Gansu Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, local culture and customs, and transportation options in Gansu, China.


Introduction to Gansu

Gansu, located in northwest China, offers visitors a unique blend of history and natural beauty. This region, which is home to several ethnic minority groups, showcases some of the country’s most important cultural sites, as well as stunning landscapes that include the Yellow River and the Gobi Desert. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the must-visit attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that make Gansu a top destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Gansu

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gansu is dotted with many historical sites and museums depicting China’s ancient civilization. Here are some of the most important cultural attractions:

  • The Mogao Caves: Located in Dunhuang, the Mogao Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 700 Buddhist cave temples and artifacts dating back more than 1,500 years.
  • Labrang Monastery: This Tibetan-style monastery has an impressive collection of relics and art, and allows visitors to observe the daily life of monks.
  • Jiayu Pass: This ancient city, located along the Great Wall of China, was once a vital military checkpoint and trade hub.

Natural Attractions of Gansu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gansu has breathtaking landscapes and unique terrain that make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best nature experiences include:

  • Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park: This natural wonder features colorful, towering rock formations that make for beautiful hikes and photo opportunities.
  • The Yellow River: The river that gave China its name has some beautiful natural scenery along its long and winding path.
  • The Gobi Desert: The desert located in the northwestern region of China features incredible unique rock sculptures, stunning sand dunes and canyons that are perfect for hiking, bike tours or off-road adventures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gansu

For those looking to get out into the great outdoors, Gansu has a variety of hiking and biking routes that provide breathtaking views and access to the region’s ancient history.

  • The Hexi Corridor: This stretch of land is rich in history and cultural heritage, takes you through some of the most beautiful and remarkable landscapes of Gansu.
  • Yanzhi Valley: This scenic valley is surrounded by rolling mountains and features several hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
  • Gansu Park – This huge park located in the city of Lanzhou provide ample opportunity for cycling, hiking trails, and picnicking.

Best Things to Do in Gansu: Activities and Tours

Gansu offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets.

  • Silk Road Tour: Take the time for a guided tour along the ancient Silk Road trade route that once connected Asia and Europe. This tour will take you through some of the most iconic sights of the Hexi Corridor.
  • Gansu Ethnic Minority Village: Get to know some of the ethnic minority groups that call Gansu home by visiting this unique village, featuring architecture and traditions from Hui, Tibetan, Mongolian, and other groups.
  • Try Calligraphy: Get creative and try your hand at Chinese calligraphy, a beautiful and ancient art form.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gansu

Here’s a sample one-week itinerary for Gansu:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Lanzhou; visit the Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Mountain, and Gansu Provincial Museum.
  • Day 2: Explore the Bingling Temple Caves and the Liujiaxia Dam; take a boat trip on the Liujiaxia Reservoir.
  • Day 3: Visit Jiayuguan and the Jiayu Pass.
  • Day 4: Discover the Dunhuang Grottoes, the Mingsha Mountains, and the Crescent Moon Lake.
  • Day 5: Take a camel ride through the Gobi Desert.
  • Day 6: Visit the Labrang Monastery and experience the daily life of monks.
  • Day 7: Departure from Lanzhou.

Food and Drink Scene of Gansu

Gansu’s cuisine reflects the region’s diverse ethnic groups, including Hui, Tibetan, Mongolian, and Han. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Lanzhou Beef Noodles
  • Gansu-style Lamb Skewers
  • Muslim-style Roujiamo (a sandwich-style wrap)
  • Mutton Soup with Naan Bread

Local Beverages:

  • Tibetan-style Yak Butter Tea
  • Sorghum Liquor

Where to Stay in Gansu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gansu offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Xiyu Hotel in Dunhuang
  • The Silk Road Hotel in Lanzhou
  • The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel in Dunhuang

What to Buy in Gansu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some popular souvenirs to bring back from Gansu include:

  • Silk Road-themed handicrafts, such as traditional embroidery and wood-carving.
  • Gansu-made tea and liquor
  • Traditional Tibetan-style jewelry and clothing

Local Culture and Customs of Gansu

Gansu is home to several ethnic minority groups, each with their unique customs and traditions. Visitors are welcome to join in on cultural events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Gansu

The best time to visit Gansu is from April to October, during the region’s mild and temperate spring, summer, and autumn seasons. Winter is extremely cold, however, this could be a great time to marvel at the snowy landscapes and try winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gansu

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Experience local food and cultural events.
  • Make sure to carry cash, as some merchants and vendors may not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of religious ceremonies or rituals without permission.
  • Speak loudly in public places and respect others’ enjoyment of the natural or cultural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gansu

Gansu is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, travelers should be alert and keep an eye on their valuables in crowded areas, especially the bustling markets and tourism destinations.

Health in Gansu

Travelers should take appropriate precautions as recommended by your healthcare provider before coming to Gansu, which includes vaccination against preventable diseases. It’s also recommended to pack travel-sized hand sanitizer as Gansu’s public restrooms may not have soap, tissues or toilet papers.

Getting to Gansu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gansu has several transportation options for visitors, including:

Airports Near Gansu

  • Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport
  • Dunhuang Airport

Bus Stations Near Gansu

  • Lanzhou Bus Terminal
  • Dunhuang Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train travel from other major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.

How to Get Around in Gansu

The easiest way to explore Gansu is through organized tours. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or take public transportation between destinations.

Where to Go Next from Gansu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some popular destinations near Gansu include:

  • Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
  • Jiuzhaigou National Park
  • Sichuan’s Chengdu and the Leshan Giant Buddha
  • The cities of Xi’an and Beijing for additional Chinese cultural or historical experiences.

Conclusion

Gansu, China is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty, offering travelers a unique perspective on China’s past and present. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Gansu is an excellent destination for those looking to experience China off the beaten path.



    Dunhuang
    Gannan (prefecture)
    Jiuquan
    Kongtongshan National Park
    Linxia
    Maijishan National Park
    Minle
    Pingliang
    Subei Mongol Autonomous County
    Tianshui
    Wuwei