Dunhuang Yadan (Yardang) National Geopark

Dunhuang Yardang National Geopark lies about 180 km northwest of Dunhuang, on the desert edge near the Lop Nur region at the border of Dunhuang and Subei in Gansu, China. There is no regular public bus, so the trip is made by chartered car with driver, at about CNY 600-900 per car, or by an organized day tour that often combines the geopark with Yumenguan, at about CNY 350-600 per person. The drive takes two to two and a half hours each way on paved but long and empty roads, with little fuel and weak phone signal, so visitors should start with a full tank and carry water. The geopark is known as the Ghost City or Devil's City for its landscape of wind-carved clay ridges that stretch to the horizon and have been used as a film location. Entry including the internal shuttle costs about CNY 80-120, though the current fee should be confirmed at the gate. Inside, shuttles stop at viewpoints where visitors walk short trails among the formations, which resemble ruined towers, ships and animals. The wind that carved them can be strong and gritty, so scarves and sunglasses are useful. A one-day plan leaves Dunhuang in the morning, stops at Yumenguan or the Han Great Wall on the way, arrives at the geopark around midday or early afternoon, and stays for sunset, when the formations turn orange and red, before the long drive back after dark. Alternatively, some tours return earlier to avoid night driving. April to October is the best window, avoiding the bitter winter cold and summer midday heat that can exceed 35 degrees Celsius. Food is limited at the site, so visitors should bring a packed lunch and snacks from Dunhuang, or eat at simple stops en route. The trip suits those who enjoy remote desert landscapes and photography, and demands a long day, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential.