Just returned from Gannan in the off-season, really don't recommend going in July-August

✨If you only visit one place this summer, I recommend Gannan - a soul-healing destination with average 20℃ temperatures, making it the perfect summer escape from 40℃ city heat🌿 Vast grasslands, lakes, monasteries, and prayer flags intertwine faith with breathtaking scenery. Here you'll experience nature's grandeur and inner peace. If not in July, then when? 📍Location Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture sits on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where Tibetan and Han cultures converge. Rated by National Geographic as "one of 50 places to visit in a lifetime", it's known as "China's Little Tibet, Gansu's Back Garden". 🚗Recommended Transportation - Self-drive: Ideal for experienced drivers who want flexible itineraries and spontaneous stops. Note some routes (like the Locke Road) have challenging conditions - SUVs/off-road vehicles recommended. - Chartered/shared cars: Private charters offer flexibility for groups; shared rides cut costs and make travel buddies. Verify driver credentials and itinerary details in advance. - Public transport: Scattered attractions make public transit inconvenient, but buses run from Lanzhou to Xiahe and Hezuo - budget option for travelers with ample time. 🗺️5-Day Classic Loop Itinerary (self-drive/charter) Day1: Lanzhou Airport → pick up car → Xiahe (3.5h) → Milarepa Buddha Pavilion (quick stop) → evening visit to Labrang Monastery, prayer wheel photos Day2: Morning in-depth Labrang Monastery tour (hire guide for cultural insights) → afternoon horseback riding & Tibetan costume experience at Sangke Grassland Day3: Xiahe → Langmusi (3h) → stop at Guomang Wetland viewpoint + Gahai Lake → afternoon visit to Gansu Langmusi & Sky Burial Site (respect customs - no photos) Day4: Morning hike in Sichuan Langmusi Canyon → afternoon to Zhagana (2h washboard road warning) → sunset at Dari Viewpoint Day5: Sunrise at Dari Viewpoint → morning light hike at Fairy Meadow → afternoon return or start Sichuan Northwest itinerary 🌟Must-Visit Spots 1. Labrang Monastery: One of Tibetan Buddhism's six great Gelug monasteries, with the world's longest prayer wheel corridor (3km!). Turn prayer wheels along the path to feel spiritual power while admiring exquisite murals and thangkas. 2. Sangke Grassland: Emerald meadows dotted with grazing yaks and wildflowers - every photo looks like a Windows wallpaper. Gallop across the vast plains on horseback. 3. Langmusi Town: Straddles two provinces (Gansu/Sichuan) with Bailong River running through. Gansu's grand Langmusi contrasts with Sichuan side's Narmo Canyon hike to the river's source. 4. Zhagana: "Where deities dwell" - mist-shrouded stone city with Tibetan villages like a hidden paradise. Dawn/dusk views resemble oil paintings, while Fairy Meadow overlooks the entire settlement. 5. Flower Lake: In July, lakeside wildflowers bloom vibrantly amid clear waters with playing waterfowl. Wooden boardwalks feel like stepping into a fairy tale. 6. First Bend of Yellow River: Watch the winding river flow like a silk ribbon across grasslands, especially majestic at sunset from the viewpoint. 7. Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: Tibet's only nine-story shrine honoring masters from all Buddhist sects, filled with exquisite murals and religious mystique. 📌Tips: 1. Sun protection: Strong UV at high altitude - pack hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, UV clothing, and arm sleeves to avoid burns. 2. Warm layers: Large day-night temperature swings require sweaters or light down jackets. 3. Accommodation: Zhagana's view B&Bs book fast - reserve 1 month ahead. 4. Customs: Respect traditions - no photos inside monasteries, remove hats, turn prayer wheels clockwise. 5. Food: Most Tibetan restaurants are reliable. Try yak jerky, but keep meals light initially to avoid altitude-related stomach issues. 6. Altitude sickness: Consider taking rhodiola 1-2 weeks prior (effects vary). Avoid strenuous activity/bathing upon arrival. Prepare glucose solutions or oxygen if needed. Gannan's summer is a feast for eyes and soul - don't miss it!