Dunhuang Private Day Tour: Yumen Pass, Han Great Wall Ruins and Yadan Ghost City
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Dunhuang Private Day Tour: Yumen Pass, Han Great Wall Ruins and Yadan Ghost City

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(2 reviews)
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a captivating deep dive into Dunhuang’s ancient Silk Road legacy, exploring the iconic Yumen Pass, atmospheric Han Dynasty Great Wall Ruins, historic Haicang City and the otherworldly Yadan National Geologic Park. Led by a professional expert guide, you’ll uncover 2000 years of fascinating frontier history, with vivid insights into the ancient civilization’s ingenuity, defense systems and cross-cultural trade stories that shaped this legendary land. Step back in time at the time-worn Yumen Pass&Han Great Wall ruins and marvel at the extraordinary wisdom of the ancient people who built these remarkable frontier landmarks. Venture into the desert to behold Yadan National Geologic Park’s breathtaking wind-sculpted natural formations—an otherworldly landscape that’s a photographer’s dream, boasting dramatic, one-of-a-kind vistas for unforgettable shots. This tour includes all entrance fees, English speaking guide and Dunhuang hotel pickup and drop-off.

Available options

Dunhuang Private Day Tour: Yumen Pass, Han Great Wall Ruins and Yadan Ghost City

Pickup included

What's included

Battery Bus at Yanmen Pass
Battery bus at Yadan National Park
English speaking tour guide
Entrance fee
Travel by private air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

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 Yumen Pass (1.5 hours), your tour guide will explain the related histories and stories, feel free to ask questions if you have.

The Yumen Pass was a strategic pass on the ancient Silk Road protecting Dunhuang from invasion from the West about two thousand years ago.

Follow your tour guide, take attraction's battery bus to explore the area. Admire thousand years old ruins of Hecang City, Han Dynasty Great Wall Ruins and Yumen Pass.

The existing Yumen Pass is a square castle standing in the sandy rocks of Gobi. Climbing up to the tower and overlooking, you will collect in your eyes a long scroll full of scattering mashes, ravines crossbar, winding great wall, tall and straight poplars which create an atmosphere of nostalgia.

2

Continue to explore the ruins of Han Dynasty Great Wall.

With a history of over 2000 years, Han Dynasty Great Wall was built during 101 to 121 BC. Stretching as long as over a thousand kilometers in the west land of ancient China, it had taken a crucial role in defending the country against northern invaders and contributed greatly to the prosperity of silk road in the history, as it was under such a security protection, could the merchants passing through this area both from east and west continue their business and exchange goods and information. Adjusting measures to local condition, Han Great Wall was made by branches, reeds, sand gravels and other local materials instead of masonry structure. The existing Han Great Wall Relics in Dunhuang lost its origin style and features because of the weather-bitten of several millennia. However, you can still figure out the outline and admire the wisdom of ancient people.

3

Continuing to Yadan National Geological Park, referred as Yadan Devil City for the bleak desert&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.

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

What's not included

Gratuites
Accommodation
Meals

Available languages

Guide guide
CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
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1★
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Important information

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.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use reputable tour operators
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air
  • Dunhuang Airport • 15 km from city center
By train

Dunhuang Railway Station

By bus

Dunhuang Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shazhou Night Market Dunhuang Old Town

Day trips

Eagle's Beak (Yingpan)
120 km from Dunhuang • Full day

A unique geological formation featuring a narrow canyon and stunning desert landscapes. It offers hiking and exploration opportunities.

Sanggan Temple
30 km from Dunhuang • Half day

An ancient Buddhist temple with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers a peaceful retreat and cultural insights.

Festivals

Dunhuang International Silk Road Week • June

Pro tips

  • Visit the Mogao Caves early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Carry plenty of water and wear a hat when exploring the desert.
  • Try local street food at the Shazhou Night Market for an authentic experience.
  • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Use a local SIM card or eSIM for convenient internet access.
Get Price per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 10-90
1
Childs
Age 4-9
0
Infants
Age 0-3
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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