How to Get from Xining to Zhangye & Zhangye Danxia Geopark

Where Is Zhangye Located

Zhangye (张掖) is a prefecture-level city in Gansu Province, located in the middle of the Hexi Corridor (河西走廊) in the province's northwest. It borders Wuwei (武威) and Jinchang (金昌) to the east, Haibei in Qinghai Province to the south, Jiuquan (酒泉) and Jiayuguan (嘉峪关) to the west, and Alxa League (阿拉善盟) in Inner Mongolia to the north.

• Zhangye to Lanzhou (兰州): Around 500 km, a 5-6 hour drive. There is a high-speed train connection (Zhangye West to Lanzhou West), which takes 3-4 hours.
• Zhangye to Jiayuguan (嘉峪关): Around 230 km, a 3 hour drive. A high-speed train (Zhangye West to Jiayuguan South) is available, which takes 1.5 hours.
• Zhangye to Dunhuang (敦煌): Around 590 km, a 6-7 hour drive. A high-speed train journey (Zhangye West to Dunhuang) takes 5-6 hours.

Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang are must-see destinations in Gansu, China. From Xining, you can explore Gansu’s rich history and stunning landscapes by following the Zhangye-Jiayuguan-Dunhuang route.

Xining to Zhangye Distance: About 350 Kilometers

The distance from Xining to Zhangye is about 350 km. No matter which way you choose to travel from Xining to Zhangye, you will get to witness the stunning and diverse landscapes of Northwest China.

Scenery on the Way from Xining to Zhangye

Daban Mountain (达坂山): A branch of the Qilian Mountains and a key route connecting Qinghai to Gansu, with an elevation of 3,940 meters.

Menyuan (门源): Famous for its fields of rapeseed flowers from early July to early August, with views of Gangshika Snowy Peak in the distance.

Gangshika Peak (岗什卡雪峰): Standing at 5,254.5 meters, this is the highest peak in the eastern section of the Qilian Mountains, often snow-capped year-round.

Qilian Mountain Grassland (祁连山草原): Situated at the northern foot of the Qilian Mountains, this grassland has been named one of the 6 most beautiful grasslands in China by China National Geography.

Shandan Army Horse Breeding Farm (山丹军马场): Spanning both Qinghai and Gansu provinces, this is the oldest and largest horse farm in Asia, established over 2,140 years ago by Western Han Dynasty hero Huo Qubing (霍去病).

1. Xining to Zhangye by High-Speed Train: About 2 Hours (Faster)

• Time Required: About 2 hours
• Price: ¥91.5+ per adult for a one-way ticket
• Departure: Xining Railway Station (西宁站)
• Arrival: Zhangye West Railway Station (张掖西站)

The best way to travel from Xining to Zhangye is by high-speed train, taking about 2 hours to cover the 350 km distance. The high-speed train runs along the Lanzhou-Urumqi High-speed Railway (兰新高铁), which is the world’s longest high-speed railway built in a single phase.

Starting from Xining Railway Station (西宁站), the train passes through Datongxi Railway Station (大通西站), Menyuan Railway Station (门源站, with views of Gangshika Snow Peak), Shandanmachang Railway Station (山丹马场站, the highest point of the railway at 3,108 meters and the highest high-speed railway station in the world), and Minle Railway Station (民乐站), before arriving at Zhangye West Railway Station (张掖西站). Note that stops may vary depending on the train.

This scenic route offers breathtaking views of rapeseed flower fields (from early July to early August), the ranging Qilian Mountains, grasslands with grazing cattle and sheep, and horses galloping across the farm. Many travelers call it one of the most beautiful high-speed train routes in China.

Xining to Zhangye Train Time & Price

There are 12-13 high-speed trains running between Xining and Zhangye every day. However, the exact departure times, duration, and train schedules may change, so it’s recommended to check for the latest information.

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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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Insider Tips for the Train from Xining to Zhangye

1. Window seats A and F offer the best views of the scenery.
2. If you don't get a window seat, head to the train carriage connections for great photo opportunities through the windows.
3. The sun is strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen and bring sunglasses, a hat, and other sun protection.
4. The elevation along the route is high, reaching over 3,000 meters. Stay hydrated, maintain a positive mindset, and consider taking altitude sickness prevention medications like Rhodiola.
5. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in high-altitude regions. Dress in layers and bring a windproof jacket for colder weather.

2. Xining to Zhangye by Bus: About 6 Hours (Slower)

• Time Required: About 6 hours
• Price: ¥101.70 per adult for a one-way ticket
• Departure: Xining Bus Station (西宁汽车站)
• Arrival: Zhangye Bus Station (张掖汽车站)

The bus journey from Xining to Zhangye takes about 6 hours and departs from Xining Bus Station (西宁汽车站) to Zhangye Bus Station (张掖汽车站). There are 5 daily departures between 08:00 and 15:30, with a one-way fare of RMB 101.70. Prices may vary, so it's recommended to check in advance.

