After breakfast at the hotel, drive about 25 km to visit the UNESCO-celebrated
Mogao Caves, an oasis strategically located at a religious and cultural crossroads on the Silk Road. It is famed as the “Louvre of East”, which is outstanding for its exquisite mural paintings and statues. There are now 492 grottoes in which about 45000 square meters mural paintings and 2100 colorfully painted statues from which you can trace the development of Chinese art over 1000 years. The caves are also known for the giant Buddhas which are tucked inside the expansive caves.
NOTE: During peak seasons (May to October), there are usually a lot of visitors to Mogao Caves, so it is recommended to make a reservation in advance for at least 10 days. Foreigners are allowed to visit the Caves only during the morning. Passport check upon the visit to the monument.
In the afternoon, pay a visit to the weird eroded desert landscape of
Yadan National Park, located in the middle of the awesome zone of the Gobi desert. The formations of the park developed from 700,000 years of natural wind erosion. In order to guarantee a special experience, the visit will be conducted by private jeeps to cover more of the desert. Walking paths are available to freely explore the area. Returning from Yadan National Park, pass by the remains of the
Han Great Wall, still visible on the side of the white road.
OPTIONAL: For dinner, you can enjoy a simple but fascinating barbecue on the dunes.
Overnight in Dunhuang.
