|
|
Dunhuang Tour of
Echoing Sand Mountain
|
|
Have you ever heard of a mountain that echoes to the sound of sand
as you slide down its slopes? Can you image a perennially limpid
lake in an area of desert sand? Here in Dunhuang, Gansu Province,
you will have the chance to enjoy the wonderful spectacle of the
Echoing-Sand Mountain.
The mountain is five kilometers (about three miles) away from the
city of Dunhuang. Seen from afar, the mountain is just like a golden
dragon winding its way over the horizon. As you approach you become
aware that the sand has many colors ranging from red to yellow,
green, black and white. On days when a strong wind blows, the fast
shifting sand roars; but when the wind is little more than a light
breeze, the sand produces gentle, dulcet sounds akin to music. It is
the same when you are sliding down the mountainside. At first, the
sand under your feet just whispers; but the further you slide, the
louder the sound until it reaches a crescendo like thunder or a drum
beat. Some say that the sand is singing, while to others it is like
an echo and this is how the mountain gets its name.
You may wonder why the sand makes these different sounds. There is a
legend that says how, in ancient times, a general with many soldiers
came here to fight in a war with their enemies. While they were
engaged in a fierce battle, a great gust of wind buried all the
warriors in the sand and the sand mountain was formed. As the battle
was at its height, the soldiers continued to fight beneath the sand.
Thus, the sound you hear is said to be the roar of the soldiers.
However, the real cause is the friction and static created as the
wind shifts the sand or you slip down the mountainside.
Encircled by the mountain, there is Crescent Lake so called because
of its shape. The water in the lake is so pure and sweet that it
looks like an emerald set in the sand. Many of the visitors who have
made their way down the mountain like to drink from the lake.
According to historical record, the lake has been in existence for
hundreds of years without ever being buried by the sand; it is
really a geological wonder.
There is also a story about the lake. In the Western Han Dynasty
(206 BC- 24), a general called Li Guang, together with a group of
soldiers, captured a powerful and swift horse from Dawan, a western
state of China at that time. When passing the Echoing-Sand Mountain
upon their return, the soldiers became too thirsty to continue their
march. General Li drew his sword and thrust it into the side of the
mountain causing water to spring forth and so formed the lake.
Today, the mountain is listed as a key national scenic spot. It is
possible to climb it on foot or, if you prefer, on the back of a
camel. It is also possible to take a sand bath treatment. Your visit
is complete as you appreciate the splendid environment consisting of
golden sand, a wondrous mountain, a tranquil lake and a beautiful
sunset.
Tour Dunhuang
with Great Wall Adventure Club, the best
Dunhuang
tour agent to help
you with your hotel booking and transfers.
|
|
