2 Days Zhangye Classic Tour
Tour Overview
This 2-day Zhangye tourĀ will be a great introduction to the city’s distinctive cultural heritage and stunning natural wonders. Day one will include the first stop at the Giant Buddha TempleĀ (home to Asiaās largest indoor reclining Buddha), and the second stop will be the renowned Matisi TempleĀ with its cliff side grottoes and stunning views of the Qilian mountains. The highlight of this journey comes on the second day with a Zhangye Rainbow Mountains tourĀ inside Danxia National Geological Park. The area is renowned as one of the most special landforms on earth, made all the more fun by viewing the colors of the layered mountainsĀ from of one several viewpoints. Easy access to and from sites, travel with an expert guide, and comfortable transportation make this a short but productive itinerary ideal for travelers wanting both historical and natural scenery.
Travel destination: Zhangye
Suitable for: Culture Lovers, Shutterbugs, Nature Explorers
Tour type: Private
Highlights of this tour:
ā¢ At the Giant Buddha TempleĀ to see Asiaās largest indoor reclining Buddha, surrounded by centuries-old halls, painted beams, and bright Ming Dynasty wall murals that bring history to life.
ā¢ Walk through the cliffside caves of the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes at Mati Temple, admire ancient Buddhist carvings, and take in sweeping views of the snow-capped or lush Qilian Mountains.
ā¢ Take mind-blowing pictures of the Danxia Rainbow Mountains. Stop at 4 scenic viewing platforms to capture the multi-colored mountains that look especially magical at sunset.
Day-by-day Itinerary
- Day 1: Zhangye ArrivalExplore a Large Reclining Buddha and Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes
Welcome to the 2-day classic Zhangye tour! Upon your arrival in Zhangye, our local English-speaking guide and driver will meet you at the exit, holding a welcome sign. We recommend arriving before 10:00 AM.
After meeting you, weāll head straight to the Giant Buddha Temple in the city center. This temple was once used by royalty during the Western Xia Dynasty (1038ā1227). Itās most famous for having the largest indoor reclining Buddha in Asia. Your guide will point out important features, like the statue itself, the original Western Xia Giant Buddha Hall, and a wonderful mural from the Ming Dynasty showing scenes from Journey to the West.
Giant Buddhist Temple After lunch, drive about 1.5 hours to Matisi Temple. One of the main highlights is the Thirty-Three Heavens Grottoes. You'll need to use both your hands and feet to climb up to the top level, where you can see detailed Buddha statues and amazing views of the Qilian Mountains. Lastly, visit the Thousand Buddha Cave at the entrance, where there are over 500 cliff Buddha niches.
After that, transfer you to Zhangye downtown hotel for overnight.
Meal: Lunch
Accommodation: Overnight in Zhangye
Visit Mati Temple in Winter - Day 2: Day 2: Zhangyeās Rainbow MountainsConquer Four Decks of Nature's Painted Mountain Masterpiece
Today, you will visit Zhangye Danxia Geological Park, which is praised by National Geographic as one of the top 10 magical geographical wonders in the world. The park contains two scenic spots, and we mainly visit the Rainbow Mountains.
This scenic area is the most typical Danxia landform in the arid regions of northern China, with colorful colors and a large area. You will take the bus to "tick off" 4 observation decks in sequence. The No.1 Observation Deck is the largest, where you can enjoy a panoramic view. At Platform No. 2, you can see the Danxia landform up close. No. 3 provides the largest and reddest mountains in the park. Finally, you can capture the most vibrant and beautiful scenery at the No.4 Viewing Platform. After the visit, we left the scenic area through the north gate.
Rainbow Danxian Mountains The driver will send you to the high-speed railway station or airport. Your 2-day Zhangye trip ends here. If you want to experience more attractions in Zhangye, such as Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon and Shandan Military Horse Farm, we are happy to design a new itinerary for you.
Meal: Breakfast + Lunch
Accommodation: N/A
Tour Price Per Person
The priceĀ varies depending on the activity, number of people, travel date, and selected hotel. Please contact us for a specific price.
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