Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark: Amazing Silk Road Views
By Leo
Hi, I’m Leo. Over the past 20 years, I’ve traveled extensively along the Silk Road, and Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark has always amazed me. Its vibrant, rainbow-colored rock formations and sweeping landscapes create a scene that feels otherworldly. In this guide, I’ll share my personal observations along with practical tips to help you fully experience the stunning scenery and geological wonders of Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark.
Key Information for Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark showcases colorful mountains and rich culture. It’s a place where nature and local life come together for an unforgettable experience.
Location & How to Get to Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Detailed location: Linze County & Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province, China
Bus: Take direct scenic shuttle bus to “Colorful Danxia Scenic Area Entrance”
- Ride time: ~1.5 hours
- Departure: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (every 1 hour); stops outside the station (look for “Zhangye Danxia” English signs)
Taxi: Direct ride to the scenic area
- Ride time: ~1 hour
- Note: Tell driver “Colorful Danxia Scenic Area” to avoid wrong routes
Core Highlights of Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark for Tourists
Natural highlight:
- Unique colored landforms: Layers of red, orange, yellow, green rocks (formed over 200 million years) — no other place in China has such a large-scale “color palette” landscape.
- Light & shadow changes: Sunrise/sunset makes the rocks glow like fire; noon sunlight brings sharp, vivid colors — every hour has different views, perfect for photos.
Experience Highlight:
- Geology-focused fun: Visit the on-site Geology Museum to learn how wind/rain carved the landforms; some viewing platforms have signboards explaining rock layers (with English).
- No crowds at off-peak times: Go in April-May/September-October — you can take photos without too many people, and walk slowly to enjoy the landscape.
Must-See Spots in Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark is full of colorful landscapes, cultural streets, and lively local life. From historic dwellings and traditional alleys to bustling markets and scenic parks, every corner offers something unique to see and experience.
Key Viewing Platforms (Core of the Park)
No.1 Yunhai Tai / Sea of Clouds Platform
Key Feature: Wide-open view; morning mist creates a fairyland feel.
Photography Tips:
- Drone View: Shoot straight down to show wavy mountain textures (report to the scenic area first).
- Human Silhouette: Sunset shots with side profiles or jumping poses against the golden light.
No.2 Xianyuan Tai / Immortal Fate Platform
Key Feature: On a mountain ridge; fewer crowds.
Photography Tips:
- Close-Up Shots: Capture colorful rock textures; add small interactions for vivid photos.
- Avoid Crowds: Great for peaceful, solo-style shots.
No.4 Qicai Hongxia Tai / Rainbow Clouds Platform
Key Feature: Most intense colors; rock layers look like “streaky pork” with red, orange, and yellow bands.
Photography Tips:
- Panoramic by Railings: Wide-angle shot with hills behind.
- Overhead from Plank Road: Frame winding roads; people at corners make legs look longer.
No.5 Jinxiu Tai / Splendid Brocade Platform
Key Feature: Clearly layered rocks; perfect for panoramic photos.
Photography Tips:
- Depth with Plank Road: Low-angle shot with people walking for depth.
- Panoramic Stitching: Use horizontal panorama to create a “colorful folding screen” effect.
Geology & Culture Spots
1.Zhangye Danxia Geology Museum
- Location: Near the park’s main entrance.
- Open time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays).
- Highlights: Models of rock layers, videos of landform formation (with English subtitles); free entry.
2.Red Cliff Trail (Short Hiking)
- Length: About 1 km (easy for all ages).
- Highlights: Walk close to the red rocks — touch the rough surface and see small fossils in some rocks (signboards tell you where to look).
Practical Travel Guide for Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark is easy to explore with a little planning. This guide covers the best times to visit, daily schedules, what to wear, and local Gansu cuisine. Following these tips will help you enjoy the colorful landscapes, cultural streets, and delicious local food with ease.
Best Visiting Time for Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Daily schedule:
- 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM: No.1 Yunhai Platform (sunrise + morning mist; Tip: arrive 15 mins early, bring thin jacket)
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Red Cliff Trail + Geology Museum
- 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM: No.4 Hongxia Platform (best sunset; rock turns dark red)
Monthly choice:
- April – May: 10–22℃, little rain (bright rocks, fewer tourists)
- September – October: 8–20℃, clear skies (perfect for sunset)
What to Bring & Wear for Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Clothing:
- Spring/autumn: Long-sleeve quick-dry shirt + light down jacket (day hot, night cold).
- Summer: Long-sleeve UV-protection shirt + breathable pants (prevent sunburn and scratches from rocks).
- Winter: Thick down jacket, hat, gloves, non-slip snow boots (platforms may have frost).
Items:
- Sun protection: Hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+, UV rays reflect off rocks).
- Water bottle: Refillable (water stations at each viewing platform, free).
- Camera: Bring a wide-angle lens (for large landform views); power bank (take many photos).
- ID/passport: Keep it with you (check at park entrance)..
Gansu Cuisine in Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Local food to try:
- Beef Xiaofan (Beef Small Rice): Tiny noodles with beef soup, carrots, potatoes — warm and filling (sold at restaurants 500m from park entrance).
- Chao Pao (Fried Cannon Noodles): Short, thick noodles stir-fried with meat and veggies — savory, not spicy by default.
- Zhangye Niangpi (Cold Noodles): Chewy noodles with sauce, cucumber, bean sprouts — cool for summer.
Nearby Attractions of Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark
Besides the colorful mountains, Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark is close to other interesting sites. Attractions like Zhangye Big Buddha Temple and Bingling Temple Grottoes are within a short drive, making it easy to explore more history and culture in one trip.
| Attraction Name | Location | Distance from Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark | Suggested Visit Time |
| Zhangye Big Buddha Temple | Zhangye City | About 30–40 minutes by car | 1–2 hours |
| Bingling Temple Grottoes | Linze County | About 1–1.5 hours by car | 2–3 hours |
Zhangye Danxia Landform Geopark blends stunning Rainbow Mountains with Silk Road history. Its colorful rocks and cultural echoes make every visit unforgettable. Planning around the best viewing times and nearby sites ensures a memorable trip.