Zhangye to Dunhuang Train: Schedule, Tickets & Travel Tips

Taking a train from Zhangye to Dunhuang is the best way to travel between these two cities. There are about five trains daily, covering 612 kilometers (380 miles) in roughly 4.5 to 8 hours. The fastest high-speed trains can make the trip in just 4.5 hours, reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h. Booking tickets is simple, with options to suit your budget and comfort preferences.

Thinking of taking the train? This comprehensive Zhangye to Dunhuang train guide covers everything you need to know about the journey, including distance, schedules, tickets, prices, stations, and travel tips. Our goal is to make your trip from Zhangye to Dunhuang as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Zhangye to Dunhuang Train Distance: 612 KM (380 Miles), 4.5-8 H

The Zhangye to Dunhuang train journey covers about 612 kilometers (380 miles) and typically takes between 4.5 and 8 hours. The exact travel time can vary depending on the specific train you choose.

Starting in Zhangye, known for its stunning Danxia landforms, you'll embark on a comfortable ride through diverse landscapes. The high-speed train offers a quick, smooth trip with modern amenities, making it a convenient choice for those short on time. If you opt for a regular train, you'll have a more leisurely experience, perfect for soaking in the sights along the way.

Zhangye to Dunhuang Train: Schedule & Timetable

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Zhangye to Dunhuang Train: Facilities, Tickets & Prices

Hard Seat: Budget Choice

Taking a hard seat from Zhangye to Dunhuang is the most economical option, offering basic comfort with a 3+2 seating arrangement. While not as spacious as other classes, it's a budget-friendly choice for travelers looking to save money. The ticket price is 81 RMB (about 12.5 USD), making it affordable even for a 7-8 hour journey.

Hard Sleeper: Comfort Meets Affordability

The hard sleeper is a step up from the hard seat, featuring a compartment with 6 berths arranged in 3 tiers, allowing passengers to rest lying down. It's an economical choice for overnight travel, offering reasonable comfort and privacy. Tickets cost about 144 RMB (approximately 22 USD).

Soft Sleeper: Comfortable Overnight Travel

For more comfort, the soft sleeper has enclosed compartments with four berths, providing more privacy and a quieter environment. It's the top choice for travelers seeking a relaxed journey. The ticket price is around 222 RMB (about 34 USD).

Second Class Seat (High-Speed Train): Popular Choice

On the high-speed train from Zhangye to Dunhuang, the second class seat is very popular. These carriages have soft seats arranged in a 2+3 configuration, offering ample legroom and reclining options for a pleasant trip. Ticket prices range from 174.5-210.5 RMB (approximately 27-32 USD), providing a cost-effective way to enjoy modern high-speed rail facilities and scenic views of the Hexi Corridor.

First Class Seat (High-Speed Train): Business Travel

For business travelers seeking higher comfort, luxury, and privacy, the first class seat is the best option. Tickets cost around 278-337 RMB (about 43-52 USD). First class offers a 2+2 seating layout with spacious seats, ample legroom, and extra amenities, perfect for those wanting a premium travel experience.

Lanzhou to Zhangye Train: Departure Railway Station in Zhangye

Zhangye West Station (张掖西站): Main Railway Station

Location: Danxia Road, Ganzhou District, Zhangye (张掖市甘州区丹霞路)

Zhangye West Station is the primary hub. Located about 10 kilometers from downtown Zhangye, it's a modern and bustling with activity. It's well-equipped with amenities and serves as a convenient starting point for many travelers. If you're looking for a straightforward and efficient travel experience, this is your go-to station.

Zhangye Railway Station (张掖站)

Address: Zhanghuo Raod, Dongyuan Town, Ganzhou District, Zhangye (张掖市甘州区东园镇张火公路)

Zhangye Railway Station is approximately 5 kilometers from the city center. Travelers can easily reach the downtown area by taxi or local bus, with a typical taxi ride taking about 10-15 minutes. The station provides convenient access to various attractions in Zhangye, making it a great starting point for exploring the city.

Shandan Railway Station (山丹站)

Address: National Highway 321, Qingquan Town, Shandan County, Zhangye (张掖市山丹县清泉镇321国道)

Shandan Railway Station is approximately 75 kilometers from Zhangye city center. Travelers can reach Zhangye by taking a long-distance bus or taxi, which typically takes about 1.5 hours.

Shandan Machang Railway Station (山丹马场站)

Address: Shandan County, Zhangye City, Gansu Province (张掖市山丹县)

Shandan Machang Railway Station is about 85 kilometers from Zhangye city center. Travelers can reach Zhangye by taking a long-distance bus or taxi, with the journey typically taking around 2 hours.

Arrival Railway Station: Dunhuang Railway Station (敦煌站)

Address: Highway 314, Dunhuang, Jiuquan (酒泉市敦煌市314省道)

Dunhuang Railway Station is about 12 kilometers from the city center. Travelers can reach downtown Dunhuang by taxi or local bus, with a taxi ride taking about 20 minutes. The station is also around 25 kilometers from the Mogao Caves, accessible by taxi or tourist buses, typically taking about 30-40 minutes. This station serves as a convenient gateway to explore the cultural and historical sites in Dunhuang.

