Gannan Autumn Tour

D1. Lanzhou—Liujiaxia Bridge—Ganjia Secret Land—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe D2. Xiahe—Sangke Grassland—Guomang Wetland—Gahai Lake—Langmusi D3. Langmusi—Namo Grand Canyon—Ruoergai Flower Lake—Zagana D4. Zagana—Milarepa Buddha Pavilion—Lanzhou Sangke Grassland awakens in the morning rain, with the lake beneath the viewing boardwalk reflecting the gray-white sky. The golden reeds along the shore bend into soft arcs, while the distant mountains blur into layers of ink-wash hues under the misty rain, resembling an unfinished Chinese painting. The car wheels roll over the bumpy surface of Provincial Road 312, and outside the window, the flowing landscape resembles ribbons of green and yellow silk. Grasslands and wetlands stretch out in a patchwork, with herds of yaks scattered like black pearls across the alpine meadows. In the distance, thin smoke rises from herders' tents, leaving only the sound of the wind and the rhythmic breathing of the car wheels in this vast expanse. The strong wind at Guomang Wetland immediately fills your clothes. The meandering rivers on the grassland twist like silver ribbons, and amidst the withered yellow meadows, small purple wildflowers stubbornly sway in the wind. Gahai Lake is a delightful surprise. After purchasing a ticket to enter, you’ll see the lake cradling a vibrant shallow area—deep green, light yellow, dark ochre, and muted gold water plants interweave with rich textures, resembling a spilled palette soaking in the clear autumn waters. In the distance, bar-headed geese skim across the water, breaking the serene, painting-like scene. Travel Tips: 1. When traveling from Labrang to Langmusi Town, it is highly recommended to take Provincial Road 312 and then switch to National Road 213. Although this route is several dozen kilometers longer and includes about 40 kilometers of bumpy roads, it has very little traffic, offers stunning scenery, and allows for frequent stops to take photos. 2. Guomang Wetland is free to visit. The scenery is average, and the wind is so strong it can cause headaches, so it’s best to bring a hat. 3. Many online reviews of Gahai Lake are not favorable. I was initially hesitant to visit, but after experiencing it, I found the autumn grasslands to be absolutely stunning and highly recommend it.