#Gukede (Qiliba) National Wetland Park Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Wetlands
Address:
Bowl Factory Township, Zhaojue County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture
Opening times:
Opens at 08:00-18:00Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
2-3 hour
Check-in at Gukede
Gukede, at an altitude of about 3500 meters, is called "the place where wild geese rest" in the Yi language. Gukede Scenic Area is located within the territory of Zhaojue County, Liangshan Prefecture, on the north side of the Qiliba section of Provincial Highway 307, in the townships of Nidi and Wanchang. This area is situated at a node of the Southwest Silk Road and within the Tibetan-Qiang-Yi cultural corridor, serving as a highland of cultural exchange that spans across ancient and modern times.
Walking through it, one can't help but marvel at the diverse topography, vast grasslands, gentle highland sea of clouds, and precious alpine wetlands. Every May, the mountainside is covered in blooming azaleas, painting the entire Gukede wetland in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Casandra Bauch
Stepping into the anime world of Hayao Miyazaki, the sea of Soma flowers in Xichang has bloomed
The whole of April was spent waiting for this sea of flowers,
until I came to Xichang and felt once again
— 'Where exactly is the world filled with flowers?'
It's right here in Xichang's Gukede, dreamlike and so beautiful it leaves you speechless~
Soma flowers, known as 'Azaleas' in Chinese
The azaleas here are mostly shrubby, not tall but plentiful in flowers~
Clusters of them grow together, forming a sea that connects into a mountain
Standing at a high point and overlooking the entire sea of Soma flowers is like stepping into Hayao Miyazaki's anime world~
📍: Soma Flower Sea in Gukede, Xichang
🚗: Self-driving is recommended, navigation will get you there
🎫: 20 yuan
📷📷
How to take photos:
1⃣️Take lots of wide shots and close-ups for easy collage, a slightly overhead perspective is better
2⃣️You can walk among the flowers, take photos of side faces, back views, and other atmospheric shots
3⃣️Bring some small props, add a little action to enrich the scene
4⃣️Recommend using a telephoto lens for shooting, or a prime lens for close-ups of people
⚠️⚠️
1⃣️Bring mosquito repellent to prevent bites
2⃣️Bring a windbreaker or jacket, the wind is really strong
3⃣️Prepare food and water, as this place is more primitive with not much for sale
4⃣️Pay attention to sun protection, the plateau sun is really strong, and the ultraviolet rays are intense.
NORA GREER
In the valley of Liangshan, Gulukede, there lies a mysterious and beautiful sea of Suoma flowers
It is a magnificent tapestry bestowed by nature, captivating and enchanting.
Upon setting foot on this land, what meets the eye is the vast expanse of Suoma flowers, resplendent and dazzling like rosy clouds and brocade. They sway gently in the wind, as if dancing gracefully, seemingly welcoming every visitor who comes to admire them.
Immersed in the sea of flowers, I am surrounded by the rich fragrance, feeling carefree and joyful. Each Suoma flower is like a lively note, together composing a wonderful symphony. With their colors and postures, they tell the story of this land.
Appreciating the Suoma flowers in Gulukede is an intimate encounter with nature, a feast for the soul. Here, time seems to stand still, and everything becomes so beautiful and peaceful. This sea of Suoma flowers will forever remain deep in my memory, becoming an indelible beautiful scenery in my heart.