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

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! ✨🏕️

Gannan, located in the southern part of Gansu Province, adjacent to Sichuan and Qinghai provinces It is precisely because it is on the edge of nature and culture That its beauty is so 'unique'... When the crisp morning mist envelops the world of Tibetan studies at Labrang Monastery When crossing the hills is the unattended shock of the Loke Road When the sky's wine faces the rugged and spectacular natural stone city of Zhagana When small animals like pikas and rabbits occasionally flash by the roadside 'You', being there Will definitely feel That every scene before your eyes is a state of mind Go! To Gannan! . Loke Road 'China's Route 66', with endless scenery along the way, as if in a fairyland. The whole journey is 100km, with no signal, and no food for sale along the way, so fill up on gas in advance, and prepare water and food The land landscape is diverse, with relics of Quaternary glacial geomorphology, mountains with giant rocks echoing, deep and narrow canyons, and primitive and dense forests . Zhagana A fairyland on earth, a combination of pastoral and plateau scenery, beautiful in both sunny and rainy weather Viewing platform route: Dari Viewing Platform—Shimen Viewing Platform—Loke Viewing Platform—Fairy Beach Viewing Platform Hiking: Scenic Area Second Gate—Tiger's Mouth—One Line Sky—King of Gods Temple—Stone Forest (horseback riding available) The scenery of Fairy Beach is the best, but there are many people, especially to watch the sunset and evening glow Loke Viewing Platform can only be reached on foot, but you can see the panoramic view of Zhagana Nearby is the He Lhasang Monastery, known for its golden roof, accessible by car . Langmu Monastery Langmu Monastery is a small town, known as the Oriental Switzerland, with a Bailong River stream separating Gansu and Sichuan Going up from the Gansu temple is the only open observatory in the Gannan area Next to the Gerdi Temple Square is the famous internet celebrity wall, better for photos with a wide-angle lens, surrounded by many coffee shops Sichuan Temple—Gerdi Temple, where you can listen to debates, held irregularly in the Great Hall, Red Stone Cliff is behind Langmu Town, made of red sandstone . Gannan Travel Tips ① Turn the prayer wheel clockwise, no photography inside temple halls ②Dress appropriately when entering temples, no short skirts, vests, tank tops, or slippers ③When encountering stone tablets, stupas, or mani piles with scriptures, walk around them clockwise ④Do not touch or point at Buddha statues or lamas, and do not randomly ring bells ⑤Do not sit on the lamas' special cushions or dharma platforms when resting in temples ⑥Do not touch the heads of Tibetan children, do not step on the threshold when entering Tibetan homes, step over it ⑦Do not express opinions or debate about ethnic beliefs .

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.

“Recommend 10 travel destinations that I think are unpopular and interesting. After graduation, I did not go to work immediately. I chose to take a gap year Visited more than 100 cities in China - 2023 travel is open I guess most of the tourist attractions have too many tourists and commercialization. This article shares 9 niche travel destinations that healed me I hope you can go see it too. - ❶ Baisha Ancient Town Located in Lijiang, Yunnan; enjoy the sun, play with the cats, sit and drink coffee every day, and look up to see the snow-capped mountains. The temperature will be more comfortable from December to February, and there is real snow on Yulong Snow Mountain. . ❷Litang Located in Ganzi, Sichuan; the city in the sky at an altitude of 4,000 meters is not only a city, but also the undeveloped Genyen South Line nearby. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lakes in spring and summer, and small wild flowers bloom all over the grassland. . ❸Zhagana Located in Gannan, Gansu; a hidden paradise, I think it is a bit like the Zhangjia Ancient Building in Banai; snow-capped mountains, holy lakes, blue sky, wilderness, quiet villages, cabins, yaks and sheep in the sea of ​​flowers, and smoke from cooking in the valley in the evening . ❹Rain collapse Located in Diqing, Yunnan; the stunning scenery is only visible on foot. The Cordyceps Line and the Shenhu Line walk under the Meili Snow Mountain and among the primeval forests, with squirrels, birds, glacier canyons, etc. . ❺ Leng Gacuo Located in Ganzi, Sichuan; Snow-capped White Horse, Starry River and Ever-bright ~ I have been to so many snow-capped mountains, but the King of Sichuan Mountains, Gongga, is so beautiful that it makes me "thrilled" . ❻Mount Everest Located in Shigatse, Tibet; it is said that anyone who sees the Golden Mountain in the Rising Sun will be lucky for the whole year! First of all, the altitude sickness will screen out a large number of people. To see the golden mountain in the sun, you have to get up in the middle of the night to go to the Jiawula Pass, which will also screen out a large number of people. . ❼Shata Located in Yili, Xinjiang; step into the real Wizard of Oz, where herdsmen’s cabins are dotted among the mountains, and the peaks of the snow-capped mountains in the distance glow in the clouds🏔️ . ❽Weishan Ancient City Located in Dali, Yunnan; I guess not many people know about this place. This is the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom in the Legend of Sword and Fairy. But what impressed me most was that the snacks here are so delicious! ! . ❾Sichuan Islands Located in Ningde, Fujian; the real-life version of Zelda, an undeveloped wild island stands alone in the middle of the sea, like a giant dragon lying down, or like a meteorite relic. . ❿Chongzuo Located in Chongzuo, Guangxi; a small border town on the border between China and Vietnam, it is surrounded by beautiful and unique karst landforms, with thousands of mountains abrupt and continuous, and rice fields scattered in between. . It is said that "the harder it is to reach a place, the more it touches people's hearts" Except for Baisha and Weishan, the above 10 places are not easy to reach. I hope you can go there one day. “No longer learn about the motherland through geography books, but with the eyes of freedom!

Zha (g) is an ancient city in Yiwa Township, located more than 30 kilometers northwest of Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. The Tibetan language means Shizizi. The terrain is like a giant palace with a large scale and a natural rock wall. Zha That the mountain is steep, misty, like a fairyland. A variety of production activities such as nomadic, farming, hunting and plucking in the Tibetan village are rationally matched and complemented, which has become a model for people to live in harmony with nature. Zhana in Yiwow Township, Diebu County, Gansu Province is a Tibetan language, meaning Shizizi. Zhaqin Mountain is located in Yiwa Township, 34 kilometers northwest of Diebu County. It is a complete natural Shicheng custom. It is called the "King of the King". The terrain is like a giant palace with a large scale, and a complete ancient city built by natural rock walls. Zhengbei is a majestic, majestic and glorious mountain with a gleaming peak. The ancient name "Shijing Mountain" has its name because of its gray-white rock. It is famous for its easy-reflecting light in the east; the rocky wall in the east rises into the sky, and the clouds are haunted; The pinnacles rise from the ground, and they stand together to form a stone gate; then south to the east wow, the Naga area, the cliffs stand, the clear stream rises and falls, the water mill flywheel, the flow continues. The mountain is steep and beautiful, like a large-scale stone palace. Although this paradise was named as the birthplace of Adam and Eve as early as nearly a hundred years ago, it is still a virgin land.

📍Self-driving route: Lanzhou → Xiahe → Zhagana → Langmusi → Sangke Grassland 🌄【Three must-visit spots】 1️⃣ Labrang Monastery Prayer Corridor 📸 Best photo spot: the Buddha-exposing platform opposite the monastery, shoot the golden roof in the morning mist at 6 AM ⚠️ Note: Walk clockwise when spinning the prayer wheels; walking counterclockwise will get you the "death stare" from Tibetans 👀 2️⃣ Zhagana Stone City 🏔️ Drive directly to "Dari Viewing Platform" to capture panoramic views of the Tibetan village shrouded in mist 💡 Hidden tip: Bargain with local Tibetans to ride a horse to Fairy Beach (80 RMB/hour) 3️⃣ Sangke Grassland Highway 🛣️ Park at kilometer 386 on National Highway G316 to shoot grasslands like the Windows desktop wallpaper 🐏 Cute surprise: sheep crossing the road! (Do not get out to chase them) 💣 Pitfall avoidance guide ⛽ Fuel reminder: Be sure to fill up in Diebu before entering Zhagana 🏨 Accommodation warning: Avoid staying in street-facing rooms in Langmusi town (loud truck noise will keep you awake) 📸 Photo taboo: Do not photograph Buddha statues inside monasteries without permission 💰 Money-saving tips ⛺ Accommodation: Tibetan-style guesthouse in Zhagana (150 RMB/night including breakfast) 🍜 Food: "Lao Ma Jia" lamb noodle slices in Xiahe County (15 RMB for a filling meal) 🅿️ Parking: Find free parking near attractions 📱 Real reviews from travelers "Driving through Sangke Grassland, every snap is wallpaper-worthy scenery!" 🌦️ Weather tips July-August has frequent showers 🌧️, but rain is often followed by rainbows 🌈 (Remember to bring an umbrella + sunscreen, weather changes quickly) 🚙 Self-driving tips 1️⃣ Definitely drive an SUV! Some roads are as bumpy as a rocking chair 2️⃣ Prepare cash! Mountain areas often have no signal 3️⃣ Download offline maps in advance! Navigation often loses signal 🎁 Hidden gem Stop by Amuquhu Town to buy freshly made yak yogurt (5 RMB/bowl, great value) 🥛 🌟 Trip summary Driving during the day feels like traveling through a painting, stargazing in the Tibetan village at night, and encountering marmots at dawn! (All photos are straight out of the camera, that’s how beautiful it is 📸)

Gannan, known as "Little Tibet," is a pure land that combines magnificent natural landscapes with profound religious culture. Must-visit attractions: Labrang Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, featuring a rare ultra-long prayer corridor where you can experience a strong religious atmosphere; Zhagana, a natural stone city where Tibetan villages blend with mountains and waters, like a paradise on earth; Sangke Grassland, where you can try horseback riding, archery, and taste Tibetan delicacies such as hand-pulled mutton and tsampa, while watching the grassland sunset. Accommodation recommendations: For scenic beauty, choose Ganjia Ecological Camping Site in Xiahe or Zhagana Yun Jing Wild Tent Hotel; boutique homestays include Sangqing Camp in Xiahe and Yano·Meirenjuji Homestay in Hezuo; for upscale options, Hezuo Yihe Grand Hotel offers rich Tibetan characteristics. The best time to visit is from June to August, with pleasant climate and lush grasslands. Remember to bring warm clothing, sun protection, and common medicines. Come to Gannan for a spiritual rendezvous.

