[2025 Xiahe ] Travel Guide for Ganga Eco Campground (Updated Jul)

Gannan, known as "Little Tibet," is a pure land that combines magnificent natural landscapes with profound religious culture. Must-visit attractions: Labrang Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, featuring a rare ultra-long prayer corridor where you can experience a strong religious atmosphere; Zhagana, a natural stone city where Tibetan villages blend with mountains and waters, like a paradise on earth; Sangke Grassland, where you can try horseback riding, archery, and taste Tibetan delicacies such as hand-pulled mutton and tsampa, while watching the grassland sunset. Accommodation recommendations: For scenic beauty, choose Ganjia Ecological Camping Site in Xiahe or Zhagana Yun Jing Wild Tent Hotel; boutique homestays include Sangqing Camp in Xiahe and Yano·Meirenjuji Homestay in Hezuo; for upscale options, Hezuo Yihe Grand Hotel offers rich Tibetan characteristics. The best time to visit is from June to August, with pleasant climate and lush grasslands. Remember to bring warm clothing, sun protection, and common medicines. Come to Gannan for a spiritual rendezvous.

Gannan, Gansu is an intoxicating place 😍. It has vast grasslands, mysterious temples, and simple Tibetan people. If you long to explore a pure land, Gannan is definitely the best choice. Below is a carefully prepared Gannan travel guide to take you to experience the unique charm of Gannan ✨. Reasons to visit - Stunning natural scenery: Gannan has boundless grasslands, clear blue lakes, majestic snow-capped mountains, and mysterious and secluded canyons, such as Sangke Grassland, Gahai Lake, and Zhagana, allowing you to feel as if you are in a fairyland. - Rich ethnic culture: Gannan is a Tibetan settlement, with a unique Tibetan culture and traditional customs, such as Tibetan Buddhism, prayer wheels, and sky burials, allowing you to experience the rich ethnic customs. - Abundant tourism resources: Gannan has many tourist attractions, such as Labrang Monastery, Langmusi Temple, and Ganjia Secret Realm, as well as a wealth of food and handicrafts, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery, taste delicious food, and buy souvenirs during your trip. Detailed address - Labrang Monastery: No. 252, West Renmin Street, Labuleng Town, Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. - Sangke Grassland: 10 kilometers southwest of Labrang Monastery, Labuleng Town, Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. - Zhagana: X412 (Nizha Section), Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. - Langmusi Temple: Luqu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Scenic spot ticket price - Labrang Monastery: CNY 40/person. - Sangke Grassland: Free. - Zhagana: CNY 10/person. - Langmusi Temple: CNY 30/person. Travel Guide - Three-day tour of Gannan: D1 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Langmusi Temple; D2 Langmusi Temple - Guomang Wetland - Flower Lake - Zhagana; D3 Zhagana - Lazikou - Watershed Ridge - Lanzhou. - Four-day tour of Gannan: D1 Lanzhou - Linxia - Darzong Lake - Xiahe; D2 Xiahe - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Zhagana; D3 Zhagana - Ruoergai Flower Lake - First Bay of the Yellow River; D4 Langmusi Temple - Gahai Lake - Guomang Wetland - Lanzhou. - Five-day tour of Gannan: D1 Lanzhou - Linxia - Darzong Lake - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe; D2 Xiahe - Gannan Grassland - Maqu Niangma Temple - Awancang Wetland - Aba County; D3 Aba County - Lianbao Yezhe - First Bay of the Yellow River; D4 Tangke - Flower Lake - Zhagana; D5 Zhagana - Langmusi Temple - Hezuo Milarepa Pavilion - Lanzhou. Food Guide - Tibetan cuisine: Gannan's Tibetan cuisine mainly uses yak meat, mutton, and highland barley as raw materials, such as butter tea, zanba, highland barley wine, and hand-caught mutton. It has a unique taste and is rich in nutrition. - Sichuan cuisine: Gannan's Sichuan cuisine is characterized by its spicy and fresh flavors, such as hot pot, skewers, and Sichuan restaurants. It has an authentic taste and affordable prices. - Snacks: Gannan's snacks mainly use pasta and pastries as raw materials, such as Tibetan buns, Tibetan noodles, and butter cakes. They taste delicious and have a unique taste. Accommodation Guide - Xiahe: Xiahe is the tourist center of Gannan, with many hotels and homestays to choose from, such as Xiahe Ganjia Ecological Campsite and Xiahe Amigonghong Ranch Homestay. - Langmusi Temple: Langmusi Temple is a small town in Gannan, with many hotels and homestays to choose from, such as Langmusi Hotel and Langmusi Zhongyuan Holiday Hotel. - Zhagana: Zhagana is a village in Gannan, with many homestays to choose from, such as Zhagana Tibetan Homestay and Zhagana Ecological Homestay. Other tips - Transportation: Transportation in Gannan is not very convenient. It is recommended to choose a chartered car or carpool to go to various attractions, so you can arrange your itinerary more freely. - Weather: The weather in Gannan is unpredictable, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast in advance and bring suitable clothing and rain gear. - Altitude sickness: Gannan has a high altitude, so it is recommended to take precautions against altitude sickness in advance, such as taking Rhodiola in advance and avoiding strenuous exercise.

