2025 Xiahe Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

This summer, you must visit Gannan at least once! The plateau scenery is absolutely stunning—grasslands, monasteries, and lakes all in one place, with the added bonus of fewer crowds and breathtaking views, making it a true hidden gem~ Sharing my 3-day, 2-night itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors! 🌟 Highlights of the Trip DAY1️⃣: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland Labrang Monastery (in Labrang Town, Xiahe County) is a must-visit in Gannan! The prayer wheel corridor stretches 3.5 km—it's best to come in the morning to soak in the devout atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to Sangke Grassland (in Sangke Township, Xiahe County) for horseback riding and Tibetan cuisine, then stay overnight in a grassland tent to stargaze ✨ DAY2️⃣: Langmusi → Zhagana Langmusi Town (in Luqu County) is a dreamy photo spot with the Bailong River running through it. In the afternoon, drive 2 hours to Zhagana (in Yiwa Township, Diebu County)—stay in a Tibetan-style guesthouse inside the scenic area for misty stone city views right outside your window! DAY3️⃣: Ruoergai Flower Lake → Return to Lanzhou Ruoergai Flower Lake (in Ruoergai County) is breathtaking in summer with wildflowers in full bloom! Don’t forget a telephoto lens to capture waterbirds. In the afternoon, drive back to Lanzhou (about 6 hours). 🍲 Must-Try Local Delicacies ✔️ Tibetan steamed buns (most authentic at stalls near Labrang Monastery) ✔️ Butter tea (provided by most guesthouses in Zhagana) ✔️ Yak meat hotpot (highly recommended at Koufu Ju near Langmusi Town) 📌 Practical Tips 1. Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance—avoid showering on the first day. 2. Huge temperature swings between day and night! Pack a lightweight down jacket. 3. Zhagana entrance fee: 80 RMB/person; additional parking fee for self-driving. 4. Gas stations are scarce—fill up whenever you see one.

If it's your first time visiting a plateau and you're worried about altitude sickness in Tibet, I highly recommend Gannan as a perfect alternative. It's even better for a self-driving trip. Known as "Little Tibet," Gannan is a hidden gem for those who want to avoid the summer tourist crowds. This treasure trove is the perfect choice for your vacation. An 8-day, 7-night itinerary will take you through grasslands 🌿, lakes, canyons, and streams, with breathtaking scenery that will leave you speechless. All photos were taken during this trip—no reposting allowed. I've helped you avoid many pitfalls, and this guide can be followed step by step to ensure you see the most stunning sights 💚. 🚗 Itinerary: 💚 DAY 1 ✈️ Lanzhou 💚 DAY 2 Lanzhou - Lesser-Known Danxia - Ganga Secret Land 💚 DAY 3 Ganga Secret Land - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Jiuzhi 💚 DAY 4 Jiuzhi - Lianbaoyeze - Aba 💚 DAY 5 Aba - Langyi Monastery - Ruoergai Grassland - Tangke 💚 DAY 6 Tangke - Flower Lake - Zhagana 💚 DAY 7 Zhagana - Rock Road - Linxia 💚 DAY 8 Linxia - Lanzhou - 🏠 🔎 Must-See Highlights of This Trip: Lianbaoyeze, Zhagana, Ganga Secret Land, and Rock Road. Ganga Secret Land: A real-life "Emerald City," known as "Little Tibet," it combines natural wonders and cultural history. It features grasslands, lakes, and flower fields with stunning views. From the Bajiao City Observation Deck, you can overlook the entire ancient Bajiao City. Hike through the Baishiya Karst Cave ⛰️ to reach canyons and streams. Lianbaoyeze: A sacred mountain paradise you must visit in your lifetime, also known as the "Oriental Fantasy World." 📝 After entering the scenic area, drive directly to Panyangping Parking Lot 🅿️ and then take a shuttle bus to the 4,520-meter-high observation deck. There's a café here, the second highest in the world, where you can grab a coffee ☕️, take photos, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Zhagana: Meaning "Stone Box" in Tibetan, Zhagana is a scenic area with numerous observation decks offering views of Tibetan villages surrounded by cliffs. It's like a secluded paradise, with many hiking routes. I recommend Fairy Beach and the Darri Observation Deck for a spectacular sunrise and morning mist 🌄. Rock Road: Start early to avoid traffic. Known as "China's Most Beautiful" 100-kilometer secret route, it features snow-capped mountains, meadows, canyons, and Tibetan villages. It's a must-visit. 🔔 Travel Tips 🔖 1. The plateau has significant temperature differences, so bring a windbreaker and warm clothing. 2. The average altitude is 2,000-3,000 meters, with Lianbaoyeze reaching 4,520 meters. 3. Prepare altitude sickness medication 💊 and oxygen bottles in advance. Avoid strenuous activities. Don't worry too much; we experienced almost no altitude sickness during our self-driving trip.

🏔️ Why Choose Southwest Gansu? ✓ Price Reality ▸ Accommodation: Tibetan guesthouse ¥80/night vs. Tibet's ¥400+ for similar ▸ Food: Hand-torn mutton ¥40/jin vs. Tibet's ¥70+ ▸ Tickets: 90% attractions free or under ¥50 vs. Tibet's ¥200+ fees ✓ Off-the-Beaten-Path Yet Developed: Good roads (accessible by sedan), high Mandarin proficiency (no language barrier), authentic Tibetan culture with minimal commercialization 📍 Precise Location: Core area of southwest Gansu 🔥 Top Destinations: - Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (Xiahe/Hezuo/Luqu/Maqu) - Linxia Prefecture (Bingling Temple Grottoes) 🚩 Key Geography: Gannan sits at the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, averaging 3,000m altitude (lower than Tibet, reducing altitude sickness risk) 🚌 Budget Transport Tips Route | Recommendation | Cost/Duration Lanzhou→Gannan | Bus from Lanzhou South Station to Hezuo (transport hub) | ¥75, 3hrs Gannan Circuit | Charter car from Hezuo for grasslands/temples (5-seater ¥400/day) | ~¥80/person/day Hidden Gems Access | Hezuo→Gahai Lake in Luqu County (bus ¥25) | 1.5hrs ✅ TIP: Download "Gannan Travel" APP for county bus schedules - 60% cheaper than chartering! 🌄 5 Severely Underrated Divine Experiences 10 【Free Wonderland】Awancang Wetland - Hundreds of serpentine Yellow River channels visible from observation deck (Free!) - Pro shot: Sunrise photos from western hillside with morning mist, prayer flags & smoke 20 【Tibet Alternative】Labrang Monastery - World's longest prayer wheel corridor (3.5km, ¥40 vs. Tibet's ¥200+ for comparable temples) - Hidden experience: Observe 6am monk chanting sessions (quiet participation allowed) 30 【Nordic Forest】Zecha Stone Forest - Plateau's only stone canyon (¥35), hike among bizarre peaks & streams - Pro route: Horseback to Fairy Lake (bargain to ¥80/hr vs. Tibet's ¥300+) 40 【Millennium Grottoes】Bingling Temple - 169 caves of Western Qin murals carved into Yellow River cliffs (¥50, 90% fewer visitors than Mogao) - Access: Speedboat from Liujiaxia Reservoir (¥110 round-trip) 50 【Hidden Grasslands】Sangke Grassland Depths - Avoid tourist zones, reach herder settlements (navigate to "Gesar Tent Camp") - Experience: Fresh yak milk ¥5/bowl, pasture tents ¥50/person ▶ Must-Eat List - Daoshihe: Mutton-stuffed sheep stomach (Luqu street stalls ¥35, feeds two) - Tibetan buns: Juicy yak meat filling (Xiahe market ¥10/basket) - Juecong rice: Wild ginseng fruit with butter (Tibetan restaurants ¥15) ⚠️ Avoid: "Tibetan experience" restaurants near attractions - prices double! Local markets rule. 💡 Worth It: Charter costs dominate, but remote grasslands require private transport! ⚠️ Bloody Lesson Guide 10 Fake Goods: Temple "blessed dzi beads" are often Yiwu products. Buy at Xiahe Ethnic Market (bargain under ¥30) 20 Altitude Sickness: Don't wash hair first night! Stay below 2,500m (Hezuo/Linxia) 30 Charter Scams: Clarify "driver's meals/lodging included" in contracts to avoid hidden fees 📆 Best Season & Gear ✅ Golden Periods: June-August (greenest grasslands), late September (autumn stone forests) 🎒 Essential Gear: - Sun protection trio: Plateau UV is extreme! - Hand sanitizer (scarce restrooms) - Foldable kettle (rare in guesthouses) Southwest Gansu is like time-forgotten jade—here, prayer wheels creak clearer than Tibet's, grassland hoofprints run wilder than Inner Mongolia's, and butter tea costs just ¥3. Unlock 200% of Tibet's soul for 1/5 the price. Time to go!

