2025 Diebu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Gannan, located in the southern part of Gansu Province, adjacent to Sichuan and Qinghai provinces It is precisely because it is on the edge of nature and culture That its beauty is so 'unique'... When the crisp morning mist envelops the world of Tibetan studies at Labrang Monastery When crossing the hills is the unattended shock of the Loke Road When the sky's wine faces the rugged and spectacular natural stone city of Zhagana When small animals like pikas and rabbits occasionally flash by the roadside 'You', being there Will definitely feel That every scene before your eyes is a state of mind Go! To Gannan! . Loke Road 'China's Route 66', with endless scenery along the way, as if in a fairyland. The whole journey is 100km, with no signal, and no food for sale along the way, so fill up on gas in advance, and prepare water and food The land landscape is diverse, with relics of Quaternary glacial geomorphology, mountains with giant rocks echoing, deep and narrow canyons, and primitive and dense forests . Zhagana A fairyland on earth, a combination of pastoral and plateau scenery, beautiful in both sunny and rainy weather Viewing platform route: Dari Viewing Platform—Shimen Viewing Platform—Loke Viewing Platform—Fairy Beach Viewing Platform Hiking: Scenic Area Second Gate—Tiger's Mouth—One Line Sky—King of Gods Temple—Stone Forest (horseback riding available) The scenery of Fairy Beach is the best, but there are many people, especially to watch the sunset and evening glow Loke Viewing Platform can only be reached on foot, but you can see the panoramic view of Zhagana Nearby is the He Lhasang Monastery, known for its golden roof, accessible by car . Langmu Monastery Langmu Monastery is a small town, known as the Oriental Switzerland, with a Bailong River stream separating Gansu and Sichuan Going up from the Gansu temple is the only open observatory in the Gannan area Next to the Gerdi Temple Square is the famous internet celebrity wall, better for photos with a wide-angle lens, surrounded by many coffee shops Sichuan Temple—Gerdi Temple, where you can listen to debates, held irregularly in the Great Hall, Red Stone Cliff is behind Langmu Town, made of red sandstone . Gannan Travel Tips ① Turn the prayer wheel clockwise, no photography inside temple halls ②Dress appropriately when entering temples, no short skirts, vests, tank tops, or slippers ③When encountering stone tablets, stupas, or mani piles with scriptures, walk around them clockwise ④Do not touch or point at Buddha statues or lamas, and do not randomly ring bells ⑤Do not sit on the lamas' special cushions or dharma platforms when resting in temples ⑥Do not touch the heads of Tibetan children, do not step on the threshold when entering Tibetan homes, step over it ⑦Do not express opinions or debate about ethnic beliefs .

Gannan is simply divine! You must come and see this picturesque world of nine colors🌍 It spans across Gansu, Sichuan, and Qinghai, filled with mystery and beauty Surprises are everywhere, and so are beautiful views Blind Peach has summarized this travel guide and photo spots, you can save it for your summer visit and check them out💕 - 【Photo Spots:】 ✅Zhagana ✨The hills are covered with colorful forests, known as the 'hidden paradise on earth' and one of the must-visit places in 'Chinese National Geography'! 🎫Ticket: 80 yuan ✅Baishiya/Ganjia Secret Realm ✨Like scenes from the movie 'The Lord of the Rings', with temples, grasslands, cattle, horses, and black mountains... It really feels like a secluded world at the end of the earth! 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Awan Warehouse Wetland ✨The Yellow River meanders here, nourishing the nearby wetlands, grasslands, and animals. In the evening, the 'Jesus light' penetrates through the clouds~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Luo Ke's Road ✨100 kilometers of rugged stone mountains, with forests, grasslands, rivers... The entire road has both vast and secluded views, a paradise for the eyes! 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Lianbao Yezhe ✨Rugged stone mountains with lakes, a real magical world! Here you can take cool blockbuster photos! 🎫Ticket: 120 yuan ✅Sangke Grassland ✨Flower seas everywhere, just stop and snap pictures, they all look like movie screenshots, very healing🍃~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan ✅Labrang Monastery ✨Home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor and a Tibetan Buddhism academy, even taking photos in Tibetan clothes looks great! 🎫Ticket: 40 yuan ✅Ruoergai Grassland ✨The river flows like a crescent moon on the grassland, with birds, fish, marmots, aquatic plants, this place is like a small ecosystem~ 🎫Ticket: 0 yuan 【Itinerary:】 🔸Day1: Lanzhou→Labrang Monastery→Ganjia Secret Realm→Baishiya (Stay: Xiahe County) 🔸Day2: Sangke Grassland→ Guomang Wetland→Langmu Monastery (Stay: Langmu Monastery) 🔸Day3: Awan Warehouse Wetland→Lianbao Yezhe→Aba County (Stay: Aba County) 🔸Day4: Ruoergai Flower Lake→Tiebu Town Xiaoduku (Stay: Diebu County) 🔸Day5: Zhagana (Stay: Zhagana) 🔸Day6: Zhagana→Luo Ke's Road→Lanzhou