Gannan, rated by National Geographic as one of the "50 Places You Must Visit in Your Lifetime", is like a pure land of Brahma lost in the world. It combines the vastness of the grassland, the mystery of Tibetan Buddhism and the unique folk customs, which is fascinating. The following is a travel guide to Gannan to help you have an unforgettable trip. 1. Best time to travel - June to August: The average temperature in Gannan is 10-20℃, the climate is cool and comfortable, and it is a good place to escape the summer heat. The grassland is covered with green grass, wild flowers, herds of cattle and horses, and the scenery is breathtaking. It is very suitable for family travel and photography enthusiasts. - September to October: Gannan has a unique charm in autumn. The leaves gradually turn yellow and red, and the mountains and fields are colorful, just like an oil painting. The grassland gradually turned golden, contrasting with the blue sky and white clouds, forming a poetic beauty. There are relatively fewer tourists during this period, so you can enjoy your trip more quietly. 2. Transportation Guide - External transportation: - Plane: You can first arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, where there are many flights and a wide range of fare options. You can then take the airport bus or online taxi to Lanzhou city, and then transfer to a shuttle bus to various places in Gannan or choose to charter a car. Some tourists also choose to fly directly to Xiahe Airport, but there are fewer flights and the airfare is relatively high. - Train: Lanzhou Railway Station has many trains, while Lanzhou West Railway Station is the main stop for high-speed trains. You can choose flexibly according to your departure place and time. After arriving in Lanzhou, transfer to transportation to Gannan. - Internal transportation: Gannan's scenic spots are relatively scattered, and there are no direct bus routes between the scenic spots. It is recommended to travel in a small group or charter a car. A small group is affordable and you can make new friends; chartering a car is more flexible and you can stop at any time to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The local driver is familiar with the road conditions and attractions, and can also provide some practical suggestions. 3. Must-visit attractions 1. Labrang Monastery: A national AAAA-level tourist attraction and a key national cultural relic protection site. It is one of the "top ten largest religious monasteries in China" and one of the six main monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism in China. It is known as the "World Tibetan Studies Center". Here is the world's longest prayer corridor. You can slowly turn the prayer wheels along the corridor, silently recite scriptures in your heart, and feel the sacredness and solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism. You can also visit temple buildings, admire exquisite murals and thangkas, and gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhist culture. 2. Zhagana: It is like a natural stone city. When surrounded by clouds and mist, it looks like a fairyland on earth. The original Tibetan villages are preserved here, with houses scattered among the mountains. In the early morning, you can go up to the observation deck and overlook the beautiful scenery of Zhagana illuminated by the first ray of sunshine; during the day, you can hike in the canyon and admire the strange peaks and rocks and dense forests; at night, you can fall asleep in a Tibetan homestay accompanied by the bright starry sky. 3. Langmusi: It is not only a temple, but also a charming town. The Bailong River runs through the town, dividing it into two parts, with the Saichi Monastery in Gansu and the Gelug Monastery in Sichuan on both sides. Here, you can visit temples and feel the religious atmosphere; you can also hike through the Namo Grand Canyon and explore the source of the Bailong River; you can also stroll along the streets of the town, taste local food, and experience the unique folk customs. 4. Ruoergai Flower Lake: A pearl on the Ruoergai grassland and a natural lake. In summer, the lake water is clear and the lakeside is full of colorful flowers, which complement the blue sky and white clouds, green mountains and green grass in the distance, creating a magnificent scene. Walking along the plank road, you feel like you are in a dream world, and you can also watch many migratory birds. 5. Sangke Grassland: It is close to Xiahe County and is a vast grassland. Here you can ride horses and feel the wind whistling in your ears; you can also sit on the grass, enjoy the sunrise and sunset of the grassland, experience the life of Tibetan herdsmen, and taste delicious foods such as roasted whole lamb and butter tea. 6. Milarepa Pavilion: Known as the "Tibetan Studies Museum", the pavilion has nine floors, each of which houses different Buddha statues and scriptures. The murals are dazzling and full of mysterious religious colors. Climbing to the top floor of the Buddhist pavilion and overlooking the scenery of the Hezuo city, your soul seems to be purified. 