✅ Unlock the soul-stirring journey to Jiuzhai Valley, Huanglong, Zhagana, and Ruoergai with a private car When the towering skyscrapers of the city suffocate your breath and the monotony of life drains your passion, does your soul yearn for a complete release and healing? The hidden gems of Northwest Sichuan have prepared a grand gift for you—no rushed sightseeing tours, just the freedom of the open road under the wheels of a private car; no standardized hotel cages, just the wild romance of breathtaking views outside your window. Embark on this route kissed by snowy mountains and holy waters, and let the charm of Jiuzhai Valley, the wonder of Huanglong, the secluded beauty of Zhagana, and the vastness of Ruoergai mend your fatigue and reignite your zest for life! ✅ Chapter 1: Pause and breathe deeply in the embrace of miracles (Source of Healing) - Jiuzhai Valley: Fall into a fairytale of blue ice and emerald hues Forget crowded tour buses! With the leisure of a private car, you can quietly listen to the whispers of flowing water by the Shuzheng Lakes or count the colorful beams of sunlight piercing through the lakebed at Five Flower Lake. When the crowds disperse, Long Lake becomes a solitary sapphire reflecting snowy peaks and drifting clouds—this is the true essence of "seeing Jiuzhai Valley and no other waters." - Huanglong: Stroll through the slow moments of a celestial pool Avoid the scorching sun and take the cable car to Five-Color Pond in the early morning. Amidst the misty haze, thousands of travertine pools resemble a palette spilled by the gods, with golden, indigo, and milky hues flowing amidst the embrace of snowy mountains. Descend slowly along the wooden walkway, and every step becomes a deep massage for your eyes and soul. ✅ Chapter 2: Gallop freely in the vast expanse of nature (Soul of Liberation) - Ruoergai Grassland: A wild fantasy of chasing the wind on horseback The true essence of a private car journey is the freedom to stop whenever you want! When the boundless green carpet unfolds outside the car window, jump out decisively and gallop through the heart of the "oasis of the Northwest Sichuan Plateau." Cattle and sheep scatter like stars across the meadows, and prayer flags flutter in the wind. At this moment, the shackles of the city completely shatter, and you can simply be a child of the grassland, breathing in the fragrance of grass and freedom. - First Bend of the Yellow River: Chase a golden sunset An experienced driver will time your arrival perfectly for sunset. Climb to a vantage point and witness the mother river carving an epic "S" curve across the grassland. The golden hues of the setting sun spill over the river, transforming the landscape into a flowing oil painting. The grandeur that cameras cannot capture can only be etched into your soul through personal experience. ✅ Chapter 3: Reside in the sacred mountain's hidden realm to rest your body and mind (Advanced Healing) - Zhagana: Live the cloud-dream in the stone city Navigate through canyon roads with a private car to reach this "place pressed by the thumb of the gods." Stay overnight in a Tibetan wooden house, where the window opens to rugged stone peaks and swirling morning mist. Take a morning hike to Fairy Beach and watch the sunlight gild the mountain ridges; spend the afternoon sitting under prayer flags, letting the smoke from Tibetan homes and the sound of Buddhist chants soothe your anxiety. This is the hidden utopia that even "Where Are We Going, Dad?" couldn't resist—a full score for healing power! - Heta Hot Spring Valley: Private spa therapy under the stars A surprise awaits in the itinerary! Between Ruoergai and Langmusi lies a hidden hot spring valley. Soak in the natural highland hot springs, gaze at the Milky Way above, and enjoy the tranquil grassland all around. The ultimate relaxation after wild adventures is a luxury only a private car journey can offer. ✅ Suggested 6-day, 5-night healing private car itinerary (flexible adjustments available) Day 1: Chengdu → [Huanglong Wonderland] → Stay in Songpan Ancient Town (Night tales of a thousand-year border town) Day 2: Songpan → [Full-day immersion in Jiuzhai Valley] → Stay near the valley entrance (Avoid the crowds and enjoy the twilight) Day 3: Jiuzhai → [Waqie Pagoda Forest and Prayer Flag Array] → [Chase sunset at First Bend of the Yellow River] → Stay in Tangke Day 4: Tangke → [Gallop freely in Ruoergai Grassland] → [Starry bath at Heta Hot Spring] → Stay in Zhagana Day 5: Morning mist in Zhagana → [Leisure hike at Fairy Beach] → Stay in Diebu/Langmusi Day 6: Return to Chengdu, carrying starlight and stories ✅ Why is a private car the ultimate key to unlocking Northwest Sichuan? 1. Freedom to control the pace: Wake up naturally, stop for a cloud or a horse, and say no to "rushed" tourism. 2. Hassle-free access to hidden gems: Challenging roads to Zhagana and unpaved paths in the grasslands? Local drivers know the way, ensuring safety and peace of mind. 3. Deep cultural immersion: Stop at Waqie Pagoda Forest and hear stories of Panchen Lama's blessings from the driver; pass through Songpan Ancient Town and touch the weathered bricks of this Tang Dynasty border town. 4. Exclusive comfort: Choose a 5-seater SUV or a 7-seater business vehicle, with ample space for luggage and constant warmth, making highland travel elegant and smooth.

Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, located in the southwest of Gansu Province on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is a treasure trove where Tibetan and Han cultures blend. It boasts not only magnificent natural landscapes but also rich Tibetan customs and profound religious culture. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to Gannan. 1. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Gannan is from May to October. May-June sees grasslands turning green and wildflowers blooming; July-August offers cool weather, perfect for escaping the summer heat; September-October features enchanting autumn colors. Though winter is cold, it offers a unique snowy landscape experience. 2. Transportation 1. By Air: The nearest airport is Xiahe Airport, but flights are limited. Most visitors fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport and then take a bus (about 4-5 hours) to Gannan. 2. By Train: Take a train to Lanzhou or Hezuo City, then transfer to a bus. 3. Self-drive: From Lanzhou via Linxia to Hezuo, with good road conditions and beautiful scenery along the way. 3. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Labrang Monastery: One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, featuring the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. 2. Langmusi: A small town straddling Gansu and Sichuan provinces, known as the "Little Switzerland of the East." 3. Zhagana: A hidden Tibetan village nestled among stone mountains, like a paradise on earth. 4. Gahai Lake: Gannan's largest freshwater lake, a prime spot for birdwatching. 5. Sangke Grassland: Vast grasslands where you can experience horseback riding and staying in tents. 6. Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: A nine-story Tibetan-style pavilion dedicated to the revered Milarepa. 4. Unique Experiences 1. Attend Tibetan festivals: Such as the Great Prayer Festival in January and the July Dharma Assembly. 2. Experience Tibetan homestays: Stay in Tibetan homes and try local delicacies like butter tea and tsampa. 3. Pilgrimage with prayer wheels: Join local devotees in spinning prayer wheels for blessings. 4. Horseback riding on the grasslands: Gallop across the Sangke Grassland. 5. Stargazing: The clear highland night sky is a photographer's paradise. 5. Food Recommendations 1. Tibetan steamed buns: Thin-skinned buns filled with beef. 2. Hand-grabbed mutton: Authentic mutton dish. 3. Tsampa: Roasted barley flour, a Tibetan staple. 4. Butter tea: A salty, aromatic Tibetan specialty drink. 5. Yak yogurt: Rich in texture and nutrients. 6. Accommodation Suggestions 1. Hezuo City: Offers a variety of hotels, ideal as a transit point. 2. Langmusi: Features Tibetan-style inns and international hostels. 3. Zhagana: Unique Tibetan homestays for an authentic experience. 4. Xiahe County: Close to Labrang Monastery, convenient for pilgrimages and sightseeing. 7. Important Notes 1. Altitude sickness: Gannan's elevation is around 3,000 meters; newcomers should avoid strenuous activity. 2. Respect local customs: Remove hats in temples, avoid random photography, and walk clockwise around prayer wheels. 3. Variable weather: Large temperature differences between day and night; bring warm clothing. 4. Environmental awareness: Do not litter; protect the fragile plateau ecosystem. 5. Sun protection: Strong UV rays require adequate sunscreen. 8. Recommended Itineraries 3-Day Classic Tour: D1: Lanzhou - Xiahe (Labrang Monastery) - Sangke Grassland D2: Xiahe - Langmusi D3: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Hezuo - Lanzhou 5-Day In-Depth Tour: D1: Lanzhou - Hezuo (Milarepa Buddha Pavilion) D2: Hezuo - Zhagana D3: Zhagana - Langmusi D4: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Xiahe D5: Xiahe (Labrang Monastery) - Lanzhou Gannan is a mysterious and beautiful land, captivating visitors with its natural and cultural wonders. May this guide help you plan an unforgettable journey to Gannan.

