Gannan Dayu Valley | Encounter a Pure Land on Earth, Explore a Hidden Gem

| Encounter a pure land on earth and explore a hidden gem. Are you longing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find a tranquil place where your body and soul can be healed by nature? Dayu Valley in Gannan is precisely such a forgotten paradise on earth, waiting for you to unveil its mysterious charm. Located in Zhuoni County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Dayu Valley was once an ancient trail between the historic Taozhou and Diezhou. After the highway was rerouted, it became a secluded natural area, preserving its most pristine and untouched scenery. Comprising nine gorges, each gorge is like a masterpiece meticulously carved by nature—steep cliffs, dense forests, crystal-clear streams, and pools create picturesque landscapes. **Pre-Trip Preparation** - **Clothing**: Dayu Valley has significant temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, evenings can be chilly, so be sure to pack warm outerwear. During the day, the sun is intense, so sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses are essential. - **Footwear**: Most routes in the scenic area involve hiking, so a pair of comfortable, non-slip sports shoes will make your journey easier. - **Other Items**: Bring sunscreen, a water bottle, a power bank, a camera, etc. If camping, prepare a tent, sleeping bag, and other necessary gear. **Transportation Guide** - **Self-Driving**: Navigate directly to "Dayu Valley Scenic Area." The road conditions are good, and regular cars can easily access it. Non-resort vehicles must park in the external lot; if staying at Qibulinka Hotel, you can register your license plate to drive inside. - **Taxi**: A taxi from Zhuoni County to the scenic area costs about ¥70 one way, taking around 40 minutes. - **Scenic Area Shuttle**: Departs when full, usually every 20 minutes, with the first bus at 8:30 AM and the last at 4:30 PM. The terminal station has small stalls for basic supplies. **Ticket Information** - Combo ticket (entrance + shuttle): ¥135/person, valid for 2 days. - Shuttle-only ticket: ¥70/person. - Last entry: 4:30 PM; last exit: 5:30 PM. Plan your time wisely. **Must-Visit Attractions** - **A'jiao Gorge**: The main gorge of Dayu Valley, offering spectacular canyon views. After taking the shuttle to the terminal, begin a light hiking journey. - **Moon Gate**: Walk along the boardwalk for 20 minutes to see the "Stone Ape by the Stream" and the gem-like Yangzhuo Lake. Further ahead lies the moon-shaped cave—Moon Gate—with the stunning reflection of Dawa Lake nearby, perfect for photos. - **Fairy’s Bathing Pool**: A 10-minute walk from Moon Gate, this clear stream is said to be where fairies bathed, exuding a mystical aura. - **Other Attractions**: From Yuanyang Pavilion to Guanyin Pavilion, those with ample energy can hike to see Yuanyang Lake, Yuanyang Waterfall, "Guan Gong vs. Cao Cao," "Pigsy Drinking Water," and other unique sights. - **Qibu Gorge**: Features grassland scenery and temple visits. - **One-Line Sky**: A 15-minute walk from the shuttle stop leads to the gorge entrance. Adventurous hikers can challenge the 6-hour snow mountain trail. - **Zhuomalaco Lake**: A high-altitude lake framed by forests. A 40-minute walk along the wooden boardwalk offers panoramic views. - **Qibu Temple**: A Tibetan Buddhist temple with over 800 years of history. Free to visit, its golden roofs, red walls, and fluttering prayer flags immerse you in Tibetan Buddhist culture—perfect for blessings and prayers. **Local Delicacies** - Wild mountain vegetables (fern shoots, deer antler mushrooms): Fresh, nutritious, and uniquely flavored gifts from nature. - Tibetan dumplings: Thin, chewy wrappers with juicy fillings—a bite brings pure happiness. - Butter tea: A rich blend of milk and tea, perfect for warming up and alleviating altitude sickness. - Yak meat hotpot: Tender meat in a savory broth, ideal for cold nights. **Accommodation Recommendations** - **Resorts outside the scenic area**: Charming wooden cabins nestled in beautiful surroundings, letting you fall asleep to nature’s sounds. Limited availability—book early. - **Zhalie Tibetan Village Homestays**: Experience the warmth and simplicity of Tibetan hospitality while immersing in local culture. **Travel Tips** - The scenic area is about 2,500 meters above sea level, with minimal altitude sickness risk, but avoid strenuous activity. - Boardwalks can be slippery in the rainy season—try to avoid wet weather. - Few shops are inside the scenic area, so bring your own food and water. - Respect local religious beliefs and customs, especially when visiting temples. Dayu Valley, this unspoiled pure land, boasts breathtaking beauty. Here, you can slow down, listen to nature’s whispers, and feel time flow gently. Pack your bags and embark on a rendezvous with nature in Dayu Valley—it promises unforgettable memories.