4. Classic route planning Three-day tour in Gannan - Day 1: Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Langmusi - Depart from Lanzhou to Xiahe, visit Labrang Monastery, feel the charm of the world's Tibetan studies center, and rotate the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. - In the afternoon, go to Sangke Grassland to enjoy the grassland scenery and choose to go horseback riding. - Arrive at Langmusi in the evening, stroll around the town and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. - Day 2: Langmusi - Guomang Wetland - Huahu - Zhagana - Get up early to visit the temple buildings of Langmusi, then head to Guomang Wetland, the habitat of black-necked cranes, and enjoy the wetland scenery along the plank road. - In the afternoon, arrive at Ruoergai Flower Lake, stroll along the plank road and enjoy the beautiful lake view. - Arrive at Zhagana in the evening and enjoy the beautiful sunset. - Day 3: Zhagana - Lanzhou - Get up early to watch the sunrise over Zhagana, then stroll around the village to experience the Tibetan customs. - Then return to Lanzhou, ending the pleasant journey. Five-day tour in Gannan - Day 1: Various places - Lanzhou - Gangga Secret Land - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe - After arriving in Lanzhou, head to Gangjia Secret Land to enjoy the grasslands, ancient cities, caves, cliffs and other landscapes, and climb up to the observation deck to overlook the Bajiao Ancient City. - In the afternoon, head to Xiahe and visit Labrang Monastery. - Day 2: Xiahe - Langmusi - The First Bend of the Yellow River - Ruoergai - Depart from Xiahe and visit Langmusi Temple. - In the afternoon, head to the first bend of the Yellow River to enjoy the magnificent sunset view of the Yellow River. - Stay in Ruoergai at night. - Day 3: Ruoergai - Huahu - Zhagana - Diebu - Visit Huahu Lake in the morning. - Then go to Zhagana to experience the beautiful scenery and folk customs here. - Stay in Diebu at night. - Day 4: Diebu - Gahai (viewed from a distance) - Guomang Wetland - Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion - Cooperation - Start from Diebu and see Gahai Lake from afar. - Pass by Guomang Wetland and stop for a while to enjoy the scenery. - Arrive at Hezuo in the afternoon and visit Milarepa Buddhist Temple. - Day 5: Cooperation - Lanzhou - After breakfast, return to Lanzhou, ending your trip to Gannan. You can stroll around Lanzhou and taste local food. 5. Food Recommendations - Fern hemp rice: Mix fern hemp with rice and steam it. It is sweet, soft and nutritious. It is one of the special staple foods in Gannan area. - Yak yogurt: It has a thick texture, sweet and sour taste, and often has a thick layer of milk skin on the surface. It is rich in various nutrients. When eating, you can add sugar or honey according to your personal taste. - Butter tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from butter and strong tea, it can quench thirst and resist the cold on the plateau. You may not be used to it at first, but you can feel its unique aroma as you savor it slowly. - Stone-cooked mutton: also known as knife and stone, mutton and stones are put into the pot and stewed together. The mutton is tender and juicy, retaining the original flavor. - Clear soup yak hotpot: With yak beef as the main ingredient, the soup base is clear and delicious, paired with a variety of vegetables. You can taste the tender beef and drink the nutritious soup. 6. Accommodation Recommendations Lanzhou: As a distribution center for Gannan tourism, it has a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and B&Bs of various prices and grades. It is recommended to live near Xiguan, Tianshui Road or Donggang, where transportation is convenient and travel is easy. Xiahe: There are many special accommodations to choose from, such as homestays, tent camps, etc., where you can better experience the local customs. Recommended hotels include Jiusheng International, Tianzhu International, Ganga Ecological Camp, Nordan Camp, etc. Langmusi Town: Very close to the Langmusi Scenic Area, convenient for travel. You can choose from Luqu International Hotel, Langmusi Zhongyuan Holiday Hotel, Langmusi Hotel, etc. Zhagana: It is recommended to stay in the scenic area so that you can enjoy the sunrise, sunset and the beautiful scenery shrouded in clouds and mist. If you get up early, you can see the dreamlike scenery, and at night you can also enjoy the Milky Way starry sky. Hezuo City: The center of Gannan Prefecture, with complete supporting facilities, convenient transportation and many accommodation options. VII. Precautions Altitude sickness: The average altitude of Gannan is around 3,000 meters, and some areas are even higher. When you first arrive in Gannan, do not do strenuous exercise and give your body time to adapt. Prepare anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance, such as Rhodiola rosea, and you can also prepare some glucose oral solution to replenish energy in time when you feel unwell. If altitude sickness is severe, seek medical attention immediately. Weather and clothing: The weather in Gannan is changeable, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening. Even in summer, it is recommended to bring thick coats, jackets and other warm clothing to prevent catching a cold. At the same time, prepare rain gear to deal with possible rainfall at any time. Cash and Payment: Although mobile payment can be used in most places, some remote areas may have poor signals or may not support mobile payment. It is recommended to carry some cash with you in case of emergency. Self-driving tips: If you choose to drive yourself, please understand the road conditions in advance. Some sections may be rugged, so drive carefully. At the same time, pay attention to the maintenance and fuel level of the vehicle, refuel in time, and ensure driving safety.

