[2024 Dunhuang Attraction] Travel Guide for Mingsha Mountain (Updated Oct)
Deserts
Address:
6 km south of Dunhuang City, Jiuquan City
Opening times:
Opens at 05:00-20:30Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 day
Phone:
0937-8883388,0937-8882074
You really need to visit Dunhuang to see the Crescent Spring, which never dries up, a miracle oasis in the desert
Mingsha Mountain embraces the Crescent Spring
It is named after the spring water that resembles a crescent moon.
The romance of the Northwest is walking on the rolling sand dunes
To witness the unique spectacle of the coexistence of desert and spring.
Groups of camels orderly traverse the desert
The vast desert, camel bells, sunset, and stars
Showcase the ultimate romance and freedom of the desert.
A concert for thousands after sunset
From above, it's dotted lights, from below, it's a sky full of stars
Countless passionate souls light up Mingsha Mountain.
If you also want to experience the unique romance of the frontier
Then come to Mingsha Mountain in Dunhuang~
📍: Crescent Spring Town, Dunhuang City, Gansu Province
(Suggested to drive, hire a car, or take a taxi)
🎫 Ticket: 110 yuan (suggested to buy online, valid for three days with one purchase)
Travel tips:
1. Camel ride 100 yuan, no need to buy tickets in advance
2. It is recommended to enter from the middle gate, it is closer to the scenic area, about 600m.
3. Crescent Spring looks more spectacular from Mingsha Mountain, be sure to use a ladder to climb Mingsha Mountain, climbing the soft sand on foot is very tiring and hard to find footing.
4. Remember to bring a few more bottles of water, climbing is very tiring and dry.
5. Be sure to take protective measures in the desert, bring a V-shaped hat, mask, and sunglasses.
PassportAddict
Mingsha Mountain, Dunhuang | A guide to Mingsha Mountain is a must.
Tickets: Tickets are CNY 110 and can be purchased online in advance. You can enter by scanning your ID card on-site. It is recommended to buy tickets for the middle gate, which is the closest. You can see the ladder for climbing the mountain after a short walk. Tickets are valid for 3 days.
Ticket check time: 06:00-18:00/19:00/20:30 (the specific end time depends on the official notice. The time may be adjusted, so the time written in many articles is inconsistent. You can enter before the end of the ticket check time and stay until late.)
Shoe covers: Sand will get into your shoes if you wear them directly. You can buy shoe covers or wear slippers. Shoe covers are available in the scenic area. Shoe covers are CNY 6. Please note that you should buy fully enclosed shoe covers. Do not buy shoe covers with a seam in the middle, as sand can easily get in.
Note: You need to climb Mingsha Mountain with the help of a ladder. At first, I saw that there were many people on the ladder and they moved slowly. I climbed directly next to the ladder on foot. As a result, I was very tired. I had to rest after walking for a while. Moreover, I fell one step after walking two steps. The efficiency was not as good as that of people on the ladder. I still climbed the ladder honestly. It is recommended to climb the second ladder from left to right.
💧: It is best to bring at least one bottle of water or sugary drink. Climbing the mountain is very tiring and dry, and it is easy to have low blood sugar. The water on the mountain is several times more expensive.
📷: For friends with cameras, it is best to put the camera in the bag during the climbing process or when the wind is blowing. Take it out and take photos when you are stable and there is no wind. If sand gets in, it is not worth repairing.
It is recommended to come one hour before sunset in the afternoon, climb to the top of the mountain to watch the sunset, and you may also see the afterglow. From June to October, you can also watch the Starry Sky Concert for ten thousand people. The atmosphere on-site is great!
LilyMontgomery
"Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour: Experience the Magnificence and Mystery of Northwest China"
When I embarked on the Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour, I felt like I had opened a door to a magical world. This trip in 2024 was destined to be one of the most brilliant chapters in my memory.
Our journey began in Xining, Qinghai. This city with a long history is full of rich ethnic customs. On the streets, colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the bells of temples echo in the air. Here, I felt a sense of tranquility and solemnity, as if time had slowed down.
Our first stop was Qinghai Lake. The intoxicating azure blue of the lake, like the eyes of the earth, was deep and mysterious. The lake sparkled in the sunlight, contrasting with the distant snow-capped mountains, forming a beautiful picture. By the lake, golden rape flowers were in full bloom, like a golden ocean. The breeze blew, and the fragrance of the flowers was intoxicating. I strolled by the lake, feeling the coolness of the lake water and the caress of the breeze, and my heart was filled with awe for nature.
