24 Hours Hotline: +86 137-3541-1378
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Tour Style:
Our 2-day Dunhuang tour explores the city's top attractions, including the Mogao Grottoes, Echoing Sand Mountain, Crescent Lake, Shazhou Night Market, Yangguan Pass, and Yardang National Geological Park. Dunhuang, a vital stop on the ancient Silk Road China tour, was an important trade hub linking China with the West. On this Silk Road China tour, visit the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to some of the finest Buddhist art, featuring intricate carvings and vibrant murals. For a unique experience, you can also enjoy a camel ride across the desert from Echoing Sand Mountain to Crescent Lake, where the stunning landscape will transport you back in time.
Duration: 2 Days, 1 Night
Attractions(Cities):
Mogao Grottoes, Echoing Sand Mountain, Crescent Lake, Shazhou Night Market, Yangguan Pass, Yardang National Geological Park
Pick-up point:
Your Xian hotel (based on your requirement)
Finishing point:
Your Xian hotel (based on your requirement)
Tour Customizable:
Absolutely! (Tell us your requirements in your inquiry)
Payment Types:
Cash, Wire, Paypal, WesternUnion, Wechat, Alipay
Available: Daily
In the early morning, after a hearty breakfast, our driver will warmly greet you at your hotel lobby, holding a “Your Way Holiday” welcome sign. You will then be transferred to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport for your 2.5-hour morning flight to Dunhuang.
Upon arrival at Dunhuang Airport, your dedicated private tour guide will be waiting at the exit, holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign. After assisting with your luggage, the guide will take you to a local restaurant for lunch. Following your meal, you'll proceed with the rest of your itinerary, starting with a visit to the Mogao Grottoes.
After lunch, your journey through Dunhuang’s rich cultural heritage begins with a visit to the world-famous Mogao Grottoes. Your guide will provide in-depth commentary on the history and significance of the site, explaining that the Mogao Grottoes (also known as the Thousand Buddha Caves) are one of China’s three most important grotto sites. As the largest and best-preserved collection of Buddhist art in the world, the Mogao Grottoes hold invaluable ancient Buddhist texts, relics, and artwork that shed light on China’s political, economic, cultural, and religious history. Your guide will lead you through the caves, helping you understand the intricate murals, statues, and sculptures that depict centuries of cultural exchange along the Silk Road.
Next, you will head to Echoing Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake, a unique natural wonder where the desert meets an oasis. Your guide will provide insightful explanations as you explore the fascinating Echoing Sand Mountain, famous for the musical sound the sand produces when the wind blows. The dunes create a mysterious echo, resembling the sound of ancient musical instruments. Your guide will share local legends and historical tales about this natural phenomenon, enriching your experience.
Following that, you will visit Crescent Lake, a crescent-shaped oasis nestled in the desert. Despite the ever-shifting sands around it, Crescent Lake has remained intact for centuries, offering a rare and tranquil escape in the heart of the desert. Your guide will explain the significance of the lake, its history, and how it has sustained life in this arid environment. The stunning contrast between the blue waters and the golden dunes is a sight to behold, and your guide will ensure you have plenty of time to admire the scenery and take memorable photos.Throughout the visit, your guide will be available to answer questions, share stories, and help you immerse in the beauty and history of these extraordinary sites. You'll have ample time to explore and enjoy the peaceful landscape before heading to the next destination.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Shazhou Night Market, a bustling hub filled with a wide variety of goods and delicious street food. As you wander through the market, you’ll find everything from local handicrafts to tempting treats, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. It's easy to lose track of time while sampling the flavors of Dunhuang, whether you're enjoying savory snacks, sweets, or traditional dishes. Your guide will be on hand to offer recommendations, help you navigate the market, and share insights into the local food culture.
After a delightful exploration of the Shazhou Night Market, your guide will ensure a smooth transfer back to your hotel. Sit back and relax as you reflect on the day’s adventures, arriving at your hotel ready to rest and recharge for the next day.