⛱️Must-visit attractions: 📍Zhagana Pure, primitive, quiet, all the beauty can be seen here. Dongwa Village, Yeri Village, Dari Village and Daiba Village, which are built on the mountain, all have wooden plank roads and observation platforms, from which one can enjoy the scenery from all angles. - 📍Ganga Secret Realm The green here seems to be able to heal the soul, and just looking at the beautiful scenery from afar is enough to make you forget all your worries. This area is divided into three major attractions: Bajiao City, Baishiya and Baishiya Temple. - 📍Labrang Monastery This is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is known worldwide as the "World Tibetan Studies Center". You are not allowed to wear skirts or shorts in the temple. You can rent a set of Tibetan clothing locally before entering the temple. - 📍Sangke Grassland It takes about 20 minutes to get from Labrang Monastery to Sangke Grassland. At an altitude of 4,000 meters, you can step on the grassland and look up to the sky. - 📍Langmusi There are two Langmusi in Sichuan and Gansu, facing each other across the river. - 📍Flower Lake From June to July every year, the Huahu Lake is covered with colorful flowers on the grass, which is extremely beautiful. There is a wooden plank road built by the lake, extending all the way into the water. Walk along the plank road to the depths of the wetland, and there are good places to take photos along the way. 🍜Food tips: 🍜Lanzhou beef noodles "One clear, two white, three red, four green, five yellow", with delicious clear soup and chewy noodles, is the iconic delicacy of Lanzhou! 🥩Longxi bacon It originated during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. After being pickled and exposed to the sun, it is best eaten with a steamed bun. It is fat but not greasy, and the fragrance is overflowing. 🌯Stuffed leather A specialty snack from the Northwest, it is orange-yellow and transparent, soft and chewy, served with gluten and chili oil, sour, spicy and refreshing! 🍲Slurry noodles The sour and appetizing jiangshui soup, served with handmade noodles, is a great way to relieve summer heat and cure loss of appetite! 🍜臊子面 The meat sauce is served with vegetables, the soup is thick and the noodles are few, one mouthful of noodles and one mouthful of soup, the simple and delicious taste of the Northwest people~ 🐑Dongxiang Hand-Pulled Lamb The whole lamb is cooked and the meat is torn by hand. It is authentic, fragrant and not smelly. It is the heroic way of eating in the Northwest! 🍖Jingyuan Lamb 30-45 day old dairy lamb meat is tender and juicy, delicious for stir-frying or stewing, and it is certified by the geographical indication! 🥟Hezhou steamed buns The dough is soft, the filling is rich, and it is drizzled with chili oil. The oil is yellow and the noodles are white. One bite is super satisfying! 🐟Zhangye rubbed fish roe The noodles are rolled into small fish shapes and paired with colorful vegetables. They look like fish fry and have a chewy texture. They are children's favorite! 🌶️Wuwei noodles It is sour, spicy, cool, flexible and delicious. It is a must-have for people in Wuwei in summer. It is perfect when paired with garlic chili oil! 🍝Dunhuang donkey meat yellow noodles "The best in China"! Donkey meat has a rich sauce and the yellow noodles are chewy. It is a must-try delicacy in Dunhuang! 🍲Jiuquan hot pot Chicken soup is used as the base, with gluten and vermicelli added. The soup is delicious and the pepper aroma warms the stomach and heart~ 🥩Lanzhou pickled pork Marinated in fermented bean curd, the meat is fragrant, fatty but not greasy, the centerpiece of Lanzhou’s New Year’s Eve dinner! 🐪Snow Mountain Camel Paw Camel paws are stewed until soft and served with delicacies from land and sea. It is a signature dish of high-end banquets in Gansu! 🍢 Lamb rolls The mutton is tender and fragrant, and the dough rolls absorb the soup. Two flavors come out of one pot. This is the wisdom of people in the northwest! 🍝Lanzhou fried noodles The fried noodles are crispy and fragrant, served with vegetables and shredded meat, with a chewy texture. It is a hot item at the night market! 🍯Sweet mash Fermented oats/highland barley, added with sugar and milk, sour and sweet, the first choice for summer dessert! 🐔Jingning Roast Chicken The skin is crispy, the meat is tender, and the spices are tasty. It is a non-legacy delicacy of Jingning, and it tastes even better when you tear it apart and eat it! 🥔 Longnan potato stir fry Potatoes are pounded until sticky and served with hot and sour soup, a creative staple food for the people of Longnan! 🍲Beef rice Diced beef with noodles and rich and delicious soup is a standard breakfast for people in Zhangye! 