Next, we went to Chaka Salt Lake. Known as the "Mirror of the Sky", it lived up to its name. The white salt lake was like a huge mirror, reflecting the sky and clouds, making it difficult to tell where the sky was and where the earth was. I put on bright clothes and took photos in the salt lake, as if I were in a fairy tale world. Standing in the middle of the salt lake, surrounded by silence, with only the sound of the wind and my own heartbeat, I felt an extreme sense of tranquility and beauty.
Leaving Chaka Salt Lake, we entered the Qaidam Basin. This vast desert and Gobi is full of mystery and unknown. We drove through this uninhabited area, feeling the power and greatness of nature. Along the way, we saw the unique Yadan landform. The variously shaped earth mounds seemed to be sculptures of nature, which were amazing. On this barren land, life seemed so fragile and yet so tenacious. Occasionally, we would see some tenacious plants, which were blooming with the glory of life in the harsh environment.
Entering Gansu, we arrived in Dunhuang. This ancient city carries a long history and splendid culture. The Mogao Grottoes are the treasures of Dunhuang. The exquisite murals and sculptures make people feel as if they have traveled through time and space and returned to the ancient Silk Road. I quietly appreciated these art treasures, feeling the wisdom and creativity of the ancients. The Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring are also a great spectacle in Dunhuang. The golden sand dunes shone in the sunlight, while the Crescent Spring was like a pearl inlaid in the desert. I rode a camel and strolled on the sand dunes, feeling the vastness and mystery of the desert.
Finally, we arrived at Zhangye Danxia Landform. The landform here is like God's palette, with colorful colors that dazzle the eyes. The peculiar peaks and valleys seem to be masterpieces of nature, which are amazing. I stood on the viewing platform, overlooking this beautiful scenery, and my heart was filled with praise for nature.
The Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour allowed me to experience the magnificence and mystery of Northwest China. Here, there are vast grasslands, azure lakes, white salt lakes, mysterious deserts, ancient cultures, and beautiful scenery. This trip not only relaxed my body and mind, but also broadened my horizons and enriched my life experience. I believe that these wonderful memories will stay in my heart forever.
ANDERSON DANIELS
Dunhuang Camels Treading the Silk Road (Including Camel Riding Guide)
In the summer desert, even before noon, the sun is scorching, making every grain of sand burning hot.☀
Walking in the desert on your own feet, you probably won't last 10 minutes before being defeated by the 'enthusiastic desert.' Thus, the 'desert camel' becomes the best means of transportation.
My first impression of the camel is 'this buddy is reliable'! Even with my hefty weight, the camel remains steady!😉
Traveling through the Dunhuang desert, which is part of the Silk Road, feels like traversing through millennia, very wonderful! At the same time, I am moved by the wisdom and hard work of the ancients who did business through the Silk Road!🥹👍🏻🥰
Just as there are no identical eggs in Da Vinci's paintings, there are no identical deserts in the eyes of tourists. 'You are the wind, I am the sand'—when the wind blows, the sand dances along, forming different dunes. The dunes also change color depending on the angle of sunlight throughout the day. Therefore, the desert is beautiful and unpredictable.🏜
📍Detailed Address:
Gansu. Dunhuang. Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area
💰Average Cost:
🌟Camel: 100 yuan/person (fixed route in the scenic area, about 50-60 minutes per trip)
🌟Photography: 50 yuan/person (photos taken by the camel guide, don't underestimate their photography skills; they know very well where to take good photos and what poses and angles make tourists look better)
📝Tips:
It's best to wear mid-length pants when riding a camel; skirts can be inconvenient for women when getting on and off and during the ride.
Do a good job of sun protection; sunglasses, headscarves, and hats are essential.
Remember not to make big movements during the ride (such as taking off your backpack or patting the camel), as camels are easily frightened and hard to control once scared.
RenewedResorts
Practical Guide to Mingsha Mountain｜Came for the concert, but fell in love with the desert sunset
Because of the starry night concert, I came to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring.
The concert was average, and everyone seemed more enthusiastic about climbing.
If I come again, I will focus on appreciating the desert scenery.
