Yardang National Geopark
Dunhuang Yadan Geological Park, also known as "Yardang National Geopark," is a surreal landscape of wind-eroded rock formations in China’s Gobi Desert. Designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015, it spans 346 square kilometers and showcases “yardang” landforms—sharp ridges, towering spires, and grooves carved by millennia of sandstorms. Nicknamed the "City of Devils" for its eerie wind howls, it lies 180 km northwest of Dunhuang, near the ancient Silk Road.
Historical Overview
Formed over 12,000 years by aeolian erosion, the park’s rock formations were shaped by the region’s extreme climate. Ancient travelers dubbed it "Shaizhou" (Sand City) due to its resemblance to a deserted metropolis. The site gained global attention in the early 20th century after explorers like Sven Hedin documented its otherworldly terrain. In 2001, it opened as a National Geological Park, becoming a must-visit stop on the Silk Road route.
Structural Layout
The park is divided into three zones:
North Zone: Features the iconic "Golden Lion Welcoming Guests" and "Egyptian Pyramids" formations.
East Zone: Home to the "Stone Bird" and "Peacock Standing Gracefully" rock sculptures.
West Zone: Dominated by the "West Sea Fleet"—a naval parade of 100+ jagged spires.
A 10 km paved loop connects viewing platforms, with shuttle buses stopping at key vistas.
Major Attractions
Golden Lion Welcoming Guests: A 12-meter-tall lion-shaped rock at the entrance.
Egyptian Pyramids: Steep-sided pyramidal formations resembling Giza’s monuments.
West Sea Fleet: A spectral armada of sandstone pillars, best viewed at sunset.
Stone Bird: A slender rock pillar perched on a cliff, symbolizing freedom.
Peacock Standing Gracefully: A feather-detailed formation with intricate erosion patterns.
Silk Road Outpost: A replica fort offering panoramic park views and historical context.
Suggested Itineraries
- Express Route (1.5 hours):
Shuttle Stop 1 (Golden Lion) → Stop 3 (Egyptian Pyramids) → Stop 5 (West Sea Fleet) → Exit.
Highlights: Iconic formations and sunset vistas.
- Classic Route (2.5 hours):
Shuttle Stop 1 → Stop 2 (Stone Bird) → Stop 4 (Peacock) → Stop 5 → Silk Road Outpost.
Highlights: Photogenic spots and cultural exhibits.
- Deep Dive (4 hours):
All stops + 2 km desert trail to "Hidden Monastery" ruins.
Highlights: Off-path exploration and stargazing (night tours available).
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via Ctrip or Mafengwo (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets at the park entrance; arrive by 8:30 AM to avoid queues.
Prices: ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students/seniors). Free for children under 1.2m.
Inclusions: Shuttle bus access; optional ¥80 guided tours.
Transportation
By Car: Rent a 4x4 from Dunhuang (2.5-hour drive; GPS to “Yardang National Geopark”).
By Tour: Join a day trip from Dunhuang (¥200–300/person, including Mogao Grottoes).
By Bus: Limited daily buses from Dunhuang West Bus Station (check schedules in advance).
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Visit between 6–8 PM for golden-hour lighting.
Crowds: Quietest in mornings; avoid national holidays.
Weather: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) ideal. Summer temperatures exceed 40°C.
Essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and 2+ liters of water. Wear sturdy shoes for sandy trails.
Prohibited: Drones (require permission), littering, and off-path hiking.
Contact Us
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
FAQ
How to book tickets? Does it include shuttle buses?
Tickets (120 RMB, including shuttle buses) available online or at the gate; mandatory shuttle bus for guided routes.
Can visitors drive private cars inside?
No; all visitors must take the park’s air-conditioned shuttle buses (departs every 20 mins).
Why is Yardang National Geopark called the "Devil City"?
Wind-eroded rock formations create eerie howling sounds at night, resembling ghostly whispers in the desert.
What are the most iconic landforms in the park?
"Ships," "castles," and "columns" sculpted by millennia of wind, with the "Wedding Carriage" formation being the most photographed.
When is the best time to visit Yardang National Geopark?
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat; sunset illuminates formations in golden hues.
