Dunhuang
Dunhuang Overview
Chinese Name: 敦煌市 English IPA: Location: Population (city): Language: Zip code: Tel code: Time zone:
Dunhuang is a county-level city in northwestern Gansu Province, China, with a population of about 187,578 (as of the 2000 census). Known for its strategic location on the Silk Road, Dunhuang is most famous for the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city lies in an oasis, surrounded by Crescent Lake and the Singing-Sand Mountain (Mingsha Shan), named for the unique sound of the wind blowing across the dunes. Dunhuang served as a crucial crossroads connecting the Southern Silk Route, as well as the path to Mongolia, Siberia, and the Hexi Corridor, which led to China’s ancient capitals, Chang’an (Xi’an) and Luoyang.
Dunhuang is part of Jiuquan, a prefecture-level city in Gansu.
Key Highlights
- Mogao Caves: Famous Buddhist cave art and murals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Crescent Lake (月牙泉): A beautiful, tranquil oasis in the desert.
- Mingsha Shan (鸣沙山): Known for its “singing sand” phenomenon.
- Strategic Location: Historic Silk Road crossroads and gateway to northern China.
Things to Do
- Visit the Mogao Caves to explore ancient Buddhist art.
- Experience the Singing-Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake, both iconic desert landscapes.
- Explore the Silk Road heritage, learning about Dunhuang’s historical significance.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Dunhuang experiences a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild.
Hot Destinations in Dunhuang
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Dunhuang Attractions
Dunhuang, located in the Gansu Province of northwestern China, is one of the most historically and culturally rich destinations along the ancient Silk Road. The city is famous for its ancient Buddhist sites, stunning desert landscapes, and historical relics that date back over a thousand years. Below is an overview of the key attractions that make Dunhuang a must-visit destination. 1. Mogao Caves (Caves of the Thousand Buddhas) Location: 25 km southeast of Dunhuang city center Overview: The Mogao Caves [...]
Dunhuang Tours
Dunhuang, with its rich history as a vital hub along the ancient Silk Road, is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes. The city offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites, Buddhist relics, desert wonders, and unique cultural experiences. Below is an overview of popular Dunhuang tour options that cater to different interests and travel styles. 1. Mogao Caves & Desert Tour Duration: 1 Day Overview: [...]
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Climate & When to Go
Dunhuang climate and weather belong continental climate zone. Located in continental hinterland with a high altitude, Dunhuang weather is dry, accumulating to 35mm of annually precipitation occurs only in trace amounts and quickly evaporates; and the temperature difference between day and night is large. The annual average temperature is 9.3 °C (48.7 °F), but ranges from 24.7 °C (76.5 °F) in July to −9.3 °C (15 °F) in January. Dunhuang is extremely hot in summer and bitterly cold in winter. The [...]
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Transportation
Dunhuang (敦煌) is located at the westernmost end of the Hexi Corridor, where the provinces of Gansu (甘肃), Qinghai (青海), and Xinjiang (新疆) converge. Since the Han Dynasty, it has served as a crucial transportation hub linking China with Central Asia and the West. In the 21st century, the city has seen substantial upgrades in its infrastructure, including highways, railways, and an airport, forming a comprehensive three-dimensional transportation network integrating road, rail, and air travel. 1. Highways (公路) Dunhuang is well-connected [...]
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Festivals and Activities
Dunhuang, a city on the ancient Silk Road in northwestern China, is home to some of the most important cultural and religious festivals in the region. These festivals not only celebrate the history and culture of Dunhuang but also attract visitors from around the world who are interested in experiencing the rich traditions of this historic city. Dunhuang’s festivals are a blend of Buddhist heritage, ancient customs, and local folk traditions, all reflecting the region's diverse cultural influences. Major Traditional Festivals [...]
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Travel Tips
Dunhuang, located in Gansu Province, China, is a captivating destination with rich historical significance and stunning desert landscapes. If you're planning a trip to Dunhuang, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. 1. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Dunhuang is from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally milder, with more comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. Avoid the peak summer heat in July and August, which can be extremely [...]
Useful Maps
Dunhuang (Gansu) Travel Maps in English includes Maps List of Dunhuang Tourist Attractions, Maps of Dunhuang Hotels, Maps of Dunhuang Tours, Dunhuang Subway Maps, Maps of Transportation. It show the specific location maps of main roads, Transportation, railway, stations, Bus Stations, Airports, expressway, administrative division, famous tourist attractions, travel and tours, universities, banks and hospitals. [...]
Dunhuang Accommodation
Dunhuang, located in the Gansu Province of China, is a popular destination known for its historical sites such as the Mogao Caves and its role along the Silk Road. Accommodation in Dunhuang varies, offering options for travelers with different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay, a comfortable mid-range hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, Dunhuang has something for everyone. 1. Luxury Hotels in Dunhuang If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, Dunhuang offers several upscale hotels with [...]
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