🌟 Chapter One: Introduction to the Scenic Area Gannan, a hidden gem nestled deep in the plateau, is a dazzling pearl of Gansu Province, known far and wide for its vast grasslands, sacred and solemn temples, and pristine natural scenery. It is not only a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhism culture but also a paradise for photography enthusiasts, and a pilgrimage site for travelers seeking spiritual cleansing and closeness to nature. 🚗 Chapter Two: Transportation Guide - **Arriving in Gannan**: First fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, then rent a car or take a long-distance bus to Hezuo City, the capital of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and the starting point for exploring Gannan. - **Self-driving**: The Gannan area is suitable for self-driving, with endless scenic views along the way, but be mindful of the rugged mountain roads and drive safely. 🎢 Chapter Three: About the Tour - **Best Season**: Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Gannan, when the grasslands are lush and the climate is pleasant. - **Travel Tips**: Start early each day to make the most of the daylight hours, and at night, experience Tibetan homestays and enjoy the tranquility under the starry sky. 📍 Chapter Four: Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Labrang Monastery**: One of the world's largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, experience the rich religious atmosphere and magnificent architecture. 2. **Zhagana**: Known as the 'Stone City Paradise', hike through the canyons to admire the stunning peaks and Tibetan villages. 3. **Sangke Grassland**: Ride horses, practice archery, and taste Tibetan meals to experience authentic Tibetan customs. 4. **Langmusi Monastery**: A unique temple straddling Sichuan and Gansu, visit the 'Switzerland of the East'. 5. **Gahai Lake**: A pearl on the plateau, a great spot for bird watching and photography. 6. **Milarepa Buddha Pavilion**: A nine-story Buddha pavilion, each floor with different stories and Buddha statues, climb high for a refreshing and exhilarating view. 🏨 Chapter Five: Accommodation and Dining - **Accommodation**: Recommended to stay in Tibetan homestays in Xiahe, Langmusi Town, or near Zhagana to experience the warmth and uniqueness of Tibetan families. - **Dining**: Try Tibetan meals such as tsampa, butter tea, and hand-grabbed lamb, and don't miss the local yogurt and yak meat. 🚷 Chapter Six: Pitfalls to Avoid - **Preventing Altitude Sickness**: When first arriving on the plateau, rest well, avoid strenuous exercise, and carry portable oxygen canisters. - **Sunscreen and Warm Clothing**: The plateau's UV rays are strong, and the temperature varies greatly between day and night, so be prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a thick coat. - **Respecting Customs**: Remove your hat when entering temples, do not wear shorts or skirts, and ask for permission before taking photos. In this place closest to the sky, the Gannan mystery awaits every traveler to unveil her veil of secrecy. Although three days is a short time, it is enough to give your soul a profound purification. When the journey ends, what you take away is not just the scenery in your camera, but also the unforgettable peace and freedom. Gannan, a place worth visiting time and again, looks forward to reuniting with the most authentic self here.

“Recommend 10 travel destinations that I think are unpopular and interesting. After graduation, I did not go to work immediately. I chose to take a gap year Visited more than 100 cities in China - 2023 travel is open I guess most of the tourist attractions have too many tourists and commercialization. This article shares 9 niche travel destinations that healed me I hope you can go see it too. - ❶ Baisha Ancient Town Located in Lijiang, Yunnan; enjoy the sun, play with the cats, sit and drink coffee every day, and look up to see the snow-capped mountains. The temperature will be more comfortable from December to February, and there is real snow on Yulong Snow Mountain. . ❷Litang Located in Ganzi, Sichuan; the city in the sky at an altitude of 4,000 meters is not only a city, but also the undeveloped Genyen South Line nearby. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lakes in spring and summer, and small wild flowers bloom all over the grassland. . ❸Zhagana Located in Gannan, Gansu; a hidden paradise, I think it is a bit like the Zhangjia Ancient Building in Banai; snow-capped mountains, holy lakes, blue sky, wilderness, quiet villages, cabins, yaks and sheep in the sea of ​​flowers, and smoke from cooking in the valley in the evening . ❹Rain collapse Located in Diqing, Yunnan; the stunning scenery is only visible on foot. The Cordyceps Line and the Shenhu Line walk under the Meili Snow Mountain and among the primeval forests, with squirrels, birds, glacier canyons, etc. . ❺ Leng Gacuo Located in Ganzi, Sichuan; Snow-capped White Horse, Starry River and Ever-bright ~ I have been to so many snow-capped mountains, but the King of Sichuan Mountains, Gongga, is so beautiful that it makes me "thrilled" . ❻Mount Everest Located in Shigatse, Tibet; it is said that anyone who sees the Golden Mountain in the Rising Sun will be lucky for the whole year! First of all, the altitude sickness will screen out a large number of people. To see the golden mountain in the sun, you have to get up in the middle of the night to go to the Jiawula Pass, which will also screen out a large number of people. . ❼Shata Located in Yili, Xinjiang; step into the real Wizard of Oz, where herdsmen’s cabins are dotted among the mountains, and the peaks of the snow-capped mountains in the distance glow in the clouds🏔️ . ❽Weishan Ancient City Located in Dali, Yunnan; I guess not many people know about this place. This is the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom in the Legend of Sword and Fairy. But what impressed me most was that the snacks here are so delicious! ! . ❾Sichuan Islands Located in Ningde, Fujian; the real-life version of Zelda, an undeveloped wild island stands alone in the middle of the sea, like a giant dragon lying down, or like a meteorite relic. . ❿Chongzuo Located in Chongzuo, Guangxi; a small border town on the border between China and Vietnam, it is surrounded by beautiful and unique karst landforms, with thousands of mountains abrupt and continuous, and rice fields scattered in between. . It is said that "the harder it is to reach a place, the more it touches people's hearts" Except for Baisha and Weishan, the above 10 places are not easy to reach. I hope you can go there one day. “No longer learn about the motherland through geography books, but with the eyes of freedom!

| Drive thousands of miles to see an unforgettable winter mountain scenery. December-February highly recommended to go to the most beautiful winter in Gannan If you have missed the lushness of spring, the green of summer, and the colorfulness of autumn, then you must take advantage of the winter in Gannan~ The blue sky and snow-covered earth make the beautiful season of Gannan! Recommended attractions in Gannan in winter. 1. Zhagana There are famous ski resorts with rolling snow-capped mountains and vast snowfields . 2. Ganga Secret Realm Like a fairy tale world, the houses on both sides of the street are also decorated picturesquely with snowflakes 3. Labulang Temple What is comparable to the elegant scenery of the famous mountains here is the quiet village in the winter snow, and the Sanskrit mottos in the temple that shock the soul 4. Langmusi The encounter between red and white is a secret arrangement by God, which shows the mystery of Langmusi to the fullest 5, Milarepa Buddha Pavilion There are a large number of Buddhist cultural sites here, where you can pray for blessings All good things Tips for traveling in Gannan: 1. Keeping warm and cold is essential. It is recommended to carry down jackets, sweaters, fleece underwear, gloves, scarves and other equipment 2. The dry climate of Gannan makes it easy for the skin to become dry and flaky 3. The road is easy to freeze in winter, so the anti-skid performance of the vehicle should be good Trip Route Ice and Snow Gannan 5 days. D1 Across the country - Lanzhou assembly D2 Lanzhou - Ganga Secret Land - Intangible Cultural Heritage Tibetan Thangka - Xiahe County D3 Labrang Monastery - Live in Zhagana D4 Zhagana Tour - Langmusi, Sichuan - Namo Grand Canyon - Langmusi. D5 Gansu Dachang Langmu Temple - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou Disbandment

