Best Time to Visit: The ideal time is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Key Destinations:

Dunhuang: Visit the Mogao Caves and explore the stunning desert scenery of Crescent Lake and Singing Sand Dunes.
Zhangye: Don’t miss the Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye Danxia Geopark.
Labrang Monastery: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture in Xiahe.
Clothing and Essentials: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary widely between day and night. Comfortable shoes are a must for hiking. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and lip balm to protect against the dry climate.

Transportation: High-speed trains and long-distance buses connect most major destinations. For remote areas, consider hiring a private car or joining a tour.

Local Cuisine: Try Gansu’s specialties like Lanzhou hand-pulled noodles, mutton skewers, and apricot-based desserts.

Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, especially in Tibetan regions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Cash and Connectivity: Carry cash for smaller towns and markets, as card payments might not be widely accepted. Download offline maps since internet access may be limited in remote areas.

Health and Safety: Stay hydrated and acclimate to higher altitudes gradually to avoid altitude sickness.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Gansu’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture,

If you're looking for a place to chill out in China that's off the beaten track but not that hard to get to, try the Three Beaches National Park in Gansu (www.threebeaches.com).

It's on the Xi'an - Changdu railway line and its a small retreat tucked away in a canyon with lots of hiking opportunities and no crowds!