For cyclists, the most ideal way to spend holidays is to go somewhere with just their bikes and themselves. Want a low-carbon way to explore China's picturesque beauty? Let China.org.cn guide you through the top 10 cycling routes that you won't want to miss.

 

   Urumqi, Xinjiang --Dunhuang, Gansu (烏魯木齊--敦煌)

 

Urumqi --Dunhuang [gd.qq.com]

Cycling routes: Urumqi (Xinjiang) →Dabancheng District →Turpan →Shanshan County →Yiwanquan Village →Kumul →Luotuo Quanzi Town →Xingxingxia Town (Gansu) →Xihu County →Dunhuang

 Distance: 990km

Duration: 10 --15 days

Expenses: 1,500 --3,000 yuan

Best time for cycling: August --October

As the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi is the political, economic and cultural center of the whole region. Dunhuang, located in northwestern Gansu Province, was a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, and is well-known for its Mogao Grottoes. Cycling from Urumqi to Dunhuang, travelers can explore a variety of scenery: snow covered mountains, forests, meadows and deserts, and experience the ethnic customs and culture of Uygur, Yugu, Kazak, Mongolian and other ethnic minority people.

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