Private day tour to Dunhuang Grottoes &Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake

Dunhuang , China

Private day tour to Dunhuang Grottoes &Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Dunhuang is playing an important role in the silk road which links China and the west of other countries.
Today we will have a private day tour to the world famous Dunhuang grottoes it becomes a world heritage and must-see site, there are 735 caves in total, among which 492 caves have murals and painted clay figures, with murals covering an area of 45,000 square meters and 2,415 colored clay statues, after lunch you will have fun time in Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake which is one of the top 5 deserts in China, you can pay on own to take a camel ride in the desert have special feeling like you walk in the ancient silk road.

Available options

Private transfers only

No guide no ticket<br/>Pickup included

Private day tour to Dunhuang Grottoes &Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fee to Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake

Entrance fee and excursion bus to Dunhuang Grotoes

English speaking guide

Lunch

Private transfer

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Today meet guide in the lobby and visit the Mogao Grottoes are situated in a valley, southeast of the town of Dunhuang City in Gansu Province. Construction of the grottoes began in 366 A.D. and continued through the fourteenth century. Perhaps the most artistic are those dating from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 A.D.). Today a total of 492 caves are still in good condition with 54,000 sq. yd. (45,000 sq. m.) of murals, over two thousand painted statues, and five wooden buildings constructed in the Tang and Song Dynasties.
After lunch you will visit the Mingsha sand dune and crescent moon lake, Echoing-Sand Mountain is known as one of the Eight Great Landscapes of Dunhuang and one of the Four Great Singing Sands of China, Crescent Lake it is in a natural shape of half-moon and had been commonly considered as one of the Eight Great Landscapes of Dunhuang together with the Echoing-Sand Mountain early in Western Han Dynasty (206BC-24AD).
Today we will include ride on a camel but taking slide down the slope of the sand dune before walking to the lake is not in the package.

What's not included

Dinner

Tips

Slide down to the sand

Accommodation

Camel ride in Mingsha sand dune

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a historic oasis city located at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road. Known for its stunning desert landscapes, ancient Buddhist caves, and rich cultural heritage, Dunhuang offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It is a gateway to the vast Gobi Desert and the famous Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top Attractions

Mogao Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mogao Caves are a system of 492 ancient Buddhist temples and cave sanctuaries. They house some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and murals spanning a thousand years.

Historical/Religious Half day to full day ¥170 (including entrance fee and guided tour)

Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes)

A massive sand dune complex near the Mogao Caves, known for the unique sound it makes when the sand slides down. It offers stunning desert landscapes and adventure activities.

Nature/Adventure Half day ¥10 (entrance fee) + activity costs

Yadan National Geopark

A unique geological landscape featuring eroded rock formations, canyons, and desert scenery. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities in a stunning natural setting.

Nature/Adventure Full day ¥60 (entrance fee)

Dunhuang Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Dunhuang and the Silk Road. It features artifacts, exhibits, and information about the region's rich heritage.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Skewers (Yangrou Chuan)

Grilled lamb skewers marinated in a blend of spices and soy sauce

Snack Contains meat

Hand-Pulled Noodles (Lamian)

Freshly made noodles served with a variety of sauces and toppings

Main dish Vegetarian options available

Sweet Melon (Gua)

A local sweet melon known for its juicy and refreshing taste

Dessert Vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in the desert Camel riding Sandboarding Tea house visits Desert meditation Local spa treatments Visiting the Mogao Caves Exploring the Dunhuang Museum

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing, with warm days and cool nights. It's the best time to explore the desert and historical sites.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: Mandarin Chinese
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dunhuang is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and scams, especially in tourist areas.