Today, you’ll embark on a journey through the history and natural beauty of Dunhuang. Your day begins with a visit to Yangguan Pass, a key site along the Silk Road. Your expert guide will greet you at your hotel and accompany you throughout the day, offering insightful commentary. After an hour’s drive, you’ll arrive at Yangguan Pass, where you can explore ancient structures and exhibition halls displaying cultural relics reflecting the region's strategic importance in trade and cultural exchange. Your guide will explain the significance of the Great Wall of the Western Regions, set against stunning desert, oasis, and snow-capped peak landscapes. Don’t miss tasting the area’s fresh, juicy fruits as a delightful treat in the desert.
For lunch, your guide will recommend a local restaurant where you can savor some of Dunhuang’s famous regional dishes. You can try Hu Yang Men Bing (Khutan Stewed Flatbread), which originated from the northern regions and has become a popular local dish. The soft, wide flatbread absorbs the rich, savory flavors of lamb and thick broth, offering a truly satisfying taste. Another option is Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles, featuring firm, chewy noodles topped with mushroom, tofu, and minced meat, delivering a unique combination of flavors and textures. If you're looking for something warming, don't miss Lamb Stew Soup, a local breakfast favorite. This hearty dish combines tender lamb, handmade noodles, vegetables, and spices, served with a crispy flatbread for a comforting and fragrant meal, especially perfect during the winter months.
In the afternoon, your journey continues to Yardang National Geological Park, also known as "Dunhuang Devil City." This natural wonder stretches 25 kilometers from north to south and approximately 2 kilometers from east to west. As you explore this awe-inspiring landscape, your knowledgeable guide will accompany you, offering in-depth explanations of the unique geological features that make this park a must-see destination. The surreal rock formations and the vast, empty expanses of the Gobi Desert create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Your guide will not only provide expert insights into the fascinating history and formation of these incredible landscapes but also ensure a comfortable and enriching experience as you navigate this otherworldly terrain.
After that, drive you back to the Dunhuang. Then you will be transferred to the Dunhuang airport and take the flight back to Xi'an. Upon arrival in Xian, you will be escorted to your hotel in Xian directly and your two days Xian Dunhuang Silk Road Tour ends.
Travel Tips: Maximizing Your Experience
1. Echoing Sand Mountain: Bring sunglasses and a mask to protect against the pervasive dust. These items will ensure your comfort while exploring the dunes and enjoying the desert’s unique acoustics.
2. Mogao Grottoes: Photography is prohibited inside to preserve the priceless murals and statues. Please respect this rule during your visit.
3. Diverse Landscapes at Yangguan Pass & Yadang National Geological Park: Be prepared for a variety of landscapes, from ancient Silk Road ruins to desert vistas and snow-capped peaks. Wear comfortable footwear for uneven terrain.
4. Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: The dry, sunny climate can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay comfortable, especially during midday heat.
5. Local Produce: Don’t miss the fresh, juicy fruits at Yangguan Pass, a refreshing treat in the desert heat.
6. Gobi Desert Preparation: Yadang National Geological Park offers unique rock formations and shifting sand dunes. Prepare for strong winds and dust by wearing a scarf or bandana to protect your face.
Price Per Person in US Dollars
Personalized Travel Consultant
Experience the best of China with our expert travel consultants by your side. With years of local tourism experience, they are not only professional and knowledgeable but also deeply committed to making your trip unforgettable. Your dedicated consultant will craft a bespoke tour plan tailored to your unique interests, schedule, and budget, offering you the utmost flexibility. From the moment you start planning until the end of your journey, they will be in touch, ensuring every detail is perfect and that your trip runs smoothly.
Exceptional Local Guides
Discover it through the eyes of our exceptional local guides. All certified and experienced, they are passionate about sharing their deep knowledge of attractions, history, and culture. Whether you're interested in hidden gems or popular sites, they know the best places to visit. They can recommend top local restaurants, unique shopping spots, and must-see shows. Beyond just guiding, they provide enriching insights into the history, customs, and authentic daily life, making your experience truly immersive.
Premium Private Transportation
Travel in comfort and style with our premium private transportation. We offer a fleet of air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean, and meticulously maintained vehicles, all less than four years old. Our professional drivers, all locals with over a decade of driving experience, are friendly, courteous, and dedicated to your safety and comfort. Depending on your group's size, we provide a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, business vans (MPVs), and spacious buses, all with ample luggage space.
