Dunhuang Private Tour: Western Thousand Buddha Caves and Yadan Geological Park

Dunhuang , China

Dunhuang Private Tour: Western Thousand Buddha Caves and Yadan Geological Park

Active

6h - 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

Immerse yourself in Dunhuang’s past at the Western Thousand Buddha Caves and Yadan National Geologic Park. A professional guide leads you on an informative tour past ancient structures and shares insight about this civilization. Western Thousand Buddha Caves is not as famous as the Mogao Caves, however, they are part of the Dunhuang art which considered as the world most richly endowed, and longest used treasure house of Buddhist art. Admire the wisdom of ancient people. Be amazed by the natural formation of the landscape at Yadan National Geologic Park which will give you an unexpected shot. Tour includes all entrance fees, a Chinese lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Available options

Dunhuang Private Tour: Western Thousand Buddha Caves and Yadan Geological Park

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

English speaking tour guide

Entrance fee

Battery bus at Yadan National Geological Park

Travel by private air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Your tour guide will pick you up from the lobby of your hotel by holding your name sign, hop on your private air-conditioned vehicle, heading directly to Western Thousand Buddha Caves(1 hours), your tour guide will explain the related histories and stories, feel free to ask questions if you have.

As part of the Mogao Grottoes, the Western Thousand-Buddha Cave is set into a cliff on the northern bank of the Dang River. Because the frescos in this cave are similar in structure and artistic style to those in Mogao Caves, the Western Thousand-Buddha Cave is considered as one of the important components of Dunhuang Buddhist art.

Follow the professional tour guide from the attraction to discover the charms of this site. You will explore 5 caves. As you explore the caves, your guide will point out the meaning of different wall paintings which aspects of medieval politics, economics, culture, arts, religion, ethnic relations, and daily dress in western China.

Then, heading to Yadan National Geological Park(1.5 hours), sit back and enjoy the sceneries along the way.

Enjoy a tasty lunch, continuing to Yadan National Geological Park.

Dunhuang Yadan National Geological Park, also referred as Yadan Devil City for the bleak desert and horrific sound, presents an astonishing scene of Yardang landform. If you care about seeing natural landscape or having an adventurous tip, this is a must-do. Quite spectacular with natural formation of the landscape will give you an unexpected shot.

As the largest one of Yardang Landform found so far, you will hear the sound just like the devil screaming when the strong wind goes through the desert.

Accompanied by your tour guide, take the battery bus to explore four main sites in the park. You will have free time to watch the great view and take beautiful photos. You can get a view of uniquely-shaped rocks like Mongolian Bao, Stone Bird, Peacock and others. Make full use of your imagination, you may find some rocks with some miniatures similar to famed architectures, like the Potala Palace in Tibet, Heaven Temple in Beijing or something else.

Perhaps you have watched sunset numerous time in untold places, but you may never experience such a grand sight in Yadan Geologic Park. If you want to stay longer to experience the unique sunset moment, just let your tour guide know (with extra cost).

After the tour finished you will be transferred to your hotel in Dunhuang.

What's not included

Gratuites

The entrance fees is only for regular caves, you can pay extra if you want to visit special caves.

Accommodation

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The entrance fees is only for regular caves, you can pay extra if you want to visit special caves.

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.