6-day tour of Gannan, a painful lesson: Gannan is definitely not a "special forces" paradise to rush into blindly! High-altitude strikes + cultural minefields will make you question life in minutes💥 👇 🚌Local transportation: Don’t expect buses/trains! Gannan has no railway, attractions are scattered, and shuttle bus schedules are so few it’s heartbreaking Rent an SUV! Rocky roads and cliffside mountain roads on the Rock Road will scrape the chassis of sedans to ruin Be cautious with self-driving! Few gas stations and no 98-octane fuel, frequent no phone signal, offline maps are a must ⚠ A tearful summary of 10 iron rules from a close friend 😭Tip 1: Take altitude sickness seriously! Gannan is all above 3000m, drink glucose heavily upon arrival + no washing hair or bathing for 24h! Out of breath hiking Zhagana? Use oxygen quickly (20 yuan/bottle at pharmacy) 😭Tip 2: Temple taboos must not be violated! At Labrang Monastery/Langmu Monastery: no hats, no photographing Buddha statues, no counterclockwise prayer wheel spinning! Don’t secretly photograph the sky burial platform, or risk angering the Tibetans 😭Tip 3: Zhagana accommodation is fiercely competitive! Book the popular “Cloud Resident Homestay” one month in advance! Stay in Dongwa Village to open your window and shoot the sunrise the next day, otherwise cry at the foot of the mountain 😭Tip 4: Don’t gamble on the timing for Flower Lake! Flowers bloom and birds are abundant from June to August, enter after 17:00! The light is soft and there are fewer people; going at noon? You’ll get sunburned and blinded by reflections 😭Tip 5: Don’t be soft when bargaining for horse riding! Sangke Grassland charges 80 yuan/hour? Bargain down to 50 yuan! Choose a gentle mare and check the saddle before mounting 😭Tip 6: Don’t trust “free viewing platforms”! Zhagana Dari Viewing Platform charges an entrance fee (80 yuan), the “secret trail” that wild guides hype is easy to get lost on + you might encounter wild wolves 😭Tip 7: Apply sunscreen like your life depends on it! High-altitude UV rays are deadly compared to coastal areas, SPF50+ reapplied every 2 hours! Exposed scalp? Wearing a hat with an open top = sunburned, oozing scalp (don’t ask me how I know) 😭Tip 8: Don’t randomly try Tibetan food! Butter tea is salty, be cautious (may cause diarrhea), try sweet milk tea first; Tsampa rolled into balls dipped in yogurt is easier to swallow; raw yak beef sashimi? Weak stomachs go straight to emergency 😭Tip 9: Don’t touch the grassland flowers! Gesang flowers are beautiful but all have thorns! Picking flowers is fined 500+ yuan, crouch low and shoot from an angle for better photos 😋Food guide (tested and true) 1⃣ Xiahe · Wuzelinka Tibetan Restaurant Hand-grabbed lamb ribs with garlic slices: balanced fat and lean, zero gamey taste! Yogurt with ginseng fruit: sweet and sour bursting sensation, sprinkled with sugar is amazing 2⃣ Langmu Monastery · Lisa Café Tibetan pizza + apple pie: an authentic small shop popular with foreigners, yak meat filling is finger-licking good 3⃣ Hezuo · Anduo Fried Firecrackers Noodles like firecrackers fried with beef: a rugged northwestern style fried noodle, spicy aroma makes you stomp your feet 4⃣ Zhagana Tibetan Family Guesthouse Tibetan hotpot + highland barley wine: dip yak meat around the fire pit

### 🌿 1. **Liupanshui, Guizhou (China's Cool Capital)** - **Coolness Index**: Average summer temperature of just **19℃**, officially recognized as "China's Cool Capital" where you'll need blankets at night. - **Highlights**: - **Wumeng Grassland**: The highest-altitude grassland in southwest China, featuring wind turbines amid sea of clouds, ideal for camping and stargazing. - **Yushe Forest Park**: Pristine forests with exceptionally high negative oxygen ions, perfect for hiking and stream exploration. - **Shuicheng Ancient Town**: Savor local specialties like grilled dishes and lamb rice noodles while soaking up the lively atmosphere. - **Transport**: High-speed rail to Liupanshui Station or flights to YueZhao Airport. ### 🏔️ 2. **Gannan, Gansu (Plateau Wonderland)** - **Coolness Index**: Daily temps **15-24℃**, blending Tibetan culture with flower-carpeted grasslands. - **Highlights**: - **Zagana**: Stone Tibetan villages shrouded in mist, with canyon hikes revealing "fairytale gardens". - **Labrang Monastery**: Home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, radiating Tibetan Buddhist solemnity. - **Sangke Grassland**: July brings blooming wildflowers; ride horses through wetlands and streams. - **Route Tip**: 5-day road trip from Lanzhou (Ganjia Secret Realm→Langmusi→Ruoergai Flower Lake). ### 🌲 3. **Arshan, Inner Mongolia (Forest Fairytale)** - **Coolness Index**: Summer average **22℃**, 80% forest coverage dotted with volcanic lakes. - **Highlights**: - **Camel Peak Lake**: A sapphire-like crater lake nestled in forests, offering breathtaking summit views. - **Three Pools Gorge**: Wade through icy streams amid birch forests. - **Deer Village**: Feed sika deer up close, recreating Nara's magical scenes. - **Special Features**: Arshan Railway Station (Japanese-style retro station) and year-round river rafting. ### ❄️ 4. **Changbai Mountain, Jilin (Snowy Mountain Heaven Lake)** - **Coolness Index**: Summit temps **10-20℃** with "four seasons in one mountain" microclimates. - **Highlights**: - **Heaven Lake**: Highest summer visibility for the stunning blue lake mirroring snow peaks. - **Underground Forest**: Hike through lava canyons beneath ancient trees like a natural icebox. - **Alpine Flower Fields**: July transforms slopes into fairyland with irises and azaleas. - **Combo Tip**: Pair with Yanji (Korean cuisine + viral photo walls) for icy noodles with glacier views. > 💡 **Travel Tips**: Gannan and Changbai Mountain's high-altitude areas require windproof jackets and altitude sickness meds; Arshan and Liupanshui have significant day-night temperature swings—pack lightweight down jackets.

Real Experience of a Family Self-Driving Tour in Gannan! These Tips Are a Must-Know! Family! I just returned from a self-driving trip to Gannan with my 65-year-old parents and 5-year-old daughter! We did a lot of research before departure, but still got caught off guard by altitude sickness😭 Fortunately, the scenery along the way was absolutely stunning, and the kids had a great time! I've compiled some super practical tips, so if you're planning to go, make sure to save this! 🗺️ Our 8-day self-driving route Lanzhou → Meiren Grassland → Hezuo Hezuo → Zhuoni Dayugou → Dayugou Dayugou → Rock Road → Zhagana Zhagana → Langmu Temple → Namo Grand Canyon → Guomang Wetland → Sanke Grassland → Linxia Linxia → Hezheng Paleontological Museum → Songmingyan → Linxia Linxia → Benzhi Valley Viewing Platform → Huangtao Confluence Viewing Platform → Gansu Provincial Museum → Lanzhou ❗ A harsh lesson from altitude sickness I originally thought the elderly and children were the "high-risk groups" for altitude sickness, but the first to go down was actually me! On the first day at Meiren Grassland, at 3600 meters altitude, I got a headache immediately, and the child was also breathing heavily. That night, after taking ibuprofen and resting flat, I finally recovered. So! If you're going to Gannan, always carry altitude sickness medicine with you! Don’t tough it out if you have a headache! 🌟 Blood, sweat, and tears compiled super practical tips 1️⃣ Dayugou vs Zhagana? I want both! I was originally torn about only going to Zhagana, but after altitude sickness in Hezuo, we changed plans and went to Dayugou first. Unexpectedly, it was a treasure! Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and lower altitude—perfect for elderly and kids~ ⚠️ Warning: After rain, the water in Ajiagou turns yellow. If you want to photograph emerald green streams, watch the weather carefully! 🏠 Accommodation recommendation: Zhuoni Luoyang Home, a clean and cozy guesthouse 🍖 Food recommendation: "Jiuhe Niba" in Zhuoni County, Tibetan cuisine so delicious you'll lick your plate! I thought I wouldn’t like it, but ended up loving it from the first bite! 2️⃣ Rock Road: Bumpy but worth it! From Dayugou, we crossed Rock Road to Zhagana. The 30 km "washboard road" was so bumpy it made me question life, but the scenery was truly amazing! Guardrails have now been installed along the roadside, so it’s not as dangerous as imagined~ 🍲 Zhagana dining guide: Dongga’er Tibetan Restaurant, the owner cooks personally! Tibetan fragrant pork is a must-order, and the hotpot is also very tasty! 3️⃣ Namo Grand Canyon: A paradise for kids! I planned to turn back halfway, but when the kid heard there were marmots, she pulled me all the way to the end! The whole trip took about 25 minutes, and seeing the marmots digging holes was worth it! When I asked the kid which spot she liked best, this was her first answer~ If you’re hiking with kids, just go for it! 4️⃣ Grassland check-in and pitfall avoidance guide Sanke Grassland is okay to just pass by; the wetland has little water and the scenery is average. Guomang Wetland is worth stopping at; standing on the viewing platform and feeling the breeze is so comfortable! 5️⃣ Linxia hidden gems for food, drink, accommodation, and transport To avoid altitude sickness, we drove straight from Zhagana to Linxia! 🍗 Food recommendation: Gajiu Yi Big Plate Chicken, chicken is tender and flavorful; Yasar Yogurt, sweet and sour, thick and refreshing; Bafang Shisan Street Maqi Beef, locals line up for it! 🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Tianyuan Wanda Jinhua, rooms are spacious and comfortable 👧 Kid’s favorite: Horse riding at Songmingyan, the little one couldn’t stop smiling on the horse! 6️⃣ No-fail accommodation in Lanzhou Hyatt and Lanzhou Old Street Puyan Hotel are both good, close to downtown and convenient for travel~ 💡 Other small tips - Altitude sickness emergency kit: ibuprofen, oxygen bottle, glucose are essential! Take medicine and rest immediately if you have a headache - Weather changes a lot: big temperature difference between day and night, bring thick jackets and sun protection clothes - Food surprises: Tibetan and Hui cuisine are both delicious! Don’t be scared off by "niche" foods, be bold and try them! The scenery in Gannan is truly addictive! What else do you want to know, friends? Or if you have other hidden gem activities, come chat in the comments!

