Gannan Self-Drive Guide
1. Best Time to Visit
May to October: This is the peak tourist season in Gannan, with pleasant weather and the most spectacular natural scenery.
2. Recommended Self-Drive Routes
Loop: Lanzhou - Gannan - Lanzhou
Route description: Depart from Lanzhou, pass through Linxia and Hezuo, and head to Zhagana, Ruoergai, Tangke, and Hongyuan. Finally, return to Lanzhou via Anqu, Aba, Jiuzhi, Maqu, Langmu Temple, Labrang Monastery, and Sangke Grassland.
Loop: Chengdu - Gannan - Chengdu
Route description: Depart from Chengdu, pass through Wenchuan, Lixian, and Maerkang, and visit Taoping Qiang Village, Miyaluo, Seda, and other places. Cross Banma, Jiuzhi, and Awancang Grassland, and visit Langmu Temple and Zhagana. Finally, return to Chengdu via Ruoergai Grassland, the First Bend of the Yellow River, and Waqie Pagoda Forest.
Via: Chengdu - Northern Sichuan - Gannan - Lanzhou
Route description: Depart from Chengdu, pass through Wenchuan and Songpan, and visit Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong. Then, pass through Ruoergai Grassland, Huahu, the First Bend of the Yellow River, Hongyuan Grassland, Lianbaoyeze, Awancang Wetland, Zhagana, Gahai, Sangke Grassland, and Labrang Monastery, and arrive in Lanzhou.
Via: Lanzhou - Gannan - Western Sichuan - Chengdu
Route description: Depart from Lanzhou, visit Labrang Monastery, Sangke Grassland, Langmu Temple, Zhagana, Ruoergai Huahu, Aba, Lianbaoyeze, and Seda. Finally, return to Chengdu via Guanyin Bridge, Maerkang, and Lixian.
3. Must-Visit Attractions
Xiahe: Labrang Monastery, Ganjia Secret Land, Sangke Grassland
Tangke: The First Bend of the Yellow River
Diebu: Zhagana, Fairy Beach
Luqu: Guomang Wetland, Langmu Temple
Hezuo: Milarepa Buddha Pavilion
4. Notes
Altitude sickness: Gannan is at a high altitude. It is recommended to make preparations in advance, such as bringing an oxygen tank, drinking enough water, and avoiding strenuous exercise.
Complex road conditions: Pay attention to road conditions when driving, especially in mountainous areas, where you may encounter rugged roads and steep slopes.
Respect local culture: In temples and religious sites, please follow local etiquette and regulations, and do not take photos at will.
5. Food Recommendations
Xiahe Tendon
Tibetan Dumplings
Yak Hot Pot
Beef Pie
Hand-Pulled Lamb
Lanzhou Beef Noodles
Fried Rice with Fritillaria
Butter Tea
Yak Yogurt