Mogao Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 492 cave temples with over 1,000 years of exquisite Buddhist art and Silk Road history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Mogao Caves
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 492 cave temples with over 1,000 years of exquisite Buddhist art and Silk Road history.
"AMAZING. Mogoa Grottes is a must go, a UNESCO heritage site with over 500 caves of Buddhist art."
⏳ Book Ahead Online
Secure your entry tickets for Mogao Caves well in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is strictly forbidden within the caves to protect the ancient artwork.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Buddhist Murals
Marvel at over a thousand years of vibrant Buddhist art, showcasing intricate paintings and sculptures that tell stories of history and mythology.
The Thousand Buddha Grottoes
Explore a vast complex of 492 cave temples, each a testament to devotion and artistry along the historic Silk Road.
Silk Road Cultural Crossroads
Experience the legacy of the Silk Road, where cultures met and art flourished, leaving an indelible mark on these sacred caves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Photography Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Book Ahead Online
Secure your entry tickets for Mogao Caves well in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is strictly forbidden within the caves to protect the ancient artwork.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Essential
Join a guided tour to access the caves and gain insights into the art and history.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert climate can be dry; carry water, especially when exploring the surrounding areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Book Ahead Online
Secure your entry tickets for Mogao Caves well in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Photography is strictly forbidden within the caves to protect the ancient artwork.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Essential
Join a guided tour to access the caves and gain insights into the art and history.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert climate can be dry; carry water, especially when exploring the surrounding areas.
☀️ Protect Yourself
Wear sun protection like hats and sunscreen, as you'll be exposed to the sun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mogao Caves as an 'AMAZING' and 'must-go' UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the vast collection of ancient Buddhist art and the humbling historical significance. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized tours enhance the experience, though the strict no-photography rule inside the caves is a common point of note.
"AMAZING. Mogoa Grottes is a must go
A UNESCO heritage site, there are over 500 caves of Buddhist art. The first cave was dug out in 366CE. I marveled at the thought of being in the same space (albeit centuries apart) as the silkroad traders who prayed for their safe passage. Quite humbling.
We weren’t allowed to take photos in the caves to preserve them but there were replicas in the museum."
Tan TM
"Surprisingly not that well known outside of China. It’s hundreds of caves, different sizes built /maintained through to around the 16 century. The tours take you to a number of caves. You walk in the cave then back out in the bright sunlight. Keep yourself protected. Finally, there is an exhibition centre with replica caves for you to get educated and take photos"
Philip LUTTON
"Loved the rich history here in Mogao Caves.
The entrance ticket includes 2 introductory short video on the Mogao caves which i thought was really good and interesting. And then a tour guide will bring us into 8 caves.
There's a special additional caves ticket which you can purchase if you want to see more. But i think that the 8 caves are already quite sufficient.
Amazing at how civilized this ancient Chinese were at 2000 years ago!"
Joanne Low
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Mogao Caves from Dunhuang city by taking a local bus, taxi, or pre-booked shuttle service. Buses are a budget-friendly option and run frequently. Taxis offer more convenience but are pricier. Many visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation.
While Dunhuang is the closest city, visiting Mogao Caves as a day trip from further afield like Lanzhou or Urumqi is very challenging due to the travel time. It's best to stay at least one night in Dunhuang to fully experience the caves and other local attractions.
Dunhuang is accessible by air and train. Dunhuang Airport (DNH) has flights connecting to major Chinese cities. The Dunhuang Railway Station also receives trains from various cities, making it a feasible destination for a Silk Road adventure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Mogao Caves can vary, but generally include access to a set number of caves and introductory films. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance, as they often sell out.
Yes, booking your Mogao Caves tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Daily visitor quotas are in place to protect the site, and tickets can sell out quickly.
The standard entrance ticket typically includes access to introductory films about the Mogao Caves and a guided tour of a selection of caves. Some tours may offer access to additional special caves for an extra fee.
Yes, there are often different ticket options. The standard ticket allows access to a set number of caves, while a special additional caves ticket can be purchased for those who wish to see more.
Opening hours for Mogao Caves can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the Mogao Caves to preserve the delicate ancient murals. You will need to store your camera and phone.
A typical visit to Mogao Caves, including the introductory films and guided tour of several caves, can take around 2-3 hours. If you opt for additional cave access, it might extend your visit.
Yes, guided tours are an integral part of the Mogao Caves experience. You will be assigned a guide who will lead you through a selection of caves and provide historical and artistic context.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Dress in layers as temperatures can fluctuate. Sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also advisable.
Yes, there is an exhibition center with replica caves where you can take photos and learn more about the art without the restrictions inside the actual caves.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options directly at the Mogao Caves site. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit in Dunhuang city, where you can find a variety of local eateries and restaurants.
In Dunhuang, be sure to try local specialties like hand-pulled noodles (laghman), lamb skewers, and various dried fruits. The Dunhuang night market is a great place to sample these dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is prohibited inside the caves. However, you can take photos of the exterior of the caves, the surrounding landscape, and the exhibition center which features replica caves.
The exterior of the Mogao Caves complex offers some scenic views. For more iconic Dunhuang photography, consider visiting nearby Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the no-photography rule, which might be challenging for some children. The exhibition center with replica caves is a great alternative for kids to explore and take pictures. Consider the guided tour to keep them engaged with stories and explanations. Ensure children are supervised closely and reminded of the rules to preserve this precious heritage site.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
+1Take advantage of the guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge from local experts. Consider purchasing the special additional caves ticket if available, to explore more of the unique artistic expressions and historical narratives preserved within these sacred spaces. The digital exhibition center also provides valuable supplementary information and high-resolution imagery for detailed study.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Mogao Caves
+1Visitors are often struck by the sheer volume and preservation of this artwork. The "flying dance" murals, with their graceful depictions of celestial dancers, are particularly famous and capture the imagination. The caves also feature statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, carved and painted with remarkable realism and spiritual depth.
While photography is not allowed inside, the digital exhibition center offers a chance to see high-resolution images and even virtual reality reconstructions of some of the caves, allowing for a closer look at the artistic details without compromising the original artwork.
A Journey Through Silk Road History
The caves served as a sanctuary and repository for Buddhist scriptures, art, and artifacts. They were continuously expanded and adorned by various dynasties, reflecting the evolving religious and artistic styles of different periods. The discovery of the "Hidden Library" in Cave 17, containing thousands of ancient manuscripts, further cemented Mogao's importance as a window into the past.
Visiting Mogao Caves offers a profound connection to this historical era. It's an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of ancient travelers and witness firsthand the legacy of a time when East met West, fostering a unique blend of traditions and artistic expressions.
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