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The Dali Shayuan Tongzhou Desert, located in Shayuan Village, Qiangbai Town, Dali County, in the heart of China's largest inland desert, boasts over 1,000 acres of sand dunes, allowing visitors to experience the charm of the desert without leaving Shaanxi. Since ancient times, it has been a site of intertwined forests and lakes, lush vegetation, a rich cultural heritage, and a mystical and magical atmosphere. It has been a key carrier of Tang culture and the largest desert dune zone in my country's inland plains. "Have you not seen the white sands of the left and right, like water, winding for over a hundred miles?" Whenever Dali County is mentioned, Shayuan is the name of the name. In summer, the beautiful Shayuan presents a captivating spectacle, where "cattle and sheep appear in the wind-blown grass."
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate has four distinct seasons, with changeable spring weather, hot and rainy summer, cool and refreshing autumn, and sunny, cold and dry winter. All four seasons are suitable for travel.
Dali Shayuan Tongzhou Desert has a thousand-acre desert competition venue, and supporting tourism projects include camel teams, beach motorcycles, etc. You can enjoy sand sliding, desert karting, sand surfing, rock climbing, and riding a camel to experience the feeling of entering the desert.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
50 yuan/person
April to October 08:00-18:00
November to March 10:00-17:00
Dali Shayuan Tongzhou Desert is a relatively unexplored desert area located in the Huayin region of Shaanxi. It holds significance for its unique landscape and ecological role. While not as famous as other deserts in China, it offers a peaceful and untouched environment for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The desert is located in Huayin, Shaanxi, which can be accessed by car or taxi from the nearby city of Xi'an. Public transportation options are limited, so it's recommended to hire a private car or join a local tour for convenience.
The desert is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the temperatures are milder. Summer can be hot, while winter may experience cold temperatures.
The entrance fee is approximately 50-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tour agencies. It is advisable to check with local booking platforms for availability during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it's recommended during the peak tourist seasons or holidays. A few days ahead should be sufficient to avoid any inconvenience.
You will need about 2-4 hours to fully explore Dali Shayuan Tongzhou Desert, depending on whether you want to engage in activities like camel riding, sandboarding, or just enjoying the landscape.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. For foreign visitors, arranging an English-speaking guide in advance is recommended, as audio guides may not be available.
Some of the best viewpoints are from the top of the largest sand dunes, where you can capture sweeping views of the desert. Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography.
Start at the main entrance and walk towards the largest dunes. After exploring the dunes, make your way to the oasis for a relaxing break. If you're interested in adventure, try sandboarding or camel riding before concluding your visit with a sunset view.
Night visits are not commonly available. The desert is best experienced during the day, particularly during early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Special tours may be available through local operators, especially for photography or stargazing.
The desert is not usually crowded, but it can get busier on weekends or holidays. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities are available, including toilets and small shops for snacks and drinks. It's advisable to bring sufficient water, as the desert can get very hot, especially in summer.
The desert's natural terrain may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors, especially in areas with sand dunes. It is more suitable for children and families who enjoy outdoor adventures, but accessibility may be limited in some parts.
Cash is commonly accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are also widely used. Credit cards are not typically accepted at the desert or small local shops.
There are no major restaurants inside the desert, but nearby Huayin and Xi'an offer a variety of local restaurants serving Shaanxi cuisine, including noodles and dumplings.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby cities like Xi'an. It's a good idea to check restaurant menus in advance or bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels in Huayin and Xi'an, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For a more immersive experience, consider staying at a hotel in Huayin or a guesthouse near the desert.
Nearby attractions include the Hua Shan Mountain, a famous scenic and religious site. You can easily combine a visit to the desert with a trip to Hua Shan, as both are located in the same general area.
Small souvenir shops are available around the desert offering local handicrafts, desert-themed items, and Shaanxi-specific products like tea and traditional snacks.
After visiting the desert, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey to other nearby attractions. Public transportation options may be limited in the desert area.
