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Dunhuang

China

Why Dunhuang?

An oasis on the Silk Road

The city of Dunhuang, in north-west China, is situated at a point of vital strategic and logistical importance, on a crossroads of two major trade routes within the Silk Road network. Lying in an oasis at the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, Dunhuang was one of the first trading cities encountered by merchants arriving in China from the west. It was also an ancient site of Buddhist religious activity, and was a popular destination for pilgrims, as well as acting as a garrison town protecting the region.

dunhuang painting china

Dunhuang Highlights

Here we have selected a few of the sights and experiences that you really should see on a visit to Dunhuang.

Dunhuang, China

Mogao Grottoes

The Mogao Grottoes are considered one of the most important collections of Buddhist art in the world. At its peak during the Tang dynasty (618–907), the site housed 18 monasteries, more than 1400 monks and nuns, and countless artists, translators and calligraphers.

Dunhuang, China

The Singing Sands Dune

The Singing Sands Dune, 6km south of Dunhuang, is where the desert meets the oasis in most spectacular fashion. From the sheer scale of the dunes, it’s easy to see how Dūnhuáng became known as the 'Town of Sand'. At the base of the vast dunes is the Crescent Moon Lake, and the panoramic views from the top is breathtaking.

A selection of our tours to Dunhuang

  • rainbow mountain china
    China Tailor Made Nature

    Rainbow Mountains and Dunhuang

    A relatively undiscovered area with ancient buildings and natural wonders

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  • Jiayuguan Fort Gansu China
    China Tailor Made Nature

    Private: Gansu

    Visit the home of the famous rainbow mountains

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