Zhangye Gansu, China Travel Guide
A multifaceted of Buddhist grottoes and temples carved into the cliffs of the Qilian Mountains, dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. Tibetan Buddhist and Han Chinese influences mix here, featuring impressive cave temples, murals, and an unique 7-story grotto carved into the cliff. The surrounding mountain scenery is beautiful.
Located approximately 65 kilometers (40 miles) south of Zhangye.
Zhangye's surroundings hold diverse natural landscapes, from mountains to grasslands.
This Danxia area features different formations than the Rainbow Mountains, often described as with a more rugged, "canyon-like" feel. It highlights palace-like structures, ravines, and eroded pillars. Colors are typically muted but impressive in scale and unique shapes.
A vast canyon system with unique geological formations, including towering cliffs and eroded pillars. It features a dramatic, expansive landscape, compared to parts of the Grand Canyon in the USA.
Beyond the city, cultural and historical sites offer insights into the region's heritage.
This site is a prominent historical and religious destination, displaying centuries of Buddhist art and architecture.
Traveling through the countryside observes local agricultural practices and the slower pace of rural life.
Mati Temple Grottoes functions as an active Buddhist pilgrimage site, creating a religious dimension to your visit.
Succeeding the Silk Road westward to Jiayuguan and Dunhuang establishes a natural progression. Alternatively, travel eastward back towards Lanzhou and Xi'a to connect with other parts of China.
Begin in Lanzhou, travel west to Zhangye, then to Jiayuguan, followed by Dunhuang, and potentially further west to Turpan and Urumqi in Xinjiang province.
Zhangye serves as a natural stop on a longer Silk Road journey.
Situated about 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of Zhangye, a 1.5-2 hour journey by high-speed train.
Located approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles) west of Zhangye. Travel by high-speed train to Liuyuan South Station (3-4 hours), then a bus or taxi transfer to Dunhuang city (1.5-2 hours).
Following the Silk Road westward to Jiayuguan and Dunhuang creates a natural progression. Alternatively, travel eastward back towards Lanzhou and Xi'a to connect with other parts of China.
Begin in Lanzhou, travel west to Zhangye, next to Jiayuguan, followed by Dunhuang, and potentially further west to Turpan and Urumqi in Xinjiang province.
Zhangye is an ideal starting point for exploring the wider Silk Road region. Efficient transportation makes multi-day extensions seamless.
Connects major cities, a comfortable and quick option.
Useful for smaller towns not on the railway network.
Secure tickets early, especially during peak seasons.
Optimize your visit to Zhangye with these practical planning your trip recommendations.
Combine Zhangye Danxia with Binggou Danxia for a comprehensive day of geological wonders.
Extend your journey westward to Jiayuguan and Dunhuang for further Silk Road exploration.
Consider traveling eastward towards Lanzhou and Xi'a to connect with other parts of China.
Begin your journey in Lanzhou, known as a gateway to the Silk Road.
Travel west to Zhangye, then continue to Jiayuguan, and subsequently Dunhuang.
Consider extending to Turpan and Urumqi in Xinjiang province for a truly immersive experience.
