Gansu (甘肃)

Gansu is the heart of the ancient Silk Road, home to the Mogao Caves, rainbow mountains of Zhangye, and the western end of the Great Wall.

Best Time to Visit

May-Oct, Best: Sep-Oct

Top Highlights

5 must-see attractions

Major Cities

Dunhuang, Zhangye

Altitude Note

Southern Gansu (Xiahe) is at 2900m. Most other areas are lower altitude.

Top Highlights

Mogao CavesZhangye DanxiaJiayuguan FortLabrang MonasteryCrescent Lake

Cities & Attractions

Dunhuang (敦煌)

Top Attractions:

Zhangye (张掖)

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Travel Insurance

Don't travel without insurance! High-altitude travel in Western China requires comprehensive coverage including emergency evacuation.

Important: Make sure your policy covers high-altitude trekking (above 3000m) if you plan to visit Tibet or western Sichuan.

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