Where to Stay in Pingliang
China
|Pop. 505K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Pingliang at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Pingliang
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Consider visiting during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, especially if you plan to explore Kongtong Mountain extensively.
Getting Around
Download a translation app and have your destination written in Chinese characters, as English proficiency is limited.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (use official taxis or ride-sharing)
Solo Female Travel
Pingliang is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially in crowded markets or when using public transport at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
Hidden Gems in Pingliang
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area
While the main temples are popular, explore the quieter, less-trodden paths higher up for breathtaking cloud seas and ancient Taoist hermitages. It's a place of profound natural beauty and spiritual tranquility.
Pingliang Museum
This museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and culture of Pingliang, particularly its connection to Taoism and the Silk Road. You'll find fascinating artifacts and exhibits that provide context beyond the main tourist sites.
Shuiliandong (Water Curtain Cave)
A stunning natural karst cave system where water cascades down rock formations, creating a magical 'water curtain' effect. It's a refreshing and visually spectacular spot, especially during wetter seasons.
Local Noodle Shops near the Market
Venture into the smaller alleys near the city's main market to find authentic Pingliang Lanzhou style beef noodles. These unassuming eateries serve up incredibly flavorful broth and hand-pulled noodles that locals swear by.
Bao'an Temple
A less-visited but historically significant Buddhist temple offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. It's a great place to experience local religious practices away from the crowds of more famous sites.
Waimen Street Night Market
FREEExperience the vibrant local life as dusk falls and this street transforms into a bustling night market. Sample a variety of local snacks, buy unique handicrafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
What It Costs in Pingliang
Daily budget per person in CNY
💡81% cheaper than London
CNY 250/day
CNY 500/day
CNY 1000/day
Where to Stay in Pingliang
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Pingliang Confucian Temple15 min
- Wanshou Tower20 min
- Local Markets10 min
Pros
- +Central location with good access to attractions
- +Plenty of dining and shopping options
- +Good public transport links
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Less green space compared to other areas
Top stays in Kongtong District (City Center)
Pingliang International Hotel
$$A well-regarded hotel offering comfortable rooms and good service in a central location.
Hanting Hotel Pingliang Xinxing Road
$A reliable budget-friendly option known for its cleanliness and efficient service.
Home Inn Pingliang West Section
$Offers basic but clean rooms, a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Best for
Walk to
- Various Temples and Pavilions30 min
- Hiking Trails5 min
Pros
- +Stunning natural scenery and fresh air
- +Rich Taoist cultural sites
- +Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere
Cons
- -Limited dining and accommodation options
- -Requires significant walking and hiking
Top stays in Kongtong Mountain Scenic Area
Kongtong Mountain Hotel
$$Offers convenient access to the mountain's attractions with decent amenities.
Kongtong Mountain Resort
$$$A more upscale option providing comfort and services amidst the natural surroundings.
Various Guesthouses
$Smaller, locally run guesthouses offering a more authentic experience.
Best for
Walk to
- Local Parks20 min
- Commercial Streets15 min
Pros
- +More affordable accommodation and food options
- +Less touristy, offering a glimpse into local life
- +Good for longer stays with local amenities
Cons
- -Fewer major tourist attractions within walking distance
- -Can feel less polished than the city center
Top stays in Xikuang District
Xikuang Hotel
$$A modern hotel catering to business travelers and visitors in the district.
City Comfort Inn Pingliang Xikuang
$A clean and simple option for travelers seeking value for money.
Home Inn Plus Pingliang Xikuang
$Offers a consistent and reliable stay for budget travelers.
Areas to be cautious
- Outlying industrial zones: These areas lack tourist infrastructure and can be uninteresting or have limited public transport access.
Insider tip: Consider visiting during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, especially if you plan to explore Kongtong Mountain extensively.
Safety in Pingliang
SafeSolo Female Travel
Pingliang is generally safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially in crowded markets or when using public transport at night. Stick to well-lit areas.
At Night
The city center is generally safe at night, but sparsely populated areas or parks can be deserted. Taxis and ride-sharing are recommended for late-night travel.
Emergency
110 (Police)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis (use official taxis or ride-sharing)
- 2Fake tourist attractions or guides (stick to official information)
Getting Around Pingliang
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
No direct airport in Pingliang. Nearest major airport is Lanzhou (ZKG) or Xi'an (XIY). From Lanzhou, take a train (approx. 3-4 hours, 100-200 CNY) or bus (approx. 4-5 hours, 80-150 CNY) to Pingliang. From Xi'an, train is more feasible (approx. 4-5 hours, 150-250 CNY).
🎫
Day Pass
Not commonly available for tourists; single rides are inexpensive.
Single: 3-5 CNY for most bus routes.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitDidi
📶
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps in cafes
Public Transport
Buses are the primary public transport within Pingliang. Taxis and ride-sharing are also available.
Ride-share
DiDi (China's main ride-sharing app). Costs vary but generally 15-30 CNY for short to medium trips within the city.
Transport Tip
Download a translation app and have your destination written in Chinese characters, as English proficiency is limited.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many hotels, some cafes and shopping malls offer free Wi-Fi (often requiring a local phone number for login).
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; check larger hotels or business centers for potential options, daily cost can range from 50-100 CNY if available.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Apr, May, Sep
Hotels & Accommodation in Pingliang
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Pingliang?
Compare prices across Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com and more.
Who Is Pingliang Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Culture Enthusiasts
This area provides easy access to historical sites like the Confucian Temple and Wanshou Tower, central to understanding Pingliang's heritage.
Nature Lovers
Offers direct access to the stunning natural landscapes and Taoist temples that define the region's appeal.
Budget Backpackers
Provides more affordable accommodation and dining options, allowing for extended stays without high costs.
First-Time Visitors
This central hub offers the most convenient base with access to amenities, transport, and key attractions.
About Pingliang
Pingliang (simplified Chinese: 平凉; traditional Chinese: 平涼; pinyin: Píngliàng; lit. 'Pacify Liang') is a prefecture-level city in eastern Gansu province, China, bordering Shaanxi province to the south and east and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region to the north. The city was established in 376 AD.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pingliang
Is Pingliang safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Pingliang?
What area should I stay in Pingliang?
When is the best time to visit Pingliang?
How do I get around Pingliang?
Pingliang Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel