Zagana Valley

1. Core Positioning: A "Geological Poem" at the Confluence of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau Zagana Valley is located in Yiwa Township, Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, situated at the junction of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Loess Plateau, and Sichuan Basin, with an elevation of 3000-3300 meters. It features a dual-layered peak forest landscape of glacial breccia and limestone as its core, forming canyon wonders such as "Stone Gate," "One Line Sky," and "Tiger’s Mouth." It was ranked fourth among China’s top ten lesser-known mountains by China National Geography and praised by American explorer Joseph Rock as the "birthplace of Adam and Eve." The valley is not only a living fossil of geological evolution but also a model of Tibetan culture coexisting with nature. In 2017, its agroforestry-pastoral complex system was recognized by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. 2. Scenic Highlights: A Diverse Feast from Canyon Mysteries to Starry Pastures 1. Canyon Wonders: Nature’s Masterpieces One Line Sky and Stone Forest: The core section of the valley features hundred-meter-high rock walls on both sides, carved as if by knives and axes, forming a narrow path only wide enough for one person, with only a sliver of sky visible overhead. The Stone Forest area is filled with weathered columnar rock formations, resembling a natural sculpture group. Tiger’s Mouth and Ghost Gate Pass: A perilous pass said to be used by the Tubo tribe during migration, this fractured rocky narrow path stretches over a hundred meters long and only a few meters wide. At the end are symmetrical rock walls a hundred meters high, with a stream cascading like thunder, locally called "Ghost Gate Pass." Baonaxi Pasture: An open meadow at the end of the canyon, covered with wildflowers in summer and golden waves of wheat in autumn. Visitors can enjoy Tibetan-style simple meals while gazing at the picturesque blend of snow-capped mountains and forests. 2. A Secret Realm of Ecology and Culture Primeval Forest and Streams: The valley is densely covered with spruce forests and flowing streams. Along the way, you can see wild strawberries, alpine rhododendrons, and occasionally encounter wild animals such as blue sheep and snow partridges. Lasang Monastery and Tibetan Villages: At the valley’s exit lies Dongwa Village, built around Lasang Monastery. Founded in 1645, this Gelugpa sect monastery’s religious core consists of the main hall, Guanyin Hall, and Mani stone piles. Villagers maintain a semi-agricultural, semi-pastoral lifestyle, living in Tibetan-style stepped houses that show "no wood outside, no earth inside," with three floors serving livestock, living, and grain storage functions. 3. A Visual Feast of Starry Skies and Sea of Clouds Dari Village Viewing Platform: The highest point on the north side of the valley, where you can capture the magnificent scene of rolling sea of clouds and the first light on snow mountains in the morning, and witness the sunset turning stone peaks golden in the evening. Fairy Beach Starry Sky: A highland meadow on the south side of the valley, with no light pollution, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a ribbon, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 3. Travel Experience: A Deep Journey of Hiking, Off-Roading, and Cultural Immersion 1. Hiking Adventure: 21-Kilometer Secret Canyon Trek Route Design: A total of 21 kilometers passing through 12 scenic spots including Red Palace, Tiger’s Mouth, One Line Sky, Dongwa U Valley, Aniedi (God King Temple), Stone Forest, Baonaxi Pasture, Marisongduo, Grand Canyon, Tongtian Cave, and Fairy Beach. Difficulty and Equipment: Moderate intensity, requiring non-slip shoes, trekking poles, and rain gear. Be cautious of rising streams during spring thaw and prepare for cold in autumn. Cultural Experience: Participate in Tibetan blessing ceremonies at the God King Temple, taste butter tea and tsampa at Baonaxi Pasture, and interact with local herders about grazing practices. 2. Off-Road Challenge: A Thrilling Road with Stunning Views Route Highlights: The valley section includes gravel roads, water crossings, and steep slopes, demanding high vehicle performance and driving skills. You can stop to photograph the full view of "Ghost Gate Pass" or follow the stream to spot wildlife. Precautions: A four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle is required, with sufficient fuel and emergency tools. It is recommended to follow a local guide to avoid getting lost or stuck in mud. 3. Cultural Immersion: A True Portrait of Tibetan Life Village Visits: Yeri Village is surrounded by terraced fields and highland barley fields, where you can participate in making tsampa and painting thangkas; Daiba Village is the highest original village, where the elderly grandmother by the prayer wheel corridor tells the tribe’s migration history. Festivals and Customs: If visiting during the "Langshan Festival," you can join villagers for picnics and singing and dancing; in winter, watch the "Armor Jumping" sacrificial dance to experience the bravery of Tibetan warriors.