Uncover the secrets of Tibet, misty villages, and pastoral grasslands! Unlock the same "Paradise on Earth" that's featured in National Geographic! Includes a complete guide to transportation, routes, and tips to help you explore the lesser-known Gannan~ 🏔️📸 --- ### **🚗 Transportation Guide** 1. **Departure City → Lanzhou** - **Plane/High-Speed Rail**: Fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport from various locations (or take the high-speed rail to Lanzhou West Station). It is recommended to arrive 1 day in advance to acclimatize to the altitude. 2. **Lanzhou → Zaga** - **Self-Driving/Chartered Car**: It is recommended to charter a car (the cost for 4–5 days is approx. CNY 2,500–3,000/car, including a driver). - Route: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery (3.5 hrs) → Sangke Grassland (15 mins) → Langmu Temple (2.5 hrs) → Zaga (3 hrs). - **Road Condition Tips**: The expressway from Lanzhou to Xiahe is smooth. There are many bends on the mountain roads in Zaga, so drive carefully during the rainy season. --- ### **🗺️ Route Planning** **Day 1: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland** - **Morning**: Depart from Lanzhou and drive 3.5 hours to **Labrang Monastery** in Xiahe. Spin the world's longest prayer wheel corridor (3 km) and climb the Gongtang Pagoda to overlook the panoramic view (ticket price: CNY 20). - **Afternoon**: Go to **Sangke Grassland** (15-minute drive), ride horses (CNY 20/person), camp on the grassland to watch the stars ✨, and stay overnight in a Tibetan tent or Xiahe County (CNY 100–150 per person). - **Recommended Food**: Yak hot pot and butter tea at the Tibetan restaurant in Xiahe. **Day 2: Sangke Grassland → Langmu Temple → Ruoergai Flower Lake** - **Morning**: Drive 2.5 hours to **Langmu Temple Town** and visit Gansu Golden Peak Temple and Sichuan Silver Peak Temple. Stroll through the Bailong River Canyon. - **Afternoon**: Go to **Ruoergai Flower Lake** (1.5-hour drive), walk on the wetland boardwalk, and watch birds and feed seagulls (ticket price: CNY 75). In the evening, take photos of the sunset at the first bay of the Yellow River 🌅. - **Accommodation**: Tibetan-style homestay in Langmu Temple Town (CNY 80–120 per person). **Day 3: Langmu Temple → Zaga** - **Morning**: Drive 3 hours to **Zaga**. Pass through the "Little Duku" highway along the way, and capture the misty mountain scenery and wild sika deer 🦌. - **Afternoon**: Check into a Tibetan homestay in Dongwa Village, hike to **Fairy Beach** (2 hours round trip), and take photos of the panoramic view of the stone city and the terraced fields in the dusk 📸. - **Overnight**: Zaga homestay (it is recommended to stay in a room with a view in Dari Village, CNY 150 per person, a 270° mountain view room is great value!). **Day 4: Zaga Deep Tour** - **Early Morning**: At 6:00, climb the **Dari Viewing Platform** to photograph the misty village in the morning, as if in a fairyland ☁️. - **Morning**: Hike to **Runwu Gully Waterfall** (3 hours) to explore the canyon streams and primeval forest 🌲. - **Afternoon**: Self-drive the essence of the "Locke Road" (Zaga → Guanggaishan), challenge the gravel road, and overlook the snow-capped mountains and meadows (SUV required). - **Overnight**: Zaga or return to Diebu County (better conditions). **Day 5: Return to Lanzhou** - **Morning**: Zaga → Lanzhou (7-hour drive). Pass by **Guomang Wetland** to take photos of the black-necked crane statue, and buy yak jerky as a souvenir. --- ### **⚠️ Tips to Avoid Pitfalls** 1. **Transportation Tips** - There is no gas station in Zaga. Be sure to fill up in Diebu County! There is no signal on some road sections, so download an offline map in advance. - Be careful when choosing low-priced chartered car tours (such as "CNY 99 one-day tour"), as attractions may be reduced or forced shopping may occur. 2. **Accommodation Tips** - The conditions of the homestays in Zaga are relatively simple, so it is recommended to bring your own toiletries. You need to book 1 week in advance during the peak season. 3. **Travel Traps** - Fairy Lake is actually a small pool, so lower your expectations. You need to bring hiking shoes for hiking. People with altitude sickness should not challenge the Stone Forest route. - Taking photos is prohibited in Langmu Temple. Respect religious customs and do not take photos of monks at will. 4. **Consumption Tips** - Horse riding on Sangke Grassland can be bargained to CNY 15–20/person. The environmental protection fee in Zaga is CNY 10/person, and there are no other tickets. --- ### **💰 Budget Reference (CNY 1,500 per person)** - **Transportation**: Chartered car sharing CNY 600 + fuel/toll fee CNY 200. - **Accommodation**: 4 nights × CNY 120 = CNY 480. - **Dining**: 4 days × CNY 80 = CNY 320 (mainly Tibetan food and pasta). - **Tickets/Experiences**: Labrang Monastery CNY 40 + Flower Lake CNY 75 + Horse riding CNY 50 = CNY 165. --- ### **📸 Photography Tips** - **Zaga**: The best times are morning mist (6:00–7:30) and sunset (18:30–19:30). The Dari Viewing Platform has an excellent location. - **Sangke Grassland**: Take photos of the green carpet and sheep after the rain. For Milky Way photography at night, avoid light pollution. - **Outfit Suggestions**: Bright shawl/windbreaker, sun hat + sunglasses, and a down liner for the large temperature difference ❄️☀️. --- **The beauty of Gannan is the poetry of Tibet and the fairy tale in the clouds.** Take this guide with you, find yourself in the morning mist of Zaga, and sleep soundly under the stars of Sangke Grassland! ✨🏕️