Zha (g) is an ancient city in Yiwa Township, located more than 30 kilometers northwest of Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. The Tibetan language means Shizizi. The terrain is like a giant palace with a large scale and a natural rock wall. Zha That the mountain is steep, misty, like a fairyland. A variety of production activities such as nomadic, farming, hunting and plucking in the Tibetan village are rationally matched and complemented, which has become a model for people to live in harmony with nature. Zhana in Yiwow Township, Diebu County, Gansu Province is a Tibetan language, meaning Shizizi. Zhaqin Mountain is located in Yiwa Township, 34 kilometers northwest of Diebu County. It is a complete natural Shicheng custom. It is called the "King of the King". The terrain is like a giant palace with a large scale, and a complete ancient city built by natural rock walls. Zhengbei is a majestic, majestic and glorious mountain with a gleaming peak. The ancient name "Shijing Mountain" has its name because of its gray-white rock. It is famous for its easy-reflecting light in the east; the rocky wall in the east rises into the sky, and the clouds are haunted; The pinnacles rise from the ground, and they stand together to form a stone gate; then south to the east wow, the Naga area, the cliffs stand, the clear stream rises and falls, the water mill flywheel, the flow continues. The mountain is steep and beautiful, like a large-scale stone palace. Although this paradise was named as the birthplace of Adam and Eve as early as nearly a hundred years ago, it is still a virgin land.

Hey, travel lovers! Do you want to experience a mysterious journey into Tibetan culture? Gannan, a magical land in the southwest of Gansu Province, is known as "Little Tibet in China" and will definitely satisfy all your fantasies about mystery and nature! 🎉 1. Transportation 🚗 • Plane: You can fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, and then take a bus or rent a car from Lanzhou to Gannan. There are 3 connecting flights from Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport every day. • High-speed train: There are 6 daily trains on the Hezuo branch of the Xi'an-Chengdu high-speed railway, which can take you directly to Hezuo City from Lanzhou or Chengdu in 4 hours. • Self-driving: Self-driving is recommended. Although the road conditions in Gannan are complicated, self-driving allows you to stop and go as you please, making it more free, and the scenery along the way is super beautiful. However, if your driving skills are average or you are not familiar with the road conditions, you can choose to rent a car or join a tour group, which is safe and worry-free. 2. Accommodation Recommendations 🏨 • Xiahe Nuoerdan Camp Hotel: Located near Sangke Grassland, it is recommended for families. You can experience the tent hotel on the grassland and see the stars at night. • Luqu International Hotel: Convenient transportation, complete facilities, and high cost performance. • Gannan Hotel, Hezuo City: Offers Tibetan-style cuisine and quality service. • Zha Ga Na Tiancheng Gana Meiduo: Tibetan stone house with bonfire parties at night, experiencing a unique Tibetan style. 3. Fun Check-in Spots 📍 • Labrang Monastery: One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug School of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the "Oriental Vatican", with a grand scale and profound cultural heritage. Here, you can visit the monastery buildings and feel the solemnity and mystery of Tibetan Buddhism. Pay attention to respecting religious customs when visiting, and taking pictures is prohibited in the temple. • Sangke Grassland: One of the most beautiful grasslands in Gannan. In summer, the green grass is like a blanket and wildflowers are in full bloom. It is suitable for horseback riding and taking pictures. There are also many yaks on the grassland that you can interact with, which is super fun. • Zha Ga Na: A magnificent stone city with rolling mountains, dense forests, and clear streams. It is a great place for hiking and photography. Enjoy the morning mist and sunrise in the early morning, and photograph the beautiful scenery at sunset in the evening to feel the charm of "paradise on earth". • Langmusi Town: A town known as "Oriental Little Switzerland". A small stream integrates the Tibetan and Hui ethnic groups living in peace. Lama temples and mosques occupy both sides of the stream, full of exotic customs. • Maqu Yellow River First Bay: Admire the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River First Bay and feel the majestic momentum of the Yellow River. • Flower Lake: Stroll along the wooden plank road, admire the wetland ecology and migratory birds, and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature. • Ruoergai Grassland: Experience the life of grassland herders, participate in bonfire parties, and feel the vastness and freedom of the grassland. 4. Food Exploration 🍽️ • Yak Meat Hot Pot: The yak meat is fresh and tender, the hot pot soup base is rich, and it is served with wild mushrooms and Tibetan seasonings, which is warm and delicious. • Tibetan Buns: Tibetan buns made with yak meat filling have thin skins and lots of filling. One bite bursts with juice, which is a daily staple food for Tibetans. • Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from butter, tea, and salt. You may not be used to it at first, but you will become addicted to it after drinking it a lot, and it can also relieve altitude sickness. • Zanba: Highland barley fried noodles mixed with butter and milk tea to form a ball. It is the main food of Tibetans, and you can experience the fun of making it yourself. • Highland Quinoa Ice Cream: Zha Ga Na scenic spot limited edition, decorated with Tibetan honey and highland barley crisps, with a unique taste. 5. Tips 💡 • Altitude Sickness: Gannan has an altitude of about 3,000m, and some people may experience mild altitude sickness. It is recommended to prepare Rhodiola in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. • Respect Tibetan Customs: Gannan is a Tibetan area. You must take off your hat, not take pictures, and not step on the threshold when entering temples. Do not watch or take pictures of sky burial ceremonies. • Sun Protection and Warmth: Gannan has strong ultraviolet rays and a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in summer, you should bring a jacket. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential. • Road Conditions and Transportation: Some sections of the road in Gannan are rugged. It is recommended to rent a car or join a tour group. Be cautious when driving yourself. Landslides or mudslides may occur during the rainy season. • Eco-friendly Travel: When playing in grasslands and scenic spots, do not litter and protect the local environment. Hey, travel lovers, the beauty of Gannan is waiting for you to explore! Pack your luggage and start this journey of Tibetan culture! 💕

