Encounter the Sunset at Crescent Lake

Travel guide for Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, compiled with the latest information (as of July 2025), covering transportation, tickets, activities, safety, and other practical details: 🌄 1. Basic Information Opening Hours: Peak season (July): 05:00-20:30 (Today is July 10, open until 20:30). Entry stops 1 hour before closing; sunrise or sunset visits are recommended for soft lighting and cooler temperatures. Ticket Prices: Full price: 110 RMB/person (peak season), half price 55 RMB/person (students/elderly aged 60-69). Free Admission: Seniors over 70, military personnel, disabled persons, etc. (with valid ID). Important Benefit: Multiple entries allowed within 3 days after ticket purchase, no need for repeated reservations. 🚗 2. Transportation Guide External Transport: Air/Train: After arriving at Dunhuang Airport or Train Station, take a taxi to the scenic area for about 15 RMB (15-minute drive). Bus: Take Bus No. 3 from downtown directly to the scenic area terminal (fare 1-2 RMB). Internal Transport: Sightseeing Bus: Round trip 20 RMB/person, direct to near Crescent Lake (200 meters walk). Camel Riding: 100 RMB/person (40 minutes), route: Mingyue Square → East Mountain Peak → Crescent Lake, experience Silk Road charm. Self-driving: Navigate to "Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake No.1 Parking Lot," equipped with new energy vehicle charging stations (choose East/West gate to avoid congestion during peak season). 🎢 3. Must-try Activities and Recommended Routes Classic Activities: Sand Sliding: Experience at East Mountain Peak (20-40 RMB/time), slide down only 3 minutes, climbing back takes 30 minutes (prepare enough energy). Desert Off-road/Helicopter: Off-road vehicle from 300 RMB/car, helicopter panoramic view from 380 RMB/person. Night Star Gazing: Desert star party after 21:30 in summer, light show combined with the Milky Way (overnight stay in city required). Tour Routes (3-4 hours): Scenic Route: Mingyue Square → Ironback Fish Park → Climb Mingsha Mountain → Crescent Lake → Mountain top sunset viewing. Deep Route: Camel ride to East Mountain Peak → walk to Crescent Lake → Yuequan Pavilion ancient buildings → Yaowang Temple ruins. 📸 4. Photography and Check-in Spots Crescent Lake Panorama: Early morning on the south side boardwalk of Yuequan Pavilion, capture water reflections and symmetrical sand dunes. Camel Silhouettes: Shoot against the light at East Mountain Peak at sunset, wearing red/white long dresses for better photos. Drones Prohibited: Gliders can be used as an alternative for aerial shots. ⚠ 5. Safety and Tips to Avoid Pitfalls Sun and Sand Protection: Essential sunglasses, headscarf, high SPF sunscreen; rent sand-proof shoe covers (15 RMB/pair) or bring long stockings. Protect phones/cameras from sand (sand grains can damage devices). Activity Safety: No selfie sticks allowed when riding camels; not recommended for pregnant women or seniors over 65. Sand sliding, off-road vehicles, and other activities have age and health restrictions (consult staff for details). Avoid Pitfalls: Shoe covers are cheaper outside the scenic area (5 RMB/pair vs. 20 RMB inside). Refuse paid photo sales during camel rides; bring your own drinking water (expensive inside). 🏨 6. Accommodation and Food Accommodation: No lodging inside the scenic area; recommended city hotels (100-200 RMB/night) or nearby homestays (e.g., Dunhuang Tuke Homestay). Food: Must-try: Donkey meat yellow noodles, Dunhuang niangpizi (stuffed cold noodles), apricot skin water. Recommended: Shazhou Night Market (local snack hub). 💎 7. Special Reminders Weather: High temperatures during July daytime (25-40°C), large temperature difference between day and night, bring a light jacket; sandstorms are rare but check weather forecasts. Environmental Protection: Do not litter, protect the fragile ecosystem. Conclusion: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake are famous for the "sand and spring coexistence" wonder. The three-day multiple entry policy allows flexible itinerary planning. For the ultimate experience, enjoy the lake at dawn, chase the sunset in the evening, and stargaze at night to feel the desert’s fleeting beauty.