For most Malaysian travellers, flying into Dunhuang from a larger hub is the least tiring way to get there. The train and the road suit people who want to see the landscape, and the Lanzhou stop is a pleasant place to break a long journey. Whatever you choose, sort out the Mogao ticket question first.
Dunhuang feels far for good reason. The distances in Gansu are long, so the transport plan is worth thinking through before you book the caves.
Why should tickets come before transport?
Reports conflict on whether foreign passport holders can complete Mogao Caves online booking, and Lonely Planet says the Dunhuang reservation centre sells tickets in person[1]. That affects how many days you need.
Mogao A tickets are limited to 6,000 per day and B tickets to 12,000 per day, according to Lonely Planet[2]. Allow a buffer day so you are not collecting tickets on the day you wish to enter.
Should you fly, take the train or go by road?
The table compares the effort rather than the hours, since schedules change.
| Option | Feels like | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Flight into Dunhuang | Short in the air, with airport transfers | Seniors and tight schedules |
| Train from Lanzhou | A long ride with a passing view | Rail fans and relaxed schedules |
| Road transfer | Door to door on a set route | Small groups |
Our guide to booking domestic flights in China explains how to buy a ticket. If a night on the train appeals, our sleeper train guide explains what to expect.
What do you need for the train?
Foreigners must show a passport to buy a long-distance train ticket and to pass the platform gates[3]. Keep it in your hand luggage.
Allow time for bag checks at the entrance. Compare your plan with a flight using the rail versus flight tool.
Is Lanzhou worth a night?
Lanzhou is about 1,600 m above sea level[4]. The Hui are named as one of the three most prominent ethnic groups in the city[5], and Lanzhou has over 1,000 beef noodle restaurants[6].
Muslim travellers can look for the green 清真 (qingzhen) sign and ask about the kitchen. The noodle is closely tied to Hui cuisine[7], but check each shop rather than assume. Our guide to halal meals on long journeys helps you plan.
How do you pace the trip?
Treat the journey as part of the holiday. Give the first day to arrival, the second to the caves and the third to the desert or the town.
Photographers should plan light and sunrise slots. Seniors should read the long journey planning guide and add a rest day.
What should you do next?
Choose the start city, check flights and 12306 for your dates, and settle the Mogao ticket route. Then read about the wider Gansu Silk Road region and compare it with Xinjiang for a Silk Road trip.