——————
🌟Travel Tips
✅Mingsha Mountain has 3 entrances, the middle gate is the best choice, don't choose the other gates. During peak season, they might say the middle gate is full and direct you to the east or west gates, but if you look carefully, you can still find parking spots.
✅When buying tickets online, you need to choose an entry time, but this is not important. As long as you have a ticket for the day, you can enter. The first entry requires facial recognition, and you can re-enter unlimited times within 3 days.
✅Tickets are 110 yuan per person; camels are 100 yuan per person; sandboarding and other activities need to be booked separately. The online package prices are about the same as buying individually. Just choose based on the situation on-site.
✅Shoe covers are not necessary, they affect walking and are stuffy. If you mind sand getting into your shoes, you can go barefoot (in the evening during sunset, the sand is not that hot and is quite comfortable).
✅The concert audience area is right next to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, the most crowded place. There are about 4 climbing ladders which make it easier but require queuing. Not using the ladders is more tiring and less crowded but you might be affected by people around you. You can climb beside the ladders, use the ladders when tired, and rest on the slope.
✅About 80% into the concert, many people start descending. Going down barefoot is the most convenient. If you sit halfway up the slope, don't sit on the sides as you might get pushed down. The sand keeps flowing and will accumulate behind you.
✅Lastly, always pay attention to safety while playing. The air is filled with the smell of sand, so wearing a mask is necessary.
·
📷About Photography
❗️It's not recommended to bring a camera. Use a phone for photos or hire a photographer.
❗️Sand is everywhere in the desert, and cameras can easily get clogged with dust, making cleaning difficult.
❗️If you want to shoot the sunset, enter early as climbing takes a lot of time. The most beautiful sunset is at the 'top of the mountain'.
❗️I haven't tried travel photography, but you can recommend each other. I won't introduce it here.
❗️Drones are not allowed in the scenic area, and there are helicopter experiences, so drones are not recommended.
·
❤️Warm Tips
1️⃣The entrance closes at 19:30, but during peak season, there are many people, and those in line can usually get in.
2️⃣The park opens at 6:00. It's said that the desert is also beautiful in the morning and there are fewer people. With a 3-day validity, you can give it a try.
3️⃣There are almost no beverage shops in the park. People sell water, but it's expensive. It's better to bring a backpack with more water.
4️⃣The first thing people do after leaving the park is buy drinks. For cold drinks, walk a few more steps as the shops at the entrance just put them in.
5️⃣During peak season, there are traffic jams at each exit, so don't rush to leave. Just walk slowly.
Cook_93 Oliver
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring Full Guide: Explore the Desert Wonders
Dunhuang, this ancient city, carries a thousand years of history and culture. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring are miracles jointly created by nature and human civilization.
✅Mingsha Mountain, named for the sound of the moving sand. The undulating sand dunes seem like a magnificent picture drawn by nature with a golden brush.
✅Crescent Spring, shaped like a new moon, lies quietly in the embrace of Mingsha Mountain. This clear spring has not dried up for thousands of years, bringing vitality and hope to the vast desert.
📍Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
🎫Ticket Information:
Full-price ticket: 110 yuan/person, valid for three days after purchase. You can enter the park multiple times within three days with your ID.
⏰Opening Hours: The recent opening hours are 6:00—19:30, but please refer to the park's periodic updates for specific times.
🌟Recommended Travel Route:
Enter the park from the middle gate➡️You can choose to walk, take a sightseeing car, or ride a camel🐫➡️Follow the signs through Ironback Fish Park towards Crescent Spring➡️Climb to Yuequan Pavilion➡️Climb Mingsha Mountain to watch the sunset🌄➡️Attend the Starry Sky Concert, it's a blast!
🌟Recommended Travel Time:
🕐In summer, the sunset is later, so it is recommended to enter the park around 5 PM to avoid the hottest period of the desert.
🌄The sunset is between 8 PM and 8:30 PM, so leave enough time to climb Mingsha Mountain to enjoy the beautiful sunset.
🌌The Starry Sky Concert starts at 21:00, with a two-hour long sing-along, the atmosphere is fantastic! This event will last until October 10th, don't miss it.
🌟Travel Tips:
👗Clothing: Red, white, and other bright-colored clothes are great for photos in the desert. You can also rent a Feitian or Western Princess costume for stunning photos.
☀️The desert sun is strong, and UV radiation is intense. Always pay attention to sun protection and UV protection. Remember to bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses.
