Encounter the Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye: A Colorful Masterpiece of Nature

Here's a travel guide to the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: Transportation Guide Major Transport: Flight: Direct flights to Zhangye Ganzhou Airport are available from many cities in China. The airport is about 30 km from downtown, taking about 40 minutes by taxi or airport shuttle (fare: ¥15). High-speed Rail: Take the train from Lanzhou West Station to Zhangye West Station (approx. 2 hours, fare: ¥150). Direct trains are also available from Xi'an and Urumqi. Self-drive: Drive along the Lianhuo Expressway (G30). The scenic area is about 40 km from downtown Zhangye (50-minute drive), with beautiful views of the Qilian Mountains along the way. Scenic Area Transport: Chartered/Shared Taxi: About ¥80-100 one way from downtown (¥25/person for shared taxis with 4 people). It's recommended to book chartered services in advance via Trip.com. Tourist Bus: Direct buses depart from Zhangye West Bus Station (fare: ¥15/person, 1-hour ride). Self-drive Navigation: Set your GPS to "Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (North Gate or West Gate)". Parking fee: ¥10 per entry. Ticket Information Peak Season: ¥120/person (includes ¥40 shuttle bus fee), valid for 2 days. Off-season: ¥100/person. Best Time to Visit Season: June-September for the most vibrant colors; September-October for autumn foliage and fewer crowds. Time: Sunrise (around 5:30-7:00) or sunset (17:30-19:00) for soft lighting and excellent photo opportunities. Must-Visit Attractions Core Viewing Platforms: Colorful Cloud Sea Platform: 360° panoramic view of the Danxia peaks, especially magical with morning mist. Arrive before 6 am for sunrise photography. Fairyland Platform: The most colorful area with red, yellow, and white rock layers, perfect for backlit silhouette shots. Rainbow Glow Platform: The golden hues of Danxia at dusk create a "burning Danxia" spectacle with sunset, a must for photographers. Wanxiang Earth Forest Valley: Unique earth forest formations resembling natural sculptures like "Monks Worshipping Buddha" and "Dragon Playing with Fire". Special Experiences: Hot Air Balloon/Helicopter Tour: Aerial views of Danxia (¥200/person for balloons, ¥800/person for helicopters). Best 1 hour after sunrise. In-depth Tour: Includes restricted areas like Tegu Valley and Binggou Danxia. Requires advance booking (combo ticket: ~¥300/person). Nearby Attractions: Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple: Western Xia royal temple with China's largest reclining Buddha (34m long), featuring valuable murals and carvings (2 km from downtown). Matisi Temple: Cliffside grottoes blending Han and Tibetan Buddhist culture, including the "Thirty-Three Heavens" caves (70 km from Danxia). Recommended Itinerary Classic One-Day Tour (North Gate entry, downhill route): Fairyland Platform → Cloud Sea Platform → Brocade Platform → Rainbow Glow Platform. Practical Tips Gear: Sunscreen + sunglasses (strong UV), non-slip shoes (wet boardwalks after rain), warm jacket (large temperature differences). Avoid Pitfalls: Drones prohibited; pets require storage. Buy souvenirs in downtown Zhangye for better prices. Accommodation: Choose Danxia Pearl Hotel (opposite the park, convenient for night tours) or downtown Zhangye (more options, better value, 40-minute drive).