Authentic Dining Experiences
We prioritize genuine local culinary experiences over pre-arranged tourist restaurants. Our local guides will recommend the best local restaurants where you can savor authentic flavors. This approach ensures you enjoy the freshest, most authentic meals, tailored to your preferences, and experience the true essence of the local cuisine. Whether your dietary needs are vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese, Western, Jewish, or Indian, we have excellent options to make every meal a delightful part of your journey.
Duration:4 Days, 3 Nights
Attractions(Cities):Yellow River Park, Binglingsi Grottoes, Xiahe Laprung Temple, Labrang Monastery, Sangke Grassland
Tour Style:4-Day Silk Road China tour from Xian to Lanzhou Xiahe is a special designed package tour for those who are eager to learn about the history of China silk road. Leave the guidebook behind because your guide for the tour package is an extremely knowledgeable and friendly, who will take you to must-see sites and spots of Lanzhou and Xiahe. You guide will also be able to answer all of your questions, offer you an informative trip.
Duration:5 Days, 4 Nights
Attractions(Cities):Urumqi, Turpan
Tour Style:Take a silk road adventure to Xinjiang and explore the minority ethnic group in Urumqi and Turpan on this 5-Day Xinjiang tour package to urumqi and turpan. Follow your personal and knowledgeable guide, get close to the lovely lifestyle of the local ethnic people, appreciate the amazing architectures, know about the religious treasure as well as the glorious past of silk road. You will not only enjoy fantastic scenery, but also learn local unique culture and traditions.
Duration:5 Days, 4 Nights
Attractions(Cities):Dunghuang Mogao Grottoes, Dunhuang Museum, Camel Ride, Echoing-Sand Mountain, Jiayuguan Great Wall, Weijin Mural Tomb, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter
Tour Style:Hit the highlights of Xian Dunhuang & Jiayuguan without the hassles of planning transportation from Xian on this China silk road tour package. This silk road tour helps you save your precious sightseeing time in Dunhuang and Jiayuguan, accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, delve into the history of ancient silk route, check out the gradually changing landscape, and learn about the culture od west part of China.
Duration:6 Days, 5 Nights
Attractions(Cities):Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar
Tour Style:Want to book Budget China Silk Road Tour from Urumqi to Kashgar so you can explore the highlights and learn the history of these cities, our 6 days Xinjiang silk road tour is an ideal trip to take you travel Urumqi, Turpan & Kashgar as all of them played a significant role in the ancient silk road and has lots of cultural relics well-remained. It is a flexible tour with English-speaking guide, experienced driver & air-conditioned vehicle.
Duration:7 Days, 6 Nights
Attractions(Cities):Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan
Tour Style:Take the Best 7 days Xinjiang silk road discovery tour to Urumqi, Turpan & Kashgar to explore the mystery of Xinjiang, the most important part of ancient China Silk Road. This Xinjiang Silk Road Tour shows you the picturesque landscape and the genuine Uyghur life in China! Accompanied by your informative guide, tour the famous attractions of Urumqi, Turpan and Kashgar, have a great fun at Karakuri Lake, Id Kah Mosque, Abakh Khoja Tomb, Old Town of Kashhar and more.
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I'm currently in China and would be interested in this tour. When is the best time to go, and how much is it in RMB and what isn't covered?
Replied:18 June 2020
Dear Christine,
Thanks for your inquiry for Xian Private Tour Service. As for this 2-day Xian Silk Road tour package, you can visit there all year around, the best time will be in Apring (Apr./May.) & Autumn (Sept./Oct.) as the weather is beautiful and the view is fantastic.
Normally this tour includes Private English & Chinese Speaking guide, car service, entrance fees. For train ticket booking, accommodation, hotel/train station transfer service are optional, you can book by your own, or we can help you book these if you need our service. This silk road tour can be 100% customizable.
By the way, could you please let us know how many people in your group? We will send you the detailed tour itinerary and quotation soonest once we hear from you. Feel free to let us know if you have any questions or need any help. Thanks!
Xian Private Tour Customer-Care Team