💧Playing in the desert requires a lot of water, so stay hydrated. Bottled water outside the park is 2 yuan each, inside the park at the foot of Mingsha Mountain is 5 yuan each. There are no vending facilities on Mingsha Mountain, so water is carried up by people, hence the higher price.
🚌Transportation:
It takes about 10 minutes by taxi from the city center.
Take bus No. 3 from the city center directly to the park, fare is 2 yuan. However, after the Starry Sky Concert, both taxis and buses are very crowded, so it is recommended to leave early.
💕Let's feel the grandeur and magnificence of nature in the vast desert of Dunhuang and encounter a romantic journey of our own💕
Asher Adams 456
Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring Travel Guide (Save it so you won't get lost)
This month, the northwest is indeed a popular tourist season! After traveling the small northwest loop with my son, we took a train from Xining to Dunhuang City. You guessed it, our destination is Mingsha Mountain! We're coming to the grand concert!
Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain is a national key tourist scenic spot, located on the edge of the Kumtag Desert. It is one of China's four major singing sand mountains, along with Shapotou in Zhongwei County, Ningxia, Xiangshawan in Dalate Banner, Inner Mongolia, and Barkol Town in Barkol Kazakh Autonomous County, Xinjiang.
The sand dunes undulate, and when people slide down the slopes, they produce a roaring sound known as 'Shaling Qingming,' one of the eight scenic spots of Dunhuang.
About tickets 🎫:
Students with valid student IDs get half-price discounts, military personnel and seniors over 65 with valid IDs get free or discounted entry; sightseeing bus costs 10 yuan per person, which can take you to the Crescent Spring scenic spot. The distance is short, and if you have enough time, you can walk there; camels cost 100 yuan each; gliders cost 160-1600 yuan per person, depending on the flight distance; sand sliding costs 15 yuan per person; shoe covers cost 15 yuan per pair; photos taken by staff while riding camels and sand sliding cost 20 yuan each!
One ticket is valid for three days! You can enter multiple times with your ID card without any limit! The grand concert is from 21:00 to 22:00!
Don't ride the camels, they smell too bad.
About accommodation
We booked a homestay in Mingsha Mountain Town, which is only a 10-minute walk to the scenic spot. Booking a month in advance is much cheaper, so compare prices and check reviews!
Important tip: Staying nearby is much better than staying in the city! After the grand concert at night, there will be a huge traffic and crowd jam! There are too many people waiting for buses to the city! Although there are special buses, you need to queue up! There are too many people hailing taxis, it's really inconvenient! Listen to my advice! Luckily, I was smart and stayed nearby!
Transportation information
1. Bus: After getting off the train, we took a direct bus to Mingsha Mountain Town from the exit of the train station, it only costs 5 yuan per person. There is a QR code on the bus, just scan it and show it to the driver.
Taxi: A taxi from the city to Mingsha Mountain costs about 15 yuan, and the journey takes about 10 minutes. A taxi from the train station costs about 25 to 35 yuan.
There are many places to eat outside the Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain scenic spot, so you don't need to worry about shopping and dining! For those who want to take photos, compare a few shops. The ones on the main road are more expensive, while the ones inside are cheaper. The clothes also vary in newness and style. There you can see wasteland style, Western style, and flying apsaras... I won't go into details here. I only experienced the flying apsaras and bargained a little bit 🤏
Don't buy the sandboards outside, even though they are cheap, they are too soft. We bought one and it didn't slide well at all. It's better to try the ones from the merchants, the harder material slides better!
That's all for the introduction. Save it, and remember not to fall into any traps!
Noah67 Brooks~
Study Tour on the New Silk Road, Making Companionship More Loving!
Study Tour on the New Silk Road,
Let children grow while having fun, making companionship more loving!
Say goodbye to traditional long routes, focus on gains, not fatigue!
