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Zhangye Danxia

Overview
Itineraries

Overview
Itineraries

Overview
Itineraries

Visiting exotic Zhangye Danxia in the undiscovered territory of Northwestern China is a unique experience unknown to many travelers. The Zhangye Danxia Landform is part of the Gansu Province in China. The incredible colorful mountains and cliffs paint the landscape red. Unlike any other geological site in the world, the cliffs have an unreal beauty.The cliffs range from vibrant blues to stunning crimsons. The ancient landmarks are composed mainly of sandstone and have been traced back in time to over six million years ago. There are hundreds of small, shallow caves spotting the mountains. The area was actually the first stop on the Silk Road trodden by so many traders for centuries. The accommodations are not typically luxurious, but traveling to see these rare geological formations is worth a more rustic adventure. Very few travelers have visited this difficult-to-reach area. Simply flying into the area alone will offer stunning views and a glimpse into nature unlike anywhere else in the world. The area is also full of lush valleys and rolling hills.

EXPERIENCES

First Beacon Tower of Ming Dynasty Great Wall

Just outside of the Jiayuguan Fort, this fire tower was built in 1539 during the height of the Ming Dynasty. Nearby, the Talai River and on top of a 260 foot cliff, the tower is badly damaged but the main structure is almost completely in tact. Once one of 39, this tower is one of the last surviving fire towers.

Giant Buddha Temple

This is the largest architectural relic in the Gansu province. The temple has a mysterious air for its isolated location. This is where you will find China’s largest reclining Buddha plated in gold and painted in glazed color tiles. It’s in excellent condition after being restored several times over the years, with origins that trace back 900 years.

Horses Hoof Temple

One of the most well-known landmarks of the Silk Road, The Horses Hoof Temple is a rich cultural site. According to legend, a horse descended from heaven and left a hoof print mark when it stepped down into the temple. There is a relic surrounding the famous footprint inside the temple. This is the only known horse hoof relic in existence.

Jiayuguan Fortress

The fortress is built at the first pass of the west end of the Great Wall of China. This is a wonderful spot to view the wall without any crowds. Jiayuguan means “excellent valley pass,” which is exactly what it is with its spacious, remote location nestled in between two hills. The fortress is built from 99,999 bricks, as predicted it would require by the original designer in the famous ancient story regarding the temple’s construction.

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