. Transfer to dedicated desert adventure jeeps for Badain Lake, the first stop of the Badain Jaran Desert expedition. Overnight: Badain Lake

Ride special desert vehicles to Temple Lake and Badain Jaran Temple, then ascend Bilutu Peak, the world’s tallest sand mountain, and taste the water from the Divine Spring. Arrive at Nuoertu Lake, the largest lake in Badain Jaran Desert, by evening. Overnight: Nuoertu Lake

After breakfast at Nuoertu Lake, head back to Jiuquan (Zhangye) for group dismissal.