How to get to Dunhuang

Dunhuang is a legendary ancient oasis city in northwest China, situated on the edge of the Gobi Desert and once serving as a vital hub on the Great Silk Road. If you have decided to travel here for the famous Mogao Caves and the Singing Sand Dunes, you will be pleasantly surprised by the transport accessibility of this historic region.

Figuring out how to get to Dunhuang is quite simple: the city is open to tourists, and you can arrive by plane, travel on a modern train, or utilise intercity coaches.

The fastest and most comfortable way to arrive at the gates of the desert is to fly into Dunhuang Airport (DNH). This modern aviation hub receives flights from many major Chinese metropolises, ensuring a stable connection between the region and the outside world. The airport is located quite close to the city limits, so the journey to your hotel or the attractions will not take much time.

If tickets for direct flights are unavailable, experienced travellers plan their routes via neighbouring cities. The nearest alternative airports are in Hami and Jiayuguan, located approximately 300 kilometres from Dunhuang. Although this option requires a subsequent transfer to ground transport, it is often helpful during the high season and allows you to see even more of the northwestern landscapes.

Travelling by rail is one of the most atmospheric and convenient ways to reach Dunhuang. Contrary to outdated perceptions, the city has its own railway station located just a few kilometres from the centre, saving tourists from the need to make long transfers.

The station receives regular services, including popular tourist expresses and classic passenger trains of the K-series ("K-trains"). Such connections link the legendary oasis with Lanzhou, Xi'an, and other major cities, allowing travellers to arrive in comfort right at the edge of the desert.

In the absence of direct tickets, one can consider travelling through neighbouring major transport hubs — Hami, Jiayuguan, or Golmud. These cities serve as important logistical points from where it is easy to reach the final destination by bus or taxi, whilst enjoying the scenery of the northwest.

A bus journey to Dunhuang offers the opportunity to witness the changing landscapes of northwest China, from snow-capped mountains to boundless sands. The most convenient and frequent service departs from the city of Jiayuguan, covering 380 kilometres in approximately 4–5 hours. The route from Hami is equally popular: the journey from this transport hub takes about 5–6 hours.

For those planning a trip from Qinghai Province, there is a regular service from the city of Golmud. This longer journey, spanning over 500 kilometres, will take between 7 and 9 hours but offers unforgettable views of high-altitude plateaus. All intercity buses arrive at the main bus station, located within easy reach of the city centre.

Travelling by car to Dunhuang allows you to experience the true scale of the desert and the freedom of movement on the region's high-quality highways. Jiayuguan is located closest to the city: a picturesque drive of about 371 km will take approximately 4.3 hours. The drive from Hami takes a little longer — this route of 410 km requires about 5.2 hours on the road.

For those travelling from Golmud, the trip will be a longer expedition: the distance of 542 km is covered on average in 6.8 hours. If you do not plan to drive yourself, you can use intercity taxi services or book a private transfer, though it is worth noting that the cost will be higher due to the significant mileage.

A trip to Dunhuang is an immersion into the atmosphere of the ancient Silk Road at the edge of a boundless desert. To ensure your journey to China is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, we have prepared a list of important practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Climate. Weather in the desert is changeable: it can be hot during the day, while at night the temperature drops sharply. Even in summer, be sure to bring a windbreaker or a warm cardigan for evening walks. Sunglasses, headwear, and high SPF sunscreen are essential. For walking on the dunes, choose closed footwear so that the hot sand does not burn your feet.
2. Transport. It is convenient and inexpensive to get around the city by taxi; meters are used everywhere. Regular buses run to the main attractions, but to save time, you can book a private transfer. Bicycle rental is popular in the city centre, allowing you to explore the surroundings at your own pace.
3. Currency and Payments. The main currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). Cards from international payment systems are not accepted everywhere, so always carry a supply of cash, especially small denominations. The most common payment method is via mobile apps (Alipay or WeChat), which should be installed and set up in advance.
4. Health and Safety. The air in Dunhuang is very dry, so drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration and use moisturising creams. The city is safe for tourists, but standard precautions (keeping an eye on belongings in crowded places) are advisable. It is best to bring a first-aid kit with your usual medications.
5. Communication. Few people here speak English, even in the tourism sector. Be sure to download an offline translator app to your phone with voice input and photo translation functions. It is also useful to have your hotel's business card in Chinese to show to taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette. The Chinese are a friendly people but value restraint. Remove hats when entering temples and maintain silence. It is not polite to point at people or objects with one finger — use an open palm instead.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly forbidden to take photos or record videos inside the Mogao Caves — flashes damage the ancient frescoes. Cameras and large bags must be left in the storage lockers at the entrance. Violation of this rule may result in serious fines and removal from the tour.
8. Additional Advice. When visiting the Singing Sands (Mingsha Mountain), be sure to buy or rent special bright orange shoe covers. They are sold at the entrance and will reliably protect your trainers from fine sand getting inside, which is otherwise very difficult to clean out.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of this amazing oasis.