| A soul-cleansing journey to the plateau. If you yearn for the mystical Tibetan culture and are captivated by breathtaking natural scenery, then Gannan is undoubtedly your perfect destination! This sacred land in southern Gansu combines grasslands, lakes, temples, and Tibetan customs, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Follow this guide and set off now! ⏰ Best Travel Time ✅ June - September: Peak season! Wildflowers bloom across the grasslands, with temperatures between 15 - 28°C, making it ideal for escaping the summer heat. ✅ October: Forests turn vibrant with autumn colors, perfect for photography enthusiasts. 🚗 Transportation Guide 🚙 Self-Driving • Rent a car in Lanzhou—an SUV is recommended for rugged terrain. • Classic 5-day loop: Lanzhou ➡️ Labrang Monastery ➡️ Sangke Grassland ➡️ Langmusi Town ➡️ Zhagana ➡️ Gahai Lake ➡️ Lanzhou • Stunning scenery along the way, with plenty of photo stops! 🚐 Chartered Car • Around ¥2,500 - 3,000 per car (5 days, including driver). • Book through platforms like Trip.com for reliable services—local stories from drivers are fascinating! 🚌 Public Transport Buses from Lanzhou to Xiahe are available, but transfers to scattered attractions are inconvenient—not recommended! 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions [One] Labrang Monastery 📿 • "The World's Tibetan Studies Center," featuring a 3.5 km prayer wheel corridor. • Spin 2,000+ bronze prayer wheels to feel the power of faith. • Climb Gongtang Pagoda for a panoramic view—red walls and golden roofs are awe-inspiring! [Two] Sangke Grassland 🌿 • 10 km from Xiahe County, elevation over 3,000 meters. • Wildflowers blanket the land from June to August—horseback riding (¥50/hour) is exhilarating! • Wear Tibetan attire for photos—the vibe is unmatched! [Three] Zhagana 🏔 • A "hidden paradise" surrounded by 4,000-meter stone peaks. • Recommended hiking route: Dongwa Village → Fairy Beach → Fairy Lake (2 hours round trip). • Watch morning mist and smoke from Yeri Village viewpoint—breathtaking! [Four] Langmusi Town ⛩ • A town straddling Gansu and Sichuan provinces. • Visit the Sky Burial Site at Gansu’s Sertri Monastery (photography strictly prohibited!). • Hike to the source of Bailong River at Sichuan’s Kirti Monastery. [Five] Gahai Lake 🌊 • Gannan’s largest freshwater lake, with blooming irises in summer. • The wooden boardwalk’s end on the west side offers the best photo spot. • Migratory birds resting in morning mist—utterly soothing! 🍲 Food Recommendations ✅ Tibetan Dumplings: Juicy beef filling, best dipped in chili vinegar! ✅ Butter Tea: Salty and warming, great for altitude adjustment. ✅ Sweet Rice with Ginseng Fruit: Tibetan-style sweet rice with buttery fragrance. ✅ Yogurt Tsampa: Thick yogurt + roasted barley flour—sweet and tangy! 🏨 Accommodation Tips • Xiahe County: Nobu Yangka Hotel, steps away from Labrang Monastery. • Langmusi Town: • Gansu side: Langmusi Hotel, with stunning views. • Sichuan side: International Youth Hostel, great for socializing. • Zhagana: • Zangbala Homestay: Authentic Tibetan breakfast. • Cloudscape Tent Hotel: Stargazing from your bed! 🎒 Packing Essentials • ID: Mandatory—student IDs get discounts! • Clothing: Summer wear + windproof jacket, scarf/outerwear (15°C temperature swings!). • Medicine: Stomach meds, mosquito repellent, cold/altitude pills, motion sickness tablets. • Extras: Thermos, power bank, high-SPF sunscreen (UV rays are intense!). ⚠️ Travel Tips 🔸 Remove hats in temples, avoid photographing monks, spin prayer wheels clockwise! 🔸 No photos or crowds at Sky Burial sites—respect local customs! 🔸 Choose licensed ranches for horseback riding (e.g., near Sangke Wetland Park) to avoid scams. 🔸 Confirm prices before buying souvenirs—beware of overcharging! Gannan—this mysterious and enchanting land—awaits you to uncover its secrets! Pack your bags and embark on a journey to witness the plateau’s grandeur and tranquility.

If Tibet is too far, then come to Gannan! This pristine land, rated by *National Geographic* as one of the "50 Places of a Lifetime," combines the breathtaking scenery of Sichuan-Tibet with the mystical culture of Tibetan Buddhism. A three-day, two-night trip is enough to immerse you in its beauty~ 📅 Itinerary **Day 1: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland** - Depart from Lanzhou in the morning and head to Xiahe (about a 3-hour drive), enjoying the plateau scenery along the way. - In the afternoon, visit Labrang Monastery, the "World's Tibetan Studies Center." Walk clockwise along the world's longest prayer wheel path (3.5 km) for blessings. The golden-roofed red walls under the sunlight are solemn and photogenic 📸 Entrance fee: 40 RMB. It’s recommended to join a guided tour to better understand Tibetan Buddhist culture. - In the evening, head to Sangke Grassland for horseback riding and a taste of freedom 🏇 Bargaining is possible—usually, you can negotiate from 100 RMB down to around 60 RMB. - Stay overnight in a Tibetan-style homestay in Xiahe, equipped with floor heating and Tibetan rugs (~100 RMB/person). Try tsampa, butter tea, and yak meat dishes—delicious and great for altitude sickness relief 🍲 **Day 2: Xiahe → Guomang Wetland → Langmusi → Zhagana** - Pass by Guomang Wetland in the morning, a habitat for black-necked cranes, where the wetlands and prayer flags create a picturesque scene 🦩 - Arrive at Langmusi by noon. The golden roofs of the Gansu Temple shrouded in morning mist are incredibly soothing. Note: When visiting the sky burial site, respect local customs—no photos or loud noises. Entrance fee: 30 RMB. - In the afternoon, head to Zhagana, a Tibetan village and stone city enveloped in clouds, like a hidden paradise 🌄 Highly recommend staying at the Yunjing Yeshe Tent Hotel inside the scenic area, featuring smart stargazing rooms with floor heating and private bathrooms—perfect for admiring the Milky Way from bed. - Enjoy a yak meat hotpot at a Tibetan family restaurant (~60 RMB/person) and join the bonfire party for some traditional Guozhuang dancing—pure joy 🔥 **Day 3: Zhagana → Dari Viewing Platform → Fairy Beach → Jiangdie Highway → Riba Monastery → Lanzhou** - At dawn, visit the Dari Viewing Platform for sunrise. The Tibetan village and stone peaks in the morning mist are dreamlike. Bundle up—it’s cold but 100% worth it for the photos ☀️ - Hike to Fairy Beach in the morning, where flower-filled meadows meet snow-capped mountains. Horseback riding can be bargained down to ~80 RMB per round. - In the afternoon, drive through Jiangdie Highway, where grasslands and canyons alternate, offering breathtaking views! - On the way back, visit Riba Monastery (20 RMB entrance fee), a nine-story Tibetan Buddhist sacred hall. Return to Lanzhou in the evening and wrap up the trip with a bowl of beef noodles 🍜 📌 Practical Tips 1. **Sun Protection**: The plateau’s UV rays are intense—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves. Better to "weld" them to your face 🧢🕶️ 2. **Temperature Swings**: In Zhagana, you might wear a T-shirt at noon but need a down jacket at night. Pack plenty of warm clothes 🧥 3. **Transport**: A 4-person carpool is recommended (~200 RMB/person/day). Experienced drivers can also help bargain 🚗 4. **Respect**: Don’t point at Buddha statues, turn prayer wheels clockwise, and maintain solemnity at sky burial sites 🙏 Gannan’s beauty is soul-stirring. These three days and two nights only scratch the surface of its mystery—come and experience it yourself! #GannanTravel #ThreeDaysTwoNights #TibetanCulture

Zhagana, meaning "stone box" in Tibetan, is a hidden gem nestled in Diebu County, Gannan, Gansu. This ancient Tibetan village, encircled by towering rocky peaks, was even praised as "Eden" by American explorer Joseph Rock. Here, majestic snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, dense forests, rustic Tibetan dwellings, and vast pastures blend seamlessly, creating a paradise for photographers, a holy grail for hikers, and a sanctuary for urbanites seeking inner peace. Best Times to Visit • Summer Escape (June - August): The grasslands transform into an endless green carpet dotted with wildflowers. With temperatures averaging 15 - 25°C, it’s the perfect summer retreat and a chance to immerse in the vibrant life of the pastures. • Golden Autumn Photography (September - October): The mountains don a kaleidoscope of colors, offering breathtaking autumn scenery. Every snapshot is a masterpiece, making it an unmissable season for photography enthusiasts. • Winter Wonderland (November - April): Snow blankets the land, creating a serene and ethereal atmosphere. Though some routes may close due to snow, the unique, stark beauty is a feast for the eyes of travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path vistas. Must-Visit Spots • Dari Viewpoint: The prime spot for sunrise. At dawn, mist drifts between Tibetan villages and snow peaks, while golden sunlight pierces the clouds, casting a dreamlike glow. • Fairy Meadow: A gentle alpine meadow bursting with summer blooms, ideal for families. Stroll leisurely or enjoy horseback riding (¥50 - 100/person). • Rock Viewpoint: Overlooks Zhagana in its entirety. Sheer cliffs and jagged peaks rise like swords, offering a dramatic vista and a tribute to explorer Joseph Rock. • Lhasang Monastery: A Tibetan Buddhist sanctuary. At dawn, the chants of sutras envelop you, immersing you in the profound spirituality of Tibetan culture. • Hiking Trails ◦ Short Route: Zhagana → Fairy Meadow → Fairy Lake (2 - 3 hours, easy, scenic). ◦ Long Route: Zhagana → Stone Forest → Guangga Mountain (6 - 8 hours, rugged terrain; hiring a local guide is recommended for pristine, majestic views). Nearby Attractions • Langmusi (2-hour drive): Straddling Gansu and Sichuan, this "Little Switzerland of the East" boasts the mysterious Sky Burial Site and the picturesque Bailongjiang Gorge. • Ruoergai Flower Lake (3-hour drive): In summer, the wetland blooms with flowers, and migratory birds gather, painting a harmonious ecological tableau. • Ganjia Secret Realm (5-hour drive): Home to the imposing White Stone Cliff and the historic Octagonal Ancient City, it beckons travelers seeking mystery and uniqueness. Local Flavors • Tibetan Yak Hotpot: Tender yak meat simmered in a rich broth, perfect for warming up. • Tsampa + Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan breakfast pairing—earthy tsampa and fragrant butter tea offer an authentic taste of Tibetan life. • Barley Wine: A local specialty with a distinct flavor, ideal for warding off the highland chill in moderation. Stay Options • Budget-Friendly: Tibetan homestays in Yeri or Dari villages, like Zhagana Mist Inn, offer an immersive local experience. • Luxury Retreats: Zhagana Cloud Residence Hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing stunning views, with top-notch amenities for a lavish stay. • Camping: Pitch a tent near Fairy Meadow (check policies in advance) to sleep under starry skies and greet the dawn in nature’s embrace.