🌿Escape the May Day crowds! Experience 20°C Gannan like stepping into a Miyazaki film. Still squeezing into popular scenic spots in May-June? This place secretly offers the most healing cool experience year-round! Average temperature 20°C in Gannan (southwestern Gansu) 🏔️ Snow-capped mountains kiss the sea of clouds, lush grasslands surge with waves of flowers 🐏 Cattle and sheep stroll through patches of light and shadow, prayer flags flutter with Buddhist chants National Geographic certified "Garden of Eden on Earth" Tibet without altitude sickness! Less than 1/10 of Northwest China's tourists‼ ✨5 Major Attractions That Will Captivate You✨ ✅ 90% forest and grassland coverage, oxygen-rich air that intoxicates ✅ 2h direct from Lanzhou, Guangzhou direct flights starting at 400+ yuan (bargain!) ✅ Perfect photo opportunities at Tibetan villages/ancient temples/canyons/pastures ✅ Level up with light hiking + horseback riding + Tibetan costume experiences ✅ Flower bloom peak during June-August, miss it and wait another year 🚌4-Day Foolproof Itinerary (Personally Tested) 🔛Lanzhou→Yellow River Scenic Line→Zhengning Road Night Market ▪Visit the Gansu Museum to see the original "Flying Horse of Gansu" ▪Wait for a Yellow River sunset at Zhongshan Bridge in the evening 🔛Liujiaxia→Milarepa Buddha Pavilion→Zhagana ▪Capture the spectacular two-colored river confluence at the observation deck ▪Stay in a misty Tibetan village, chase the golden sunrise at Dari observation platform 🔛Namo Grand Canyon→Langmu Temple→Sangke Grassland ▪Explore the source of the Bailong River, encounter adorable marmots ▪Take photos of red walls and golden roofs in the "Little Switzerland" 🔛Labrang Monastery→Ganjia Secret Land→Baishiya ▪Walk the 3.5km world's longest prayer wheel corridor ▪Be a grassland princess for a day in the octagonal ancient city 🔥6 Epic Photo Locations 📍Zhagana Cloud Tibetan Village Certified by National Geographic as one of the 50 must-visit places! Like the setting of "Princess Mononoke" when shrouded in morning mist, the Fairy Beach is breathtaking at sunset 📍Labrang Monastery's Buddhist Universe Prayer wheel corridor with its own sacred soundtrack, capture monks in red robes passing by for instant cinematic vibes 📍Ganjia Secret Land's 3D Landscape Baishiya cliffs cut through clouds like giant screens, cattle and sheep on Ganjia Grassland look like scattered pearls, drone shots instantly create epic scenes 📍Langmu Temple's Cross-Border Wonder The Bailong River separates Gansu and Sichuan, with Tibetan temple and mosque facing each other across the river, hike through the canyon to find marmot families 📍Sangke Grassland Horseback Experience Claim an entire green field as your oil painting backdrop, unlock Tibetan guide horse-led photography service for just 20 yuan 📍Liujiaxia Dual-Colored River Spectacle Take a speedboat into the collision of Yellow River and Tao River's "yin-yang pot," capture stunning aerial tai chi patterns with a drone 📌Travel Tips ✔Large temperature differences between morning and evening, bring windbreaker/light down jacket ✔Fierce plateau UV rays, keep sunscreen essentials on your face ✔Grasslands not fully green in May, mid-June enters peak beauty season Because the grass here is truly green, the flowers truly beautiful, and there are truly so many cattle and sheep This was the biggest surprise I encountered in Gannan Hope everyone has a wonderful trip😃

It was a trip to Gansu, China with friends. If you’re looking for a place rich in natural beauty, culture, and perfect photography spots, Gansu, China, is a must-visit. We started our journey in Lanzhou, a bustling city along the Yellow River. One of the highlights was the Zhongshan Bridge, often called the “First Bridge of the Yellow River.” We visited during sunset 🌅 and the golden hues reflecting on the river created stunning pictures ✨ Afterward, we explored the Gansu Provincial Museum, which houses 🏘️ ancient Silk Road artifacts, perfect for history and architecture shots 📸 📍Zhongshan Bridge, Binhe East Road, Chengguan District, Lanzhou, Gansu, China. We then visited Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park was the highlight of our trip. The rainbow-colored mountains look surreal, especially during sunrise and sunset. We explored the viewpoints, and I recommend staying for the sunset, the colors are at their most vibrant. Don’t forget to bring a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots 😍 📍 Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, Linze County, Zhangye, Gansu, China. We then explored Jiayuguan Pass, the westernmost end of the Great Wall. The combination of the ancient architecture and the surrounding desert landscape made for dramatic photographs 📸 Mid-morning offered the best lighting for the wall’s intricate details. Nearby, we went to the Jiayuguan Fortress, which added a touch of history to our photo collection ✨ 📍Jiayuguan Pass, Jiayuguan City, Gansu, China. 📍Jiayuguan Fortress, South of Jiayuguan City, Gansu, China. Dunhuang is where we found the iconic Crescent Lake, an oasis surrounded by the massive Singing Sand Dunes. We visited in the late afternoon to catch the golden light and took camel 🐪 rides for those perfect desert shots. The Mogao Caves were another must-see; their ancient Buddhist murals are a treasure for art lovers 🙌🙌🙌 📍Crescent Lake, Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area, Dunhuang, Gansu, China. 📍Mogao Caves, Dunhuang City, Gansu, China. We ended our trip at Labrang Monastery in Xiahe. The intricate Tibetan architecture and the surrounding mountains ⛰️ provided a serene backdrop for photos 📸 We explored the prayer wheels and halls in the early morning, capturing the tranquil atmosphere ✨ 📍 Labrang Monastery, Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu, China. highly recommend Gansu to anyone looking for a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty 🙌🙌🙌 #chinatrip #travel #Vacation

Traveling with kids in August, don't want to step on landmines and be a big fool 😜 Want to see snow-capped mountains❄️, lush meadows🌱, and wildflowers like waves🌼? Want to see cows and sheep grazing leisurely🐄, and herders riding horses freely🏇? Then come to Gannan with an average temperature of 20℃🎉! Low-altitude 'Little Tibet', fewer tourists and no altitude sickness👍 Over 90% vegetation coverage, plenty of oxygen😃~ Endless forests, valleys, snow mountains, grasslands, and temples😲 ✔️The supreme and sacred 'Highest Academy of Tibetan Buddhism' Labrang Monastery🙏 ✔️Separated by a river, the 'Little Switzerland of the East' Langmu Monastery🤩 ✔️Sangke Grassland, where every shot is a healing scene😃 ✔️The secret realm under the sacred mountain, like a paradise on earth, Zhagana🌟 · ✈️How to get there? You can fly directly to Zhongchuan Airport, then take the city rail to Lanzhou Station🚄 🚇You can also take a sleeper train directly to Lanzhou Station, about a 10-hour journey😴 · 💯7 days and 6 nights itinerary Day 1 - 3 Lanzhou - Liujiaxia - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Hezuo City - Zhagana ✨After getting off the plane, first enjoy a bowl of authentic beef noodles, with extra chili for the best taste😋 Also, don't miss the sour and chewy Liangpi and spicy potato slices😜 ✔️Enter Liujiaxia, climb up to overlook the distinct confluence of the Yellow River and Tao River🌊 ✔️Watch the sunrise at Zhagana Dari Viewing Platform🌅, the sunset at Fairy Beach🌇, and overlook the Tibetan villages🏠 · Day 4 - 5 Namo Grand Canyon - Langmu Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery ✔️Hike into Namo Grand Canyon to find the source of the Bailong River💧 ✔️Ride horses and take great photos in Sangke Grassland, listening to the melodious Tibetan folk songs🎶 ✔️Visit the famous Tibetan monastery, Labrang Monastery, and follow the monks to uncover the world of Buddhism📿 · Day 6 - 7 Xiahe - Baishiya Hiking - Bajiao Ancient City - Lanzhou ✔️Enter the secret realm of Ganjia, where ancient city temples, grasslands, and rivers merge into one🎊 ✔️Explore Bajiao Ancient City, hike along the Baishiya Valley, and see the cattle and sheep migrating in summer🐏 · 🌟6 must-visit highlights 📍Ganjia Secret Realm The cloud-top Ganjia Secret Realm exists like a 'magnificent and majestic miracle'👏 📍Langmu Monastery A small stream merges two peacefully coexisting ethnic groups, with a Lama Temple and a Mosque occupying both sides of the stream😲 📍Zhagana A hidden paradise known as 'paradise on earth', also one of the 50 places to visit in a lifetime according to 'China National Geographic'🤗 📍Labrang Monastery The 'Highest Academy of Tibetan Buddhism' is known as the Tsinghua and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism‼️ The outer wall is composed of more than 2,000 prayer wheels, making it the 'world's longest prayer corridor' in the Guinness World Records😮 📍Sangke Grassland The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, with cows and sheep scattered everywhere. Ride a gentle foal and gallop forward on horseback, listening to the melodious Tibetan folk songs, purifying your soul🎵 📍Baishiya The niche secret realm of Gannan 'Dolomites' Baishiya, where natural mountain screens divide the Ganjia Grassland into two highland grasslands with a 1,000-meter drop, with white clouds hanging like jade belts☁️

