Gannan Autumn Legend: Enter the Golden Fairy Tale in September-October

Visit Gannan in September-October! Dive into a golden fairy tale and encounter breathtaking autumn scenery If there’s any place that can make your heart skip a beat at first sight in autumn, Gannan definitely counts! From September to October, it feels as if God has spilled a palette here—the grasslands are covered in molten gold, the red walls of temples stand out vividly, the Yellow River glistens with turquoise, and the forests are dyed orange and red. Every glance is a surprise, and walking through it feels like stepping into a golden dream blending faith and nature~ Gannan Weather & Dressing Tips • Weather characteristics: The key is the huge temperature difference between day and night! Daytime temperatures range from about 10-20°C, but at night they can suddenly drop to 0-5°C; mostly sunny with occasional showers, so be sure to check the short-term weather forecast before traveling. • Dressing suggestions: ◦ Choose “onion-style layering”: wear a windproof jacket or lightweight down jacket on the outside, a warm sweater in the middle, and a breathable long-sleeve T-shirt inside, so you can add or remove layers according to the temperature. ◦ Must-have items: windproof jacket, warm hat, scarf, gloves to handle cold nights and occasional windy days; shoes should be non-slip, waterproof hiking boots or sneakers suitable for outdoor terrain. ◦ Special reminder: The plateau’s UV rays are very strong, so bring sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Must-Visit Autumn Attractions • Zhagana: In the early morning, mist wraps around jagged giant rocks, and sunlight shines on the roofs of Tibetan villages, resembling Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings. It’s recommended to hike to Fairy Beach and overlook the entire village and autumn scenery from a high vantage point—an absolutely stunning view. • Langmu Temple: A small town spanning the two provinces of Gansu and Sichuan, with Saichi Temple in Gansu and Gerdie Temple in Sichuan facing each other across the river. In the morning, you can witness the sky burial’s incense burning ceremony, and at dusk, the sunset makes the temple’s golden roofs shine brilliantly—perfect for photography. • Sangke Grassland: The summer greenery fades, and the grassland dons a golden coat. Herdsmen drive sheep back to their tents, embodying the leisurely autumn vibe. Here you can ride horses or sit quietly watching the clouds roll by, feeling the vastness of the world. • Flower Lake: In autumn, the lake surface is like a mirror, with yellowed meadows reflecting the water. Migratory birds pause here briefly during their southward journey. Standing by the lake to capture light and reflections, every frame looks like an oil painting. • Labrang Monastery: Follow the Tibetans clockwise around the prayer wheels to truly feel the power of faith. The red walls and white towers look even more solemn and serene against the autumn leaves. The chanting from the Buddhist college drifts on the wind, bringing inner peace. • Liujiasha Yellow River Confluence: The vastness of the Loess Plateau meets the clear tributaries of the Yellow River, forming a distinct “half-clear, half-muddy” boundary. A drone shot reveals a spectacular scene that is truly breathtaking. • First Bend of the Yellow River: Climb the viewing platform to see the Yellow River winding like a ribbon across the grassland. At sunset, the entire valley is dyed golden-red, and the afterglow sparkles on the river surface—so beautiful it leaves you speechless. • Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: The only pavilion in the country dedicated to Milarepa. From the top, you can overlook the entire city of Hezuo. The murals and Buddha statues inside are exquisitely detailed, full of Tibetan cultural charm. Accommodation Recommendations • Zhagana: Choose Tibetan-style guesthouses (such as Yun Jing Ye She), where you can see snow-capped mountains and autumn forests right from your window, immersing yourself in Tibetan local culture. • Langmu Temple: Prioritize boutique inns in the town (such as Luqu Secret Realm Langmu Temple), close to the temple for easy access to morning mist or sunset photography. • Xiahe (around Labrang Monastery): Recommended Tibetan culture-themed hotels (such as Tianzhu International), offering a cultural atmosphere and comfortable accommodation. • Ruoergai/Tangke: Choose scenic hotels near the First Bend of the Yellow River (such as Yuntu Starry Ranch), where you can stargaze at night and conveniently watch the sunrise in the morning. Important Notes 1. Gannan’s average altitude is over 3,000 meters. First-time visitors should avoid strenuous exercise and prepare glucose oral solutions in advance to alleviate possible altitude sickness. 2. Respect local religious customs: walk clockwise around prayer wheels, do not wear hats or take photos inside temples, and avoid pointing at Buddha statues with your fingers. 3. Some mountain roads have many bends and complex conditions. It is recommended to rent a car or drive an SUV, and prepare snow chains to handle possible rain or snow. 4. The National Day holiday is a small peak season for autumn travel in Gannan. Be sure to book hotels and vehicles in advance to avoid last-minute shortages. If you missed Gannan in summer, don’t let this golden September-October slip away!