https://nz.trip.com/moments/detail/xiahe-2792-131967354
Caleb KingUnited States

[Gannan Secrets: A Journey to Explore Tibetan Culture]

Hey, travel lovers! Do you want to experience a mysterious journey into Tibetan culture? Gannan, a magical land in the southwest of Gansu Province, is known as "Little Tibet in China" and will definitely satisfy all your fantasies about mystery and nature! 🎉 1. Transportation 🚗 • Plane: You can fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, and then take a bus or rent a car from Lanzhou to Gannan. There are 3 connecting flights from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport every day. • High-speed train: There are 6 daily trains on the Hezuo branch of the Xi'an-Chengdu high-speed railway, which can take you directly to Hezuo City from Lanzhou or Chengdu in 4 hours. • Self-driving: Self-driving is recommended. Although the road conditions in Gannan are complicated, self-driving allows you to stop and go as you please, making it more free, and the scenery along the way is super beautiful. However, if your driving skills are average or you are not familiar with the road conditions, you can choose to rent a car or join a tour group, which is safe and worry-free. 2. Accommodation Recommendations 🏨 • Xiahe Nuoerdan Camp Hotel: Located near Sangke Grassland, it is recommended for families. You can experience the tent hotel on the grassland and see the stars at night. • Luqu International Hotel: Convenient transportation, complete facilities, and high cost performance. • Gannan Hotel, Hezuo City: Offers Tibetan-style cuisine and quality service. • Zha Ga Na Tiancheng Gana Meiduo: Tibetan stone house with bonfire parties at night, experiencing a unique Tibetan style. 3. Fun Check-in Spots 📍 • Labrang Monastery: One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the "Oriental Vatican", with a grand scale and profound cultural heritage. Here, you can visit the monastery buildings and feel the solemnity and mystery of Tibetan Buddhism. Pay attention to respecting religious customs when visiting, and taking pictures is prohibited in the temple. • Sangke Grassland: One of the most beautiful grasslands in Gannan. In summer, the green grass is like a blanket and wildflowers are in full bloom. It is suitable for horseback riding and taking pictures. There are also many yaks on the grassland that you can interact with, which is super fun. • Zha Ga Na: A magnificent stone city with rolling mountains, dense forests, and clear streams. It is a great place for hiking and photography. Enjoy the morning mist and sunrise in the early morning, and photograph the beautiful scenery at sunset in the evening to feel the charm of "paradise on earth". • Langmusi Town: A town known as "Oriental Little Switzerland". A small stream integrates the Tibetan and Hui ethnic groups living in peace. Lama temples and mosques occupy both sides of the stream, full of exotic customs. • Maqu Yellow River First Bay: Admire the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River First Bay and feel the majestic momentum of the Yellow River. • Flower Lake: Stroll along the wooden plank road, admire the wetland ecology and migratory birds, and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature. • Ruoergai Grassland: Experience the life of grassland herders, participate in bonfire parties, and feel the vastness and freedom of the grassland. 4. Food Exploration 🍽️ • Yak Meat Hot Pot: The yak meat is fresh and tender, the hot pot soup base is rich, and it is served with wild mushrooms and Tibetan seasonings, which is warm and delicious. • Tibetan Buns: Tibetan buns made with yak meat filling have thin skins and lots of filling. One bite bursts with juice, which is a daily staple food for Tibetans. • Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from butter, tea, and salt. You may not be used to it at first, but you will become addicted to it after drinking it a lot, and it can also relieve altitude sickness. • Zanba: Highland barley fried noodles mixed with butter and milk tea to form a ball. It is the main food of Tibetans, and you can experience the fun of making it yourself. • Highland Quinoa Ice Cream: Zha Ga Na scenic spot limited edition, decorated with Tibetan honey and highland barley crisps, with a unique taste. 5. Tips 💡 • Altitude Sickness: Gannan has an altitude of about 3,000m, and some people may experience mild altitude sickness. It is recommended to prepare Rhodiola in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. • Respect Tibetan Customs: Gannan is a Tibetan area. You must take off your hat, not take pictures, and not step on the threshold when entering temples. Do not watch or take pictures of sky burial ceremonies. • Sun Protection and Warmth: Gannan has strong ultraviolet rays and a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, you should bring a jacket. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential. • Road Conditions and Transportation: Some sections of the road in Gannan are rugged. It is recommended to rent a car or join a tour group. Be cautious when driving yourself. Landslides or mudslides may occur during the rainy season. • Eco-friendly Travel: When playing in grasslands and scenic spots, do not litter and protect the local environment. Hey, travel lovers, the beauty of Gannan is waiting for you to explore! Pack your luggage and start this journey of Tibetan culture! 💕
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*Created by local travelers and translated by AI.
Posted: May 10, 2025
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