🙆‍♂️Lately, I've been pondering which places in China are worth revisiting. Flipping through the photos I took in Gannan last summer, it's just too incredible! Not many people know about this hidden gem, and I discovered it from a recommendation in ! 🧳Pre-trip preparation: 1⃣️Few people: Hardly anyone around me knows , easy to avoid crowds. 2⃣️Great value: A bowl of noodles for 15 yuan, loaded with beef, very satisfying. Last year, I bought a Tibetan outfit for 🌸15 yuan, perfect for taking photos🎥. 3⃣️Beautiful scenery: Snow mountains, the Milky Way, grasslands🌴, highways, cattle and sheep, the Yellow River, and misty secret realms - all the beautiful scenes you can think of are here. 4⃣️Driving is not tiring: Compared to Xinjiang, 🌦 about 3 hours of self-driving each day. 🗓Itinerary: D1: Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm - Dazong Lake - Stay in Xiahe D2: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Zhagana - Stay in Zhagana D3: Zhagana - Ruoergai Grassland - First Bend of the Yellow River - Stay in Tangke D4: Tangke - Lianbaoyeze - Stay in Jiuzhi D5: Jiuzhi - Ningma Temple - Maqu - Stay in Langmusi D6: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Lanzhou 🏨Hotel environment: Xiahe: , conveniently located, beautiful surroundings, clean and tidy rooms, attentive service. Zhagana: , where you can enjoy the stunning scenery of Zhagana, rooms are warmly decorated, great value. 📝Attention tips: ▶️Strong UV rays, bring an umbrella, which can protect against both sun and rain. ▶️The food here is spicy, remember to bring medicine for stomachaches, and ask the owner to put less spice when ordering. ▶️❗️Be sure to book the B&B one month in advance❗️ ▶️Carry some cash, in case of poor signal in some places. ✅Must experience: Lanzhou Western Great Wall Film and TV City🌟🌟🌟🌟 Many people only know about Lanzhou noodles, but there's a film and TV city just 5 minutes away from Lanzhou airport, with Egyptian and Greek architecture recreated at 1:1 scale. If you're transferring through Lanzhou, it's recommended to take a look. Ticket: 50 yuan Time: Half a day Gannan Secret Realm🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 It's recommended to stay in a nearby B&B, where you can watch the Milky Way at night and the cliff sunrise in the morning, the view from God's perspective is simply breathtaking! Ticket: Free Time: Half a day if not staying at a B&B Sangke Grassland🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Highly recommended! The whole way is filled with stunning Windows wallpaper-like scenery, absolutely gorgeous! Ticket: Free Time: 2 hours Zhagana🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Enshrouded in mist, it's like a fairyland on earth. The moment you open the curtains in the morning, you feel as if you're in heaven. Ticket: Free Time: 1 day Lianbaoyeze🌟🌟🌟🌟 China's own 'Devil's Land', deep in the secret realm is a lake as blue as a sapphire, comparable to Daocheng. Ticket: Free Time: 1 day Labrang Monastery/Ningma Temple/Langmusi🌟🌟🌟 A paradise for Tibetan culture enthusiasts, home to the world's largest and longest prayer wheel, also the filming location of 'A World Without Thieves'. Ticket: Free Time: Half a day each

Travel from June to August without stepping on landmines and becoming a big fool. Want to see snow-capped mountains, lush grasslands, and wildflowers like waves? Want to see cattle and sheep leisurely grazing, and herdsmen riding horses freely? Then come to Gannan, with an average temperature of 20°C (located in the southwest of Gansu Province), a low-altitude "Little Tibet" with few tourists and no altitude sickness! With over 90% vegetation coverage, the oxygen level is more than sufficient. Endless forests, valleys, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and temples await you. ➡️ The highest and most sacred "Supreme Academy of Tibetan Buddhism" Labrang Monastery ➡️ Across the river, the "Little Switzerland of the East" Langmu Temple ➡️ Sanko Grassland, where every shot is a healing scene ➡️ The secret realm under the sacred mountain, Zaga Na, like an earthly Eden ✈️ How to get there? You can fly directly to Zhongchuan Airport and then take the city rail to Lanzhou Station. 🚄 You can also take a sleeper train directly to Lanzhou Station, which takes about 10 hours. 💯 17-day 6-night itinerary Day 1-3 Lanzhou - Liujiaxia - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Hezuo City - Zaga Na ✨ After getting off the plane, first enjoy a bowl of authentic beef noodles, with extra chili for the best taste. Also, don't miss the sour and chewy Liangpi and the spicy potato slices! ✅ Visit Liujiaxia, climb up to overlook the distinct confluence of the Yellow River and Tao River, watch the sunrise at Zaga Na Dari Viewing Platform, watch the sunset at Fairy Beach, and overlook Tibetan villages. Day 4-5 ✅ Namo Grand Canyon - Langmu Temple - Sanko Grassland - Labrang Monastery ✅ Hike into Namo Grand Canyon to find the source of the Bailong River. ✅ Ride horses and take great photos on Sanko Grassland, listen to melodious Tibetan folk songs, and visit the famous Tibetan monastery, Labrang Monastery, following monks to explore the world of Buddhist studies. Day 6-7 ✅ Xiahe - Baishiya Hiking - Bajiao Ancient City - Lanzhou ✅ Explore the secret realm of Ganja, where ancient city temples, grasslands, and rivers merge, and discover Bajiao Ancient City. Hike along the Baishiya Valley and see the cattle and sheep migrating in summer. ✨ 6 must-visit highlights 📍 Ganja Secret Realm The cloud-top Ganja Secret Realm exists like a "magnificent and majestic miracle." 📍 Langmu Temple A small stream merges two peaceful coexisting ethnic groups, Tibetan and Hui, with Lama Temples and Mosques on either side of the stream. 📍 Zaga Na A hidden paradise known as the "Earthly Eden" and one of the 50 must-visit places in life according to "China National Geographic." 📍 Labrang Monastery The "Supreme Academy of Tibetan Buddhism" is known as the Tsinghua and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism! The outer wall is composed of more than 2,000 prayer wheels, making it the "world's longest prayer corridor" according to the Guinness World Records. -- 📍 Sanko Grassland The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, with cattle and sheep scattered everywhere. Ride a gentle pony and gallop forward while listening to melodious Tibetan folk songs, cleansing your soul. -- 📍 Baishiya The niche secret realm "Dolomites" of Gannan, Baishiya, where natural mountain screens divide the Ganja Grassland into two highland grasslands with a height difference of 1,000 meters, with white clouds hanging like jade belts.

Gannan is simply divine! You must come and see this picturesque world of nine colors🌍 It spans across Gansu, Sichuan, and Qinghai, filled with mystery and beauty Surprises are everywhere, and so are beautiful views Blind Peach has summarized this travel guide and photo spots, you can save it for your summer visit and check them out💕 - 【Photo Spots:】 ✅Zhagana ✨The hills are covered with colorful forests, known as the 'hidden paradise on earth' and one of the must-visit places in 'Chinese National Geography'! 🎫Ticket: 80 yuan ✅Baishiya/Ganjia Secret Realm ✨Like scenes from the movie 'The Lord of the Rings', with temples, grasslands, cattle, horses, and black mountains... It really feels like a secluded world at the end of the earth! 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Awan Warehouse Wetland ✨The Yellow River meanders here, nourishing the nearby wetlands, grasslands, and animals. In the evening, the 'Jesus light' penetrates through the clouds~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Luo Ke's Road ✨100 kilometers of rugged stone mountains, with forests, grasslands, rivers... The entire road has both vast and secluded views, a paradise for the eyes! 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Lianbao Yezhe ✨Rugged stone mountains with lakes, a real magical world! Here you can take cool blockbuster photos! 🎫Ticket: 120 yuan ✅Sangke Grassland ✨Flower seas everywhere, just stop and snap pictures, they all look like movie screenshots, very healing🍃~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Labrang Monastery ✨Home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor and a Tibetan Buddhism academy, even taking photos in Tibetan clothes looks great! 🎫Ticket: 40 yuan ✅Ruoergai Grassland ✨The river flows like a crescent moon on the grassland, with birds, fish, marmots, aquatic plants, this place is like a small ecosystem~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan 【Itinerary:】 🔸Day1: Lanzhou→Labrang Monastery→Ganjia Secret Realm→Baishiya (Stay: Xiahe County) 🔸Day2: Sangke Grassland→ Guomang Wetland→Langmu Monastery (Stay: Langmu Monastery) 🔸Day3: Awan Warehouse Wetland→Lianbao Yezhe→Aba County (Stay: Aba County) 🔸Day4: Ruoergai Flower Lake→Tiebu Town Xiaoduku (Stay: Diebu County) 🔸Day5: Zhagana (Stay: Zhagana) 🔸Day6: Zhagana→Luo Ke's Road→Lanzhou