🍜Riverside noodles The noodles are chewy, the soup is rich, and it is served with vegetables and lamb. One bowl is super satisfying! 🥛Milk and egg fermented glutinous rice Milky aroma + eggy aroma + sweet fermented glutinous rice wine, a warm drink in winter, good for beauty and skin care~ 🍢Tianshui quack Buckwheat noodles rolled into small pieces and served with chili oil and sesame paste are a unique snack for people in Tianshui! 🏨Accommodation tips: ✅ Recommended hotels in Xiahe: Jiusheng International Hotel, Labrang Civil Aviation Hotel ✅B&B/campsite: Amigonghong Ranch B&B, Ganga Ecological Camp ✅Langmusi hotel recommendation: Luqu International Hotel ✅Tanke Hotel Recommendations: Wangfu Hotel, First Bay Hotel ✅ Recommended hotels in Zhagana: Tiancheng Gana Meiduo, Zhagana Scenic Area Hotel 🚄Transportation strategy: : Fly directly to Dunhuang/Lanzhou and transfer to high-speed rail. Taxi in the city starts at 5 yuan 💗Other tips: ✔Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes tickets need to be booked one month in advance during peak season; ✔If you have a large group and the journey is long, you can charter a car in advance🚗, and compare prices before traveling, it may be cheaper; ✔It is more convenient to wear slippers at Mingsha Mountain🩴. Anti-sand shoe covers can be prepared in advance, as the disposable ones in scenic spots are easily broken; ✔It is also recommended to bring a mobile phone case to prevent strong winds; ✔You can buy a cowboy hat in the scenic area, 15 yuan each, which is good for warmth and sun protection; ✔The temperature difference between day and night is large in the northwest region, so bring thick clothes to keep warm. A windproof and waterproof jacket is necessary; ✔ Wear sunglasses to prevent sand from blinding your eyes🕶, and prepare a windproof and sandproof mask or a versatile headscarf; ✔ Keep sunscreen ready so you can apply it at any time when the sun is strong. If you are afraid of dryness, bring lip balm and body lotion; ✔You can prepare wasteland style or western style clothing💃🏼. If you want a clean and neat picture, wear solid colors, pure white or pure black; ✔There are many shooting costumes available for rent in the scenic area, so you can get it done even if you don’t prepare in advance; ✔You can prepare some one-time internal 🩲 changes. Wet wipes are available in desert areas;

Someone said: A happy childhood heals a lifetime, so go travel! I want unknown scenery, I want to be with you in the best place at the best time. Let’s explore together, enjoy together, and have fun together as you grow up! : : : : : : : : : : : : : : :

👍Highly recommended: National Geographic says it's a place you must visit once in your lifetime. This extremely niche travel destination, located in Gansu, is truly a treasure trove of secrets. 🧳Pre-trip preparation: Spring comes a bit late in Gannan, with temperatures rising in May, green grass carpeting the fields, and wildflowers blooming, making it very suitable for travel. However, due to the high altitude, it's also necessary to bring a thick coat. You must see these fairy-tale landscapes! Gannan's Secret Realm The green here seems to heal the soul, and just gazing at the beautiful scenery from afar makes you forget all your worries. This area is divided into three main attractions: the Octagonal City, Baishi Cliff, and Baishi Cliff Temple. Labrang Monastery This is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, acclaimed as the 'World's Tibetan Academy'. You cannot wear skirts or shorts inside the monastery, but you can rent a set of Tibetan clothes locally and enter the temple. Sangke Grassland It takes about 20 minutes to get from Labrang Monastery to Sangke Grassland. At an altitude of 4000 meters on the Sangke Grassland, you step on the grassland and look up to the vast sky. Self-driving the Rock Road Joseph Rock came to China in the early 20th century, traveling from the town of Zagulu by the Tao River, crossing the Guanggai Mountain through Chebagou to reach Diebu Zhagana. This famous self-driving route is known as Rock's Road. Zhagana Pure, primitive, and tranquil, all the beauty can be seen here. The villages of Dongwa, Yeri, Dari, and Daiba, built along the mountain, have wooden walkways and viewing platforms, allowing for multi-faceted, full-angle views. 🗓Itinerary: D1 Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm (Baishi Cliff, Octagonal Ancient City) D2 Gannan Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland Amigonghong Ranch D3 Amigonghong Ranch - Awan Warehouse Wetland Huergoriji Viewing Platform - Jiuzhi County D4 Jiuzhi County - Lianbao Yezhe - Tangke Town D5 Tangke Town - Zhagana D6 Zhagana (Fairy Beach, Mid-Mountain Walkway and Viewing Platform) D7 Zhagana - Guanggai Mountain Rock's Road - Zagulu - Hezuo City D8 Hezuo City - Bingling Temple Grottoes - Lanzhou ✅Must Experience: Must-recommend fairy-tale accommodation 🏨Xiahe Gannan Ecological Campsite: Absolutely makes the entire trip shine, recommended room type 'Mountain View'. The tent is comfortable with bedding and sufficient heating, rooted in the vast grassland, backed by majestic mountains, awesome! 🏨Amigonghong Ranch Hotel: The whole hotel is a large grassland ranch, with the Amigonghong sacred mountain in the distance, where you can enjoy a whole roasted lamb or a small hot pot. 📍Detailed address: Gannan·Gansu