✨Classic IP Analysis:
Qinghai Lake: Rated as the most beautiful lake in the country by National Geographic magazine
Chaka Salt Lake: China's 'Mirror of the Sky', immerse yourself in a world of salt
📅Itinerary
Day 1: Beginning in Xining
Day 2: Xining - Horse Riding at Qinghai Lake - Grassland Carnival - Chaka Town
Day 3: Chaka Town - Chaka Salt Lake - Cycling at Qinghai Lake - Xining
Day 4: Xining - High-speed Train - Zhangye Danxia Landform - Jiuquan
Day 5: Jiuquan - Wet Rubbing Art Study - Jiayuguan Pass - Guazhou
Day 6: Guazhou - Yulin Grottoes - Silk Road History Lecture + Mud Plate Mural Study - Mingsha Mountain - Dunhuang
Day 7: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Dunhuang Costume Study + Immersive Travel Photography - Dismissal
新大陆户外
Summer Study Adventure! The Starry Sky Classroom under the Mingsha Mountain in Dunhuang!
🎒 Pack your bags and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This summer, I have a date with the starry sky in Dunhuang!🚀
👣 Walking along the golden ridges of Mingsha Mountain, every step echoes with history, as if traveling through millennia, sharing the same starry sky with the ancients.👣
🌃 As the sun sets and the sky gradually turns deep blue, a visual feast quietly unfolds... Looking up, there is the boundless universe, dotted with stars, and the Milky Way like a ribbon, so beautiful it takes your breath away!🌌
🔬 In this ancient desert, we not only capture the brilliance of the starlight with our eyes but also feel the mysteries of nature with our hearts. The study tour makes knowledge shine under the starlight!📚✨
📸 The camera captures not only the starlight but also the youthful image of us exploring the unknown and pursuing dreams. Every photo is a time capsule, preserving the brightest memories of this summer.📷
M. Christopher 24
Great love for Dunhuang
Morning trip to Mingsha Mountain in Dunhuang: We rode camels up and down, and along the way, Lulu and I experienced the interesting activity of sand sliding. It turns out you can't scream with your mouth open while sand sliding, or you'll get a mouthful of sand . It was my first close encounter with the desert, and taking two steps forward and sliding one step back was quite difficult. Due to time constraints, we couldn't climb high to overlook Crescent Spring, leaving a bit of regret for the next visit.
In the afternoon, we went to the Mogao Caves. Since our B tickets only included four caves, and the caves were very small, we could only take a quick look at each one, which was somewhat disappointing compared to our expectations. The museum outside had some replicas of the caves, which were quite nice.
The evening show 'Encore Dunhuang' was very impressive. The first half was a walking performance, which was very unique, and the close interaction with the actors was slightly shocking, highly recommended.
In the evening, I took Lulu for a barbecue, which was cheap, plentiful, and delicious! The night market at Shazhou was also very lively after dinner!
A pleasant day has come to an end
HennaKuosma
Dunhuang Travel｜Just came back from Mingsha Mountain, let me summarize it for everyone
This scenic spot is crowded, it's not an exaggeration.
You can feel it from the drop-off point of the taxi. Because at a long street corner from the gate, these taxis, ride-hailing cars, and private cars can no longer go forward. People can only get off in advance, walk through many small shops, and walk all the way to the entrance.
We went to this scenic spot twice. The evening of the same day and the morning of the next day. Everyone says that Mingsha Mountain is super difficult to climb, and we climbed it twice. The reason is simple, we thought it was just a place to check in, but we couldn't leave.
The sand of Mingsha Mountain is very fine, and it feels great to step on, grab, and play with. The sunrise and sunset on the top of the sand mountain are also super beautiful—although I caught the right time both times, I missed both because I dawdled a little on the way, which is one of our biggest regrets in Dunhuang.
However, after the sunset, the feeling of looking back at Dunhuang city is also super awesome, especially since we also caught half a sandstorm, which has a special kind of hazy and magnificent beauty. It reminds me of the descriptions in Wei Yu's 'West Exit of the Jade Gate', 'the loess square city faintly visible in the midnight sandstorm', I wonder if she also got her inspiration from here.
leona_ortiz_london
Ten Thousand People Concert | Romance from the Great Northwest
| Romance from the Great Northwest. Ten Thousand People Concert | Romance from the Great Northwest
Weekend trip to Dunhuang, just in time for the ten thousand people concert. It was truly a grand event, crowded with people. Tens of thousands of people sat on the half-slope of Mingsha Mountain, holding flashlights, facing Crescent Spring. The subtitles were projected on the sand dunes, and everyone sang together, feeling this unique romance of the Great Northwest.
The only suggestion is not to climb too high! Don't climb too high! Because if you're too low, you can't see the subtitles, and if you're too high, it's really exhausting. Staying under the national flag is more than enough.
