Your perfect 5-day itinerary to Gansu
What's the story
The province of Gansu, located in north-central China, is a place where stunning natural landscapes meet the echoes of ancient history.
This article provides a comprehensive five-day itinerary for exploring the remnants of the Silk Road and the breathtaking scenery of Gansu.
From the otherworldly rainbow mountains of Zhangye Danxia to the historic city of Dunhuang, this trip offers an unforgettable journey through time and nature.
Arrival
Day 1: Arrival in Lanzhou
Start your journey in Lanzhou, the heartbeat of Gansu.
Land at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, then dive into the city's iconic sights. The Yellow River Mother Sculpture and Zhongshan Bridge are calling your name.
Savor a bowl of Lanzhou's legendary hand-pulled beef noodles for dinner. This is just the appetizer to your upcoming adventure.
Danxia Drive
Day 2: Journey to Zhangye Danxia
Head out on a four-hour drive to the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, home to the stunning "Rainbow Mountains" of China.
Spend the afternoon hiking and exploring the park's various viewing platforms for an up-close look at these geological marvels.
Don't forget to capture some amazing photos! The most vibrant colors can be seen at sunrise and sunset.
Zhangye exploration
Day 3: Exploring Zhangye
Discover Zhangye's historical and cultural treasures.
Start your day with a visit to the Giant Buddha Temple, housing China's largest reclining Buddha statue.
In the afternoon, journey to the Mati Temple in the Qilian Mountains. This ancient site is renowned for its grottoes and over a thousand years old Buddhist art.
Fort Adventure
Day 4: Silk Road to Jiayuguan
Take a three-hour drive from Zhangye to Jiayuguan City on day four.
Visit the iconic Jiayuguan Fort, located at the western terminus of the Great Wall of China. This fort symbolizes the boundary where the ancient civilization collided with the wild land.
Discover the nearby attractions, including the Overhanging Great Wall and Wei-Jin Art Gallery, before retiring for the night in Jiayuguan.
Dunhuang Dunes
Day 5: Dunhuang's Echoing-Sand Mountain
Wrap up your Silk Road journey on day five in Dunhuang City.
Start your day with a camel ride at Echoing-Sand Mountain, followed by a visit to the tranquil Crescent Lake Oasis surrounded by dunes.
In the afternoon, head to the Mogao Caves—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and witness over a millennium of Buddhist art history.