Spring in Gannan arrives a bit late, with temperatures rising in May, lush green grass, and wildflowers blooming, making it very suitable for travel. However, due to the high altitude, it's also necessary to bring a thick coat. The greenery here seems to have the power to heal the soul, and just gazing at the beautiful scenery is enough to forget all worries. This area is divided into three main attractions: the Octagon City, Baishi Cliff, and Baishi Cliff Temple. This is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, acclaimed by the world as the 'World's Tibetan Academy.' Inside the monastery, it is not permitted to wear skirts or shorts, but you can rent a set of Tibetan clothing locally before entering the temple. It takes about 20 minutes to travel from Labrang Monastery to Sangke Grassland, and at the Sangke Grassland, which is 4,000 meters above sea level, you step on the grassland and look up to see the vast sky. Joseph Rock came to China in the early 20th century, traveling from the town of Zagulu by the Tao River, crossing the Guanggaishan Mountain via Chebagou to reach Diebu Zhagana. This very famous self-driving route is known as Rock's Road. Purity, primitiveness, tranquility, all things beautiful can be seen here. The villages of Dongwa, Yeri, Dari, and Daiba, built against the mountains, all have wooden walkways and viewing platforms, allowing for multi-angle, full-view scenery observation. 🚌 Recommended itinerary: D1 Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm (Baishi Cliff, Octagon Ancient City) D2 Gannan Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland Amigonghong Ranch D3 Amigonghong Ranch - Awan Warehouse Wetland Huoerguori Viewing Platform - Jiuzhi County D4 Jiuzhi County - Lianbao Yezhe - Tangke Town D5 Tangke Town - Zhagana D6 Zhagana (Fairy Beach, Mid-Mountain Walkway, Mid-Mountain Viewing Platform) D7 Zhagana - Guanggaishan Rock's Road - Zagulu - Hezuo City D8 Hezuo City - Bingling Temple Grottoes - Lanzhou 🏠 Must-recommend divine accommodation experience: 🌟 Xiahe Gannan Ecological Camping Site: Definitely a tent hotel that makes the entire trip shine, recommended room type 'Mountain View.' The tents have comfortable bedding and sufficient heating, rooted in the vast grasslands and backed by majestic mountains, awesome! 🌟 Amigonghong Ranch Hotel: The entire hotel is a large grassland ranch, with the Amigonghong sacred mountain in the distance, where you can enjoy a roasted whole lamb or a small hot pot.

The Gannan Secret Realm, with cliffs, grasslands, streams, stone forests, canyons, temples... is a mysterious, simple, and somewhat isolated place of wonder, located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. There are many online posts advising on what to avoid, and while I find the Octagon City just okay, I really like the Báishí Cliff and Báishí Cliff Temple area. Watching the Báishí Cliff Temple bathed in gold at sunset, enjoying a yak hotpot in the Báishí Secret Realm while watching the evening glow, and slowly driving through the winding mountain roads to see the spectacular Báishí Cliff are all wonderful memories of the Gannan Secret Realm. 🚗‼️When visiting the Gannan Secret Realm, I highly recommend driving to the Báishí Cliff Cave Viewing Platform (which offers a direct overlook of the Báishí Cliff Temple and Báishí Cliff, with a parking fee of 5 yuan). Along the way, you will pass by the Báishí Cliff Temple. If you have plenty of time and energy, you can first visit the Octagon City Viewing Platform to overlook the Octagon City (it requires climbing a wooden walkway for 30 minutes to overlook the Octagon City, which I personally find average and could be skipped, parking lot fee is 5 yuan, and the walkway is free of charge) 🏡Octagon Ancient City Built during the Western Han Dynasty, the Octagon Ancient City has a history of over 2000 years and was a strategic military town during the Han-Qiang and Tang-Tibetan periods. The architectural shape of the Octagon Ancient City is unique in the world, with the outer city shaped like an octagon, and all the open spaces outside the city walls within the range of the archers on the walls, making it a defense with no blind spots. The shape of the Octagon Ancient City perfectly matches the mandala of Tibetan Buddhism, representing the perfect integration of the spiritual and material worlds. ⛰️Báishí Cliff Báishí Cliff is a natural barrier stretching 15 kilometers long, majestic and towering over the Gannan land, vertically dividing the Gannan grassland into two high mountain grasslands with a drop of 1000 meters. Standing on the viewing platform, the sight of Báishí Cliff is even more breathtaking! 