EemilKoistinen
Northwest China Travel
Stunning the soul! 💖Northwest Travel Guide Recommendations💖||💥Stunning the soul! 💖The breathtaking scenery awaits your exploration! 🌈
🌅 Friends! This time I have brought you an absolutely stunning Northwest travel guide! 🗺️
🚗 Recommended Route:
🏞️ Lanzhou: The Yellow River runs through the city, with Zhongshan Bridge and the White Pagoda in full view.
🏜️ Dunhuang: Millennium murals in the Mogao Caves, camel teams in the Mingsha Mountains, and the tranquility of Crescent Lake.
🏔️ Jiayuguan: Experience the grandeur and magnificence of the ancient Great Wall.
🌄 Zhangye: The Rainbow Danxia, nature's palette.
🌊 Qinghai Lake: Rippling blue waves, where the sky and water merge into one.
💡 Tips:
👕 The temperature difference between day and night in the Northwest is significant, remember to bring a thick coat and sunscreen.
🚘 For friends who are self-driving, check your vehicle in advance and drive safely.
🎫 It's best to book attraction tickets online in advance to avoid queuing.
📸 Photo Spots:
🌄 Mingsha Mountain: At sunset, the camel teams and the desert create a stunning picture.
🌈 Zhangye's Rainbow Danxia: Every angle is like an oil painting.
🌊 Qinghai Lake: The sunrise and sunset by the lake are breathtakingly beautiful.
🍜 Food Recommendations:
🍢 Lanzhou Noodles: Delicious soup and chewy noodles.
🍖 Dunhuang Donkey Meat Noodles: Tender meat and springy noodles.
🍲 Jiayuguan Lamb Stew with Bread Pieces: Fragrant bread, tender meat, and a rich, flavorful soup.
🎁 Souvenir Recommendations:
🏺 Cultural and creative products from the Mogao Caves, such as mural bookmarks, silk scarves, etc.
🐫 Camel plush toys, a perfect gift for children to take home.
💖 Walking through this land, you will be deeply moved by its vastness, mystery, and majestic beauty. 🌄 Whether you are self-driving or joining a tour group, the Northwest will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Price-~Levi-87
A Thousand-Year Desert Dream: An In-depth Travelogue of the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
At the end of the ancient Silk Road lies a magical land where golden sands dance with clear springs, and the ancient coexists harmoniously with nature. This treasure of Dunhuang is none other than the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. It's not just a visual feast but also a spiritual purification, offering a moment of tranquility and wonder amidst the vast sea of sand.
🔍Attraction Introduction
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, located in the southern suburbs of Dunhuang City, Gansu Province, are famous for their unique desert scenery. Encircled by sand dunes, a crescent-shaped spring is embedded within, never drying up for a thousand years, with the sand never burying the spring, and the spring never exhausting. It is acclaimed as 'one of the most beautiful spectacles beyond the Great Wall'.
🚗Transportation Guide
- **Bus**: Take bus no. 3 from the city center directly to the attraction, convenient and economical.
- **Taxi/Ride-hailing**: About a 10-minute drive from Dunhuang city center, suitable for groups.
- **Self-driving**: Follow the navigation instructions, but pay attention to parking guidance during the summer peak season.
💰Ticket Price
- Adult ticket: 110 RMB/person (valid for multiple entries within 3 days)
- Half-price ticket: 55 RMB/person (please consult the attraction for eligibility)
- Special experience projects (such as paragliding, helicopter tours) are charged separately.
👣Tour Route Planning
1. **Enter in the afternoon**, avoid the high-temperature period, and enjoy the beauty of the slanting sun on the sand dunes.
2. **Stroll by Crescent Spring**, admire the wonder of nature, and capture the reflection by the spring.
3. **Climb to the top of Mingsha Mountain**, experience the fun of sand sliding, and overlook the panoramic view.
4. **Camel caravan in the evening**, ride camels through the dunes, and capture the silhouette of the sunset.
5. **Stargazing at night**, if the weather permits, experience the vastness of the desert night sky.
📸Photography Spots Recommended
1. **Crescent Spring Panoramic Platform**: The best shooting location, capturing the perfect integration of the spring and sand.
2. **Top of Mingsha Mountain**: Overhead shot of Crescent Spring, showcasing its unique geographical location.