🌟 Chapter One: Introduction to the Scenic Area Gannan, a hidden gem nestled deep in the plateau, is a dazzling pearl of Gansu Province, known far and wide for its vast grasslands, sacred and solemn temples, and pristine natural scenery. It is not only a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhism culture but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts, and a pilgrimage site for travelers seeking spiritual cleansing and closeness to nature. 🚗 Chapter Two: Transportation Guide - **Arriving in Gannan**: First fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, then rent a car or take a long-distance bus to Hezuo City, the capital of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and the starting point for exploring Gannan. - **Self-driving**: The Gannan area is suitable for self-driving, with endless scenic views along the way, but be mindful of the rugged mountain roads and drive safely. 🎢 Chapter Three: About the Tour - **Best Season**: Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Gannan, when the grasslands are lush and the climate is pleasant. - **Travel Tips**: Start early each day to make the most of the daylight hours, and at night, experience Tibetan homestays and enjoy the tranquility under the starry sky. 📍 Chapter Four: Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Labrang Monastery**: One of the world's largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, experience the rich religious atmosphere and magnificent architecture. 2. **Zhagana**: Known as the 'Stone City Paradise', hike through the canyons to admire the stunning peaks and Tibetan villages. 3. **Sangke Grassland**: Ride horses, practice archery, and taste Tibetan meals to experience authentic Tibetan customs. 4. **Langmusi Monastery**: A unique temple straddling Sichuan and Gansu, visit the 'Switzerland of the East'. 5. **Gahai Lake**: A pearl on the plateau, a great spot for bird watching and photography. 6. **Milarepa Buddha Pavilion**: A nine-story Buddha pavilion, each floor with different stories and Buddha statues, climb high for a refreshing and exhilarating view. 🏨 Chapter Five: Accommodation and Dining - **Accommodation**: Recommended to stay in Tibetan homestays in Xiahe, Langmusi Town, or near Zhagana to experience the warmth and uniqueness of Tibetan families. - **Dining**: Try Tibetan meals such as tsampa, butter tea, and hand-grabbed lamb, and don't miss the local yogurt and yak meat. 🚷 Chapter Six: Pitfalls to Avoid - **Preventing Altitude Sickness**: When first arriving on the plateau, rest well, avoid strenuous exercise, and carry portable oxygen canisters. - **Sunscreen and Warm Clothing**: The plateau's UV rays are strong, and the temperature varies greatly between day and night, so be prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a thick coat. - **Respecting Customs**: Remove your hat when entering temples, do not wear shorts or skirts, and ask for permission before taking photos. In this place closest to the sky, the Gannan mystery awaits every traveler to unveil her veil of secrecy. Although three days is a short time, it is enough to give your soul a profound purification. When the journey ends, what you take away is not just the scenery in your camera, but also the unforgettable peace and freedom. Gannan, a place worth visiting time and again, looks forward to reuniting with the most authentic self here.

When the summer of Altay occupies everyone's vision, ✨ Gannan has been secretly becoming beautiful, ready to amaze everyone! You can't miss Gannan in July~ 👇🏻These 8 attractions will definitely be so beautiful that you'll never forget them - ✅ 8 must-visit attractions in Gannan: Sunrise and sunset are a must-see! The whole village is surrounded by huge rocky mountains, and during sunrise and sunset, with the changing light and shadow, it really looks like a paradise on earth~ Watch the sunrise at the Dari Viewing Platform, and go to the Fairy Beach for the sunset - 🍃 Strange peaks and rocks, glacial relics, snowy mountains, and lakes I personally think the scenery is more beautiful on cloudy days! The 4520 Viewing Platform allows you to see the full view of the lake, which looks like a mirror in summer - 🍃 The grassland is vast and boundless with few people, herds of cattle and sheep, and clouds rolling and relaxing You can also watch archery, wrestling, and other activities, feeling the passion of the Tibetan people~ From July to September, there are also fresh milk tea, zanba, Tibetan steamed buns, and hand-grabbed mutton to taste - 🍃 The Yellow River winds like a ribbon on the grassland Climb the viewing platform to watch the sunset, and the river surface will show a golden color You have to go before 18:00, and you can take an elevator directly to the viewing platform~ - 🍃 It is a large scenic area, divided into Sichuan and Gansu's Langmusi Watch the sunrise at Sichuan's Silver Top, and the sunset at Gansu's Golden Top Summer trekking in the Namo Grand Canyon is also super cool~ - 🍃Labrang Monastery A grand architectural complex with Tibetan characteristics, with many colleges to visit You can also participate in some Tibetan cultural experience activities, such as jumping pot dance, making butter flowers, etc. - 🍃Milarepa Buddha Pavilion Each floor has a different theme, besides the statues, the murals are also very artistic You have to take off your shoes to enter the pavilion, and you must follow the order when going up~ - 🍃Meiren Grassland The grassland is dotted with small mounds, very delicate and cute The prayer flag tunnel is right next to the grassland, fluttering in the wind, super beautiful! - ✅Recommended 7-day 6-night itinerary in Gannan: 𝒅𝒂𝒚1: Lanzhou 𝒅𝒂𝒚2: Prayer Flag Tunnel→Meiren Grassland→Milarepa Buddha Pavilion 𝒅𝒂𝒚3: Guomang Wetland→Zhagana→Tibetan Family Visit→Bonfire Party 𝒅𝒂𝒚4: Zhagana→Flower Lake→Sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River 𝒅𝒂𝒚5: Lianbao Yeze→Gemo Monastery→Aba 𝒅𝒂𝒚6: Awan Cang Wetland→Sichuan Langmusi→Namo Grand Canyon Visit Gannan in July, and you'll regret it for a lifetime if you miss these 8️⃣ attractions|||When the summer of Altay occupies everyone's vision, ✨ Gannan has been secretly becoming beautiful, ready to amaze everyone! You can't miss Gannan in July~ 👇🏻These 8 attractions will definitely be so beautiful that you'll never forget them

Norden Camp in Xiahe, Gansu Province, is one of the most unique and unforgettable hotels we have ever stayed in. The camp is situated just a short distance away from the Labrang Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world, which makes it an ideal place to stay for travelers interested in Tibetan culture and religion. The camping experience itself was truly amazing. The tents are spacious, comfortable and beautifully decorated in traditional Tibetan style, with warm blankets to keep you cozy during the night. The meals served were delicious and authentic Tibetan cuisine, which added to the overall experience of staying in the camp. The highlight of our stay was the evening chanting at the Labrang Monastery. We were able to witness the monks performing their evening rituals, which was truly a humbling and spiritual experience. In addition to the cultural attractions, the surrounding landscape is absolutely stunning, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and the grasslands stretching out before you. Overall, we highly recommend Norden Camp for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Tibetan culture and enjoy a unique and unforgettable camping experience. Location: Norden Camp is located just a short distance away from Labrang Monastery in Xiahe, Gansu Province. Rating: 5/5 Price per night: Approximately 1200 RMB per night. Driving instructions: Xiahe is approximately a 5-hour drive from Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province. From Lanzhou, take the G75 expressway westbound towards Xiahe.

