Things To Do
in Dunhuang
Dunhuang sits at the edge of the Gobi Desert, where ancient Silk Road trade routes left a lasting cultural imprint. The city blends desert landscapes with centuries-old grotto art, most famously the Mogao Caves. Modern Dunhuang offers approachable tourism, night markets, and base camps for desert excursions.
Its climate and terrain create dramatic sunrises, starry skies, and unforgettable dune scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Dunhuang and settle into your traditional guesthouse overlooking the city walls. Wander through narrow lanes to sample local jujube cakes and hand-pulled noodles at a bustling street stall. Feel the rhythm of the Silk Road come alive as merchants and artists mingle beneath ancient ramparts.
Head to the Dunhuang Museum to examine Silk Road artifacts, from bronze mirrors to Buddhist relics, and learn about the city’s pivotal role in ancient trade. Admire detailed maps tracing caravan routes and touch replica manuscripts in the interactive exhibition. Capture vivid photos of life-sized camel statues guarding the galleries.
Stroll through the night bazaar where lantern-lit stalls offer kebabs, date wines and handcrafted souvenirs. Join locals for a spontaneous drum circle beneath a canopy of red lanterns and desert stars. Savor a bowl of steaming mutton noodle soup as the city hums with music and conversation.
Begin before dawn with a guided climb to Cave 16 to witness the first golden rays illuminating millennia-old frescoes. Feel the hush of the desert morning as you stand before intricately painted Buddhas and celestial dancers. Your guide shares tales of monks who carved these caves with simple tools.
Delve deeper into the Mogao Caves complex, examining layers of pigments, carved stucco reliefs and ancient manuscripts preserved in hidden alcoves. Picture silk-clad pilgrims kneeling before each shrine as you move through dimly lit corridors. Pause for tea at the onsite research academy while listening to a curator explain recent restoration discoveries.
Attend an evening lecture under a star-filled sky, where local scholars recount the caves’ rediscovery by explorers a century ago. Enjoy a simple banquet of noodles and stir-fried vegetables outside the cave complex. Let the desert breeze carry away the centuries as you reflect on the sacred art you’ve witnessed.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚌Public transportation (one-way) | $1-3 |
| 🧴Water bottle and snacks | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Silk Road history and Mogao Caves
- Stunning desert landscapes and dunes
- Compact city with easy access to sights
- Vibrant night market atmosphere
- Warm hospitality and approachable travel logistics
- Extreme heat in summer and cold winds in winter
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Popular sites can be crowded during peak season
- Some language gaps in more remote areas
- Desert dust and sandstorms are a possibility
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Qǐng wèn" - Excuse me / May I ask
- "Duìbuqǐ" - Sorry
- "Wǒ yào diǎn cài" - I would like to order food
Places to Visit in Dunhuang
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sand dunes with dramatic ridges and shifting shapes; best photographed at sunrise or sunset for warm light and long shadows.
A tranquil oasis framed by dunes; excellent for reflections and contrast with the arid desert backdrop.
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient murals and grotto architecture; clamp down on light to capture details without glare.
Historic Silk Road fortifications with desert horizons; evocative silhouettes and expansive sky photography.
Food in Dunhuang
Dunhuang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Char-grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili, widely available from night market stalls and roadside vendors.
Must-Try!
Fragrant, chewy noodles in beef or vegetable broth, often topped with herbs; look for local noodle shops near the old town.
Hearty beef noodle bowls with a rich broth, common in casual eateries throughout Dunhuang.
A slow-cooked lamb stew with aromatic spices, sometimes served with flatbread in Hui-influenced areas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for street foods such as kebabs, fried snacks, dumplings, and sweet treats, with seating along the streets.
A bustling local market area where you can sample snacks, fresh fruit, and small bites from multiple stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Nǐ hǎo' (hello) goes a long way; greet elders politely and use two hands when offering or receiving items.
Ask for consent before photographing people, especially in more religious or traditional settings; dress modestly in temples or mosques and respect local sensitivities.
Haggling is common in markets, but do so with a friendly attitude and a smile; pay attention to local etiquette in bargaining and sample sampling.
Safety
Tipping in Dunhuang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a strong tradition in Dunhuang, but in tourist-focused services small tips are appreciated for exceptional service; carry small denominations for convenience.
Cash in CNY is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common at shops and markets. Major hotels and some restaurants may accept credit cards or foreign cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming desert flora; great for outdoor exploring and lower wind; watch for occasional sand gusts in open areas.
Hot days and strong sun; carry water, wear lightweight clothing, and seek shade during peak hours. Desert landscapes glow at golden hour.
Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies; ideal for photography and long walks in the dunes. Slightly cooler evenings.
Cold with potential wind chill; occasional snowfall on higher dunes; layer clothing and prepare for early sunsets.
Dunhuang at Night
Hiking in Dunhuang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hikes on rolling dunes with expansive desert views; sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography.
Historical ruins with surrounding desert terrain; suitable for short hikes and photography, offering a glimpse into Silk Road fortifications.
Airports
How to reach Dunhuang by plane.
Domestic flights and some regional routes; easy access from town with taxis or shuttle services.
Regional hub with broader connections; transfer options include domestic flights to Dunhuang or rail connections to other cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Dunhuang city, with many residents involved in tourism and commerce.
A notable minority community in the region; you may encounter halal options and culturally sensitive practices in certain areas.
A mix of domestic and international visitors drawn to Silk Road history and desert landscapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional desert activity popular around the dunes; offers a unique way to experience the landscape.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunhuang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Dunhuang eateries offer vegetable-forward options; ask for no meat stock and request pickled vegetables, tofu dishes, and noodle soups as substitutes.