3. **Camel caravan**: The golden sand dunes under the setting sun and the leisurely walking camel caravan compose a classic scene.
🗺️Must-Visit Attractions
- **Crescent Spring**: A natural wonder, not to be missed.
- **Mingsha Mountain**: Experience the wonder of the echoing sands and the joy of sand sliding.
- **Iron Fish Park**: An oasis in the desert, feel the tenacity of life.
- **Mingyue Pavilion**: An excellent viewpoint, offering a panoramic view.
🍲Accommodation and Dining
- **Hotels near the attraction**: Offer a variety of choices, from economical to luxurious.
- **Specialty restaurants**: Taste authentic Dunhuang cuisine, such as donkey meat noodles and Dunhuang fruits.
🛡️Travel Pitfall Guide
1. **Sun and sand protection**: Carry high SPF sunscreen, wear windproof glasses, and a mask.
2. **Off-peak travel**: Avoid holiday peaks, and enjoy a more leisurely visit on weekdays.
3. **Reasonable time arrangement**: Utilize the 3-day valid ticket to experience different beauties at different times.
4. **Rational consumption**: Ask clearly about the cost before experiencing projects to avoid hidden expenses.
In this ancient and mysterious desert, every footprint is an exploration of the unknown, and every frame captured is an eternal memory. Let Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring be a shining star in your life's journey, illuminating your curiosity and longing for the world. Looking forward to your story, to write an immortal legend together with this pearl of the desert.
Lewis_Anna_12
Longing Like Sand—A Beautiful Legend in the Desert!~~.
Holding a handful of fine sand, slightly loosening the fingers, letting the light sand slowly sprinkle on one's dress. The fine sand grains seep through the skirt, dyeing the lotus-colored dress with a faint yellow. Handful after handful of yellow sand falls on the body, as if burying the most beautiful longing.
Longing Like Sand—A Beautiful Legend of the Taklamakan Desert; any affectionate woman, if she wears the most beautiful clothes and immerses herself in the rolling dust, heaven will give her a promise, turning her lifelong longing into a grain of light sand in the desert. For every lifetime of longing, heaven will sprinkle a grain of sand for her, thus creating the vast Taklamakan!
In the uninhabited desert, there is such a beautiful legend. When standing here, one will miss every person they care about in their heart. Some say longing is like the sea, but I prefer longing like sand!~~~~~
Desert Tour Recommendations:
Xinjiang's S21 Desert Highway: The S21 Desert Highway features landscapes such as oases, wetlands, and sea Yadan. The S21 project is designed to create a national "Top 100 Service Areas" and "Transport-Tourism Integration" demonstration service areas with high standards, truly building the brand system of the "Most Beautiful Desert Highway," the ethnic folk culture system, the smart travel service system, and the travel and tour design system. It reflects desert charm, wildlife protection, and green agricultural leisure themes, combining the strengths of many, and showcasing the diverse cultural combinations of the Corps culture, red culture, fishing and hunting culture, and nomadic culture.
Gansu: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
Distance from Dunhuang to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: 5 kilometers (about 10 minutes by car)
Scenic Area Ticket: 110 yuan (valid for 3 days)
Special Recommendations:
To take beautiful photos of Mingsha Mountain, you must go to the top of the mountain. To take beautiful daytime photos of Crescent Spring, it is best to go before the sun sets in the afternoon when there are fewer people and the light is better. To watch the sunset, pay attention to the sunset time of the day and allow an hour and a half to climb the sand mountain, otherwise, you might miss it halfway up.
Tips: Some advice for friends who want to go to the desert
1. About clothes: Remember not to wear blue-green and dark-colored clothes.
2. The best spot for shooting is on the roadside before reaching the core area of the scenic spot (but often there are many cars and people, all will be in the frame, and you can only edit them out later).
3. There is a parking lot in the core area (the observation deck does not require a ticket, but if you want to park in the parking lot, you need to buy a ticket).
You can choose to park for free on the roadside a few meters away from the core area (there are planned roadside parking spots, and after parking, you need to walk a few hundred meters to the observation deck, saving the ticket and parking fees).
4. Wear proper clothes. When you reach the observation deck, especially by the lake, the wind will be very strong and cold.
5. If the car is parked far away and you want to take photos by the lake, remember to bring all your sunscreen products. Do a good job of sun protection!