🌿 Gannan June Adventure Guide: A Dual Feast of Tibetan Grasslands and Faith 🌿 Gannan, the "mixed-race beauty" on the northeastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau! On one side, prayer flags flutter at Labrang Monastery, while on the other, wildflowers blanket Sangke Grassland. In June, snow-capped mountains remain while lush grass grows wildly. By day, don Tibetan robes and spin prayer wheels; by night, huddle in tents gnawing on lamb chops—pure bliss at 3,000 meters above sea level! 🚶♀️【Two-Day Adventure Itinerary】 Day 1: Spiritual Awakening + Grassland Freedom 🌞 Morning Labrang Monastery (¥40, 8:00-18:00) Dive into the world's longest prayer wheel corridor! Spin 2,000+ wheels until your fingers burn, then follow the chanting of red-robed monks into the Scripture Hall. The scent of butter lamps mingles with thangka paint, creating an air of mystery. Don’t miss the 10:30 debate session at the side hall—watching monks clap and argue is like Tibetan stand-up comedy! 🍜 Noon Xiahe County Tibetan Restaurant Head straight to "Snow Mountain Nepal Restaurant." Their Tibetan steamed buns are so thin they’re translucent, bursting with lamb broth—dip them in chili vinegar for "highland soup dumplings"! Pair with thick yak yogurt, its cream so dense you could use it as a spoon. 🌿 Afternoon Sangke Grassland (Free) Rent a Tibetan robe for ¥30 and become "Zhuoma" for half a day! Ride horses into wetlands to spot marmots. Try freshly made buttered tsampa—roasted barley flour mixed with butter, like an energy bar for the highlands. At dusk, the grassland turns into golden waves 📸. 🌙 Evening Zagana Tibetan Village (¥80, open 24/7) Stay at "Cloud Wilderness Tent Hotel" and wake up to the Milky Way! By the fire, listen to local tales of mountain gods while roasting potatoes dipped in chili powder—lick-your-fingers delicious. Day 2: Mystic Hiking + Slow Village Life 🏔️ Morning Zagana Hiking (Free route) Start at "Fairy Beach" wooden path, trek through mist-shrouded villages with ASMR-like streams. Stuff coins into cracks for wishes—locals say the mountain god specializes in matchmaking 💘. 🍲 Noon Langmusi Town At "Lisa Restaurant," savor yak hotpot with wild mushrooms. The broth, floating with cordyceps flowers, is heavenly! Sip barley wine for warmth from throat to belly. 🛤️ Afternoon Langmusi Narmo Gorge (¥30) Follow the Bailong River to find fairy caves. Cliffside Buddhas wrapped in moss resemble "Hulks," while circling vultures feel straight out of a thriller! 🌌 Evening Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion (Free, night session until 21:00) The nine-story golden roof glows at sunset, while copper bells in the prayer corridor chime like nature’s lullaby. 🌟【Must-Do Highlights】 - Flower Lake (¥75): In June, wolfberry flowers bloom—walking the boardwalk feels like stepping into a Monet painting. - Ngawa Stone Forest (¥120): Lord of the Rings-style peaks look like God’s toy blocks from a drone. - Langmusi Sky Burial Site (Free): A solemn lesson on life and death as vultures circle under heavy clouds (maintain respect). 🏨【Stay Recs】 - Ami Gonghong Tent Hotel: Stargazing rooms deep in the grasslands—even the toilet faces snow-capped peaks. - Zagana Homestay: Roast potatoes by the fire; host moms gift blessed protection knots. 🚌【Transport Tips】 - Shared vans from Lanzhou to Xiahe: ¥150/person. Bus Line 1 goes straight to Labrang Monastery. - Bloody warning: Don’t wear wide-leg pants horseback riding—chafed thighs will make you waddle for days 😭. 🍜【Food Bombs】 - Hand-torn lamb: Jiggly fat like jelly, dipped in salt-pepper mix—suck every bone clean. - Butter tea: Salty yak-butter tea fights altitude sickness; three bowls fuel a 5km hike. - Ginseng fruit rice: Sweet, chewy "cloud bites" ☁️. - Yak yogurt: Gold-crusted and tart—you’ll hate it but scoop a second spoonful. - Tsampa: Barley dough balls with butter—more filling than survival rations. 💰【Two-Day Budget】 Day 1: ¥230 (Monastery + food + horse ride + Zagana) Day 2: ¥310 (hotpot + gorge + free pavilion + transport) ¥500 buys a double punch of faith and wilderness—bargains shout "Tashi Delek"! 💡【Pro Tips】 - Go in June for blooming flowers and horse festivals—like a highland Coachella 🐎. - Skip if you hate long rides—attractions sprawl like a real-life "Snake" game. In Gannan, mornings numb your hands spinning prayer wheels, afternoons feature marmots stealing your lunch, and nights serve lamb chops under the Milky Way. This surreal joy feels like nailing "Paths of the Soul" to "A Bite of China"!

🌄【June in Diebu: What's it like being a "wild Zhuoma" in the Jiangnan of the Tibetan Plateau?】 Who said Gansu only has Dunhuang's deserts and Lanzhou's beef noodles? Diebu, this "stone treasure box" certified by China National Geography, is transformed into a palette of alpine azaleas and rapeseed flowers in June! 🏔️ Snow-capped mountains wear "green hats," Tibetan villages waft with cooking smoke, and the sound of the Bailong River is more soothing than ASMR... Two days and one night to master this "hidden paradise even immortals can't resist"~ 🚗【Two-day itinerary that'll leave you breathless】 Day 1: Visual overload of Tibetan villages and canyons ☀️ Morning: Rush into Zhagana (¥80 ticket includes shuttle bus), head straight to Dari Viewing Platform! Morning mist flows over stone peaks like milk, Tibetan rooftops glitter like gold dust—wearing a Tibetan robe for photos will have people asking if you're a local (rental ¥30/hour)~ 🍜 Noon: Storm into Dongwa Village Tibetan family restaurant—hand-torn lamb is fatty but not greasy, dipped in chili powder so delicious it'll make you stomp your feet! Pair it with rich, salty butter tea, and when you break open the tsampa bread, steam will fog up your camera~ 🌿 Afternoon: Lounge on Fairy Meadow (free!), the grassland soft as a mattress, wildflowers perfect for weaving into crowns. Spend ¥10 on sunflower seeds from Tibetan kids—squirrels will jump into your palms begging for treats! 🌌 Evening: Night stroll in Yeri Village (free!), camp out at Locke Viewing Platform for Milky Way shots. The homestay owner will bring a heater and barley wine to chat with you—the stars are so bright you can trace constellations~ Day 2: Red history meets culinary ecstasy 🏔️ Morning: Charter a car to Lazikou Scenic Area (free!). Standing at the 30-meter-wide pass, imagine Red Army soldiers charging—wild lilies on cliffs bloom more dramatically than a murder mystery plot! 🍲 Noon: Diebu County Snowland Yak Hotpot! Skin-on yak meat trembles when boiled, dipped in fermented bean chili sauce so good you'll lick the pot. Wild mushroom platter will blow your mind with freshness~ 🌅 Afternoon: Visit Tsirang Chairman Mao's Former Residence (free!). Vintage radios and kerosene lamps transport you back in time. Sneak a green apple from the courtyard tree—one bite will make you lose control of your facial expressions! 🌟【Must-do checklist】 1️⃣ Zhagana morning mist (6:00-8:00): Dari Viewing Platform offers the best angles. Wear a white dress for silhouettes—the fog adds a soft-focus filter! 2️⃣ Fairy Meadow picnic (free all day): Spread a blanket and lounge. When yak herds pass by, stay calm—they only want your apples~ 3️⃣ Lazikou seasonal waterfall: Rainy season turns it into a silver cascade. Stand close for a free "facial mist," but watch your step! 🏨【Sleep in Tibetan aesthetics】 • Photo fanatics: Choose Zhagana Cloudscape Glamping Tents—stargazing skylights let you count meteors in bed. The Milky Way is visible at 3am! • Local life lovers: Tubo Secret Hotel (Diebu town). The owner takes you mountain foraging. Attic rooms offer sunrise views of Tiger Head Mountain! 🚌【Transport tips】 • 5-hour drive from Lanzhou (SUV recommended), or take a bus to Diebu County then share a taxi to Zhagana (¥50/person). • Bloody lesson: Don't wear sandals in Tibetan villages! Cobblestones will murder your feet, and local girls will laugh at you all day~ 😋【5 food orgasms】 1️⃣ Fern pork: Free-range pigs fed on herbs. Marbled fat glows like amber—charcoal-grilled, the fat bursts like fireworks on your tongue! 2️⃣ Morel mushroom chicken soup: The "Hermès of fungi" soaks up broth. Crunchy texture like chewing stars—umami overload! 3️⃣ Barley wine: Sip through a straw. Mild buzz fights altitude sickness. When Tibetan guys toast, don't chicken out—down it to become brothers! 💰【Two-day expense report】 Day 1: Zhagana ticket ¥80 + robe ¥30 + hotpot ¥120 = ¥230 Day 2: Charter car ¥200 + yak hotpot ¥150 + barley wine ¥40 = ¥390 Total ¥620! Feels like paying "luxury tax" for your eyes and tongue—but every frame is worth it~ ⚠️【Love-hate tips】 • Love: June crowds are thin enough to claim entire meadows. 20°C summers feel like natural AC. Tibetan smiles are warmer than butter tea~ • Hate: Highland weather changes faster than an ex. Sunshowers and hail are normal—down jackets and sunscreen are mandatory! Here, you'll wake for dawn's first light on prayer flags, lose sleep over midnight galaxies, and crave yak yogurt's tangy sweetness forever... June in Diebu is where gods spill their paintbox—an urbanite's unforgettable "spiritual spa." You'll regret coming (why not sooner?) and miss it after leaving (especially that fern pork)! ✨