[Gannan Zhagana Travel Guide] Where the gods live, mortals can also come for a free meal! (with money-saving tips) **📸 Must-see spots** 1. **Fairy Beach**: Don't bother looking, there are no fairies, only grasslands and wildflowers that will make your phone's memory explode with photos. 2. **Locke Viewing Platform**: The American explorer Locke said this place is like the Garden of Eden, but a friendly reminder—the altitude is 3,000+ meters, don't breathe too hard, or you'll run out of steam. 3. **Stroll through the Tibetan Village**: Push open the wooden fence and encounter Tibetan Xiang pigs sunbathing (they may be better at posing than you). --- ### **🍖 Foodie Radar: Calorie supply station on the plateau** 1. **Tibetan Yak Hot Pot**: The meat chunks are so big that you'll suspect the yak is inflated. Dip it in chili sauce and you'll feel warm to your toes in a second. (Recommended: **Zhagana Tibetan Family Restaurant**, CNY 60 per person) 2. **Highland Barley Cake with Butter Tea**: A sweet and salty combo. One bite is enough to forgive the lack of oxygen from altitude sickness. 3. **Yogurt with White Sugar**: Frowning from the sourness and then adding sugar like crazy, it's just like life, bitter first and then sweet. ⚠️ Lightning Protection Guide: The "wild matsutake mushrooms" on the roadside may be its second uncle, don't buy them randomly if you don't know what they are! --- ### **🚗 Crazy Fun Around the Area** 1. **Ruoergai Flower Lake** (2 hr drive): The lake surface blooms in summer. It is recommended to bring a partner, or a selfie stick if you don't have one. 2. **Langmusi** (1.5 hr drive): Not one temple, but two temples competing across the river. Pet the temple cats while you're there. 3. **First Bend of the Yellow River** (3 hr drive): Please control your emotions when watching the sunset, don't cry so hard because it's so beautiful that you get dehydrated. --- ### **🏠 Accommodation Money-Saving Mysteries** 1. **Tibetan B&B**: CNY 100–200/night. The wooden houses have so-so soundproofing, but you may be "awakened" by the snow-capped mountain sunshine in the morning. (Recommended: **Zhagana Cloud Inn**, the owner will give you plateau-style dry humor) 2. **Youth Hostel Bed**: CNY 50/person, suitable for hardcore players who just want to "sleep", and you can also find hiking partners. 3. **Ultimate Freebie**: Pose cute with the Tibetan family's little lambs, and you may be invited to drink free butter tea (1% success rate). --- ### **📌 Heartfelt Tips** 1. Apply sunscreen until you can scrape putty off your face, otherwise the plateau's UV rays will give you "plateau red cheeks like the Tibetans" in minutes. 2. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large. Clothing recommendations: short sleeves during the day, shivering under the covers at night. 3. Respect customs: Don't spin the prayer wheel backwards, or the Tibetan auntie's eyes will nail you to the mountain as a prayer flag.

—— 7 Days 6 Nights Luxury Tibetan Adventure: Retracing National Geographic's iconic route 🏔️ Why Gannan? ✅ Escape the hustle without leaving convenience: Just a 3-hour drive from Lanzhou, with altitudes over 3000m and no altitude sickness concerns. ✅ A condensed version of Tibetan culture: Grasslands, snow-capped mountains, wetlands, monasteries, and villages—all encapsulating the essence of Tibetan heritage. ✅ A hidden gem: Annual visitors are less than one-tenth of those in Tibet, offering solitude and freedom across vast grasslands. 🏕️ Stay amidst sacred mountains | 3 luxury wilderness accommodations tested 1️⃣ Ganjia Eco Camping Site ▫️ 360° panoramic transparent dome rooms for stargazing and spotting all 88 constellations. ▫️ Overnight stay beneath White Stone Cliff, sharing breakfast with marmots at dawn. ▫️ Exclusive experience: Crafting Amdo medicinal incense under Tibetan medical guidance. 2️⃣ Amigonghong Ranch Homestay ▫️ Five-star Tibetan-style tents with private bathrooms, floor heating, and oxygen supply systems. ▫️ Bonfire party with traditional Guozhuang dance and freshly brewed yak milk tea. ▫️ Ranch owner-led exploration of highland gentian flower fields. 3️⃣ Zhagana Gana Meiduo ▫️ Tibetan-style stone house loft with a private balcony overlooking Zhagana's morning mist. ▫️ Rooftop viewing deck for Tibetan afternoon tea, accompanied by soaring eagles. ▫️ Night tour of Fairy Beach with guided astrophotography of prayer flag formations under the stars. 🌿 Exclusive perks for private tours ✅ First-class comfort in off-road vehicles: Equipped with oxygen, neck pillows, and blankets, plus onboard Tibetan culture guides. ✅ Top-tier local experiences: ▪️ VIP seating for early morning prayers at Labrang Monastery. ▪️ Zhagana Tibetan village visit with traditional Tsampa-making. ▪️ 24-hour immersive experience of pastoral life in Sangke Grassland. 💡 Gannan Travel Tips ❶ Best seasons: June-August for wildflower blooms / September-October for colorful forests. ❷ Outfit formula: Windbreaker + ethnic-style shawl + sunglasses, with a 15°C+ temperature difference between day and night. ❸ Cultural etiquette: Avoid pointing at Buddha statues in monasteries; always walk clockwise when spinning prayer wheels.

Best time to visit: May to October is the best time to visit Gannan. The weather is cool, the grassland is lush, and the wildflowers are in full bloom, making it the best time to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the plateau. Must-see attractions: Labrang Monastery: The largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the Gannan area, it has the longest prayer wheel corridor in the world and is an excellent place to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture. Sangke Grassland: A vast grassland with herds of cattle and sheep, it is a good place to experience the life of Tibetan nomads and enjoy the scenery of the plateau. Zhagana: Known as a "fairyland on earth," the unique mountain landforms and Tibetan villages complement each other, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Food recommendations: Gannan Yogurt: Sweet and sour, nutritious, and a specialty of the Gannan area. Tibetan Buns: Filled with beef and mutton, with thin skin and large fillings, they are a good choice for tasting Tibetan flavors. Accommodation recommendations: Xiahe Labrang Civil Aviation Hotel: With complete facilities and convenient transportation, it is an ideal place to stay when visiting Labrang Monastery. Diebu Zhagana Dari Linka Boutique Homestay: Located in the Zhagana scenic area, with a beautiful environment and attentive service, it is a good place to experience Tibetan homestays.

