Hotels in Dunhuang

Dunhuang: Where Ancient Temples Embrace the Desert's Whispering Beauty

Nestled at the edge of the vast Gobi Desert, Dunhuang, Jiuquan, Gansu, is a captivating cultural gem that beckons intrepid travellers. Renowned for its stunning Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with exquisite Buddhist art, Dunhuang offers a rich tapestry of history and spirituality. Explore the vibrant night market for local delicacies and crafts, or wander through the surreal landscapes of the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake. With its blend of ancient temples and breathtaking desert scenery, Dunhuang is an enchanting destination that promises a unique adventure off the beaten path.

Discover great hotels in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays. Many hotels are conveniently located near popular attractions along the Silk Road, providing a comfortable base for exploring the area's rich history and stunning landscapes. Expect friendly service and local charm. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Dunhuang:

1. Sun Spring Hotel DunhuangOpens in a new window: Sun Spring Hotel Dunhuang is a stylish 4.0-star hotel that caters to leisure travellers seeking comfort and distinctive experiences. This property boasts a delightful restaurant and offers a generous breakfast option, ensuring a satisfying start to your day. With its elegant design and attention to detail, guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere and high-quality service, making it a preferred choice for those looking to unwind and indulge during their stay in Dunhuang.
2. Jinrun HotelOpens in a new window: Jinrun Hotel is a welcoming 3.0-star hotel designed for trend-aware travellers seeking convenience and connectivity. This property features essential internet facilities, including WiFi in public areas, alongside self-parking options for added ease. Guests laud the hotel for its comfortable accommodations and the seamless experience it provides, making it a reliable choice for those looking to explore Dunhuang and its surroundings with minimal hassle.
3. Dunhuang Dunhe hotelOpens in a new window: Dunhuang Dunhe hotel is a charming 3.0-star hotel tailored for leisure travellers in search of a unique getaway. With a focus on providing a memorable stay, this property embraces a warm atmosphere and thoughtful amenities that enhance the overall experience. Guests appreciate the attention to detail and the inviting settings, making it an excellent option for those who wish to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a relaxing retreat.

Things to do in Dunhuang

Dunhuang beckons with its stunning desert landscapes, where golden dunes meet serene forests and dramatic mountains. Delight in camping under a starlit sky, rise early for breathtaking sunrises, or embark on birdwatching tours amidst tranquil natural parks. The vibrant night market adds a lively touch, making this destination a true gem for explorers.

• Bell TowerOpens in a new window – Step into history at the Bell Tower, a striking historic structure that stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Dunhuang. Marvel at its architectural beauty and enjoy the surrounding views that capture the essence of this ancient Silk Road city.
• Crescent LakeOpens in a new window – Discover the enchanting Crescent Lake, a stunning oasis nestled amidst the arid desert landscape. Take a leisurely stroll around its shores, enjoy a serene boat ride, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery that this unique natural wonder offers.
• Mingsha ShanOpens in a new window – Venture into the vast expanse of Mingsha Shan, where the golden sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. Experience the thrill of sandboarding or camel riding, and don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing sound of the dunes as the wind sweeps over them.
• Dunhuang MuseumOpens in a new window – Delve into the rich history and culture of the region at Dunhuang Museum. Explore a diverse collection of artefacts that showcase the fascinating stories of Dunhuang, from ancient Silk Road relics to exquisite art pieces, providing a deeper understanding of this remarkable destination.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Dunhuang

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Dunhuang are January, March, and May, when hotel prices are lower. To fully appreciate the city's historical and cultural landmarks, as well as its stunning natural attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. This budget-friendly duration allows visitors to explore the majestic desert, enjoy horseback riding, visit ancient temples, and experience the serenity of natural parks. With options for camping, birdwatching, and witnessing breathtaking sunrises, Dunhuang offers great value for money for those seeking a rich cultural experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Dunhuang on Hotels.com, you may want to explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you to seize opportunities for savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring that if rooms become available or prices drop, you’re more likely to be the first to know and book your last-minute escape.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates might enable you to save on your stay in a hotel in Dunhuang. For those in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and, at times, better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we will suggest more affordable dates, which may help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres may provide convenience, but it often comes with higher costs. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between price and accessibility to the sites you intend to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located a bit further out, which can offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, as they usually tend to be cheaper.

Best time to go to Dunhuang

Dunhuang experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 19.4°F (-7.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 83.3°F (28.5°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Dunhuang are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, February, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no rainfall and sunny conditions.