Gannan, a secluded paradise far from the hustle and bustle of cities. The best time to visit is from June to August, with temperatures ranging between 15-30°C. The grasslands are covered with blooming Gesang flowers🌸, endless blue skies with white clouds, and serene mountains and lakes, creating a magical and mysterious beauty~ This journey to the hidden gems of Gannan also unlocks exclusive luxury wilderness hotels🏨, with a unique itinerary that takes you to fairyland-like destinations! ———— 🔸Group Size: Private small group, minimum 2 people, one group per booking · 🏞️【6-Day 5-Night Luxury Gannan Tour】 🔸Transportation: Premium 7/9-seater business van (including airport transfers) 🔸Attraction Tickets: All entrance fees + scenic shuttle + Langmusi Temple guided tour 🔸Dining: Daily breakfast + seasonal fruits + bottled water 🔸Experiences: Grassland Xianglang Festival + Ami Gonghong horseback riding & archery🏹 + Tibetan cultural activities 🏨Luxury Hotels: 5 nights in premium scenic hotels ✔1 night at Lanzhou Yatai S Hotel (Asia-Europe International High-Rise) ✔1 night at Langmusi Grand Hotel ✔1 night at Ruoergai Yuntu Starry Sky Hotel ✔1 night at #Zagana Cloudscape Wild Tent Hotel Located in the Zagana Scenic Area at 3,000m altitude, each room type is a standalone villa with private viewing balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views ✔1 night at #Ami Gonghong Ranch Nestled in the embrace of sacred Ami Gonghong Mountain, with 360° panoramic views of the grasslands, watching sheep🐏 graze and clouds drift by, experiencing peaceful moments · ⭕【Tibetan Cultural Experiences】 ✅Explore Namo Grand Canyon with local monks ✅Hike to alpine meadows, overlooking Zagana from Fairy Beach ✅Grassland Xianglang Festival: wear Tibetan costumes, braid hair, and try Tibetan makeup ✅Jeep off-road adventure🛻 to hidden grassland spots ✅Join herders in grazing, milking sheep, and horseback archery🏹 ✅Professional photography for stunning grassland portraits ✅Prayer at White Stupa, experiencing devout faith ✅Thangka painting, creating your own artwork ✅Make traditional Tibetan food like tsampa and butter tea🍵 ✅Zagana bonfire party🔥, enjoying joyful moments · 🏞️【Nature Exploration】 Labrang Monastery One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school, a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist university Sangke Grassland Natural highland pasture where you can see cattle🐮 and sheep grazing Langmusi Temple A tranquil monastery showcasing deep religious devotion Zagana Tibetan wooden houses set against blue skies and white clouds☁️, a hidden paradise in Gannan First Bend of Yellow River The winding Yellow River resembles a graceful dragon🐉 Locke's Road Journey through a Middle-earth-like landscape, hailed as China's most beautiful 100km drive · ✈️【Itinerary】 D1 Lanzhou airport pickup D2 Sangke Grassland - Langmusi Town (Namo Grand Canyon) D3 Grassland Xianglang Festival - Tangke First Bend of Yellow River D4 Ruoergai Grassland - Western Ranch - Zagana D5 Locke's Road - Ami Gonghong Ranch D6 Labrang Monastery - Lanzhou departure

🔅I hadn't visited Gannan before because I thought there weren't enough snow-capped mountains here - little did I know how many magnificent summers I'd missed! Finally in this early summer, I recklessly ventured in, and now I can't stop praising it to everyone. The landscapes of Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, and Tibet are all condensed into this approximately 1,000km self-drive route! 🔥Super simple itinerary: Land in Lanzhou, enjoy food/drinks and visit museums, then start the 6-day Gannan self-drive! Schedule as follows: 🔅D1 Fly to Lanzhou, stay at Hilton Lanzhou (altitude 1,700m). Perfect downtown location with numerous nearby food options - convenient access to Farmer's Lane food street, museums, and Zhongshan Bridge. 🔅D2 Drive 240km to Labrang Monastery (Xiahe), altitude 3,000m. Pass by Ink Danxia, Bingling Temple Grottoes, Yellow River-Tao River confluence, and Liujiaxia Reservoir. Gannan Secret Realm was closed until July, so we went straight to Labrang Monastery - flew drones outside + took photos at viewpoint, then rested at "Kangsang Homestay". 🔅D3 Drive 180km to Langmusi Town, altitude 3,300m. Spent 3.5 hours exploring Labrang Monastery in the morning, then visited Sangke Grassland and Guomang Wetland. Highlight: Gahai Lake! When weather's good, the scenery rivals Sayram Lake! Stayed at Langmusi Zhongyuan Holiday Hotel. ! Note: Many miss Gahai Lake! Langmusi Town is under heavy construction and very chaotic. 🔅D4 Drive 130km to Zhagana. Passed by Ruoergai Flower Lake and Ruoergai County Road 550 (Mini Duku Highway). On the way to Flower Lake, you'll encounter vast unnamed snow mountain grasslands - so breathtaking you'll want to stop anytime! Stayed at Zhagana Nuoerzong Homestay, altitude 3,100m. 🔅D5 Spent entire day exploring Zhagana! Dari Viewpoint, Fairy Beach, Lhasang Temple, Rock Viewpoint... plus a hiking trail (we skipped). Stayed another night at Nuoerzong. Zhagana is truly beautiful - one day is far from enough! 🔅D6 Zhagana - Rock's Road - Hezuo City, altitude 3,000m. Rock's Road is the main attraction! Called the most beautiful 100km, but the essence is the first 40km (the rest is beautiful too, but after the first part, you won't even want to take photos anymore). The ending at Gongba Temple is super peaceful and beautiful, nicknamed "Little Labrang". Stayed at Hezuo Butter Lamp Hotel. 🔅D7 Milarepa Buddha Pavilion (Meiren Grassland) - Lanzhou, stayed at Hilton Lanzhou again. Key points: Off-season consumption in Lanzhou and Gannan is low, especially Lanzhou - two people couldn't finish 120 yuan worth of barbecue! Hilton under 500 yuan with panoramic city views, excellent facilities and service. Beef noodles here contain almost no beef (need to order separately), but cost just a few yuan per bowl. Tibetan food along Gannan route is relatively expensive, Sichuan cuisine more economical. Langmusi Town has poorest conditions and highest altitude - must moisturize at night to prevent mild altitude sickness! Bring some glucose to prevent altitude sickness from fatigue.

Just how breathtaking is Gannan, as recommended by National Geographic? This rare blend of Tibetan culture and grassland scenery🌿 will leave you longing to return after just one visit... 💥June to August is Gannan's golden viewing season every year. Make time this year to visit this hidden gem of a travel destination!! 🔥This year, we've launched a [6-Day Luxury Gannan Tour] with private car transport, staying at 5-diamond hotels & Ami Gonghong Starry Pasture. Rich cultural experiences make this journey truly worthwhile~ 🌈6 Days 5 Nights Luxury Gannan Tour ✅2-6 person small group ✅24-hour airport transfers ✅2 nights at 5-diamond hotels ✅Ami Gonghong Starry Pasture accommodation ✅Zagana scenic area stay ✅Bonfire party ✅Thangka painting ✅Intangible cultural heritage egg carving experience 🙋‍♀️Must-Visit Private Scenic Spots Locke Road China's most beautiful 100km stretch - a visual feast for the eyes Ganjia Secret Land Ami Gonghong Pasture Grassland pasture beneath the sacred Ami Gonghong Mountain, with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, starry skies, flowers, and grazing livestock. Highly sought-after during peak season, advance booking required. Zagana Stone city surrounded by mountains, with Xiannütan hiding the idyllic paradise everyone dreams of. Must-see for morning mist and sunrise!! Langmusi Tibetan temple spanning Gansu and Sichuan provinces, each with unique characteristics. If you have energy, try the light hike through Namo Grand Canyon. Labrang Monastery World's highest Tibetan Buddhist institute, with 6 scripture halls, 84 Buddha halls, and 31 Tibetan-style buildings, hosting countless students daily. 🙋‍♀️Sample Itinerary: Day1: Arrive in Lanzhou Day2: Lanzhou - Xiahe - Ganjia Secret Land - Camp stay Day3: Grassland camp - Labrang Monastery (World Tibetan Institute) - Jiangdie Highway - Zagana Day4: Zagana - Langmusi Town - Sichuan Ge'erdi Temple - Langmusi Town night tour Day5: Langmusi Town - Bafang Thirteen Lanes - Lanzhou Day6: Trip concludes Click below👇👇👇【Inquire Now】to get route details and quotes~

