Dunhuang Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in Dunhuang, a fascinating city located in Gansu, Northwest China. Explore cultural and natural attractions, find out where to stay and what to eat, and get tips on safety and transportation.


Introduction to Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a city located in the northwestern part of China, in the province of Gansu. The city is a melting pot of Buddhism, Islam, and Confucianism, and its rich history dates back to the Han Dynasty. Dunhuang is famous for its many cultural and natural attractions, including the Mogao Caves, the Singing Sand Dunes, and the Crescent Lake. In this guide, we will explore the best things to see and do in Dunhuang, where to stay and what to eat, and how to get around the city.

List of Places to Visit in Dunhuang

Dunhuang is home to numerous cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mogao Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mogao Caves are a collection of Buddhist cave temples that date back to the 4th century. The caves feature exquisite sculptures, murals, and manuscripts.
  • Dunhuang Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Dunhuang and features a vast collection of rare books, murals, and sculptures.
  • Yumen Pass: An ancient defensive pass located on the Silk Road, Yumen Pass offers a glimpse into the history of trade and warfare in the region.

Natural Attractions of Dunhuang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes): These sand dunes, located on the outskirts of Dunhuang, make a humming noise when the wind blows, hence the name “Singing Sand Dunes.”
  • Crescent Lake: A serene oasis in the middle of the desert, Crescent Lake is a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
  • Yangguan Pass: Another ancient defensive pass on the Silk Road, Yangguan Pass boasts breathtaking scenery and peaceful hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers many hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some of the best routes include:

  • The Silk Road Adventure: This 8-day tour takes visitors on a journey through the Gobi Desert, the Tibetan Plateau, and the High Mountain Passes of the Himalayas.
  • The Dunhuang Loop: A 4-day biking tour that takes visitors through the stunning landscapes of the Mingsha Shan and the Crescent Lake.

Best Things to Do in Dunhuang: Activities and Tours

  • Jeep Safari: Take a jeep safari through the Gobi Desert and explore breathtaking sand dunes, mysterious caves, and ancient ruins.
  • Camel Trekking: Experience the Silk Road on a camel trekking tour and enjoy picturesque views of the Mingsha Shan and the Crescent Lake.
  • Cultural Tour: Take a tour of the Mogao Caves and learn about the art, religion, and culture of ancient China.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dunhuang

Day 1: Visit the Mogao Caves and the Dunhuang Museum Day 2: Take a jeep safari to the Mingsha Shan and the Crescent Lake Day 3: Explore the Yangguan Pass and take a hiking tour Day 4: Visit Yumen Pass and the nearby Dunhuang Night Market Day 5: Take a camel trekking tour of the Gobi Desert Day 6: Sightseeing tour of the city and its temples Day 7: Relax at a local hot spring and enjoy a traditional Chinese massage.

Food and Drink Scene of Dunhuang

Dunhuang is famous for its delicious Muslim cuisine, which blends Central Asian and Chinese flavors. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yangrou Paomo: A hearty lamb stew served with steamed bread made from wheat flour.
  • Mazha: A crispy deep-fried beef or lamb pancake topped with chili sauce and sesame seeds.
  • Shouzhua Rou: Braised pork served with a wheat flour pancake.

Local Beverages

  • Suanyacha: A tangy and refreshing tea made from fermented milk and tea leaves.
  • Baijiu: A strong, white liquor made from sorghum.

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

Dunhuang has many hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that cater to a range of budgets and needs. Some recommended options include:

  • The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel: A luxurious 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Dunhuang Tianrun International Hotel: A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Minsu Inn: A cozy guesthouse with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

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

Dunhuang is famous for its arts and crafts, including:

  • Silk and Embroidery: Silk and embroidery products are popular souvenirs in Dunhuang. Look for silk scarves, pillowcases, and table runners.
  • Traditional Tea Sets: Tea is an essential part of Chinese culture, and Dunhuang offers many beautiful and intricate tea sets.
  • Calligraphy: Calligraphy is an ancient Chinese art form that has been used for thousands of years to express beauty, harmony, and wisdom. Dunhuang has many galleries and shops that offer calligraphy works.

Local Culture and Customs of Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a place of diverse and multicultural traditions, where Buddhism, Islam, and Confucianism all play important roles. Visitors should respect the local culture and customs, dress modestly when visiting temples, and be mindful of local beliefs and practices.

Best Time to Visit Dunhuang

The best time to visit Dunhuang is from April to October, when the weather is dry and warm. The summer months, from June to August, can be quite hot, so visitors should pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dunhuang

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques.
  • Respect local traditions and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • Smoke in non-designated areas.
  • Touch or disturb ancient relics and historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a safe city, but visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings. It’s best to avoid dangerous hiking trails and always carry identification and emergency contact information.

Health in Dunhuang

Visitors to Dunhuang should take precautions against the dry desert climate and high altitude. It’s best to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Visitors should also consult their doctor and get vaccinated against local diseases.

Getting to Dunhuang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dunhuang

  • Dunhuang Airport: Located just 13 km (8 miles) from the city center, Dunhuang Airport is the closest airport to Dunhuang.

Bus Stations Near Dunhuang

  • Dunhuang Long-distance Bus Station: This bus station operates daily buses to nearby cities and attractions.

Other Options

  • Train: Dunhuang is connected to major cities in China by rail.
  • Private Car: Visitors can hire a private car to get around Dunhuang and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a small city with a good public transportation system consisting of buses and taxis. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take camel or horse-drawn carts to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Dunhuang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dunhuang is located on the ancient Silk Road and is surrounded by many fascinating destinations, including:

  • Jiayuguan: A city famous for its fortresses, including the Jiayuguan Pass, which is the western end of the Great Wall of China.
  • Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: This park is famous for its colorful rock formations and stunning natural beauty.
  • Tianshui: A city located on the Silk Road that is famous for its cultural and historical sites.

Conclusion

Dunhuang is a city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that is waiting to be explored. This guide has provided visitors with a comprehensive overview of the city’s attractions, food and drink scene, transportation options, and more. We hope that this guide inspires you to plan your own journey to Dunhuang and experience the wonders of northwest China for yourself.

A fresco, Dunhuang A fresco, Dunhuang The train station The train station Entrance to one group of caves Entrance to one group of caves Temple in the dunes Temple in the dunes