Dunhuang, located in the northwest of Gansu Province, is a famous tourist destination with unique natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. If you're planning a self-driving tour to Dunhuang, autumn and spring are highly recommended.
Autumn: A Scenic and Comfortable Season
Pleasant Climate: From September to November, the weather in Dunhuang is quite agreeable. During the day, the temperature hovers around 20°C - 25°C, while at night it cools down, with the lowest temperature being around 0°C. It's neither too hot nor too cold, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Beautiful Scenery: In autumn, Dunhuang is like a colorful painting. The maple leaves turn yellow and the Chinese parasol leaves turn red. The desert and the oasis present a harmonious scene. When driving on the road, you can enjoy the autumn scenery on both sides, with the clear sky and white clouds above, making you feel relaxed and happy.
Less Crowded: Although autumn is a popular tourist season in Dunhuang, it's not overly crowded. There are relatively fewer vehicles on the road, which means you can drive more freely and have a better self-driving experience. You don't have to worry about long queues at scenic spots and can fully enjoy the beauty of each place.
Delicious Food: Autumn is also the harvest season in Dunhuang. A variety of fruits and crops ripen at this time. You can taste fresh and sweet fruits such as grapes and Hami melons, as well as local delicacies like mutton powder soup and donkey burger, enriching your taste buds during the journey.
Spring: A Season of Vitality and Beauty
Mild Temperature: From March to May, the temperature in Dunhuang gradually rises. During the day, it's generally between 15°C - 25°C, suitable for driving and outdoor activities. Although it's still a bit cold at night, you can easily deal with it by bringing warm clothes.
Beautiful Scenery: In spring, especially in April and May, the rape flowers are in full bloom. The Dunhuang River Valley and Liulin Gorge are good places to enjoy the rape flowers. The whole city is filled with the breath of spring, and the greenery and flowers add vitality to the desert. Moreover, at this time, the flow of people in scenic spots such as Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring is small, allowing you to visit quietly and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Cultural Events: The Dunhuang International Desert Half Marathon is held in April every year, attracting many runners from home and abroad. When you come to Dunhuang at this time, you can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery but also feel the lively atmosphere of the event.
In conclusion, both spring and autumn have their own unique charm in Dunhuang, offering comfortable temperatures, beautiful scenery and rich cultural experiences, which are suitable for a self-driving tour. You can choose the time to travel according to your own preferences and schedules. No matter which season you choose, Dunhuang will surely leave you with an unforgettable memory.