Situated in southern Gansu, Labrang Monastery in Xiahe is the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. First founded in 1709, at its peak it hosted over 3,600 monks. Included in your entrance fee is a guided tour with an English speaking monk. You will walk through the temples and learn the history of the area. You should be lucky enough to enter the main temple during prayer time and witness the incredible chanting and humming it over 100 monks in unison. After exploring inside the monastery, it is well worth walking around the the kora circuit. This is the pathway on the outside of the monastery walls which contains the prayer wheels. Hundreds of Tibetan pilgrims at a time walk this circuit in a clockwise circle. You’ll hear the constant chants, see their gorgeous traditional Tibetan clothing and even witness some pilgrims and monks prostrating as they walk. To get to Labrang you need to get to the capital of Gansu, Lanzhou and then catch a 4 hour bus south to Xiahe. #historicplaces

I stepped through the main gate of Labrang early at dawn. The air was bone chilling with the sun still hiding behind the surrounding mountains which look like massive camel humps. The only sounds were the creaking of the prayer wheels and the footsteps of the pilgrims doing the kora. A Kora is a clockwise circumambulation of a holy place, in Tibetan Buddhism, in this case Labrang, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries outside Lhasa. When I started the kora, the sun peeked over the ridges, it’s reflection from the many temple towers sending golden arrows through the small cobblestone alleyways. Labrang is a must see if you want to experience authentic Tibetan culture, explore one of the largest and historically significant Buddhist lamaseries, try the delicious yak yogurt and momo.

Do you know where the longest corridor in the world is? This Gannan self-driving tour, in addition to Zhabei that I am most worthy of thinking is this world-class top Tibetan school! It has the longest corridor in the world! No matter which country the locals take, they will take time to worship here every year! When you come here, time seems to be quiet, no distractions! Address is located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, 200km from Lanzhou! From Lanzhou, it takes 4.5h to drive! The road is very good, the whole process can also take the provincial highway! Or take a direct bus in Lanzhou District! Introduction Strictly speaking, this is not just a temple, it retains the most complete teaching system of Tibetan Buddhism in the country. Most of the monks came to the temple when they were seven or eight years old. After 12 years of study, they were counted as learning. It was not like learning, but also a lifelong practice.

Labrang Monastery, located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, is one of the six monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is known as the World Tibetan Academy. Xiahe has only one broad main street, one side is Labrang Monastery and the other side is city. But this street has no boundaries, just like the life and beliefs of the Xiahe people. In history, the Labrang Monastery is known as the 108-genus temple (in fact, it is much larger than this number), and it is the political and religious center of Gannan. Up to now, Labrang Monastery has retained the best Tibetan Buddhist teaching system in the country. The monks who practice here are from a few years old to several decades old. Apart from the typical Tibetan temple features, Labrang Monastery is best known for its longest corridor in the world. There are more than 1,700 prayer barrels around the temple, stretching for 3.5 kilometers.

Labrang Monastery is one of the six monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is known as the "World Library of Tibet" in the world. There are no thieves in the world. Liu Ruoying and Bao Qiang meet here. Every year, the lunar calendar has a grand law in July. Yes, there are wonderful performances of jumping and dancing in the square, and the four parties are dressed up to attend, and they are surrounded by water.

The doors of Labrang Monastery are more than entrances; they are profound symbols. Massive, wooden, and often painted in deep reds and adorned with intricate golden motifs, they mark the threshold between the mundane and the sacred. Passing through them, you leave the outer world behind and enter a space of prayer and contemplation. Each doorway, from the grand temple entrances to the humble portals along the Kora, frames a journey into the heart of Tibetan Buddhism, inviting a step inward, both physically and spiritually. #travel

If you yearn for the mysterious Tibetan culture but fear the discomfort caused by high altitudes, then Gannan, with an average elevation of only 3,000 meters, is undoubtedly your perfect choice. It is called the "Land of Pure Beauty" by National Geographic and serves as the transition zone between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau. It gathers natural and cultural landscapes such as grasslands, canyons, wetlands, and ancient temples, like a dazzling pearl radiating unique charm. Best Travel Time - June to August: Summer in Gannan, with average temperatures of 20-25°C, is the ideal place to escape the heat. At this time, the grasslands are lush green, wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, and the flower sea of Flower Lake contrasts beautifully with the clear lake water, creating a breathtaking view. - September to October: Autumn in Gannan is a season of colorful forests. The barley waves in Zhagana appear faintly in the morning mist, presenting a charming golden gradient scene full of poetry and romance. Transportation Guide - Airplane: You can first arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, then transfer by car to various places in Gannan; Xiahe Airport also has some routes, so choose flights according to your departure location. - Train: Lanzhou is an important transportation hub. You can take a train to Lanzhou, then transfer to a long-distance bus or charter a car to Gannan. - Bus: There are frequent buses from Lanzhou, Linxia, and other places to various cities and counties in Gannan, making travel quite convenient. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Labrang Monastery: One of the six main monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, it has the world's longest prayer corridor, stretching 3.5 kilometers. Here, you can follow the locals in circumambulating the monastery and feel the power of faith; at dawn, you can witness the sacred scene of monks' morning prayers, incense smoke blending with the morning light, as if traveling through a thousand years. 2. Zhagana: This "Stone City" hidden among the mountains is shrouded in mist, like a fairyland. It is recommended to stay here for a night and get up early the next day to watch the sunrise. When sunlight shines on the stone mountains, the entire village is dyed golden, breathtakingly beautiful. Hiking along the wooden plank road to the Fairy Beach viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the village, with high mountain Tibetan villages and forest meadows forming a stunning pastoral landscape. 3. Langmu Temple: A town spanning two provinces, Gansu's Saichi Temple and Sichuan's Gerdy Temple face each other across the river, full of mysterious and unique atmosphere. Be sure to visit the sky burial platform (maintain silence) to learn about this unique Tibetan funeral culture; in the afternoon, you can hike the Namo Canyon and explore the source of the Bailong River. 4. Sangke Grassland: Vast and boundless grassland where blue sky, white clouds, and green grass blend harmoniously. In summer, wildflowers bloom everywhere. You can ride a horse (about 50 yuan per round) to experience a sense of freedom; deep in the grassland, you can visit herders' homes, make tsampa by hand, and taste authentic Tibetan cuisine. 5. Ganja Secret Realm: A hidden treasure deep in the mountains, featuring cliffs, stone forests, grasslands, and caves, fulfilling all your fantasies about the mysterious plateau. Ancient temples like Zuohai Monastery and Baishi Cliff Monastery, as well as the octagonal ancient city, add rich historical and cultural heritage, nurturing many great monks such as Master Tsongkhapa and the 10th Panchen Lama. 6. Gahai Lake: A pearl on the plateau with crystal-clear water and vast surrounding wetlands. June is the best bird-watching season, where black-necked cranes, gray geese, and various waterfowl gather in large numbers, creating a spectacular scene. 7. The First Bend of the Yellow River: The Yellow River and the White River converge here, forming multiple beautiful S-shaped bends. Viewed from above, it looks like a ribbon winding across the land. At sunset, sunlight shines on the river surface, the nine bends reflect the nine suns, shining brilliantly like a dream. Special Local Foods 1. Tibetan Set Meal: Tsampa paired with butter tea can relieve altitude sickness and offer a unique Tibetan flavor; hand-pulled lamb is tender and free of gamey taste, with firm meat texture, a classic dish on Tibetan dining tables. 2. Yak Yogurt: With a golden milk skin on top, it tastes sweet and sour and rich. You can add some sugar according to your taste. It melts in your mouth and leaves a lasting aftertaste. 3. Tibetan Steamed Buns: Filled with yak meat, the dough is chewy, and biting into it releases juicy, delicious flavors. 4. Jue Ma Rice: The sweetness of Jue Ma perfectly blends with the aroma of rice, offering a soft and sticky texture and rich nutrition. 5. Butter Tea: Salty and rich butter tea is an indispensable drink in Tibetan life, helping to resist cold and relieve discomfort caused by altitude sickness. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Xiahe: Close to Labrang Monastery, convenient for travel, allowing you to feel the solemnity and tranquility of the temple anytime. You can choose unique homestays like Xiahe Yinian Mountain Residence to experience Tibetan wabi-sabi style. 2. Zhagana: It is recommended to stay in Dongwa Village for easy sunrise viewing and sightseeing. The Zhagana Marmot Viewing Homestay offers attentive service, and opening the window reveals stunning mountain and wild scenery. 3. Langmu Temple Town: Hotels on the Gansu side are recommended, such as Longda Holiday Hotel, equipped with floor heating and oxygen supply devices, very friendly for those new to the plateau. 4. Tangke Town: Close to the First Bend of the Yellow River, you can choose the Cloud Pasture Homestay, where you can lie in a starry Mongolian yurt at night and enjoy the dazzling Milky Way. Travel Itinerary Planning Classic 5-Day Tour - Day 1: Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe Depart from Lanzhou to Xiahe, visit the Tibetan Buddhist holy site Labrang Monastery, feel the strong religious atmosphere, and stay overnight in Xiahe. - Day 2: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Ganja Secret Realm - Langmu Temple In the morning, ride horses and stroll in Sangke Grassland, enjoying the grassland scenery; in the afternoon, head to Ganja Secret Realm to explore the mysterious plateau landscape; arrive in Langmu Temple town by evening to appreciate its unique charm. - Day 3: Langmu Temple - Flower Lake - Ruoergai Grassland - Zhagana Get up early to watch the sunrise at Langmu Temple, then visit Flower Lake to admire the wetland flower sea; next, gallop across Ruoergai Grassland, and arrive at Zhagana in the evening to stay in a homestay. - Day 4: Zhagana - Rock Road (highlight section) - The First Bend of the Yellow River Explore Zhagana deeply, experiencing its morning tranquility and grandeur; then embark on the Rock Road, crossing high mountain canyons and enjoying the scenery along the way; watch the sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River in the evening. - Day 5: The First Bend of the Yellow River - Lanzhou Get up early to watch the sunrise at the First Bend of the Yellow River, then return to Lanzhou, concluding a pleasant Gannan trip. Travel Tips 1. Altitude Sickness Prevention: Prepare anti-altitude sickness medicine such as Rhodiola in advance. Avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival in Gannan, drink plenty of water, and let your body gradually adapt to the altitude; carry glucose oral liquid to replenish energy promptly if you feel unwell. 2. Clothing Preparation: Gannan has a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, bring warm clothes like windbreakers and thin down jackets; during the day, strong sunlight requires sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 3. Respect Local Customs: Dress appropriately when entering temples, do not wear hats or step on door thresholds; turn prayer wheels clockwise; show respect for special cultures like sky burials, and avoid taking photos or making comments casually. 4. Other Precautions: Some areas have poor signal, so download offline maps in advance; pay attention to road conditions and drive cautiously if self-driving; negotiate prices and duration in advance for horse riding and other entertainment to avoid disputes. Gannan, this mysterious and charming land, boasts magnificent natural scenery and profound cultural heritage. Step onto this land to feel the power of faith, appreciate the wonders of nature, and embark on an unforgettable soulful journey!