Gansu In-Depth Travel Guide (Latest 2024 Edition) – A Thousand Years of Silk Road Echoes 🐫 --- I. Essential Guide Before You Go ✅ **Best Time to Visit**: - **May–October**: Pleasant climate (peak season in July–August, golden poplar forest in September–October) - **November–April**: Off-season with fewer crowds (half-price tickets for Mogao Grottoes, but some scenic spots are closed) ✅ **Transportation**: - ✈️ Plane: Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport (provincial hub)/Dunhuang Airport - 🚄 High-speed train: Lanzhou West Railway Station (connecting Xi'an/Urumqi) - 🚗 Chartered car: As the scenic spots are scattered, it is recommended to charter a car for the western/southern route (approx. CNY 600–800/day) ✅ **Essentials**: - Sun protection kit: Sunglasses + sunscreen + sun hat (extremely strong UV rays) - Moisturizing products: Lip balm + moisturizing spray (dry climate) - Documents: ID card (border pass required in advance for some border areas) --- II. Must-Visit Attractions **📍 Dunhuang Route (Silk Road Culture)** - **Mogao Grottoes**: - New rule for 2024: Class A tickets (8 caves + digital center) must be booked 1 month in advance - Hidden experience: Visit special caves (CNY 150–200/cave, book on-site) - **Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake**: - Best time: Sunrise/sunset (avoid the high temperature at noon) - New experience: Desert camping to watch the stars (recommended: Dunhuang Villa) **📍 Zhangye Route (Geological Wonders)** - **Zhangye Danxia Geopark**: - The colors are most vibrant after rain (No. 4 viewing platform is the best) - New night tour program (light show + stargazing) - **Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon**: - "China's Colorado," hiking/off-road vehicle crossing **📍 Gannan Route (Tibetan Customs)** - **Labrang Monastery**: - World's longest prayer wheel corridor (3.2 km) - Monlam Festival (February 10–16, 2024) - **Zhagana**: - "Stone City Secret Land," it is recommended to stay in a Tibetan homestay **📍 Other Highlights of Hexi Corridor**: - **Jiayuguan Fortress**: The western starting point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall - **Jinta Poplar Forest** (mid-to-late October): Fewer people than Ejina --- III. New Experiences in 2024 🎭 **Cultural Immersion**: - Dunhuang adds "Digital Dunhuang 2.0" VR experience (replicating unopened caves) - Zhangye's live-action performance of *Hui Dao Zhangye* (sandstorm effects) 🏜️ **Outdoor Adventure**: - Mingsha Mountain adds a desert ATV off-road track - Gannan Langmusi Gorge horse riding exploration 🍵 **Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience**: - Lanzhou Yellow River Waterwheel making (Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop DIY) - Linxia brick carving skills study --- IV. Food Map 🍜 **Must-Eat List**: - Lanzhou: Beef noodles (the first pot of soup at 6am is the freshest) + Fangha sweet fermented millet milk tea - Dunhuang: Donkey meat yellow noodles + apricot juice - Zhangye: Fish noodles + braised chicken with flat noodles - Gannan: Tibetan buns + yak yogurt 🍢 **Night Market Recommendations**: - Lanzhou Zhenning Road Night Market (look for the white-bearded grandpa for milk and egg fermented glutinous rice) - Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market (bargain for handicrafts, starting from 30% off) --- V. Recommended Classic Itineraries **🚗 5-Day, 4-Night Essential Route** Day 1: Lanzhou (Provincial Museum + Yellow River Scenery Line) → Overnight train to Dunhuang Day 2: Mogao Grottoes + Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake Day 3: Dunhuang West Route (Yangguan + Yumen Pass) Day 4: Zhangye Danxia Geopark Day 5: Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon → Return trip **🌄 7-Day, 6-Night In-Depth Route** +Day 6: Jiayuguan Tower → Overhanging Great Wall +Day 7: Gannan Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland --- VI. Accommodation Guide 🏨 **Featured Recommendations**: - Dunhuang: Dunhuang Villa (Han and Tang style, excellent for stargazing) - Zhangye: Gonghanglv Danxia Mingzhu Hotel (at the entrance of the scenic spot) - Gannan: Zhagana Tibetan Homestay (Stone City view) 💰 **Money-Saving Tips**: - Choose near Lanzhou West Railway Station (convenient transportation) - Off-season (November–April) room rates drop by 50% --- VII. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls ⚠️ **Precautions**: - Taking photos is strictly prohibited in the Mogao Grottoes (fines can reach CNY 10,000) - Beware of "black cars" when chartering a car (look for a regular travel agency) - Altitude sickness: Gannan area is 3,000+ meters above sea level, prepare Rhodiola Rosea 💸 **Consumption Tips**: - Scenic spot battery car fees are extra (Zhangye Danxia Geopark: CNY 20/person) - Jiayuguan joint ticket includes the Overhanging Great Wall (don't buy separately) --- VIII. Photography Paradise 📸 **Best Spots**: 1. No. 4 viewing platform of Zhangye Danxia Geopark (sunset) 2. Dari viewing platform of Zhagana (surrounded by morning mist) 3. Overlooking Crescent Lake from the top of Mingsha Mountain 4. Humanistic shots of the prayer wheel corridor of Labrang Monastery --- IX. Special Tips • **Ethnic Taboos**: Do not step on the threshold/point at Buddha statues in Gannan temples • **New Environmental Protection Regulations**: Plastic shoe covers are prohibited in Mingsha Mountain (environmentally friendly ones can be rented) • **Network Signal**: There is often no signal in the Gobi Desert (download offline maps in advance) 🌿 **Local Suggestions**: The distance between cities in the Hexi Corridor is long. It is recommended to "start early + take a lunch break + arrive late," and prepare enough snacks and water! Take this guide and feel the collision of the desert and the Tibetan Buddhist sounds! 🏜️🎑

