Translate
Overview
The numeric code 62 corresponds to Gansu Province (甘肃省), a long, narrow province in northwestern China that stretches roughly 1,600 km from east to west. It occupies a pivotal position along the ancient Silk Road and acts as a natural corridor between China's heartland and Central Asia. The Hexi Corridor — the historical trade and military route — runs through its heart.
Gansu is one of China's most geographically diverse provinces, encompassing high-altitude grasslands in the south, the Gobi Desert in the northwest, and the Loess Plateau in the east. This dramatic range of terrain gives travelers a remarkable variety of landscapes within a single province.
Despite being less visited than provinces like Yunnan or Sichuan, Gansu rewards patient travelers with world-class historical sites, extraordinary natural scenery, and an authentic mix of Han, Hui, Tibetan, and Mongolian cultures. It remains one of China's more affordable domestic destinations.
The provincial capital, Lanzhou, serves as the main hub. Key destinations along the Silk Road route include Jiayuguan (the western terminus of the Great Wall), Zhangye (Danxia rainbow mountains), and Dunhuang (Mogao Caves and Crescent Moon Spring). In the south, Xiahe and the Labrang Monastery offer a window into Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Before You Go
Visas
Entry to mainland China requires a visa for most nationalities. Requirements, exemptions, and application procedures change regularly. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section for current guidance and consult the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country before travel.
Permits
Some areas of Gansu with Tibetan cultural designation — particularly around Xiahe and parts of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture — may require an additional Tibet Travel Permit or regional permit depending on current regulations. Requirements fluctuate; confirm the situation with your tour operator or the relevant local authority well before departure.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccinations are mandatory for entry into China from most countries, but routine vaccinations should be current. Altitude can be a factor in southern Gansu (Xiahe sits above 2,900 m); allow time to acclimatize if you are coming from low elevations. Carry any prescription medication with documentation, as some medications controlled abroad are restricted in China.
Connectivity
Many major international websites and apps (Google services, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.) are blocked in China. Download a reliable VPN before arrival if you need access to these services — it is difficult to set one up once inside the country. Chinese alternatives such as WeChat, Baidu Maps, and Alipay are widely used and practical.
Payments
Cash (RMB) is essential in rural and smaller towns. In cities and tourist sites, mobile payment via Alipay or WeChat Pay dominates, but international cards can face limitations. International visitors can now link foreign cards to Alipay; verify this option before travel. ATMs in major cities generally accept international cards — verify with your bank.
Getting There
By Air
Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (LHW) is the main gateway and receives flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and other major Chinese cities. Dunhuang Airport (DNH) and Zhangye Ganzhou Airport (ZHY) serve tourists flying directly to Silk Road destinations. International connections are limited; most travelers route through major Chinese hubs.
By High-Speed Rail
China's high-speed rail network has expanded significantly into Gansu. Lanzhou is well connected to Xi'an, Beijing, and Urumqi via high-speed services. The Lanzhou–Urumqi High-Speed Railway passes through Zhangye and Jiayuguan, making rail travel a practical and scenic option along the Hexi Corridor. Book tickets in advance on the official 12306 platform or through a licensed agent; international credit cards have historically had limited acceptance on the platform, so plan accordingly.
By Long-Distance Bus and Train
Conventional rail and long-distance coaches connect Gansu cities to neighboring provinces. For remote destinations in southern Gansu (Gannan Prefecture), buses or private vehicles are often the primary option as rail access is limited in those areas.
Practical Notes
Lanzhou to Dunhuang by high-speed rail takes roughly 4–5 hours depending on the service. Distances in Gansu are substantial — factor travel time into your itinerary carefully.
Getting Around
Within the Hexi Corridor
The high-speed rail connecting Lanzhou, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and onward to Dunhuang is the most efficient way to move between major Silk Road sites. Trains are punctual and comfortable.
Local Transport
Within cities, taxis, ride-hailing apps (Didi is the dominant platform), and local buses cover most needs. Download Didi before arriving — it operates similarly to Uber and accepts some international payment methods. In Dunhuang and Zhangye, many visitors hire a driver for the day to reach outlying attractions such as the Mingsha Sand Dunes or Danxia National Geopark; negotiate terms clearly in advance or book through your accommodation.
Southern Gansu
Getting around Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, including Xiahe, typically requires buses or chartered vehicles. Roads can be slow and conditions vary seasonally — travel is most reliable between May and October.
Renting a Vehicle
Foreign nationals can drive in China only if they convert their license to a Chinese one; international driving permits are not recognized. Hiring a car with a local driver is the practical alternative for most international visitors exploring rural areas.
Things to See & Do
Mogao Caves, Dunhuang
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mogao Caves contain over 490 surviving painted grottos spanning more than a thousand years of Buddhist art. Visitor numbers are regulated and timed tickets are required — book well in advance through the official reservation system, especially for peak season and for access to special caves.
