Xi'an to Dunhuang: 2 Ways from Xian to Dunhuang (Flight & Train)

Dunhuang Location & Xi'an to Dunhuang Distance: About 1720 km

Where is Dunhuang located in China? Dunhuang is located in the far western part of Gansu Province, China, near the edge of the Gobi Desert. Xi'an, on the other hand, is in central China and serves as the capital of Shaanxi Province.

The distance from Xi’an to Dunhuang is approximately 1,720 kilometers, covering a vast expanse from central China to the northwest, offering travelers a unique journey through different landscapes and historical sites.

1. Xi'an to Dunhuang Flight: 2.5-3 Hours (Fast)

• Time Required: 5-3 hours
• Departure: Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (西安咸阳国际机场 IATA: XIY)
• Arrival: Dunhuang Mogao International Airport (敦煌莫高国际机场 IATA: DNH)

There are up to 15 direct flights daily between Xi'an and Dunhuang, departing from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport and landing at Dunhuang Mogao International Airport. The flight takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, covering a distance of about 1,720 kilometers. Flights are available from 12:10 PM to 8:15 PM.

Xi'an downtown to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport: About 30km, 40min by car, 1h by metro.

Terracotta Warriors to Xi'an Xianyang International Airport: About 67km, 1h by car, 1.5hrs by airport shuttle bus.

Dunhuang Mogao International Airport to Dunhuang downtown: About 14km, 20min by car.

Dunhuang Mogao International Airport to Mogao Grottoes: About 6km, 10min by car.

Scenic Views from the Xi'an to Dunhuang Flight

During the flight from Xi'an to Dunhuang, you can enjoy a range of breathtaking natural landscapes:

Qinling Mountains (秦岭山脉): Shortly after takeoff, you’ll pass over the Qinling Mountains, an important geographic divide in China. The mountains' rolling terrain and lush greenery create a beautiful sight.

Qilian Mountains (祁连山脉): As you fly west, the majestic Qilian Mountains come into view. If you're lucky, you might even spot snow-capped peaks gleaming in the sunlight.

Gobi Desert: Once you enter Gansu Province, vast stretches of the Gobi Desert spread beneath, displaying the rugged beauty of Northwest China.

Zhangye Danxia Landform: Approaching Dunhuang, you may catch a glimpse of the colorful Zhangye Danxia landform, a stunning display of nature's artistry on the ground below.

Yardang Landform: Near Dunhuang, you'll also witness the unique Yardang landform, shaped by wind erosion, resembling sculptures carved by nature itself.

2. Xi'an to Dunhuang Train: 11-22 Hours (Budget, but Slow)

• Time Required: 11-22 hours
• Price: ¥201+ per adult (one-way)
• Departure: Xi'an Railway Station or Xi'an North Railway Station (西安站/西安北站)
• Arrival: Dunhuang Railway Station (敦煌站)

Covering the 1,720-kilometer distance, there are 2 train options between Xi’an and Dunhuang daily. The high-speed train takes about 11 hours, traveling at speeds of 200-250 km/h, while the slower, overnight train takes around 22 hours, traveling at 120 km/h.

Xi'an downtown to Xi'an Railway Station: About 9km, 30min by car, 30min by metro.

Dunhuang Railway Station to Dunhuang downtown: About 12km, 20min by car, 1h by shuttle bus.

Dunhuang Railway Station to Mogao Grottoes: About 4km, 7min by car.

Xi'an to Dunhuang Train Time & Price

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All 00:00-06:00 06:00-12:00 12:00-18:00 18:00-24:00

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Note:

1. The timetable is subject to change. Always check for the latest information.

2. Xi'an also has high-speed trains to Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province. You can also start your Gansu tour from Lanzhou, where the Yellow River flows through.

Scenery along the Xi'an to Dunhuang Train Journey

A train ride from Xi'an to Dunhuang offers a scenic and historic journey:

Maijishan Grottoes (麦积山石窟): Located in Tianshui, Gansu, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of China’s four major grottoes, showcasing stunning ancient sculptures.

Yellow River (黄河): As the train passes through, you’ll witness the grandeur of the Yellow River, especially in Lanzhou, where the river flows through the city, creating a unique landscape.

Shandan Horse Farm (山丹马场): Situated in the Qilian Mountains, this is one of the oldest and largest horse farms in Asia, where you can see vast grasslands and roaming herds of horses.

Zhangye Danxia Landform: In the Zhangye region, marvel at the colorful and dramatic Danxia landforms that stretch over 50 square kilometers.

Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关): As part of the Great Wall, Jiayuguan Pass is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the westernmost fortress, located in the Gobi Desert, offering a glimpse into China’s ancient defense systems.

Tips for Traveling from Xi'an to Dunhuang

1. The sun is strong, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat.

2. The Gansu climate is dry, so pack moisturizer and drink plenty of water.

3. Temperatures can vary greatly between day and night, so pack everything from short sleeves to a warm jacket or windbreaker.

4. Prepare snacks, especially for long train journeys.

5. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there will be a lot of walking involved.

How to Plan a Tour from Xi'an to Dunhuang

Xi'an (2-3 Days)

Spend 2-3 days exploring Xi'an’s iconic sites, including the Terracotta Warriors Museum, the Ancient City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter, the historic Great Mosque, the Tang Dynasty's Ever Bright City, and the majestic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda.

Dunhuang (2-3 Days)

Plan 2-3 days to explore Dunhuang’s cultural and natural wonders. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Mogao Grottoes (莫高窟), the mystical Singing Sand Dunes (鸣沙山), the serene Crescent Moon Spring (月牙泉), and the stunning landscapes of Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark.

Extend Your Gansu Tour to Xinjiang for a Silk Road Adventure

Turpan (1-2 Days)

Spend 1-2 days in Turpan and visit the ancient ruins of Jiaohe City, explore the ingenious Karez Irrigation System, and marvel at the Emin Minaret.

Urumqi (1 Day)

Discover Urumqi's cultural treasures at the Xinjiang Regional Museum and enjoy the scenic beauty of Heavenly Lake in Tianshan. This takes 1 day.

Kashgar (3 Days)

Spend 3 days in Kashgar exploring Kashgar’s Old City, the historic Id Kah Mosque, and the charming Ancient Tea House. On Sunday, visit the famous Livestock Market, and take a drive along the China-Pakistan Highway (Karakoram Highway) for breathtaking views of Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, and panoramic views of Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube, and Muztagh Ata.

Suggested 10-Day Silk Road Tour Itinerary from Xi’an to Xinjiang

The most classic Ancient Silk Road trip from the starting point – Xi'an is offered for your reference:

Recommended Tours:

10 Days Classic China Silk Road Tour: Xian, Mogao Caves & Kashgar Old City

Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Xi'an and Dunhuang

Whether you prefer the quick flight or the scenic train ride, traveling from Xi'an to Dunhuang is an unforgettable journey along the Silk Road. We highly recommend choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your trip to ensure a hassle-free experience. Let AOT take care of the details such as itinerary planning, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure!

More transportation guide in Gansu:

• Dunhuang to Jiayuguan
• Lanzhou to Zhangye
• Zhangye to Jiayuguan
• Lanzhou to Xiahe