Deep in Gannan lies a paradise-like sanctuary — Zhagana. With towering stone mountains, emerald grasslands, and ancient Tibetan villages, it feels like a treasure hidden away by nature. Here’s your ultimate practical guide to Zhagana. Zhagana, meaning "stone box" in Tibetan, is surrounded by towering mountains and valleys, with Tibetan villages dotting the landscape. Don’t miss the Dari Viewing Platform: at dawn, mist swirls around the stone peaks, and when sunlight spills over, the rooftops of Tibetan homes glisten with golden light. The sunset here is equally breathtaking. Fairy Meadow is perfect for hiking and picnics. Starting from Zhagana Village, trek through forests and past terraced fields to reach a stunning vista where grasslands meet stone mountains. Fairy Lake, like a jade gem, reflects the stone peaks in its turquoise waters, though the path there is steep—wear slip-resistant shoes. The Yeri Village exudes rustic charm, while the solemn Lhasang Monastery offers a deep dive into the fusion of Tibetan culture and faith. On the culinary front, Zhagana blends Tibetan and Sichuan flavors. Try the yak meat hotpot, simmered with tender local yak meat and mushrooms for a hearty, flavorful meal. Yogurt with ginseng fruit, a mix of rich yogurt, sugar, and ginseng fruit, offers a unique texture. Stir-fried yak meat with green peppers and sour noodle squares are also must-tries. Recommended spots include Zhagana Tibetan Family Restaurant for authentic Tibetan cuisine with a view, and Zhagana Cloud Top Restaurant near the Dari Viewing Platform, where you can enjoy sunset views with your meal. For accommodations, Tibetan homestays like Zhagana Cloud Residence offer panoramic views and rich Tibetan decor. Zhagana Tibetan Courtyard is budget-friendly and lets you experience local life. Scenic hotels such as Zhagana Tiancheng Gana Meiduo Hotel boast great facilities and rooms with breathtaking views, while Zhagana Tashi Delek Hotel offers excellent value and warm service. To get there, drive about 450 km (6 hours) from Lanzhou—roads are good but mountain routes require caution. Alternatively, hire a car or share a ride from Lanzhou or Diebu County. Public buses are available from Diebu County Bus Station. June to August brings lush grasslands and wildflowers with cool weather; September to October offers vibrant autumn colors, ideal for photography; November to March features pristine snowscapes and fewer tourists. Note that Zhagana’s high altitude requires precautions against altitude sickness. Respect local customs: follow temple rules, spin prayer wheels clockwise, and avoid touching prayer flags or mani stones. Practice eco-friendly travel by not littering to preserve this pristine land. Don’t let life’s trivialities hold you back—Zhagana’s beauty awaits. Pack your bags and embark on this rendezvous with nature to experience its purity and splendor!

🔥 The sweltering summer heat can feel suffocating. Instead of being trapped in air-conditioned rooms, escape to the mountains—revitalize your eyes in lush forests, feel the earth's pulse by wading into icy streams, and let mountain rains wash away your fatigue. A summer retreat is about reclaiming moments to breathe in sync with nature. 🏮 Liupanshui, Guizhou 🧨 China's "Cool Capital" at 19°C – No Need for AC! At Wumeng Grassland, windmills spin leisurely in seas of clouds, while ancient ginkgo trees shade babbling streams in Tuole Village. Ride the world's highest spiral cable car at Yelanghai for endless green vistas, or witness purple sea buckthorn flowers blending with the horizon in July. Even the breeze here is refreshingly cool! ✅ 3-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Shuicheng Ancient Town → Minghu Wetland Park Day 2: Yejiping → Haiping Yi Ethnic Village → Yushe Forest Park Day 3: Wumeng Grassland ✅ Travel Tips: High-speed rail to Liupanshui Station / Flights to Liupanshui Yuezhai Airport ✅ Local Eats: Shuicheng mutton rice noodles, sizzling griddle dishes, Panxian ham, lotus-leaf glutinous rice chicken ✅ Stay: Stargazing tents on the grassland / Themed city hotels ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 19-23°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Truly the 'Cool Capital'! Needed a light blanket at night—so comfy!" 🏮 Shangri-La, Yunnan 🧨 A Fairytale Escape Below Snow-Capped Peaks At 3,459m elevation, summer averages 15-20°C. Watch prayer wheels turn in Dukezong Ancient Town, spot squirrels by crystal-clear Shudu Lake in Pudacuo National Park, and gaze at eternal snow peaks—nature’s own AC. ✅ 3-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Dukezong Ancient Town → Moonlight Square → Guishan Park Day 2: In-depth Pudacuo National Park exploration Day 3: Songzanlin Monastery → Napa Hai (Yila Grassland) ✅ Travel Tips: Fly to Shangri-La Airport; taxis/charters for local travel ✅ Local Eats: Butter tea, yak meat hotpot, barley cakes ✅ Stay: Tibetan-style guesthouses in the ancient town ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 15-20°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Lying on the grassland with cool breezes and drifting clouds—pure therapy!" 🏮 Western Sichuan (Around Siguniang Mountain) 🧨 Alpine Paradise Among Meadows and Glaciers Centered on Siguniang Mountain, nearby villages average 15-20°C. Catch golden sunrise on peaks at Shuangqiao Valley, wade in glacial streams, then laze on Tagong Grassland watching clouds dance over Yala Snow Mountain—time slows here. ✅ 3-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Siguniang Mountain’s Shuangqiao Valley → Maobiliang Viewpoint Day 2: Tagong Grassland → Mo’erduo Stone Forest → Bamei Day 3: Danba Jiaju Tibetan Village → Return ✅ Travel Tips: Drive/charter from Chengdu ✅ Local Eats: Yak meat hotpot, butter tea, Tibetan BBQ ✅ Stay: Siguniangshan homestays / Tibetan-style inns ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 15-20°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Woke up to snow-capped views and needed thick blankets at night—bliss!" 🏮 Shennongjia, Hubei 🧨 Nature’s Oxygen Bar at 31°N Latitude With 91% forest coverage, summer averages 17-21°C. Towering firs at Shennong Peak, misty lakes at Dajiuhu, pandas at Guanmen Mountain, and cooling off under Tianqiao Bridge’s waterfalls—heat vanishes here. ✅ 3-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Tianqiao Bridge → Guanmen Mountain → Shennong Altar → Muyu Town Day 2: Shennong Peak → Xiaolongtan → Golden Monkey Ridge → Shennong Valley Day 3: Dajiuhu → Deer Park → Rainbow Bridge → Swallow Cave ✅ Travel Tips: High-speed rail to Xingshan Station, then shuttle bus ✅ Local Eats: Smoked pork hotpot, wild mushroom chicken stew, hezha (tofu residue) ✅ Stay: Muyu Town mountain lodges ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 17-21°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Had to close windows at night to avoid catching a chill—perfect escape!" 🏮 Erguna, Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia 🧨 Cool Pastoral Melodies on Endless Grasslands Summer averages 16-20°C. Meandering Morigele River, sunset horse rides at Heishantou, exotic Matryoshka Square in Manzhouli, and dreamy fog over Boundary River at Linjiang Village—every scene mesmerizes. ✅ 5-Day Itinerary: D1: Hailar → Morigele River → Erguna Wetland D2: Aoluguya Reindeer Tribe → Enhe Russian Village D3: Shiwei → Border Highway → Heishantou horseback riding D4: Hulun Lake → Manzhouli Matryoshka Square → Night views D5: National Gate Scenic Area → Grassland drive → Return to Hailar ✅ Travel Tips: Fly to Hailar Dongshan Airport; recommend charters ✅ Local Eats: Hand-grabbed mutton, roasted whole lamb, Buryat buns ✅ Stay: Grassland yurts / Enhe wooden cottages ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 16-20°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Cool breezes, grazing herds—so relaxing I’d stay a month!" 🏮 Zhagana, Gannan, Gansu 🧨 Hidden Eden Cradled by Mountains Tucked in deep valleys, summer averages 15-19°C. Fairy Beach’s morning mist feels surreal, while lazy afternoons by village streams mirroring blue skies offer wallpaper-worthy snaps. ✅ 3-Day Itinerary: Day 1: Dongwa Village → Fairy Beach → Fairy Lake Day 2: Hike the Rock’s Path → Dari Viewpoint Day 3: Yeri Village → Return ✅ Travel Tips: Fly to Lanzhou, then charter a car ✅ Local Eats: Tibetan dumplings, butter tea, sweet rice with ginseng fruit ✅ Stay: Tibetan homestays in Zhagana ✅ Avg. Summer Temp: 15-19°C ✅ Visitor Review: "Summer here is heavenly—I never want to leave!" 🌿 Escape the heatwave! Choose a destination and let cool breezes and stunning views rejuvenate you.

Countless summers pass, but Gannan alone intoxicates my soul. Main Text: I had never visited Gannan before, simply because I thought there weren't enough snow-capped mountains here. Little did I know how many magnificent summers I'd missed! Finally, in this early summer, I ventured in recklessly—and now I can't stop raving about it to everyone. The landscapes of Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang, and Tibet are all condensed into this roughly 1,000km self-drive route! The itinerary is super simple: Land in Lanzhou, indulge in food and leisure while exploring museums, then embark on a six-day Gannan road trip! Here's the plan: D1: Fly into Lanzhou, stay at Hilton Lanzhou. The downtown location is perfect, surrounded by amazing food spots, with easy access to Farmer's Lane Food Street, museums, and Zhongshan Bridge. D2: Drive 240km to Labrang Monastery (Xiahe), elevation 3,000m. Pass by Shuidanxia Danxia Landform, Bingling Temple Grottoes, Huang-Tao River Confluence, and Liujiaxia Reservoir. Since the "Secret Realm of Gannan" is closed until July, we headed straight to Labrang Monastery—flew a drone outside the temple + took photos at the viewpoint, then rested at "Kangsang Homestay." D3: Drive 180km to Langmusi Town, elevation 3,300m. Spent 3.5 hours exploring Labrang Monastery in the morning, then visited Sangke Grassland and Guomang Wetland. The highlight: Gahai Lake! On a clear day, its beauty rivals that of Sayram Lake! Stayed at Langmusi Zhongyuan Holiday Hotel. ⚠️ Note: Many miss Gahai Lake! Langmusi Town is currently under heavy construction and chaotic. D4: Drive 130km to Zhagana. Passed by Ruoergai Flower Lake and Ruoergai County Road 550 (Mini Duku Highway). On the way to Flower Lake, you'll encounter vast unnamed snow-capped mountains and grasslands—so breathtaking you'll want to stop anytime! Stayed at Zhagana Nuoerzong Homestay, elevation 3,100m. D5: Explored Zhagana Scenic Area all day! Dari Viewpoint, Fairy Beach, Lhasang Temple, Rock Viewpoint... plus a hiking trail (we skipped it). Stayed another night at Nuoerzong. Zhagana is truly stunning—one day is far from enough to take it all in! D6: Zhagana - Rock's Road - Hezuo City, elevation 3,000m. Rock's Road is the crown jewel! Touted as the most beautiful 100km, but the first 40km are the absolute best (the rest is gorgeous too, but after the first part, you might not even bother taking photos). The serene and stunning Gongba Monastery at the end is called "Little Labrang." Stayed at Hezuo Butter Lamp Hotel. D7: Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion (on Meiren Grassland) - back to Lanzhou, stayed at Hilton Lanzhou again. Key Points: Off-peak travel in Lanzhou + Gannan is budget-friendly, especially Lanzhou—shockingly affordable! Two people feasted on BBQ (called "kaorou" here) for just ¥120 and couldn't finish it. Hilton rooms under ¥500 offer panoramic city views with excellent amenities and service. Beef noodles here come with minimal beef (you might need to order extra), but a bowl costs just a few yuan. Tibetan cuisine along the Gannan route is pricier, while Sichuan dishes are cheaper. Langmusi Town has the worst conditions and highest elevation! Moisturize well at night to avoid mild altitude sickness. Bring glucose supplements to prevent fatigue-induced altitude issues.

