Zhangye Gansu National Geological Park
A 510-square-kilometre protected area renowned for its dramatic Chinese Danxia rock formations, officially designated in 2016.
At a glance
The Zhangye Gansu National Geological Park preserves one of China’s most striking geological landscapes. Located north-west of Zhangye city, the park spans 510 square kilometres across the northern slopes of the Qilian Shan mountain range, straddling the border between Linze and Sunan counties. The multicoloured rock formations that define the Danxia geology create a landscape of vivid natural beauty.
History
The site was first formally protected on 23 April 2012 as the Zhangye Geological Park of the Chinese Danxia. Infrastructure development followed, including the construction of tourist services and a scenic road through the park. On 16 June 2016, the Ministry of Land and Resources granted it official status as the Zhangye Gansu National Geological Park, recognising its geological and cultural significance.
What you see
The park’s defining feature is its Chinese Danxia rock formations—layered mineral-rich sandstones and siltstones that display striking bands of red, orange, yellow and purple. These dramatic geological structures are concentrated in two main tourist zones within the towns of Kangle and Baiyin, where the landscape reveals millions of years of geological history through visible strata and erosional patterns.
Cultural significance
The park represents a significant example of Danxia geology, a landscape type found in several regions of China characterised by steep cliffs and peaks formed from red-coloured sedimentary rocks. Its protection ensures the preservation of this distinctive geological heritage for scientific study and public education about Earth’s formation processes.
Key facts
- Coordinates: 38.925875, 100.449818
- Area: 510 square kilometres
- Established as national geological park: 16 June 2016
- Location: Northern slopes of Qilian Shan mountains, Gansu province
Practical information
The park has developed tourist facilities and maintains a scenic road for visitor access. Main attractions are concentrated around Kangle and Baiyin. Specific opening hours, admission fees and accommodation details are not listed; check the official website or contact the park directly.
Getting there
The park is located north-west of Zhangye city in Gansu province, China. You can reach Zhangye by rail or air from major Chinese cities. Local transport to the park and within its tourist zones is available; confirm current access routes and seasonal conditions before visiting.
Sources & resources
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