Dunde Glacier

Introducing Dunde Glacier

Dunde Glacier, also known as Dunde Ice Cap or Dunde Ice Sheet, is located on the northern edge of the Qaidam Basin and the eastern end of Turgen Daban Mountain in the Qilian Mountains. It is under the jurisdiction of Delingha City, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province. Its novel, unique, vast and beautiful ice and snow landscape makes it a great place for sightseeing, curiosity hunting, adventure and scientific research.

Climate and best time to travel

Continental arid climate, best in winter

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for half a day

Tickets

free

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Most Popular FAQs for Dunde Glacier

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dunde Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the Hexi Corridor of Gansu. It holds ecological and scientific importance due to its preserved ice formations and the research it offers into glacial movements and regional climate patterns.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The glacier is located in the Dunde Valley of Jiuquan, Gansu. The most practical way to reach the site is by car, with taxi services or rented vehicles available from Jiuquan city. Public transport is limited, so a private car or taxi is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The glacier is open for visits year-round. However, the best times to visit are from June to September, when the weather is milder and the glacier is most accessible. Winter months can be challenging due to harsh weather conditions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is typically around 60-100 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the site or online through local travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons (summer and early autumn), preferably 1-2 days ahead, especially if you are visiting as part of a tour group.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Dunde Glacier typically takes 3-4 hours, including time for hiking, photography, and taking in the surrounding natural beauty. Additional time may be required if you plan to take part in extended hiking or eco-tourism activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the glacier's ice formations, the surrounding snow-capped peaks, and the alpine meadows. Visitors should also take time to visit the viewpoints from which the glacier’s full expanse is visible.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tours offering services in English for international visitors. Audio guides are typically not available, so a local guide is recommended to fully appreciate the area’s significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the panoramic view of the glacier from the main observation platform and along the hiking trails that lead to the glacier's edge, where the ice formations are most spectacular.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route starts at the entrance, leading through the alpine meadows, with scenic stops at the glacier’s viewpoints. Visitors can then hike closer to the glacier to see its ice formations up close before heading back along the same path.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available. However, some special eco-tours or photography tours might be arranged upon request for those interested in the unique landscape and environment of the glacier.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The glacier is generally not crowded, except during peak travel seasons (summer). To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during weekdays outside the holiday periods.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available, including restrooms and drinking water. However, food options are limited, so visitors should bring their own supplies. There are no major shops on-site.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain around the glacier is rugged, and some parts of the trail may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with disabilities. However, the main viewpoints are accessible by vehicle, and some areas are family-friendly.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also accepted, but it is recommended to have a digital payment option as it is more commonly used in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the glacier area. Visitors will find local eateries in Jiuquan or along the way to the glacier, offering traditional Gansu cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the larger cities like Jiuquan, though options near the glacier are limited. Halal food is available in Jiuquan, a city with a significant Muslim population.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations near Dunde Glacier are limited. Visitors typically stay in Jiuquan, where there are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses. For a more remote experience, consider staying at eco-lodges or campsites near the glacier.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Jiayu Pass, a historic section of the Great Wall of China, and the Dunhuang Mogao Caves, both of which can be visited as part of a longer trip in the Hexi Corridor.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops in Jiuquan offering local handicrafts, such as traditional Gansu textiles, pottery, and jade carvings. Limited souvenirs are available near the glacier itself.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Jiuquan, visitors can continue their trip by bus, taxi, or train to other destinations like Dunhuang or Lanzhou. Renting a car or joining a tour group is also a viable option for continued exploration of the region.