Gannan in Autumn: A Stunning Beauty 🍂

Complete Self-Driving Route Guide ☑️ || Gannan, located in the southwestern part of Gansu Province, has an average altitude of 3,000 meters and has been rated as a must-visit secret destination by National Geographic. While summer is the best time for pilgrimage, autumn in Gannan offers a unique charm. During this season, the climate is pleasant, and the scenery is breathtaking. The grasslands and vegetation gradually transition from green to yellow, creating a vibrant palette that feels like a spilled paintbox, inviting exploration and admiration. ⏰ Best Time to Visit Gannan in Autumn: Late September to Mid-October 📆 Itinerary Day 1: Lanzhou — Ganjia Secret Land — Labrang Monastery Day 2: Xiahe — Sangke Grassland — Gahai Lake — Guomang Wetland — Langmu Monastery Day 3: Langmu Monastery (Gansu Temple) — Maqu Yellow River First Bridge — Awancang Wetland — Nyingma Monastery — Jiuzhi/Ngawa Day 4: Jiuzhi/Ngawa — Lianbaoyeze — Gemo Monastery — Yellow River First Bend — Tangke Day 5: Tangke — Ruoergai Flower Lake — Xiao Duku (Zasag Scenic Area) — Zhagana Day 6: Zhagana — Retrace Jiangdie Road — Milarepa Buddha Pavilion — Disband in Lanzhou City ⛰️ Must-Visit Attractions 1⃣️ Lianbaoyeze: The most awe-inspiring spot on the Gannan route, known as the "Oriental Fantasy World" and a real-life "Middle-earth." It is also the highest-altitude attraction on the route. Self-driving cars can park near the 4,400-meter-high café. Due to the high altitude, it is recommended to bring oxygen bottles. It takes about an hour to reach the summit. 2⃣️ Zhagana: The most popular attraction in Gannan. After rain, Zhagana resembles a fairyland. It is highly recommended to stay overnight in a mountain-view guesthouse and visit the observation deck the next morning to watch the sunrise 🌅. The most beautiful spot in Zhagana is the Fairy Beach, where sacred mountains and Tibetan villages blend perfectly. 3⃣️ Labrang Monastery: As one of the largest, most complete, and most prestigious Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, Labrang Monastery has witnessed countless pilgrims and visitors over its 300-year history. It boasts the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, offering a direct glimpse into the power of faith. 4⃣️ Langmu Monastery: Comprising two monasteries in Sichuan and Gansu, Langmu Monastery is a must-visit. It is recommended to explore the Namo Grand Canyon next to the Sichuan monastery. The path to the canyon can be muddy, so horseback riding to the second observation point for photos and then returning is suggested. The round-trip horseback ride costs 💰150 yuan. 🚗 Transportation The distances between attractions in Gannan are relatively long, so self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. The most beautiful scenery is along the way, allowing you to stop and admire the views at any time. 👔 Clothing The temperature difference between day and night in Gannan is significant! It is recommended to bring a down jacket during the autumn and winter seasons. A three-in-one jacket is ideal; during sunny midday hours, you can wear just a T-shirt, shirt, or dress. 🍜 Dining The Tibetan region offers plenty of beef noodles, Tibetan cuisine, and Tibetan-style hot pot. Overall, the food is cost-effective, and those who enjoy beef and lamb can indulge without hesitation.