Who says the plateau isn’t suitable for kids? Gannan is truly a treasure for family travel! With a kid-friendly altitude and immersive nomadic life experience, kids come back talking about going again every day 🐎 🌿Grassland fun + cultural enlightenment, a win-win​ ✔️Run freely in the forest and grassland, kids chase butterflies and pick wildflowers, a perfect place to unleash their nature ✔️Use the Labrang Monastery prayer wheel corridor as a classroom, kids learn Tibetan culture while spinning ✨Exclusive activities that make kids scream with joy​ ✔️Hiking and treasure hunting in Langmu Temple Canyon, picking colorful stones as “explorers” ✔️Learning to paint Thangka at Zhagana Tibetan Village, kids proudly show off their abstract yak paintings ✔️Horseback riding slowly on the Sangke Grassland, instructors hold the reins for safety, kids hum songs with their feet swinging ✔️Milking cows and feeding lambs on the ranch, kids hold the milk jug saying “I’m a little herder!” 🏕️Luxury camping adds extra points​ 📍Camp ▪️Wooden cabins with terraces, wrap up with kids at night waiting for shooting stars ▪️Drink yak yogurt for breakfast, kids lick the spoon saying it tastes like ice cream 📍Amigonhong Ranch ▪️Stay in tents listening to cow and sheep bells, kids wake up early to play with Tibetan mastiff puppies ▪️Mothers teach how to make butter tea step by step, kids shake the butter churn tired but happy 🚗 Easy itinerary for tired moms​ Day 1: Explore Lanzhou night market → kids hold roasted lamb chops, drink sweet milk tea with eyes half-closed Day 2: Listen to Buddhist stories at Labrang Monastery → off-road ride on the grassland, kids scream with excitement Day 3: Explore the sky burial platform at Langmu Temple → find marmots in Namo Canyon, kids imitate marmot calls making everyone laugh Day 4: 2-hour horseback riding on the ranch → eat hand-pulled lamb in the tent, kids learn to eat with their hands Day 5: Take family photos in Tibetan costumes at the Buddhist pavilion → on the way back, kids lean on the car window shouting “Goodbye little lamb!” ⚠️Pre-trip guide for families​ ✔️Dress kids in non-slip sports shoes, grassland dew can be slippery ✔️Bring plenty of snacks and thermos, replenish energy on the way ✔️Portable wet wipes and hand sanitizer, clean anytime after playing on the ranch The campsites are fully booked this year! We snagged the last room by chance, moms who want to go, quickly contact customer service to watch for cancellations~

Escape the hot summer with kids, Gannan is truly a divine choice! At an altitude below 3000 meters with no altitude sickness, rich Tibetan culture, even the kids don’t want to go home after playing here 🏔️ 🌿 A natural classroom with few people and beautiful scenery​ ✔️ 90% forest and grassland coverage, kids can run freely on the grassland breathing fresh air ✔️ Few tourists, enjoy the entire flower sea and grassland exclusively, every photo looks like a fairy tale picture book ✨ Must-try family experiences​ ✔️ Spin the prayer wheels with monks at Labrang Monastery, kids curiously stare at the colorful wheels and ask nonstop ✔️ Find the source of the Bailong River at Langmu Temple, hold kids’ hands and encounter round, chubby marmots ✔️ Watch the morning mist roll over the Tibetan village at Zhagana, like stepping into an ink animation ✔️ Ride horses slowly on the Sangke Grassland, kids giggle on horseback with blue sky and white clouds as the backdrop 🏕️ Dreamy nights in the grassland​ 📍Camp ▪️ Open only 5 months a year! Wooden cabins right on the grassland, stargaze with kids at night ▪️ Wake up to birdsong in the morning, kids lean on the window counting cattle and sheep 📍Amigonhong Ranch ▪️ Open the door to herds of yaks, kids excitedly learn to milk cows and knead tsampa ▪️ Tent dinner with Tibetan hotpot, kids toast with butter tea 🚗 5-day family itinerary details​ Day 1: Gather in Lanzhou → Night market to eat milk egg fermented rice, kids jump around holding sweet embryo milk tea Day 2: Listen to monks’ stories at Labrang Monastery → Chase marmots on Sangke Grassland → Stay at Nuordan Camp, roast by the fire and watch the starry sky Day 3: Explore caves at Langmu Temple → Light hike in Namo Canyon, kids pick up stones and find the creek source Day 4: Horseback riding and feeding lambs at the ranch → Watch water birds fly at Gahai, kids roll on the grassland eating tsampa Day 5: Take photos of the red walls at Milarepa Buddha Pavilion → Kids hum Tibetan songs on the way back ⚠️ Thoughtful tips for traveling with kids​ ✔️ Dress kids in bright clothes for great photos! Don’t forget sun hats + kids’ sunglasses ✔️ Wrap up with windproof jackets in the morning and evening, bring a small blanket for kids ✔️ Don’t forget children’s stomach medicine, let kids try a small amount of yak jerky Camp rooms are extremely popular! We booked two months in advance, moms who want to go should book now～

