Rainbow Colored Mountains You Won't Believe are Real

Gansu province of China has a place of indescribable beauty and unique geographical features. Usually, mountains amaze the visitors with their shapes or sizes. But the mountains in Gansu province have one unique feature - they have all the colors of the rainbow. The mountains with a height of 400 meters consist of vibrant red, blue, orange, yellow, white, and green stripes. When you see these multi-colored mountains, you might think you are dreaming.

This fascinating geological wonder is a part of Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. It is not surprising that the park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the popular destination for the tourists from all over the world.

The erosion of red sandstone formed the geological structure of this area. After millions of years of weathering, freeze-thaw peeling, and erosion, each layer has acquired its own individual color. Many locals have another explanation for this miracle. They believe that this natural masterpiece was formed because God accidentally overturned his palette and spilled colors over the mountains.

How to get to Zhangye Danxia landform

The closest city to Zhangye Danxia Geopark is the city of Zhangye (40 km away from the park). Visitors can take a public bus from Xiguan Bus Station to the park's entrance. The second and more convenient option is to take a taxi. It will take you approx. 30 min to go by taxi from Zhangye city to the national park.

Sightseeing platforms of the national park

Zhangye Danxia National Geopark has nine sightseeing platforms. The main platforms are the first five platforms. The sightseeing buses go from the gate to these five platforms and then back to the entrance gate. The first platform is the platform for viewing sunsets. From the second platform, which is the highest viewing platform, visitors enjoy a great view over the park's unique landform. From the third platform opens a breathtaking view to the "Seven color fan". The fourth platform is the best place to marvel at the beautiful red and orange colors of sunrise and see how the sun reveals the gorgeous colors of the landscape. The fifth sightseeing platform is also a great place to enjoy sunrise or sunset. This platform is a famous spot in the park because a popular Chinese film was shot here.

Best time to visit the Rainbow Mountains

The scenery of Danxia is more bright and colorful on sunny days. In June, July, August, September the colors of the mountains are deeper and brighter, So, these months are the best times to visit the geopark. Moreover, the colorful layers look more beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Opening Hours: summer 7:00-19:00; winter 7:30-17:00

Ticket price: 74 yuan per person ( for platforms 1 to 5); 348 yuan per person ( for platforms 1-9)