Dunhuang to Turpan: 3 Best Ways to Reach Turpan from Dunhuang

Where is Turpan: Xinjiang, China

Turpan(吐鲁番) is located in the Xinjiang Region of Northwest China. It is situated in the Turpan Depression(吐鲁番盆地), one of the lowest points on Earth.

Dunhuang to Turpan Distance: 803 kilometers(499 miles )

The distance between Dunhuang and Turpan is approximately 803 kilometers (499 miles). Both Dunhuang and Turpan are important destinations, having served as trading and cultural hubs on Silk Road in the past. Today, Dunhuang and Turpan remain popular travel destinations.

Therefore, a trip from Dunhuang to Turpan is a must-do when exploring Northwest China.

The transportation options for your journey from Dunhuang to Turpan may be limited in Western China, but there are still a variety of choices available. Do read on for a detailed guide and insider tips on traveling from Dunhuang to Turpan.

Ways to Travel from Dunhuang to Turpan: Train, Flight, Car

Here's a comparison of the ways to get to Turpan from Dunhuang:

Dunhuang to Turpan Train: No Direct Route, Transfer Needed to Reach Turpan

Considering the transportation network in Northwest China is not as advanced as its eastern and southern regions easy options can be the Best Option for international Tourists in China.

While the Dunhuang to Turpan Train would always have a transfer involved it still may the to best option to get to Turpan from Dunhuang.

Here are the 2 Best Train Routes we curated at Asia Odyssey Travel.

Train Route 1: Dunhuang Railway Station to Turpan North Station via Yumen

This is the easy option with more straight forward transfer to go from Dunhuang to Turpan.

Departure: Start at Dunhuang Railway Station(敦煌火车站).

Transfer: Yumen Railway Station(玉门)

Arrival: Turpan North Station (吐鲁番北站)

Total Travel Time: Approximately 9 to 13 hours.

Total Cost: Ranges from 140 to 400 RMB, depending on the type of seat or sleeper you choose.

Step 1: Take Train from Dunhuang to Yumen

Kick start your Dunhuang to Turpan Trip from Dunhuang Railway station(敦煌火车站). Catch a train to reach Yumen Railway Station.

Step 2: Switch Train at Yumen to Reach Turpan

After arriving at Yumen Railway Station(玉门火车站), transfer to a train heading to Turpan North Railway Station(吐鲁番北站).

Insider Tip: Take overnight sleeper from Yumen Railway Station to Turpan. Sleep on the train and you will arrive at Turpan next morning.

The process of booking Train tickets in China has been more streamlined since 2024.

In the meantime if you prefer a true hassle-free travel from Dunhuang to Turpan, contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel Transportation, logistics, travel plan we have you all covered!

Train Route 2: Dunhuang to Turpan via Liuyuan South Station Ground Transport

Step 1: Go from Dunhuang to Liuyuan South Station(柳园南站) by Bus or Taxi

Take a taxi, bus, or mini-van (carpool) to Liuyuan South Station. The journey itself takes approximately 2.5 hours.

However if you opt for a carpool at Dunhuang Coach Station or Dunhuang Railway station the wait time could vary. Do factor it in and allow more travel time so you don't miss the train from Liuyuan to Turpan.

The bus from Dunhuang to Liuyuan costs 40 RMB. Price for car pool and taxi would range from 60 to 200 RMB.

Step 2: Take Train from Liuyuan South to Turpan North Railway Station

From Liuyuan South Railway Station, board a train to Turpan North Station.

Travel Time for Liuyuan South Railway Station to Turpan: Varies based on train type (approximately 4 to 6 hours).

Cost for Liuyuan South Railway Station to Turpan: Ticket prices range from 86 to 312 RMB, depending on the type of train and cabin class.

Insider Tip: Since the public transportation comes with limited services between Dunhuang Downtown and Liuyuan do allow more travel time so you don't miss the train to Turpan.

Insider Tips for Taking Train from Dunhuang to Turpan

Choose Overnight Sleeper: Dunhuang to Turpan via Yumen might be a less hassle way to get to Turpan. If you choose this route book an overnight sleeper from Yumen to Turpan.

