Overview
The Mogao Caves, also known as the Caves of the Thousand Buddhas, are a system of 492 temples carved into the cliffs near Dunhuang. They house a vast collection of Buddhist art and manuscripts dating from the 4th to the 14th century.
The Mogao Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are renowned for their Buddhist art, including murals and sculptures. They provide a unique insight into the religious and cultural exchanges along the Silk Road.
Location
Address
Dunhuang, China
Neighborhood: Mingsha Mountain
Coordinates
40.143400, 94.153300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild
- • Spring flowers
- • Mild weather
summer
Hot
- • Extended visiting hours
autumn
Cool
- • Fall colors
- • Cooler weather
winter
Cold
- • Holiday decorations
- • Winter landscapes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring a hat and sunscreen
- Check weather conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate
- • Stairs and uneven surfaces
- • Hot weather in summer
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash (CNY), Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest, comfortable clothing, Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, Walking shoes, Revealing clothing, Inappropriate footwear
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 week in advance
- • Official website or authorized ticket offices
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • Available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Mogao Caves Official App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Cave information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Rest areas
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Dunhuang Airport (DNH)
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Mogao Caves are a source of local pride and represent the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.
Historical Significance: The caves were a major center of Buddhist learning and art along the Silk Road, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and traders for over a thousand years.
Insider Tips
- Visit the caves early in the morning for a more peaceful experience
- The best local food can be found at the restaurants near the main entrance
- Some caves may have limited access, so check the latest information before your visit
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Dunhuang cuisine at nearby restaurants
- • Visit the Dunhuang Museum for additional context
- • Hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Cave 156 (Meditation Cave)
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle shots of the Buddha statue
Result: Stunning images of the cave's interior
Cave 220 (Lotus Cave)
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Capture the intricate murals with natural light
Result: Beautiful details of the cave's murals
Cave 98 (Maitreya Cave)
Best Time: Afternoon
Tips: Use the natural light to highlight the cave's features
Result: Impressive shots of the cave's architecture
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mingsha Mountain
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Natural Landscape
Singing Sand Dunes
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Natural Landscape
Yulin Caves
Distance: 30km
Walking: N/A
Type: Historical Site
Dunhuang Museum
Distance: 5km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online in advance"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Hire a guide for a more in-depth experience"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
69
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
¥120