Self-driving trip to Northern Gannan, Sichuan: Encountering Surprises and Regrets in the Mountains and Wilderness Last night, we stayed at a guesthouse in Zhagana and were gently awakened by the morning light. The moment I drew the curtains, the endless mountain scenery burst into view without reservation. The fresh air seemed to carry the scent of grass, eager for an intimate encounter with this land. My daughter and I decided to walk to the Luoke Viewing Platform. The short half-hour walk made our steps lighter. Upon arrival, the platform was exceptionally quiet. Besides a Tibetan young man focused on live streaming, it was just the two of us enjoying this place alone. Standing on the platform overlooking Yeri Village, surrounded by towering mountains, the morning mist floated like silk, weaving a hazy ink painting. It felt like stepping into a fairyland, and even our breathing softened, afraid to disturb the tranquility. Before leaving Zhagana, we had planned to check in at Fairy Beach, eagerly hoping to capture another beautiful scene. But when we arrived, the queue was densely packed and stretched out of sight. Considering our subsequent itinerary, we reluctantly left with some regret. However, the journey is always full of unknowns, and leaving some longing behind is not bad. The navigation showed two routes to Huahu Scenic Area. My husband decisively chose the smaller road, and unexpectedly, this accidental decision led us to encounter Rural Road 550, a "Little Duku." Along the way, the scenery outside the car window kept changing—mountains, meadows, and streams alternated, each spot so beautiful it made us want to praise it. Indeed, the most beautiful scenery is always on the road. We arrived at Huahu Scenic Area in the afternoon. The 105 yuan ticket per person was not cheap. But after the visit, the experience felt somewhat below expectations, and I silently thought the ticket was a bit overpriced. As night fell, we arrived in Songpan County and stayed near Songzhou Ancient Town. Strolling through the ancient town’s streets, we felt the blend of history and modernity. When tired, we found a steaming hot pot restaurant and ordered a fragrant yak meat soup hot pot. The tender yak meat rolled in the boiling broth, and the moment it touched my tongue, warmth spread through my body, washing away the day’s fatigue and bringing a perfect end to the day’s journey.

🚗 To get to Gumahu Lake, I chose to drive from Lanzhou to Heila Village first. The specific driving route can be found on the app "Two Step Road." The hiking part is about 5 kilometers in total, with an accumulated elevation gain of 1,000 meters. We parked near an abandoned factory building in Heila Village and started hiking from there, which was mostly uphill all the way.🏃‍♂️ The initial section was a gravel path with a relatively gentle incline, but the scorching sun made it quite exhausting. After leaving the gravel section, the real climb began⛰. Persisting to the mountain pass, the breathtaking scenery of the Die Mountains suddenly unfolded before our eyes—so stunning that we had to stop and catch our breath. Then came the downhill part, which would be quite challenging if it rained.🌿 On the way down, we passed through meadows and forests before finally reaching an open pasture. In the distance, Gumahu Lake came into view. When we finally arrived at the lakeshore and saw the silhouette of the Die Mountains reflected in the water up close, the awe and beauty were simply indescribable.🌈 🌻 We chose to camp overnight by Gumahu Lake, and there happened to be a few small local cabins nearby for rent, which was a decent resting option. The only regret was the improper garbage disposal by the lake—all piled up in one spot. Hopefully, better management measures will be implemented in the future; otherwise, the lake could really become polluted.👣

🌞This summer, be sure to add Gannan to your travel list! Gannan, a land brimming with endless charm and mystery, where vast grasslands contrast with azure skies, and ancient temples bear the marks of time. Setting foot here feels like entering a dreamscape, where your heart becomes enchanted, embarking on a wondrous journey for the soul. 💫Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, located in the southwest of Gansu Province, boasts stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique folk customs. Here are some must-visit attractions in Gannan: 1. **Labrang Monastery**: Situated in Xiahe County, Gannan, it is one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, renowned as the "World's Tibetan Studies Center." It features the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, where visitors can participate in the prayer wheel ritual, experiencing the solemnity and mystique of religion. 2. **Langmusi**: Langmusi is actually the name of a small town straddling the borders of Sichuan and Gansu provinces, often called the "Switzerland of the East." A narrow creek called the Bailong River, less than 2 meters wide, runs through the town. On the north bank is the Sertri Monastery in Luqu County, Gansu, while the south bank is home to the Kirti Monastery under Ruoergai County, Sichuan. 3. **Zagana**: Zagana is a natural "stone city," colloquially known as the "Palace of the King of Hell." Its terrain resembles both a grand palace and a complete ancient city built by natural rock walls. Here, you’ll find unique Tibetan villages and breathtaking natural scenery, with sunrise and sunset views not to be missed. 4. **Sangke Grassland**: Located in Xiahe County, Gannan, this is a natural alpine meadow grassland. Surrounded by mountains and traversed by the gentle Daxia River, the land is lush with water and grass, supporting thriving herds of cattle and sheep. Summer is the most beautiful season, with blooming flowers, verdant grass, and flocks of sheep dotting the undulating green expanse like a poetic painting. 5. **Gahai Lake**: As the largest plateau lake in Gannan, Gahai Lake is like a jewel on the grassland. The water is pure and clear, surrounded by vast wetlands teeming with birds. The reflection of blue skies and white clouds on the lake’s surface, along with the fresh air and serene scenery, makes it a must-visit. 6. **Ganjia Secret Land**: This is an undeveloped, off-the-beaten-path gem in Gannan, with picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you’ll encounter many mysterious sights, including the Octagonal Ancient City, Zuohai Temple, White Cliff Temple, and the Denisovan Cave Ruins—perfect for a road trip. 7. **Maqu Grassland**: Maqu Grassland is a pristine wetland grassland and the closest to any city. With well-preserved ecology, abundant water and grass, and herds of cattle and sheep, it’s where local Tibetan communities have lived for generations. It’s also famous as the birthplace of the "Hequ Horse" and an ideal summer retreat.

🔥【Gannan Hidden Paradise】5 Days 4 Nights for Just 2k+ per Person to Explore "Little Tibet"! The Ultimate Off-the-Grid Guide That Will Blow Up Your Social Media! ✨ 💡 Why Are Smart Travelers Flocking to Gannan This Year? ✅ Lower altitude than Tibet—minimal risk of altitude sickness ✅ Summer escape with average 20°C (68°F) temps in June-August ✅ Tibetan landscapes + prairie vistas—no filter needed! ✅ Off-the-beaten-path & crowd-free—the new social media darling! 🚗 Top-Tested Itinerary (No Scams!): D1: Meet in Lanzhou → Cross "Tibetan Gateway" Linxia → Overnight in Xiahe 🌟 Must-Eat: Hezhou Lao Ma Jia Hand-Grabbed Lamb (Juicy & No Gaminess!) D2: Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland → Gahai Lake 📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots: ✔ Aerial shot of the world’s longest prayer wheel corridor (Drones restricted!) ✔ Horseback riding in Sangke Grassland in Tibetan attire (Best deal at ¥50/hour) ✔ Birdwatching on Gahai Lake boardwalk (Bring a telephoto lens!) D3: Full-Day Deep Dive into Zhagana 💥 Hidden Gems: • Catch sunrise & sea of clouds at Dari Viewpoint at 5 AM • Afternoon tea at Fairy Meadow for Instagrammable grassland shots • Visit a Tibetan family for fresh yak milk (Warning: Addictive!) D4: Ruoergai Flower Lake → First Bend of the Yellow River 🌅 Golden Hour Alert: Ride the escalator to the viewpoint at dusk—even phones can capture the golden "galaxy"! D5: Nianbaoyuze → Return 🎫 Hotspot "Devil’s Stone City"—bring oxygen cans in advance~ 🍜 Local Food Secrets Only Pros Know: ✔ Xiahe’s Wuzelinka Tibetan Restaurant (Butter tea with tsampa = perfection) ✔ Langmusi Koukouxiang Snacks (¥15 beef pies packed with meat) ✔ Zhagana Yunli Farmhouse (Fresh grilled lamb chops with barley wine) ⚠️ Blood-and-Tears Tips: 1️⃣ Huge day-night temp swings! Pack a light down jacket + sunscreen 2️⃣ No signal on some routes—download offline maps early 3️⃣ Respect customs! Always spin prayer wheels clockwise 4️⃣ Book homestays 2 weeks ahead for June-August peak season