This option allows you to rest during the journey and you won't waste daytime on train.

You might have a chance to watch the marvelous sunset view on the train, then get a good night sleep and arrive in Turpan the next morning for a fresh start.

Book in Advance: Train tickets from Dunhuang to Turpan can sell out, especially during peak travel seasons. Consider booking your tickets in advance.

Check Schedules: Train and bus schedules can change, so verify timings close to your travel date.

Bring Snacks: Long journeys may not have food options available, so pack snacks and water.

Be Prepared for Security Check: The security check before you board your train to Turpan can seem to be more strict. Learn the policy in advance.

Taxi: Opt for taxi if possible when try to catch your train to Turpan. Since the public transportation system in Northwest China would be less developed. While taxi drivers overcharging tourists is not that serious a problem, do try to haggle a bit.

In the mean time you could simply contact your Travel Expert and leave all the transportation planning to us at Asia Odyssey Travel, your Top Travel Company in Asia Odyssey Travel . Contact us now!

Dunhuang to Turpan Flight: 1 Hour 20 Minutes, Limited Service, Not Everyday

As of Sep 2024 the flight from Dunhuang Airport (DNH) to Turpan Jiaohe Airport (THN) operates every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday departing at 16:20. The flight time from Dunhuang to Turpan takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

There may be more flights from Dunhuang to Turpan during high season.

How to Reach Dunhuang Airport

Dunhuang Airport Shuttle Bus would take you from Dunhuang Downtown to the Airport for only 5 RMB. Note There are only 3 services in low season at 10:00, 14:00, 15:00.

Insider Tip for Dunhuang to Turpan Flight

Although there are transfer options available, the direct flight is still the best choice.

A layover would require a transfer in Xi'an, which would mean traveling backwards. This would take 8 or 9 hours and cost an additional 1,000 RMB to reach Turpan.

So if your schedule doesn't align with the direct flight to Turpan, choose trains over flights to reach Turpan.

Dunhuang to Turpan Bus: Not Operating Now

There used to be a Coach route connecting Dunhuang and Turpan, but it wasn't a popular choice among tourist travelling from Dunhuang to Trupan.

So as of Sep 2024 there is no direct bus from Dunhuang to Turpan.

Dunhuang to Turpan by Car: Road Trip Through Desert

Should you fancy a true epic road trip from Dunhuang to Turpan the G30 highway is a popular option for traveling from Dunhuang to Turpan by Car. Let's break down the journey:

Overall Trip from Dunhuang to Turpan By Car

Total Distance: The Driving Distance from Dunhuang to Turpan by car Via G30 Highway is approximately 803.7 kilometers (500 miles).

Estimated Driving Time: Around 9 hours and 25 minutes, excluding stops.

Highlights: Stunning desert landscapes, ancient Silk Road ruins, and the iconic Tupan attractions like Flaming Mountains.

Dunhuang to Turpan Road Trip Chapter 1: Dunhuang to 瓜州县 (Guazhou County)

Distance: 128 kilometers (80 miles)

Time: Approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes

Scenery: Primarily desert landscapes with the majestic Gobi Desert as your backdrop.

Tip: If you start early in the morning, you might catch a breathtaking sunrise over the desert when leaving Dunhuang for Turpan.

Dunhuang to Turpan Road Trip Chapter 2:瓜州县 (Guazhou County) to 吐鲁番市高昌区 (Gaochang District, Turpan)

Distance: 669 kilometers (416 miles)

Time: Approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes

Scenery: The route continues through the desert, offering vast, open spaces. As you approach Turpan, you'll start to see more greenery and the distinctive landscape of the Turpan Depression(吐鲁番盆地).

Dunhuang to Turpan Road Trip Chapter 3: 吐鲁番市高昌区 (Gaochang District, Turpan) to Turpan City Center

Distance: 6.7 kilometers (4.2 miles)

Time: Approximately 16 minutes

Scenery: You'll pass through the outskirts of Turpan and witness the gradual transition from desert to oasis.