Dear friends! Gannan in the height of autumn is simply stunning beyond belief! This 3-day guide will take you to explore the Nine-Color Gannan, admire the Ganjia Secret Realm, hike in Zhagana, visit the thousand-year-old Zuohai Monastery, the Tibetan sacred Labrang Monastery, and Langmu Monastery. Don’t hesitate, bookmark it now! -------------------- 🌄 Route Overview: Day 1: Ganjia Secret Realm -> Baishi Cliff -> Zuohai Monastery -> Labrang Monastery Explore the mysterious Ganjia Secret Realm, stroll beneath Baishi Cliff, then visit the thousand-year-old Zuohai Monastery, and finally immerse yourself in the solemn atmosphere of the Tibetan sacred Labrang Monastery. Day 2: Zhagana Hike in Zhagana, experience the tranquility and grandeur of the mountain village, and fully enjoy the perfect blend of nature and culture. Day 3: Dacang Langmu Monastery Visit Langmu Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist holy site that attracts countless believers and tourists with its unique architectural style and profound cultural heritage. 🛫 Departure Day: At the last stop in Gannan, pack your bags, carry full memories, and set off on your journey back, ending this dreamy trip to the Nine-Color Gannan. -------------------- Tips: 1️⃣ Respect Tibetan customs🙏, spin prayer wheels clockwise, do not wear hats when taking photos inside temples, blending in with local customs is more heartwarming～ 2️⃣ Yak jerky/Tibetan medicine prices too high? Ask around and compare prices, stores frequented by locals are more trustworthy🐂 3️⃣ Not used to butter tea? Try a small cup first, barley cakes with yak yogurt are absolutely delicious🥛, those with weak stomachs should prepare medicine! 4️⃣ Large temperature difference between day and night on the grassland🌡️, bring a windbreaker + sun hat, wildflowers bloom everywhere from June to August, perfect for photos📸 5️⃣ Bring some cash and small change💵, some pastoral areas have weak signals, bringing candies to share with Tibetan children is very loving～ -------------------- 🚗 Quickly save this private Gannan tour guide, be ready to go anytime, let the beautiful scenery and happiness follow you!🎉

Between the red walls and golden roofs, faith flows like the wind, softly brushing the heart. The prayer wheels turn slowly, telling stories of a thousand years of prayers; the butter lamps burn quietly, illuminating the tranquility of the soul. Walking itself is a form of practice. Sunshine spills onto the stone path, as if time has slowed its pace. The air is filled with a faint scent of butter, the fragrance of faith. The itinerary is as follows: Day 1: Lanzhou — Liujiaxia Bridge — Ganjia Secret Realm — Labrang Monastery — Xiahe Day 2: Xiahe — Sangke Grassland — Guomang Wetland — Gahai Lake — Langmu Temple Day 3: Langmu Temple — Namo Grand Canyon — Ruoergai Flower Lake — Zhagana Day 4: Zhagana — Milarepa Buddha Pavilion — Lanzhou ——✨✨✨—— 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group tours up to 6 people 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Private car customization available 👓 How to register: Place an order or inquire for details via the link below

Ganjia Secret Realm, tucked in the folds of Gannan, composes an undisturbed natural poem with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, ancient temples, and starry skies. The sky here is a pure blue, with a few lazy white clouds drifting by, as if you could reach out and touch them. The grassland is a green carpet spread across the earth, stretching from beneath your feet all the way to the foot of the distant snowy mountains. When the wind blows, the sea of flowers and waves of grass rise and fall together, carrying the scent of grass and flowers that drifts to your nose. Ganjia Secret Realm is not a bustling tourist spot, but a land where the soul can breathe. Here, there’s no need to rush through an itinerary; just follow the footsteps of the wind, watch the silent snow mountains, listen to the murmurs of the grassland, and let your weary body and mind slowly heal in this pure world. ——✨✨✨—— 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group tours up to 6 people 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Private car customization available 👓 How to sign up: Place an order or inquire for details via the link below

Gannan Zagana, a stone city fairyland forgotten by time, means "stone box" in Tibetan. Located in Diebu County, Gannan, Gansu, it is surrounded by stone peaks. American explorer Rock called it the "Eden." Here, snow-capped mountains, canyons, forests, Tibetan villages, and pastures come together, making it an excellent place for photography, hiking, and spiritual practice. Best Travel Season June to August: The grasslands are lush, wildflowers bloom, and the climate is cool, making it a great summer retreat. September to October: The autumn colors are vibrant, perfect for photography enthusiasts. November to April: The snowy scenery is peaceful, ideal for enjoying winter landscapes. Must-Visit Attractions Dari Viewing Platform: The best place to watch the sunrise, with mist swirling, Tibetan villages, and snow mountains complementing each other. Fairy Beach: Alpine meadows with blooming wildflowers in summer, an ideal place for horseback riding. Rock Viewing Platform: Overlooks the panoramic view, with magnificent stone peaks and breathtaking scenery. Lasa Monastery: A sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, with chanting echoing in the early morning, feel the power of faith. Recommended Hiking Routes Short Route: Zagana—Fairy Beach—Fairy Lake (2-3 hours, suitable for most people) Long Route: Zagana—Stone Forest—Guang Gai Mountain (6-8 hours, guide required) Nearby Worth-Seeing Spots Langmu Monastery: Known as the "Little Switzerland of the East," with highlights including the sky burial platform and Bailong River Gorge. Ruoergai Flower Lake: A summer wetland flower sea and a paradise for migratory birds. Ganga Secret Realm: Baishi Cliff, Bajiao Ancient City, small but mysterious.

Gansu often gives people the impression of dust storms, dryness, drought, and the poor, backward Loess Plateau. But Gannan is the junction between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau, where the original pastoral life and magnificent grasslands merge. You can see sea of clouds, starry skies, and shooting stars on clear days. Every frame looks like a fairyland. The morning sunlight shines on the vast grasslands, mountain mist wraps around the mountain waist, and the blue sky occasionally peeks through the white clouds, appearing unbelievably pure. Tibetan villages are scattered among the endless valleys and foothills. The varying shades of green of the poplar trees form a natural oil painting. Though called Little Tibet, Gannan is truly magnificent. ——✨✨✨—— 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group tours up to 6 people 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Private car customization available 👓 How to sign up: Order or inquire via the link below

Baishiya Cliff is located near Wanggeertang Town, Xiahe County, Gansu Province, about 30 kilometers from the famous Labrang Monastery. It is situated at the end of the Ganjia Grassland and is a prominent landmark on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Baishiya Cliff is a massive limestone cliff stretching about 15 kilometers, with its highest point exceeding 4,000 meters above sea level. It is named for its gray-white rock face that appears under sunlight, standing like a huge white wall on the vast Ganjia Grassland, creating a magnificent view. The suggested itinerary is as follows: Day 1: Lanzhou—Liujiaxia Bridge—Ganjia Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe Day 2: Xiahe—Sangke Grassland—Guomang Wetland—Gahai Lake—Langmu Temple Day 3: Langmu Temple—Namo Grand Canyon—Ruoergai Flower Lake—Zhagana Day 4: Zhagana—Milarepa Buddha Pavilion—Lanzhou ——✨✨✨—— 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Group tours up to 6 people 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Private car customization available 👓How to register: Place an order or inquire for details via the link below