While the bus route differs slightly from the train, you’ll still enjoy beautiful views of rapeseed flower fields, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains, with herds of cattle and sheep along the way.

Xining to Zhangye Bus Time & Price

Note: The schedule is only just for reference!

Insider Tips for the Bus from Xining to Zhangye

1. The bus ride is long, so if you get motion sickness, bring motion sickness medication.
2. Public restrooms along the way can be basic, so be prepared.
3. Watch out for altitude sickness, as the route passes through high-elevation areas.
4. Be ready for temperature changes along the way—bring extra layers.
5. The sun is strong, so make sure to protect yourself from UV rays.

Xining to Zhangye Danxia Geopark

Zhangye Danxia Geological Park is located between Linze County and Sunan County in Zhangye City. To reach the park from Xining, take a train or bus to Zhangye City, and then transfer to Zhangye National Geological Park from there.

• Zhangye West Railway Station (张掖西站) to Danxia Geopark: 35 km, about a 40-minute drive
• Zhangye Bus Station (张掖汽车站) to Danxia Geopark: 35 km, about a 40-minute drive

How to Plan a Xining to Zhangye Tour

Xining (3-4 Days)

Spend 3-4 days in Qinghai to see the highlights of Qinghai, including a full day at Qinghai Lake, half a day at Chaka Salt Lake and a day at Ta'er Monastery in Xining City.

Zhangye (1-2 Days)

Spend a day in Zhangye visiting Dafo Temple (大佛寺) to see the impressive reclining Buddha statue, and then head to Zhangye National Geopark for the vibrant Danxia landforms. An additional day allows you to explore the scenic Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon.

Extend Your Gansu Tour to Jiayuguan, Dunhuang & Badan Jaran Desert

Jiayuguan (1 Day)

Spend a day visiting Jiayuguan Pass (嘉峪关关城) and the renowned Overhanging Great Wall (悬臂长城), both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Dunhuang (2-3 Days)

In Dunhuang, enjoy 2-3 days of exploration. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Mogao Grottoes (莫高窟), the Singing Sand Dunes (鸣沙山), Crescent Moon Spring (月牙泉), and Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark.

Badan Jaran Desert (2-3 Days)

Experience a Jeep safari in Badain Jaran Desert from Badain Jaran Town, known for its “Five Wonders,” and spend a night in the desert for an unforgettable adventure.

Recommended Tours:

7 Days Qinghai Gansu Adventure Tour with Badain Jaran Desert & Beautiful Lakes

Suggested Silk Road Tour Itinerary from Qinghai to Gansu

Day 1: Arrival in Xining

Upon arrival in Xining, you’ll have free time to explore the city. In the evening, enjoy strolling through the lively night market and sampling local snacks.

Day 2: Xining – Qinghai Lake – Chaka Town

Begin your journey with a drive to Qinghai Lake and visit the Erlangjian Scenic Area. Optional activities include a boat cruise, horse riding, or cycling. In the afternoon, drive for about 3 hours to Chaka Town, where you will stay overnight.

Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake – Xining – Zhangye

In the morning, visit Chaka Salt Lake, known as the "Mirror of the Sky." Explore the salt flats and enjoy a one-way ride on the sightseeing train. Afterward, drive back to Xining (about 3-3.5 hours). Upon arrival, take a 2-hour high-speed train to Zhangye and stay overnight.

Day 4: Zhangye – Jiayuguan

Spend the morning exploring the Giant Buddha Temple in Zhangye and the Zhangye National Geopark, famous for its colorful Danxia landforms. In the afternoon, drive to Jiayuguan and stay overnight.

Day 5: Jiayuguan – Dunhuang

Visit the Jiayuguan Pass, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important part of the Great Wall of China. Optionally, visit the Great Wall Museum and the Hanging Great Wall. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Dunhuang and stay overnight.

Day 6: Dunhuang Tour

Discover the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient Buddhist art. In the afternoon, visit the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Moon Spring. Optionally, you can visit Dunhuang’s bustling Shazhou Night Market in the evening.

Day 7: Departure from Dunhuang

Check out of your hotel and transfer to Dunhuang Airport for your departure.

Recommended Tours:

7 Days Qinghai Gansu Classic Tour: Nature & Legendary Silk Road Legacies

Travel from Xining to Zhangye with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)

Traveling from Xining to Zhangye with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) offers a seamless and scenic journey. You can have an amazing high-speed train experience from Xining to Zhangye!

The journey offers breathtaking views of Northwest China's diverse landscapes, including rapeseed flower fields, snow-capped mountains and vast grasslands. AOT ensures you experience the best of this picturesque journey, providing detailed guidance and tips for a smooth trip.

As well as ensuring a comfortable transition between these two fascinating destinations, AOT also sets the stage for further exploration of Gansu's rich cultural heritage, such as Zhangye Danxia, Jiayuguan Pass and the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang.