Zhaojue County Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Gukede (Qiliba) National Wetland Park Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
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.
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.
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.
Zhaojue Gukede (Qiliba) Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Jun)
Escape the hustle and bustle on May Day, a travel guide to the Gukede Prairie
📍 Destination: Gukede Prairie in Xichang, Liangshan
🔥 Pre-departure Preparation 🔥
👀 Weather Forecast: The plateau climate in Gukede is changeable, remember to bring rainproof and warm gear, as there is a significant temperature difference between day and night, down jackets or shell jackets are essential. ⭐⭐⭐ During the May Day period, the UV rays are strong, so sun protection measures should be taken seriously.
🚗 Transportation Arrangement: Due to its remote location, it is recommended to rent a car for a self-driving tour or join a travel group. For self-driving, be familiar with the route, and the vehicle should be equipped with anti-skid chains and other safety equipment.
🏞 Itinerary Planning: Gukede National Wetland Park has alpine meadows, rhododendron seas, ski resorts, etc., plan your time wisely to enjoy the gifts of nature.
🌿 Ecological Protection: Protect the environment, do not damage the vegetation, do not litter, and respect the local culture.
💧 Health Preparation: High-altitude areas may cause altitude sickness, adapt to altitude changes slowly, carry oxygen tanks, and stay hydrated.
📷 Photography and Equipment: Bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and also prepare sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and comfortable hiking shoes.
💬 Travel Tips:
- When encountering wild animals, maintain a safe distance and do not disturb them. Today I witnessed two cows fighting, safety first.
🌟 Join Us: During the May Day holiday, let's go to the Gukede Prairie together, capture the beauty of nature with our cameras, experience an ecological journey, and create unforgettable memories. 🌅🌄🌲
🌸 The rhododendron sea in Gukede is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, each flower is like a brushstroke of nature, painting the colors of spring. Don't forget, bring your camera to capture these beautiful moments. ✨📸
Liangshan, Sichuan - Zhaojue Valley Kede Scenic Area
Attention to those who don't know where to go for the May Day holiday
The beautiful Soma flowers in Valley Kede are in full bloom, with a sea of Soma flowers covering the mountains, simply stunning beyond words.
If you still don't know where to go this May Day, don't miss this off-the-beaten-path gem in Liangshan. In May, the purple Soma flowers bloom, the vast sky and land offer a chance to experience the Yi culture, and at an altitude of over 2000 meters, you don't have to worry about altitude sickness, and importantly, there are few tourists.
Highlights of Zhaojue Valley Kede Scenic Area:
Fields of purple Soma flowers bloom in the valley, herds of cattle
and sheep wander through the endless sea of flowers, every snapshot is a healing masterpiece
Along the way, there are huge wind turbines standing under the blue sky and white clouds, giving a very
comic-book feel; finding a spot for camping and picnicking is utterly delightful!
Ticket price: 20 yuan per person/car
Flowering period: from the end of April to the beginning of June; currently, the smaller-leaf Soma flowers are in bloom, and the larger Soma flowers will bloom from mid to late May to early June, which will be even more spectacular;
Accommodation: It's a well-developed scenic area with surrounding hotels, and the local Xichang barbecue is quite authentic
Regarding transportation, it is recommended to drive there, and you can drive inside the scenic area. (Friends from Chengdu can take the high-speed train to Xichang West Station and rent a car to get there most conveniently, ensuring a relaxed and happy May Day holiday)
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