Located in the heart of the Gobi Desert, Yadan National Geological Park, also known as “Devil City,” is one of China’s most striking natural wonders. Situated 180 km northwest of Dunhuang in Gansu Province, this UNESCO Global Geopark spans 398 square kilometers and showcases the world’s largest and most spectacular Yardang landforms—unique rock formations sculpted by wind erosion over 700,000 years. With its surreal desert landscape, historical significance along the Silk Road, and otherworldly rock shapes resembling ancient castles, animals, and global landmarks, Yadan is a must-visit for geology enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers. This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip.
A Travel Guide to Yadan National Geological Park
Why Visit Yadan National Geological Park?
Yadan National Geological Park offers a dramatic, almost alien landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet. The park’s Yardang landforms, formed by relentless wind and occasional water erosion, create towering mounds, ridges, and grooves that mimic architectural wonders like Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, Tibet’s Potala Palace, or Egypt’s Sphinx. Known as “Ghost City” due to the eerie whistling winds at night, the park is both a geological marvel and a cultural treasure, with nearby Silk Road relics like Yumen Pass and Han Dynasty Great Wall ruins. Its remote location and vast desert vistas make it a bucket-list destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
How to Get There
Yadan National Geological Park is approximately 180 km from Dunhuang City, a 2–2.5-hour drive through the desolate Gobi Desert. Here are the main transportation options:
By Tourist Bus: Daily tourist buses depart from Dunhuang Hotel (North Section) or Dunhuang Tourist Center at 8:30 AM, often stopping at Yumen Pass and Yangguan Pass en route. The round-trip fare is around ¥86–120, and the journey takes about 3 hours one way due to stops. Book tickets in advance at Dunhuang Tourist Center or through platforms like Ctrip or local agencies.
By Private Car or Taxi: Chartering a taxi or private car is more convenient and flexible, costing ¥400–500 for a round trip. This allows you to combine Yadan with nearby attractions like Yumen Pass or the Han Dynasty Great Wall. Contact local agencies like China Discovery or The China Guide for private tours with English-speaking guides.
By Long-Distance Bus: From Dunhuang’s Shazhou Night Market bus station, two daily long-distance buses head to Yadan, but they may not operate in the off-season (November–April). The trip takes about 3 hours and costs ¥30–50 one way.
By Jeep (Optional): For a more adventurous experience, rent a jeep with a driver to explore deeper parts of the park beyond the standard bus route. This costs extra (¥200–400 per group) but offers closer access to unique formations.
Tip: The road to Yadan is remote with no services en route, so bring water, snacks, and a full tank of gas if driving. Poor phone signals and strong magnetism in the area may affect navigation, so rely on a guide or GPS.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (May–October): The weather is warm (15–30°C), and the park is most accessible. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer cooler temperatures, softer light for photography, and stunning sunrises or sunsets.
Off-Season (November–April): Colder temperatures (0–10°C) and potential bus service disruptions make this less ideal, but the park is quieter.
Avoid Midday: Daytime temperatures in summer can exceed 35°C, and the scorching sun makes exploration uncomfortable. Always carry a scarf to protect against sandstorms or windy conditions.
Photography Tip: Sunset tours (departing Dunhuang around 8:30 AM and returning by 11:00 PM) are popular for capturing the golden hues on the rock formations. Book early, as these tours sell out quickly.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM–6:00 PM daily (last entry around 5:00 PM).
Ticket Prices: Admission + shuttle bus: ¥120; Combo tickets (including Yumen Pass or Yangguan Pass): ¥150–200; Discounts may apply for students or seniors with valid ID.
Booking: Purchase tickets at the park’s visitor center or through agencies like Viator or Tripadvisor. Advance booking is recommended during peak season, as tours can sell out.
Note: All visitors must board a designated park shuttle bus for a guided tour to protect the fragile landforms. Free-roaming is not allowed, and the tour lasts about 1.5–2 hours with 3–5 stops.
What to See and Do
The park’s otherworldly landscape and historical sites make it a unique destination. Key highlights include:
Yardang Landforms: Explore the park’s iconic wind-eroded formations, some resembling animals (“Camel,” “Peacock,” “Stone Bird”) or architectural marvels (“Golden Lion Welcoming His Guests,” “Mongolian Bao”). The “Alien Yadan” features columnar shapes with large blocks atop slender bases, creating a surreal effect. The shuttle bus stops at four main sites, each offering 10–15 minutes to walk, take photos, and admire the views. Use your imagination to spot formations mimicking global landmarks like the Pyramids or Potala Palace.
Visitor Center: Start at the modern visitor center, which features exhibits on the park’s geological history and Silk Road significance. Displays are in Chinese and English, providing context for the Yardang formations and local ecology.
Silk Road Relics: Near the visitor center, explore the Small Fangpan Castle at Yumen Pass, a historical Silk Road outpost. Shuttle buses also visit a section of the Han Dynasty Great Wall, distinct from the more famous stone walls near Beijing, built with rammed earth and reeds.
Photography and Sunset Views: The park’s vast black Gobi gravel and golden-hued rocks are a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset when the formations glow. The shuttle bus route is designed for optimal photo stops, though you can’t get too close to preserve the landforms.
Adventure Add-Ons: Combine your visit with a jeep tour for a deeper exploration or a camel ride near Yumen Pass for a Silk Road experience (arranged through tour operators).
Where to Eat
On-Site: The visitor center has a small kiosk selling snacks, water, and instant noodles (¥10–20), but options are limited. There are no full restaurants in the park.
Nearby: No dining options exist en route or near Yadan, so pack a picnic lunch or snacks. In Dunhuang, dine at Shazhou Night Market for local specialties like lamb skewers, donkey meat noodles, or apricot juice (¥20–50 per meal).
Tip: Bring enough water (at least 1–2 liters per person) and high-energy snacks, as the desert heat can be intense. Avoid low-quality food at roadside stops if on a group tour.
Where to Stay
Yadan is a day trip from Dunhuang, as there are no accommodations in the park. Stay in Dunhuang for convenience:
Luxury: Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel (4-star, ~¥400–600/night) offers desert views and Silk Road-themed decor, 10 km from downtown.
Mid-Range: Dunhuang Grand Soluxe Hotel (3-star, ~¥200–350/night) is centrally located with modern amenities.
Budget: Hostels like Dunhuang International Youth Hostel offer dorms or private rooms for ¥50–150/night.
Booking: Use Ctrip, Booking.com, or local agencies for deals. Book early during peak season (May–October).
Tips for a Great Visit
Prepare for the Desert: Wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and breathable clothing. A scarf is essential to protect against sand and wind.
Language Barrier: Most guides speak Mandarin only, so bring a translator app or book an English-speaking tour through agencies like China Discovery or The China Guide.
Combine Attractions: Pair Yadan with Yumen Pass, Yangguan Pass, or the Han Dynasty Great Wall for a full-day Silk Road adventure. A private tour is ideal for efficiency.
Protect the Environment: Stay within designated areas and avoid touching formations to preserve the delicate Yardang landscape.
Time Management: The park tour is short (1.5–2 hours), but the round trip from Dunhuang takes 6–8 hours. Start early or opt for a sunset tour to maximize your experience.
Final Thoughts
Yadan National Geological Park is a geological masterpiece that blends natural wonder with Silk Road history. Its wind-sculpted formations, vast desert expanse, and eerie “Ghost City” ambiance create an unforgettable adventure. While the journey from Dunhuang is long, the surreal beauty of the Yardang landforms and the chance to explore ancient relics make it well worth the effort. Plan ahead, pack for the desert, and prepare to be awed by one of China’s most unique landscapes.
Happy travels!
