Classic Gansu Tour: Explore Silk Road Highlights From Lanzhou to Dunhuang

Today, your journey continues westward along the historic Hexi Corridor. You will travel from Lanzhou to Wuwei in approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Upon arrival in Wuwei, visit the renowned Leitai Han Dynasty Tomb, famous for the exquisite bronze galloping horse, an iconic symbol of ancient Chinese artistry. Then, explore the tranquil Wuwei Confucian Temple (Wen Miao), a serene site reflecting deep cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, drive another 3 hours to Zhangye, a city celebrated for its blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Along the route, enjoy the expansive open landscapes once crossed by Silk Road caravans, where history meets breathtaking scenery, setting the stage for your next adventures.

Begin your morning in Zhangye with a visit to the renowned Big Buddha Temple (Dafo Si), where you can marvel at China’s largest reclining Buddha, an astonishing sculpture that has watched silently over the city for centuries. Absorb the tranquil atmosphere and spiritual history as you explore the ancient temple halls and elegant courtyards.

Next, journey to the captivating Rainbow Mountains at Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. Stroll through the vibrant, layered rock formations, famed for their otherworldly, multicolored stripes, and enjoy the stunning photo opportunities among these natural wonders.

After lunch, board a comfortable high-speed train to Jiayuguan, a journey of about 1.5 to 2 hours through the legendary landscapes of the Silk Road. In the evening, savor a flavorful local dinner and then choose to unwind or explore Jiayuguan at your own pace.

Start your day exploring Jiayuguan Pass, the westernmost end of the Ming Great Wall, famously known as “The First and Greatest Pass under Heaven”. Walk through the massive fortress walls encompassing the inner city with its ancient gates, towers, and watchtowers, imagining the countless traders and soldiers who once passed here along the Silk Road. Visit the Great Wall Museum nearby to deepen your understanding of the fortress’s history and strategic importance.

Next, hike the Overhanging Great Wall, a dramatic section clinging to steep cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and the rugged terrain of the Hexi Corridor. 

In the afternoon, board a comfortable bullet train to Dunhuang (3 to 4 hours), enjoying the changing scenery as you travel. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and savor a relaxing evening dinner featuring local cuisine, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Your day begins with a visit to the historic Yumen Pass, also known as Jade Gate Pass, once a vital military and trade gateway on the ancient Silk Road during the Han Dynasty. Explore the well-preserved ruins of this strategic fortress, where jade caravans and Silk Road travelers once passed, linking Central Asia with China’s heartland.

Next, immerse yourself in the otherworldly landscapes of Yadan National Geopark, famous for its vast desert rock formations shaped by wind and sand over millennia, creating a surreal “ghost city” of jagged pinnacles and natural sculptures.

As evening falls, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Shazhou Night Market in Dunhuang. Here, you can sample an array of local delicacies and enjoy the lively blend of cultures reflecting the ancient Silk Road’s enduring spirit.

On this day in Dunhuang, you will begin with a guided visit to the Mogao Caves, immersing yourself in the profound history and spiritual essence of the Silk Road as you explore its remarkable Buddhist murals and sculptures.

In the afternoon, head to the stunning Echoing Sand Mountain and the nearby Crescent Lake oasis, where the vast desert dunes meet clear water, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. After soaking in the scenery, you will take the flight from Dunhuang back to Lanzhou, continuing your journey through China’s historic Hexi Corridor.

Today’s journey begins with a transfer from Lanzhou to the riverside town of Liujiaxia, where you will board a boat to explore the spectacular Bingling Temple Grottoes. These ancient Buddhist cave sculptures, dating back 1,600 years, are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship set amid dramatic canyon scenery, offering a unique blend of art and natural beauty.

After returning to Lanzhou in the afternoon, you will discover the city’s riverside highlights. Visit the symbolic Mother River Statue, stroll through the historic Waterwheel Garden to see traditional irrigation methods in action, and end your day at the iconic Zhongshan Bridge, which glows beautifully at sunset, providing a perfect close to this culturally rich day.

Today offers a leisurely pace, allowing you to relax before your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide and driver will escort you from your accommodations to Lanzhou International Airport. They will ensure a smooth and timely transfer, helping you navigate the airport and providing any necessary assistance.