Uncover the secrets of Tibet, misty villages, and pastoral grasslands! Unlock the same "Paradise on Earth" that's featured in National Geographic! Includes a complete guide to transportation, routes, and tips to help you explore the lesser-known Gannan~ 🏔️📸 --- ### **🚗 Transportation Guide** 1. **Departure City → Lanzhou** - **Plane/High-Speed Rail**: Fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport from various locations (or take the high-speed rail to Lanzhou West Station). It is recommended to arrive 1 day in advance to acclimatize to the altitude. 2. **Lanzhou → Zaga** - **Self-Driving/Chartered Car**: It is recommended to charter a car (the cost for 4–5 days is approx. CNY 2,500–3,000/car, including a driver). - Route: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery (3.5 hrs) → Sangke Grassland (15 mins) → Langmu Temple (2.5 hrs) → Zaga (3 hrs). - **Road Condition Tips**: The expressway from Lanzhou to Xiahe is smooth. There are many bends on the mountain roads in Zaga, so drive carefully during the rainy season. --- ### **🗺️ Route Planning** **Day 1: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland** - **Morning**: Depart from Lanzhou and drive 3.5 hours to **Labrang Monastery** in Xiahe. Spin the world's longest prayer wheel corridor (3 km) and climb the Gongtang Pagoda to overlook the panoramic view (ticket price: CNY 20). - **Afternoon**: Go to **Sangke Grassland** (15-minute drive), ride horses (CNY 20/person), camp on the grassland to watch the stars ✨, and stay overnight in a Tibetan tent or Xiahe County (CNY 100–150 per person). - **Recommended Food**: Yak hot pot and butter tea at the Tibetan restaurant in Xiahe. **Day 2: Sangke Grassland → Langmu Temple → Ruoergai Flower Lake** - **Morning**: Drive 2.5 hours to **Langmu Temple Town** and visit Gansu Golden Peak Temple and Sichuan Silver Peak Temple. Stroll through the Bailong River Canyon. - **Afternoon**: Go to **Ruoergai Flower Lake** (1.5-hour drive), walk on the wetland boardwalk, and watch birds and feed seagulls (ticket price: CNY 75). In the evening, take photos of the sunset at the first bay of the Yellow River 🌅. - **Accommodation**: Tibetan-style homestay in Langmu Temple Town (CNY 80–120 per person). **Day 3: Langmu Temple → Zaga** - **Morning**: Drive 3 hours to **Zaga**. Pass through the "Little Duku" highway along the way, and capture the misty mountain scenery and wild sika deer 🦌. - **Afternoon**: Check into a Tibetan homestay in Dongwa Village, hike to **Fairy Beach** (2 hours round trip), and take photos of the panoramic view of the stone city and the terraced fields in the dusk 📸. - **Overnight**: Zaga homestay (it is recommended to stay in a room with a view in Dari Village, CNY 150 per person, a 270° mountain view room is great value!). **Day 4: Zaga Deep Tour** - **Early Morning**: At 6:00, climb the **Dari Viewing Platform** to photograph the misty village in the morning, as if in a fairyland ☁️. - **Morning**: Hike to **Runwu Gully Waterfall** (3 hours) to explore the canyon streams and primeval forest 🌲. - **Afternoon**: Self-drive the essence of the "Locke Road" (Zaga → Guanggaishan), challenge the gravel road, and overlook the snow-capped mountains and meadows (SUV required). - **Overnight**: Zaga or return to Diebu County (better conditions). **Day 5: Return to Lanzhou** - **Morning**: Zaga → Lanzhou (7-hour drive). Pass by **Guomang Wetland** to take photos of the black-necked crane statue, and buy yak jerky as a souvenir. --- ### **⚠️ Tips to Avoid Pitfalls** 1. **Transportation Tips** - There is no gas station in Zaga. Be sure to fill up in Diebu County! There is no signal on some road sections, so download an offline map in advance. - Be careful when choosing low-priced chartered car tours (such as "CNY 99 one-day tour"), as attractions may be reduced or forced shopping may occur. 2. **Accommodation Tips** - The conditions of the homestays in Zaga are relatively simple, so it is recommended to bring your own toiletries. You need to book 1 week in advance during the peak season. 3. **Travel Traps** - Fairy Lake is actually a small pool, so lower your expectations. You need to bring hiking shoes for hiking. People with altitude sickness should not challenge the Stone Forest route. - Taking photos is prohibited in Langmu Temple. Respect religious customs and do not take photos of monks at will. 4. **Consumption Tips** - Horse riding on Sangke Grassland can be bargained to CNY 15–20/person. The environmental protection fee in Zaga is CNY 10/person, and there are no other tickets. --- ### **💰 Budget Reference (CNY 1,500 per person)** - **Transportation**: Chartered car sharing CNY 600 + fuel/toll fee CNY 200. - **Accommodation**: 4 nights × CNY 120 = CNY 480. - **Dining**: 4 days × CNY 80 = CNY 320 (mainly Tibetan food and pasta). - **Tickets/Experiences**: Labrang Monastery CNY 40 + Flower Lake CNY 75 + Horse riding CNY 50 = CNY 165. --- ### **📸 Photography Tips** - **Zaga**: The best times are morning mist (6:00–7:30) and sunset (18:30–19:30). The Dari Viewing Platform has an excellent location. - **Sangke Grassland**: Take photos of the green carpet and sheep after the rain. For Milky Way photography at night, avoid light pollution. - **Outfit Suggestions**: Bright shawl/windbreaker, sun hat + sunglasses, and a down liner for the large temperature difference ❄️☀️. --- **The beauty of Gannan is the poetry of Tibet and the fairy tale in the clouds.** Take this guide with you, find yourself in the morning mist of Zaga, and sleep soundly under the stars of Sangke Grassland! ✨🏕️

Gansu Travel Guide (Concise Edition) I. Must-See Attractions 1. Dunhuang - Mogao Grottoes: A World Heritage Site and treasure trove of murals and grotto art (reservations required). - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake: A desert spectacle where you can ride camels and watch the sunset. - Dunhuang Ancient City: A film and television base where you can experience the customs of the Western Regions. 2. Zhangye - Danxia Landform Geological Park: The colorful Danxia, most vibrant at sunset. - Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon: Hike through the canyon and marvel at the stunning landforms. 3. Jiayuguan - Jiayuguan Great Wall: The first strategic pass under heaven and the end point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall. 4. Lanzhou - Yellow River Scenic Line: Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Mountain, and a ride on a sheepskin raft. - Gansu Provincial Museum: See the "Galloping Horse Treading on a Swallow" bronze statue (free). 5. Gannan (Suitable for Summer) - Labrang Monastery: A sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism where you can pray by turning the prayer wheels. - Zhagana: A secluded village with picturesque snow-capped mountains and grasslands. II. Featured Cuisine - Lanzhou Beef Noodles (Recommended: "Ma Zi Lu" and "Mogouyan"). - Dunhuang Donkey Meat Noodles and Apricot Peel Water. - Zhangye Fish Noodles and Fried Noodles. - Gannan Tibetan Food: Tsampa and Yak Meat. III. Transportation Recommendations - Major Transportation: Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport/Dunhuang Airport, with high-speed rail connecting major cities. - Within the Province: Attractions are scattered, so it is recommended to charter a car or share a ride (such as the Dunhuang West Line and Gannan Loop). IV. Precautions 1. The climate is dry, so sun protection and hydration are essential. 2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a jacket (especially in the desert and Gannan). 3. Respect the customs of ethnic minorities (such as not taking photos in temples and not stepping on thresholds). V. Recommended Routes - Short Route (5 days): Lanzhou → Dunhuang (Mogao Grottoes + Mingsha Mountain) → Zhangye (Danxia) → Jiayuguan → Return. - Long Route (7 days+) Gannan: Lanzhou → Gannan (Labrang Monastery + Zhagana) → Dunhuang → Zhangye → Return. Gansu combines grottoes, deserts, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands, making it suitable for travelers who love history and natural scenery!

