Hotels in Dunhuang

Enchanting Dunhuang: Where Desert Dreams Meet Ancient Temples

Dunhuang, a mesmerizing oasis in the Gansu desert, invites travelers to explore its rich tapestry of history and culture. Famous for the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves, with their breathtaking Buddhist art, and the stunning Singing Sand Dunes, this enchanting city blends natural beauty with spiritual heritage. Stroll through downtown Dunhuang to discover local flavors at the vibrant night market, or visit the Dunhuang Museum for a deeper understanding of its fascinating past. Whether you're trekking through serene deserts or marveling at ancient temples, Dunhuang promises an unforgettable adventure off the beaten path. For our best hotel rates in Dunhuang and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Many establishments reflect the region's rich Silk Road heritage, providing comfortable stays with convenient access to local attractions, making it easy to explore this captivating desert oasis. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Dunhuang:

1. Dunhuang Dunhe hotelOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel focuses on providing a seamless experience for business travelers. Featuring essential amenities such as a Business Center and multiple Meeting Rooms, it ensures that every need is catered to for a productive stay. The hotel stands out with its modern design and comfortable accommodations, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those traveling for work. Frequent travelers appreciate the smooth check-in process, allowing them to settle in quickly and efficiently after their journey.
2. Dunhuang Season Boutique HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel is perfect for business travelers who also wish to bring their pets along. With amenities like a Business Center and Meeting Rooms, this property allows for a productive yet enjoyable stay. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy adds a unique touch, ensuring that furry companions are accommodated. Travelers frequently highlight the convenient location and comfortable environments that make this hotel a favorite for those looking to blend business with leisure.
3. Sun Spring Hotel DunhuangOpens in a new window: This luxurious 4.0-star hotel offers a delightful retreat for leisure travelers. With an array of dining options, including a fine restaurant and breakfast services, visitors can indulge in gourmet experiences. The hotel is designed for comfort, featuring elegant interiors and a relaxing atmosphere that invites guests to unwind after a day of exploration. Travelers rave about the exquisite culinary offerings and the overall ambiance, making it a top choice for those seeking a memorable getaway.

Top locations to stay in Dunhuang

When visiting Dunhuang, Jiuquan, Gansu, China, consider staying in Qilizhen and Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring offers stunning natural parks, unique museums, and attractions like Crescent Lake and Mingsha Shan, perfect for exploration. Qilizhen provides a more local experience. For first-time visitors, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is the ideal choice, offering diverse sights and activities.

1. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent SpringOpens in a new window: Staying near Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in stunning natural beauty. This area is famous for its iconic sand dunes and the picturesque Crescent Lake, a true oasis in the desert. You can explore the unique landscape and learn about local culture at the nearby Bell Tower, while the serene ambiance makes it a great spot for relaxation. Plus, don’t miss out on shopping at Shazhou Market, where you can find local handicrafts and souvenirs to take home.
2. QilizhenOpens in a new window: Qilizhen offers a more tranquil experience, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. This charming area is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and provides access to authentic local culture. While it may not boast as many attractions as larger destinations, the peaceful environment allows for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy leisurely walks through scenic spots and connect with the local community, making your trip truly memorable.

Things to do in Dunhuang

Dunhuang offers a mesmerizing blend of desert landscapes, serene forests, and stunning natural parks. Travelers can enjoy thrilling activities like camping under starry skies, hiking through breathtaking terrains, and birdwatching in lush settings. Don’t miss the chance to experience breathtaking sunrises that paint the horizon, making this destination truly unforgettable.

• Mogao CavesOpens in a new window – Step into the ancient world at the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring exquisite Buddhist art and intricately carved sculptures nestled in the desert. Explore the stunning murals that date back over a thousand years, revealing the rich history of this spiritual site.
• Crescent LakeOpens in a new window – Relax by the serene waters of Crescent Lake, a natural oasis surrounded by the vast desert. This picturesque spot invites you to unwind or take a leisurely stroll along the shore, marveling at the unique landscape where lush greenery meets golden sand dunes.
• Mingsha ShanOpens in a new window – Experience the enchanting beauty of Mingsha Shan, known for its singing sands and stunning dunes. Climb the towering peaks for breathtaking views of the desert and watch as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over this mesmerizing landscape.
• Dunhuang MuseumOpens in a new window – Discover the treasures of Dunhuang at the Dunhuang Museum, where you can delve into the region's rich history through fascinating exhibits. From ancient artifacts to intricate artworks, this museum offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage that defines this unique area.
• Xuanquanzhi RuinsOpens in a new window – Explore the Xuanquanzhi Ruins, remnants of an ancient outpost that played a crucial role on the Silk Road. Wander through the ruins and imagine the vibrant trade and cultural exchanges that once thrived here, surrounded by the stark beauty of the desert.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Dunhuang

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Dunhuang is from January to March, when hotel prices are generally lower. For those looking to explore the city's rich history and culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to appreciate key landmarks and cultural sites, including the stunning desert landscapes, ancient temples, and natural parks. With affordable options available, this trip offers great value for money, making it an excellent choice for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Dunhuang, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your trip. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re more likely to see the best options. With these features, you can be among the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a Dunhuang hotel. If you’re in search of something special, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, increasing your chances of finding a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher prices. To find more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods or areas that are a bit farther from the center, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also look into independent hotels located further out, which can offer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Dunhuang. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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.