Zhangye Rainbow Mountains are China's natural wonder. Colorful sandstone stripes resulted from 24 million years of geology. UNESCO geopark with 4 viewpoints. Best time is sunrise and sunset. 40 km from Zhangye, entry 75 yuan. Season June-September.
Includes shuttle bus. Platforms 6-9 require extra ticket.
June to September for best weather and most vibrant colors. Late afternoon/sunset for photography. Colors most vivid after rain. Winter is cold and colors less vibrant.
Fly to Zhangye (limited flights from Xi'an, Lanzhou). High-speed train from Lanzhou (2 hours), Dunhuang (4 hours), or Xi'an (5 hours). Park is 30 min drive from Zhangye city. Shuttle buses from city available.
Platform 4 (Colorful Cloud Sea) for panoramic views. Platform 2 for rainbow layers. Sunset from Platform 1. Early morning for mist effects.
Summer 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM, winter 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Opens 6:00 AM for sunrise. Entry 74 RMB + shuttle 20 RMB. 5 viewing platforms. Sunset best at 1, 4, 5. Zhangye, Gansu.
faq.subtitle Rainbow Mountains (Zhangye Danxia)
Yes, the colors are 100% natural. They were created by mineral deposits (iron and trace elements) in red sandstone over 24 million years of geological activity.
Useful tips for visiting Rainbow Mountains (Zhangye Danxia)
Entry CNY 74 including shuttle bus. 3-5 hours recommended. 9 viewing platforms (1-5 included, 6-9 extra fee). Best time: sunset for golden light on colors. After rain for most vibrant colors. Summer months (June-September) recommended. Stay on boardwalks - formations are fragile. Bring sun protection.
Fly to Zhangye (limited flights from Xi'an, Lanzhou). High-speed train from Lanzhou (2 hours), Dunhuang (4 hours), or Xi'an (5 hours). Park is 30 min drive from Zhangye city. Shuttle buses from city available.
Platform 4 (Colorful Cloud Sea) for panoramic views. Platform 2 for rainbow layers. Sunset from Platform 1. Early morning for mist effects.