Top Attractions in Dunhuang

Dunhuang, a captivating city nestled in the Gobi Desert, is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. With its ancient Silk Road heritage and stunning desert landscapes, Dunhuang offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Here are some of the top attractions you must visit:

Mogao Caves (莫高窟)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a collection of over 492 Buddhist cave temples dating back to the 4th century. Admire the intricate murals, sculptures, and frescoes that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and history.

Crescent Moon Spring (月牙泉)

This oasis in the heart of the desert is a remarkable natural wonder. Surrounded by towering sand dunes, the spring's crystal-clear waters create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Mingsha Mountain (鸣沙山)

Hike up these towering sand dunes for panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. You can also enjoy sandboarding or camel riding for a thrilling adventure.

Yumen Pass (玉门关)

As a gateway to the Western Regions, Yumen Pass played a crucial role in the Silk Road trade. Explore the ancient fortress and learn about its historical significance.

Shazhou Night Market(沙洲夜市)

Shazhou Night Market is a vibrant and bustling food haven located in Dunhuang, China. This bustling market is a must-visit for foodies and anyone looking to experience the local culture.

The market offers a wide variety of dishes, from traditional Chinese street food to international flavors. You'll find everything from grilled skewers, noodles, and dumplings to kebabs, pizza, and ice cream.

How to Plan a Trip from Zhangye to Dunhuang

When planning a trip from Zhangye to Dunhuang, you are setting yourself up for an unforgettable journey through some of the most iconic and visually stunning landscapes on the Silk Road. This route offers a deep dive into the history and natural beauty of Gansu, and typically, allocating around 4-7 days for the entire trip will allow you to fully experience each location.

Zhangye (1-3 Days)

Zhangye, a city famed for its spectacular Rainbow Mountains at the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. Spend 1-3 days here to explore the colorful rock formations that illuminate the desert landscape in a blaze of color at sunrise and sunset. Additionally, visit the Giant Buddha Temple to see one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in Asia. The city's historical sites and vibrant landscapes provide a perfect introduction to the region's unique geological and cultural heritage.

Dunhuang (1-3 Days)

In Dunhuang, give yourself 1-3 days to explore the treasures of this ancient oasis city on the Silk Road. The highlight here is undoubtedly the Mogao Caves, a complex of Buddhist cave temples featuring exquisite murals and statues that date back over a millennium. Additionally, don't miss the chance to visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, where the echoes of the singing sands fill the air and provide a serene setting against the backdrop of the desert.

Here is the Zhangye to Dunhuang Itinerary you can refer to:

Day 1: Arrival in Zhangye

Day 2: Zhangye to Jiayuguan - Travel to Jiayuguan and explore the Great Buddha Temple and the Overhanging Great Wall.

Day 3: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang - Visit the Jiayuguan Pass, an essential part of the Great Wall of China, with an optional visit to the Great Wall Museum.

Day 4: Explore Dunhuang - Discover the Mogao Caves, a World Heritage site, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Singing Sand Mountains and Crescent Lake, with an optional evening at the Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market.

Day 5: Departure from Dunhuang

Extend Your Journey to Gansu and China Silk Road Destinations

Gansu

• Jiayuguan (1-2 Days): Enhance your understanding of China's military history by visiting Jiayuguan Fort. This well-preserved fort marks the western end of the Ming dynasty Great Wall and offers a historical gateway between China and the vast deserts of Central Asia.
• Lanzhou (1-2 Days): Spend a day or two in Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu. Enjoy a stroll along the Yellow River and try the famous Lanzhou beef noodles. Visit the Gansu Provincial Museum to see Silk Road artifacts and the Iron Bridge of Yellow River for a glimpse of the city's industrial past.

Xinjiang (7-8 Days): Spend a week visiting key highlights: Turpan's ancient cities and Karez irrigation system, Urumqi's regional museum and Heavenly Lake, Kashgar's bustling bazaar, The scenic beauty of Kanas Lake in the Altai Mountains, and Tashkurgan's historic Stone City.

Qinghai (1-3 Days): Visit the Kumbum Monastery, one of the most important religious sites for Tibetan Buddhism. Spend time at Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake, offering peaceful views and birdwatching opportunities.

Private Transfer Service by Asia Odyssey Travel

Navigating travel in China can be challenging, especially for international visitors. With Asia Odyssey Travel, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey from Zhangye to Dunhuang. Our private transfer service ensures a smooth, comfortable ride between these two fascinating destinations. Avoid the complexities of station transfers and language barriers with our professional drivers who manage everything, including your heavy luggage.

Whether you're planning to explore the stunning landscapes of Zhangye or the historical treasures of Dunhuang, our team is dedicated to making your travel experience seamless and enjoyable. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.