🌞It is recommended to take photos from the Báishí Cliff Cave Viewing Platform at sunset, where you can see the beauty of the golden light enveloping the area! 🐴It is said that entering the Báishí Cliff Grand Canyon on horseback is the best way to experience the essence of the Gannan Secret Realm. We gave up this method because we did not have much time reserved. 🏠About accommodation: We chose the latter between the Xiahe Gannan Ecological Camping Site and the Báishí Secret Realm Homestay in the Gannan Secret Realm. The entrance to the Báishí Secret Realm Homestay campsite is right at the Báishí Cliff Cave Viewing Platform, which offers an overlook of the Báishí Cliff Temple and Báishí Cliff. The Gannan Ecological Camping Site is located at the entrance of the Gannan Secret Realm, 12 kilometers away from the most beautiful scenery, a 20-minute drive. The Báishí Secret Realm Homestay has bubble tents and wooden houses, with no bathing facilities or toilets in the rooms. There is no bathing at the homestay, the public toilet is a dry toilet, and there is a basin in the tent for washing face and brushing teeth. The tent has charging facilities and an electric blanket. However, due to the high altitude and it being the first night of our trip in Gannan, we hardly slept well due to altitude sickness. 🍲The yak hotpot in the homestay is highly recommended, with good quality yak meat, available as buffet or à la carte, with the latter being more recommended. Next to the homestay, there is also a Tibetan tent selling yak yogurt. 💰The entrance fee to the Gannan Secret Realm is 80 yuan, but we were not charged when we visited, reportedly due to internal renovations.

Who wouldn't love the less-traveled secret spots of Gannan, away from the crowds? Staying on the vast grasslands, with cattle and sheep everywhere, and the starry Milky Way overhead at night, the mountains do not see me, I go to see the mountains... The most beautiful scenery must be matched with the most beautiful hotels, and these hotels alone are worth a trip to Gannan! The grasslands of Gannan in summer are absolutely unbeatable, plus the red-walled and golden-roofed temple architecture, cattle and sheep everywhere, lush water and grass, no need to jostle with crowds, both day and night are scenic, with high-standard accommodations throughout the journey, staying in luxury tent hotels, enjoying a leisurely vacation... ✅ Itinerary at a glance: D1 Lanzhou airport pick-up + hotel gathering (free time) 🏨 Eurasia International High Altitude Yado S/Wyndham Garden D2 Lanzhou—Gannan Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe 🏨 Xiahe Amigonghong Ranch/Xiahe Nordang Camp D3 Xiahe—Sangke Grassland—Langmusi (Gerdie Monastery + Namo Grand Canyon)—First Bend of the Yellow River—Tangke 🏨 Zoige Yuntu Starry Sky Ranch D4 Tangke—Flower Lake—Little Duku—Zhagana (Fairy Beach) 🏨 Zhagana Yunjing Wilderness Luxury/Yunshang Meiju/Yunju D5 Zhagana—Rock's Path—Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys—Lanzhou (ends around 18:00) ⭐️ Highlights of the itinerary: 🔷 Gannan Ecological Camping Site: Located on the Gannan grasslands, in summer the ground is covered with colorful wildflowers, with blue skies overhead, clouds by your side, and sunset on the horizon. Hike to Baishi Cliff to see the spectacular sea of clouds. Each tent room is independent, offering a quiet time 🔶 Xiahe Amigonghong Ranch: Built on the Sangke Grassland, very close to Xiahe Airport, with horse riding, bonfire parties, temple blessings and pilgrimages, etc. At night, you can take photos of the starry sky. Each room is independent, with panoramic view rooms, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and cattle and sheep grazing outside the door, making it an ideal natural ranch 🔷 Zhagana Yunju Hotel: Built within the Zhagana scenic area, the hotel has its own viewing platform, from which you can see the entire village from your room window, and watch the sunrise and starry sky of Zhagana 🔶 Zhagana Yunjing Wilderness Tent Hotel: The hotel is located in a corner of Zhagana, backed by the Zhagana peaks, with a tent-like appearance, wild luxury high-end, one of the top high-end Tibetan-style resorts