Must-Visit Destination in Gannan!

Hidden amidst the towering mountains of Diebu County in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, lies a natural stone city known as "Zagana," or "Stone Box." This land, often referred to as "Eden on Earth," was described by American explorer Joseph Rock as the place where "Adam and Eve were born." Zagana's formation dates back billions of years to geological movements. Four stone peaks, each over 3,000 meters above sea level (Dongwa, Yeri, Dari, and Daiba), encircle the valley like towering walls, creating a unique landscape. Beneath the mist-shrouded gray-white cliffs lies a hidden paradise composed of four Tibetan villages and the Lasang Monastery. The Tibetan villages here are built along the mountains, preserving century-old Tibetan-style stilt houses. The locals are warm and hospitable, maintaining traditional lifestyles to this day. Scenes of morning incense offerings, the sound of prayer wheels turning, and workshops making handmade tsampa paint a vivid picture of Tibetan culture. Every year during the "Langshan Festival" in the sixth lunar month, activities like horse racing, Guozhuang dancing, and traditional Tibetan opera showcase the richness of intangible cultural heritage. No trip to Zagana is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Be sure to try butter tea, tsampa, and hand-pulled lamb. Unique local dishes like stir-fried or stewed high-altitude wild "di pi cai" (a type of mountain vegetable) with eggs or tofu are exceptionally fresh and flavorful. The juice of "di pi cai" mixed with honey or lemon is refreshing and healthy. Additionally, the "Three Treasures" barbecue made from goat meat, Tibetan pork, and free-range chicken is rich and savory. For accommodations, you can opt for Tibetan-style homestays, where you can experience the unique charm of "opening your window to snow-capped mountains." These homestays are often built with stone, featuring Tibetan lamps, wooden structures, and yak-hide wall decorations that exude rustic charm. At night, sitting around the fire pit and listening to Tibetan elders share mountain deity legends offers a serene and peaceful escape from modern life. Must-visit attractions in Zagana include natural wonders like Fairy Beach, Tiger's Mouth, and One-Line Sky. In the early morning, head to Lasang Monastery for a panoramic view of the village; at dusk, the entire valley is bathed in a golden glow, creating a dreamlike scene. Zagana's transformation from a hidden mountain retreat to a global destination exemplifies the profound meaning of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." This once-forgotten "Stone Box" is now opening its arms to the world with its pristine beauty and cultural allure. 👉 Click the link below to explore in-depth travel routes. Have questions about trip planning? Feel free to DM us! We offer multiple unique routes to provide you with a personalized cultural journey.