Live Your Best Lives
Crescent Lake in the desert oasis is said to be the first place where artificial technology was used to maintain water levels. With the improvement of environmental management, the water level has gradually improved.
Walking up the sand steps to the top of the sand hill is the best place to visit the entire scenic area. The most amazing and pleasant moment is at sunset in the afternoon, when the sunset disappears and the lights of Crescent Lake come on. On one side is quiet and on the other side is the magnificent scenery of Dunhuang, which is even more charming with the starry sky.
Most of Dunhuang has a temperate continental climate, characterized by dry weather, little rainfall, high evaporation, large temperature differences between day and night, and long sunshine hours.
The four seasons here are distinct: warm and windy spring, scorching hot summer, cool autumn and cold winter.
You can choose to rent shoe covers to climb Mingsha Mountain and visit Crescent Lake; you can also choose to ride a camel to the back mountain, slide down the sand from the mountain, and visit Crescent Lake.
120 yuan per ticket, half price for students
Ticket sales time 6:00-19:30 will be adjusted according to sunrise and sunset times
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake are situated on the edge of the Gobi Desert, with a rich historical background tied to the Silk Road. The area has been a crucial stop for travelers and merchants for centuries, and the oasis, Crescent Lake, is a symbol of life in the desert. Mingsha Mountain is named for the sound the wind makes as it moves through the sand dunes, known as "singing sand." The region is an important cultural and historical site.
The site is located approximately 5 kilometers south of Dunhuang city, in Gansu Province. Visitors can reach the site by taxi, private car, or bus from Dunhuang. Public transportation options are available, and taxis are the most common choice for tourists.
The site is typically open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) can be very hot, and it is also a peak tourist season, leading to higher crowds.
The entrance fee to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake is approximately 120 RMB (about 18 USD). Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the official Dunhuang tourism website. The cost may vary depending on the activities you wish to do, such as camel rides or sand sledding.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak seasons, especially in spring and autumn. Booking 1-2 days ahead should be sufficient to ensure entry and avoid long wait times, although on-site purchase is also an option.
A typical visit to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake can take around 2-3 hours. This allows time to explore the sand dunes, take a camel ride, visit Crescent Lake, and enjoy the surrounding views. If you plan to participate in additional activities, such as sand sledding, you may need additional time.
Guided tours are available in both English and Mandarin. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, can be rented on-site for a more in-depth experience of the area’s history and culture.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake. However, special tours may be available during certain events or festivals, so it’s best to check the official website or local tourism offices for updates.
The site can get crowded during peak seasons, particularly from April to October. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-season, especially in winter. Early mornings and late afternoons are also less crowded times to visit.
There are restrooms, drinking water stations, and small shops selling snacks and souvenirs. There are also cafes near the entrance, offering light refreshments. Rest areas are available to relax after climbing the dunes.
The site is somewhat challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the sand dunes and uneven terrain. However, walking paths are available, and camel rides can provide an alternative way to explore. It's advisable to check with local authorities for more details about accessibility options.
Cash (Chinese Yuan) is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and more convenient. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the site.
Vegetarian food options are available in some of the nearby restaurants, though halal food may be limited. It's recommended to check with the restaurant staff for specific dietary requirements.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance selling local handicrafts, Buddhist-themed items, and postcards. Popular souvenirs include traditional silk items, pottery, and miniature sand sculptures.
After visiting Mingsha Mountain, taxis and buses are available to take visitors to nearby attractions like the Dunhuang Museum, Mogao Grottoes, or back to the city center. Private cars are also a convenient option for those planning further trips.