Highlights: The Flaming Mountains, a striking red sandstone formation, is a must-see.

Tips for Road Trip from Dunhuang to Turpan by Car

Plan for Stops: Consider taking breaks at scenic viewpoints or local eateries along the way.

Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, especially when passing through less populated areas on your way from Dunhuang to Turpan.

Stay Hydrated: When heading to Turpan, do note that the weather in Xinjiang is known for being dry and hot. Although the Turpan region itself has a milder climate, do carry plenty of water, as temperatures can be high, especially in the summer months.

Check Best Time to Visit Xinjiang.

Plan your route: There are quite a few famous Turpan Attractions located near each other on the outskirts of Turpan. If you have energy and time to spare you can actually visit some of them, at least from distance, on your way from Dunhuang to Turpan city.

There are other possible route to go from Dunhuang to Turpan, and admittedly there are nuance to consider when driving as a international traveler in China. If you prefer to learn more, contact your travel expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for personalized consultation! Contact us now!

Travel Ideas for Xinjiang Tour

Urumqi (1-2 days): Start your journey in Urumqi. Visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum and explore the Grand Bazaar. Consider a day trip to the scenic Heavenly Lake for hiking and relaxation.

Kashgar & Tashkurgan (3-4 days): Explore the Old Town, dazzling Bazaars. Take a day trip to Tashkurgan to see the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau and visit Tajik family.

Turpan & Korla (2-3 days): Travel to Turpan, famous for its unique desert landscape and historical sites like the Karez irrigation system and the Flaming Mountains. Then, head to Korla to explore the ancient Iron Gate Pass and enjoy local Xinjiang Food.

Kuqa & Hotan (2-3 days): Next, visit Kuqa to explore the Kizil Caves and local culture. Continue to Hotan, known for jade, silk production and the ancient ruins of the Hotan Kingdom.

Aletai, Hemu Village & Kanas Lake (3-4 days): Venture north to Aletai, where you can explore picturesque valleys and enjoy outdoor activities. Visit Hemu Village for rural experiences, and head to Kanas Lake for breathtaking sunrise/sunset views.

Burqin & Karamay (2 days): Visit Burqin to see the Rainbow Mountains and enjoy outdoor activities. Then, explore Karamay, known for its unique geological formations and the Ghost City.

Yining & Naraty Grassland (2-3 days): Travel to Yining, explore local markets and attractions. visit Naraty Grassland for horseback riding and a taste of pastoral culture.

When planning your Xinjiang Itinerary, do consider how vast Xinjiang is as a travel destination. So allocate your time to maximize your Xinjiang Trip.

Browse more Xinjiang tours with Asia Odyssey Travel or simply get in touch with your Travel Expert; tell us your travel interest, we have you covered. Contact us now!

Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Culture & Nature Xinjiang Tour

First-time visitor or not, Xinjiang is Not What You Think. It's More Than What You Imagine!

Looking for natural grandeur? Experience the the sunrise at pristine Kanas Lake, the sky-touching Naraty Grassland, the boundless Taklamakan Desert along the acient Xinjiang Silk Road.

Looking to broaden your horizons? Discover exquisite Uyghur crafts at the bazaars at Kashgar, the nomadic dances of Tajiks on the Pamir Plateau at Tashkurgan, and the finest vineyards at Grape Valley at Turpan. You can even visit the oldest Buddha Grottoes in China!

Your Xinjiang Trip will be an eye-opening adventure and a soul-touching journey!

Asia Odyssey Travel: Your Best Xinjiang Guide

• Genuine Service: Not just an agency—we are your travel companions.
• Exclusive Access: Secure your tickets and accommodations even in high season.
• Authentic Experience: Best local guides with cultural insights.
• Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities—all taken care of!
• Skip the Tourist Routine: Avoid all tourist traps and travel down to earth
• 24/7 Support: Always on-line for your peace of mind

Asia Odyssey Travel, leading your China Adventure Since 2010. What's your travel idea? Let's talk!