樂途天下
Dunhuang's Secret Realm Star-gazing Group: A Starlight Pact Beneath the Mingsha Mountain
In the Mingsha Mountain of Dunhuang, the desert intertwines with the starry sky to create a dreamlike tapestry. As night falls, carrying a longing for romance, one steps into this mysterious desert. Adorned in a light gauze dress, like the brightest star in the night sky, you embellish the boundless sandy sea.
In this desert, not only are beautiful silhouettes left behind, but also endless reveries of the romantic starry sky. In this vast desert, the starry sky is the most romantic poet, narrating endless love stories with its twinkling and changing patterns.
When leaving this desert, the heart is filled with reluctance and longing. This starry sky and desert will forever remain in memory, becoming the most romantic recollection. And with this romance and beauty, one continues on the journey of life.
DEVIN TODD
I have returned from the northwest, and I sincerely advise sisters who haven't been there to be cautious
Before going to the northwest, I did all sorts of research, but still had many doubts and worries. I thought about joining a group, but then I kept seeing posts about how group tours can be a rip-off, because we were using our hard-earned annual leave to travel, and we had high expectations for this trip. It wasn't just a trip, it had a special significance, so after carefully comparing many options, considering safety and convenience, we chose a local boutique group tour.
The benefits of visiting the northwest during the off-season
1 Lower prices, less spending: The prices for flights, hotels, and car rentals start to drop significantly during the off-season.
2 Fewer tourists, better travel experience: No need to queue up for a long time to take photos or visit attractions, unlike the crowded peak season where you spend 5 minutes taking a photo and 2 hours Photoshopping people out of it.
📝Some tips:
1 Bring some snacks for the road, because in the sparsely populated areas, meal times can be unpredictable.
2 Long-distance travel essentials (U-shaped pillow), and for those traveling in winter, remember to bring disposable personal clothing, as you'll be changing hotels every day and won't have time for clothes to dry after washing.
3 For summer trips, bring sun protection, a sun hat, sunglasses (the UV rays in the great northwest are very strong! Especially for girls with astigmatism), and lip balm! It really gets very dry!
4 Be sure to check the weather forecast before going, as many places have completely different scenery on sunny days compared to cloudy days!!
5 The attractions in the northwest are far apart, and long drives can be tiring and unsafe, so friends who drive themselves must be careful~
6 In addition to bringing facial and body moisturizers for the northwest climate, also carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of water.
Group tour experience:
I joined the group after landing in Xining, and the driver from the group came to pick us up at the airport. The first day was free time, we went to the hotel to rest and visit the night market. The driver came very early every day and waited for us without rushing. In the end, we even praised the driver because he never smoked or played with his phone in the car, he livened up the atmosphere, and he would tell us where to take nice photos, and help us bargain in the local dialect when shopping. Who wouldn't be tempted by that!
Although it is now the off-season in the great northwest, with fewer people and slightly cheaper prices, it still depends on what you prefer.
That's all I can think of for now, I'll add more if I think of anything else~ Sisters with questions can leave a message oh
TravelTalesUnfold
Desert Ballet: Dunhuang's Dunes Dance in Radiant Splendor! 🌵📸 #DunhuangEnchantment
Dancing with the dunes in the heart of Dunhuang was a mesmerizing symphony of nature's beauty. 🌵✨ Engulfed in the sun-kissed golden hues, this desert photoshoot became a captivating tale of enchantment and grace, with every ripple in the sand telling its own story. 🏜️📷
Immersed in the vastness of the desert landscape, each photograph captured a moment frozen in time, reflecting the pure, untouched beauty of Dunhuang. 🌅 The enchanting play of light and shadow painted a canvas of serenity that echoed the love and admiration for this extraordinary place.
In the heart of the dunes, where the winds whispered secrets and the sun embraced the sands, I fell head over heels in love with Dunhuang. 🌅💖 Join me in this journey of discovery and affection, where the desert's allure casts its spell, leaving an indelible mark on the soul. 🏜️🌟
Trip.com Influencer_EN
I took a picture of the Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
⛰【Travel Guide】
📍Detailed address: Five kilometers south of Dunhuang City, Jiuquan City, Gansu Province
🚗Transportation Guide: Accessible by bus and taxi in Dunhuang City
🕙Opening hours: 6:30—18:30
💰Ticket price: 110
🌟Highlights: Mingsha Mountain, Crescent Spring,