Zhangye (China)

A major trading post and important commercial hub, this town was a western stronghold. Today it's largely populated by the Yugur people, descendents of the Uyghur and Gansu Mongols.

Zhangye is home to several stunning temples and historic sites, proof of a glorious past. It also attracts visitors to the Danxia Geopark, an incredible, rainbow-colored wonder found in the Zhangye National Park, at about 30km to the east of town. You'll find the Alashan and Tengger deserts on its doorstep, the latter stretching well into Inner Mongolia.