Zhangye Danxia National Geopark
The layered, multicolored sandstone formations near Zhangye are among the most visually striking landforms in China. Viewing platforms are spaced along a loop route; the colors are most vivid in the late afternoon. Entrance and shuttle fees apply — verify current pricing locally.
Jiayuguan Fort
The westernmost surviving fort of the Ming Great Wall stands at the narrow western end of the Hexi Corridor. The site includes the fort itself, a section of wall, and informative museum displays about the military history of the region.
Labrang Monastery, Xiahe
One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, Labrang houses thousands of monks and contains an extraordinary collection of religious art and scripture. Visitors can join guided tours of certain halls; access to some areas may be restricted during religious events. Circumambulating the outer kora (pilgrim circuit) is open to respectful visitors.
Crescent Moon Spring and Mingsha Dunes, Dunhuang
A small oasis lake nestled amid towering sand dunes on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Camel rides and sandboarding are popular activities. The contrast between the crescent-shaped lake and the surrounding desert is genuinely striking.
Lanzhou
The provincial capital offers the Gansu Provincial Museum (home to the famous Flying Horse of Gansu bronze), the Yellow River waterfront promenade, and excellent local food. It functions as a practical base rather than a major tourist draw in itself, but it is worth a day or two.
Food & Drink
Lanzhou Beef Noodles (兰州拉面)
Perhaps the most internationally recognized dish from Gansu, Lanzhou-style hand-pulled beef noodle soup is a staple throughout the province and across China. In Lanzhou itself, local versions tend to be considered more authentic — look for small, busy breakfast and lunch shops.
Hui Muslim Cuisine
Gansu has a significant Hui (Chinese Muslim) population, and halal food is widely available. Lamb dishes, flatbreads, and hand-pulled noodles in various styles feature prominently. Halal restaurants are clearly marked with Arabic script or the word 清真 (qīngzhēn).
Tibetan Cuisine in the South
In Xiahe and Gannan, tsampa (roasted barley flour), yak butter tea, yak meat, and dairy products are common. Tibetan tea with butter and salt is an acquired taste but culturally significant — accept it if offered in a local context.
Dunhuang Specialties
Dunhuang is known for hami melon and other fruits from the western oases, as well as grilled lamb skewers (yangrou chuan) sold by street vendors in the evening market near the main tourist strip.
Drinking
Tap water is generally not safe to drink directly — use bottled water or boil it. Locally produced baijiu (grain spirit) and beer are widely available. Tea is ubiquitous across all communities.
Practical Information
Emergency Numbers
In mainland China, dial 110 for police, 120 for medical emergencies, and 119 for fire. These numbers function throughout Gansu.
Healthcare
Major hospitals are located in Lanzhou. Medical facilities in smaller towns and rural areas are limited. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Carry copies of any prescriptions and sufficient medication for your trip.
Internet and Communication
A local SIM card (available at airports and mobile carrier stores with your passport) provides the most reliable and affordable data access. International roaming is an option but can be costly. Remember that a VPN must be set up before entering China if you need access to blocked services.
Climate Notes
Summers (June–August) in Dunhuang and the Hexi Corridor are very hot and dry; carry sun protection and stay hydrated. Winters across most of Gansu are cold to very cold, with significant snowfall possible in southern highlands. Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for travel.
Altitude
Lanzhou sits at approximately 1,500 m. Xiahe and parts of Gannan are above 2,900–3,500 m. Travelers susceptible to altitude sickness should ascend gradually and consult a doctor about preventive medication if needed.
Safety
Gansu is generally considered safe for travelers by Chinese domestic standards. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas and bus stations — standard precautions apply.
Some areas in and near Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture have experienced periods of restricted access for foreign visitors in the past, sometimes without advance notice. Check current advisories from your home government's foreign travel authority before visiting southern Gansu, and be prepared for the possibility of access limitations.
Road conditions outside major highways can be poor, particularly in mountainous southern areas and after heavy rainfall or snow. If hiring a driver for backcountry routes, choose a reputable operator.
Always register with your country's embassy or consulate if traveling to remote areas for extended periods. Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and insurance documents separate from the originals.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Gansu is one of China's most ethnically diverse provinces. Han Chinese are the majority, but significant communities of Hui Muslims, Tibetans, Dongxiang, Tu, Yugur, and Mongolian peoples live across the province. Each group maintains distinct religious practices, languages, dress, and foodways.
When visiting Tibetan monasteries or mosques, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove shoes when indicated, and follow posted rules about photography — many religious interiors prohibit cameras or require explicit permission. Avoid interrupting active prayer or ceremonies.
The Silk Road history of the province has left a cosmopolitan cultural legacy. Buddhist, Islamic, and Chinese folk traditions coexist and have historically influenced each other — the cave art at Mogao, for example, shows influences from South Asia, Central Asia, and Tang China simultaneously.
Religious and cultural festivals, including Tibetan Buddhist events at Labrang and Hui celebrations around Eid, can be fascinating times to visit but may also bring large crowds and some access restrictions. Research dates in advance as they follow lunar calendars and vary year to year.