in the scenic area, with standalone themed rooms connected by wooden walkways, and rooms equipped with large viewing platforms 🔷 Zoige Yuntu Starry Sky Ranch: The hotel is located next to the Nine-Bend Yellow River Bay, with direct views of the Yellow River from the rooms, first-class ecological environment, modern and simple decoration inside the hotel, with mountain view rooms, tent rooms, triangular wooden tent rooms, star-gazing tent houses, etc. ✅ Play Experience: ❣️ Classic loop attractions: ✔️ Rock's Path: Half canyon, half mountain, a magnificent road ✔️ Zhagana: 'Little Switzerland of Gannan', shrouded in clouds, with sacred lakes, blue skies, fields, villages, and cattle and sheep ✔️ Langmusi: At the junction of Gansu and Sichuan, a place where ethnic styles blend ✔️ Zoige Flower Lake: A natural highland wetland reserve ✔️ Sangke Grassland: Open high-altitude grassland, lush with water and grass, herds of cattle and sheep, galloping on horseback ✔️ Gannan Secret Realm: Baishi Cliff, the ancient octagonal city and the distant plateau reflect each other, spectacularly ✔️ First Bend of the Yellow River: Wetlands and grasslands merge together, with a distant view of the Yellow River, reflecting the sunset, seamlessly integrated

Half of the 'Mysterious Gannan' is the scenery, half is the faith💕 Let's set off on National Day👣, go to Gannan, this niche secret place to appreciate the beauty of Gannan, go to see the grassland🍀, lakes, temples, go to see the beautiful and mysterious holy paradise🔥, go to see the holy land known as 'Pure Land of the World'🌟 . ✈Transportation ✅It is recommended to start from Lanzhou, high-speed rail and airplanes are very convenient ✅Many roads in Gannan area are mountain roads, if you are not good at driving, it is recommended to charter a car . 💡Must Check-in Itinerary💡 ❤Namo Grand Canyon + Fairy Beach Light Hiking ❤Zha Ga Na sunset morning fog, watch the ancient village fireworks ❤Experience the coffee shop in Langmu Temple ❤Gan Jia Secret Horse Riding Experience ❤Go to the depths of Baishi Cliff to feed ground squirrels ❤Stack NiMa pile by the lake of Lianbao Yeze ❤Check in the sunset of the first bay of the Yellow River . ✅Gannan 4 days and 3 nights 🚘Day1 Lanzhou—Hezuo (Mila Ribafoge)—Zha Ga Na 🚘Day2 Zha Ga Na—Xia Du Ku—Hua Lake—Geerdi Temple (Canyon)—Langmu Temple 🚘Day3 Langmu Temple—Ga Hai—Sangke Grassland—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe 🚘Day4 Xiahe County—Gan Jia Secret—Lanzhou . ⭕Attractions Introduction⭕ 📍Labrang Monastery, World Cultural Heritage, one of the six major monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism Gelug Sect, a large-scale temple, let you appreciate the profoundness of Tibetan religious culture. 📍Gan Jia Secret Under the high blue sky and white clouds, grasslands, lakes, snow mountains, temples, each place is full of mysterious and beautiful colors. Baishi Cliff, Baishi Cliff Cave, Octagonal Ancient City, Gan Jia Grassland, horse riding on the grassland is super awesome 📍Zha Ga Na The natural scenery is poetic and picturesque, like a fairyland in the world, a combination of pastoral scenery and plateau scenery, the nearby Lasang Temple, known for its golden top, can be reached by car 📍Langmu Temple Langmu Temple is a small town, known as the Eastern Switzerland, with a small stream of Bailong River separating Gansu and Sichuan, Gansu Sai Chi Temple is built on the mountain and is more luxurious 📍Lianbao Yeze The real version of the World of Warcraft, the rugged mountains and the famous lakes scattered all over, the sunset lake is the most classic sunset spot 📍The first bay of the Yellow River Nine Bends At the junction of Gansu and Sichuan, it is the first turning point of the Yellow River, located in the Ruoergai Grassland, the scenery is very beautiful 📍Langmu Temple: World Tibetan Studies, has the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, the explanation is the monks in the temple, many have accents must listen carefully 📍Sangke Grassland: Although it is a free scenic spot, the scenery is very beautiful, taking National Highway 316 back to Xiahe will pass through the entire Sangke Grassland . 🏠About Accommodation (Comfortable Accommodation/Luxury Accommodation) 📍Lanzhou: Star Journey, Vienna / Yado s 📍Xiahe: Sangzhu Hotel / Tianzhu Hotel 📍Zha Ga Na: Diebu Herdsmen, Tibetan Home / Cloud Above Beauty Residence 📍Langmu Temple: Zhuzong Hotel / Langmu Temple International Hotel 📍Beautiful Campsite: Ganjia Ecological Campsite, Ami Gonghong Ranch, Nuoerdan Campsite, Ruoergai Cloud Tour Starry Sky ⭐Ps: Gannan is in the Tibetan area and the accommodation environment is relatively poor, everyone should check the hotel environment online in advance when booking a hotel. .