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.

Visit Gannan on May Day and enjoy the beautiful scenery Visit Gannan during the May Day holiday and explore "Little Tibet"! Here you can find the magnificent Zhagana Stone City, the vast Sangke Grassland, the sacred Labrang Monastery, and the stunning sunset at the first bend of the Yellow River. The Tibetan and Qiang customs are rich and the natural scenery is pure, which is suitable for hiking, photography and pilgrimage. The weather in May is pleasant, the grasslands are turning green, and the wild flowers are beginning to bloom. It is a good time to avoid the crowds and experience the charm of the plateau. Zhagana 🎫Tickets: 80/person, sightseeing bus 40/person💰 "Eden on Earth", Fairy Beach is shrouded in mist in the early morning and full of flowers. Both the distant and near views are amazing! The starry sky is bright at night, and the starry sky photos are beautiful to share with friends · Langmusi Temple 🎫Ticket price: 30/person💰 "Little Switzerland of the East", the golden roof of the temple shines in the sun, the sound of chanting echoes in the air, the surrounding streams are crystal clear, and the grass is lush and green · Namor Grand Canyon 🎫Tickets: Free💰 Namo Grand Canyon is located in Yushu, Qinghai, China. It is a magnificent canyon in the upper reaches of the Lancang River. It is famous for its steep cliffs, clear river water and unique Tibetan culture. It is known as the "secret place on earth". A secret place in the Gelug Monastery, with cliffs on both sides of the canyon towering into the clouds and streams winding through, it is quiet and magnificent. You can experience hiking and horseback riding. · Labrang Monastery 🎫Ticket price: 40/person💰 The long prayer corridor connects the red walls and golden roofs. Devout believers come and go. A casual shot is a blockbuster full of humanistic style, as if time has stopped here. · Gannan "Xiaoduku" 🎫Tickets: Free💰 A hidden self-driving route from Zhagana to Huahu Lake, with picturesque scenery along the way, driving through it, as if you are in a moving painting · Sangke Grassland 🎫Tickets: Free💰 On the vast grassland, there are herds of cattle and horses, like a beautiful picture. Walking in it, it seems to forget the troubles of the world... · Ruoergai Flower Lake 🎫Ticket + scenic spot transfer: 120/person💰 The "Sky Mirror" on the plateau, with wild flowers blooming by the lake in summer, the blue sky, white clouds, green grass and flowers reflected in the lake, as if you are in a fairyland · The First Bend of the Yellow River 🎫Ticket + escalator: 105/person💰 The Yellow River winds across the grassland like a green ribbon. When the sun sets, the afterglow shines on the river, making it sparkling. It is a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

💖Gannan, located in southern Gansu province, is a place full of mystery and charm. Here you'll find vast grasslands, azure skies, pristine white clouds, and Tibetan Buddhist temples filled with devotion - each sight more captivating than the last. 👍️Why we recommend it: In Gannan, you can feel the power of faith in the long prayer wheel corridors of Labrang Monastery; gallop across Sangke Grassland and embrace the free-spirited wind; seek inner peace in the fairyland-like landscape of Zhagana; and listen to the echoes of time in the morning and evening bells of Langmusi Temple. Gannan offers a feast for both eyes and soul. Detailed address: Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, located on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, bordering Qinghai and Sichuan provinces. Admission fees: - Labrang Monastery: Around 40 yuan, includes visits to monastery buildings, Buddhist colleges, etc. - Sangke Grassland: Free admission, additional fees for activities like horseback riding. - Zhagana: Around 80 yuan, including shuttle bus within the scenic area. - Langmusi Temple: Around 30 yuan for the Gansu section, around 30 yuan for the Sichuan section. - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: Around 20 yuan. 📅Travel tips by season: - March to May: Spring arrives late in Gannan, with winter scenery dominating and grass gradually turning green by May. Fewer tourists make this a good time for off-peak travel. - June to August: Peak season in Gannan, with lush green grass, wildflowers everywhere, and cool weather perfect for summer escapes and family trips. However, there are more tourists, so book accommodations in advance. - September to November: In autumn, Gannan's mountains are covered with colorful leaves, and grasslands transform into golden oceans - a paradise for photography enthusiasts. - December to February: After snowfall, Gannan is wrapped in silver, with few people and beautiful scenery, though temperatures are low, so dress warmly. A Gannan trip typically requires 3-7 days. Here's a recommended classic 5-day itinerary: - Day 1: Arrival in Lanzhou from your departure city. Visit Zhengning Road Food Street to taste local delicacies like beef noodles and gray peas. - Day 2: Lanzhou - Ganjia Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe. Admire the unique Danxia landforms and grassland scenery in Ganjia, then visit Labrang Monastery to turn prayer wheels and experience Tibetan Buddhist culture. - Day 3: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Langmusi. Ride horses across Sangke Grassland, then head to Langmusi to enjoy the small town scenery. - Day 4: Langmusi - Flower Lake in Zoige - First Bend of the Yellow River - Zoige. Enjoy the clear waters of Flower Lake and beautiful surrounding grasslands; in the evening, admire the magnificent sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River. - Day 5: Zoige - Zhagana - Lanzhou. Zhagana is like a paradise on earth where you can hike and enjoy the beautiful scenery before returning to Lanzhou to conclude your pleasant journey. 🍜Food guide: - Fern Rice: Sweet, soft, and nutritious. - Yak Yogurt: Rich flavor, delicious when paired with white sugar or honey. - Butter Tea: Traditional Tibetan beverage that warms and energizes. - Hand-pulled Mutton: Tender meat with authentic flavor. - Tibetan Dumplings: Thin skin with generous filling, delicious taste. 🏨Accommodation guide: - Lanzhou: Many hotels and guesthouses available. Recommended areas include Xiguan, Tianshui Road, or Donggang for convenient transportation. - Xiahe: Options include Jiusheng International Hotel, Tianzhu International Hotel, and unique accommodations like Ganjia Eco Camp. - Langmusi: Choices include Luqu International Hotel and Langmusi Zhongyuan Holiday Inn. - Zhagana: Many guesthouses available; choose rooms at higher elevations for better views. 💗Additional tips: - Gannan's average elevation is around 3,000 meters, which may cause mild altitude sickness. Avoid strenuous activities and prepare altitude sickness medication in advance. - UV radiation is strong in plateau regions. Take sun protection measures like wearing hats, sunglasses, and applying sunscreen. - Temperature differences between day and night are significant. Bring warm clothing, and even in summer, it's advisable to bring long-sleeved jackets. - When visiting temples, follow local regulations, don't take photos without permission, and respect religious beliefs and customs. - Distances between attractions in Gannan are considerable, and public transportation is inconvenient. Consider joining small group tours or hiring a private car. Always prepare well for your trip and prioritize safety.

Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in southern Gansu Province and is an ideal destination for female college students on a budget trip. With its magnificent scenery, unique culture, and low cost of living, it's perfect for travelers with limited budgets. Here's a detailed budget travel guide: ✅Transportation: The most economical way from Lanzhou is by bus. Direct buses to Hezuo City depart from Lanzhou South Bus Station, costing about 80 yuan with a 4-hour journey. Within Gannan, shuttle buses connect major attractions like Xiahe and Langmusi, with fares ranging from 20-50 yuan. ✅Recommended Accommodation: Hezuo City: Youth hostel beds 30-50 yuan/night, recommend "Lingcheng Youth Hostel" Langmusi: Tibetan-style inns with dormitories 40-60 yuan/bed Zhagana: Homestays with local villagers 50-80 yuan/bed ✅Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Labrang Monastery (Xiahe County): World-renowned Tibetan academy, 40 yuan entrance fee, recommended to see monks' morning prayers 2. Langmusi Town: A small town straddling Gansu and Sichuan provinces, free to visit, sky burial platform can be viewed from a distance (respect local customs) 3. Zhagana: Known as the "Stone City," 80 yuan entrance fee, half-price with student ID 4. Sangke Grassland: Free admission, most beautiful in summer 5. Milarepa Buddha Pavilion (Hezuo City): 20 yuan entrance fee ✅Food Recommendations: 1. Tibetan dumplings: 5-8 yuan/basket, recommend "Zongba Yongmu Tibetan Restaurant" in Hezuo 2. Yak yogurt: 5 yuan/bowl, available near all temples 3. Tsampa: 3-5 yuan/serving, experience traditional Tibetan staple food 4. Butter tea: Small pot 15-20 yuan, good for sharing 5. Highland barley wine: Sold by weight, 10-15 yuan/500g ✅Suggested Itinerary (5 days 4 nights): D1: Lanzhou-Hezuo City (stay in Hezuo) D2: Hezuo-Milarepa Buddha Pavilion-Gahai Lake-Langmusi (stay in Langmusi) D3: Langmusi-Zhagana (stay in Zhagana) D4: Zhagana-Sangke Grassland-Xiahe (stay in Xiahe) D5: Labrang Monastery-Lanzhou ✅Money-Saving Tips: 1. Bring your student ID for half-price admission to most attractions 2. Share rides with others to split costs 3. Bring a thermos, restaurants offer free hot water refills 4. Avoid peak season in July-August, June and September offer the best value 5. Buy snacks and dry food, as dining in scenic areas is expensive ⚠️Important Notes: 1. Elevation around 3,000 meters, take precautions against altitude sickness 2. Large temperature differences between day and night, bring warm clothing 3. Respect Tibetan customs, no photography or hats inside temples 4. Prepare cash, many places don't accept mobile payments 5. Use sunscreen! Highland UV rays are intense ✅Budget Reference (5 days): Transportation: 300 yuan Accommodation: 200 yuan Food: 200 yuan Entrance fees: 150 yuan Total: About 850 yuan Gannan's scenery and culture are absolutely worth the journey. With proper planning, you can have a great experience without exceeding your budget. Remember to bring a camera to capture the beauty of this pure land!

While popular attractions are swamped with tourists, true romance awaits you around the corners of lesser-known cities. Skip the crowds and explore these 5 charming towns that time has treated gently—perfect for couples to discover hand in hand. 1. Xiapu, Fujian | Golden Love Letters on the Tidal Flats When morning light gilds the vast tidal flats, share a filter-free sunrise together at the Huazhu Village observation deck. In the evening, stroll hand in hand through the ancient banyan tree grove at Yangjiaoxi, where thousand-year-old trees dangle their aerial roots like natural bridal veils. Recommended stay: Shijian Hai Guesthouse, where you can enjoy White Peony tea in the suspended tea room while watching the tides below trace the shape of love. ### 2. Jianshui, Yunnan | Time Travel on the Meter-Gauge Railway This Southern Yunnan ancient town, more laid-back than Dali, preserves the most complete Ming and Qing dynasty architectural complex. Spend 3 yuan on a plump Ximen tofu and take selfies with your loved one in the reflection of the seventeen arches of Shuanglong Bridge. In the evening, be sure to visit Purple Pottery Street to handcraft matching cups, letting the clay remember your intertwined fingerprints. ### 3. Songyang, Zhejiang | Jiangnan's Last Hidden Gem At Chenjiapu Village, 800 meters above sea level, the cloud-surrounded terrace of Avant-Garde Bookstore is perfect for reading poetry together. Follow the bluestone path to find "Bai Xian Noodle House," where water-pulled noodles cooked over a wood stove paired with preserved vegetable fried eggs offer the most authentic rustic romance. Remember to secure a pair of love locks on the ancient street and hang them among the red silk ribbons on the thousand-year-old camphor tree. ### 4. Jingxi, Guangxi | Blue Love Songs at the China-Vietnam Border Is the Aegean Sea too far? Come to Equan to see the Tiffany-blue lake with its constant 15°C temperature. Ride an electric scooter with your beloved through Tongling Grand Canyon, and pretend to accidentally hold her hand while drifting on the Ancient Dragon Mountain underground river. Local Zhuang grandmothers will teach you how to dye matching handkerchiefs with maple leaves, imprinting the border starry sky onto fabric. ### 5. Zhagana, Gansu | Honeymoon Paradise at the Foot of Sacred Mountains This Tibetan village hidden in Diebu County offers the purest stargazing spots. Embrace each other at the misty Joseph Rock Observation Deck in the morning, then pick a bunch of Gesang flowers at Fairy Beach to tuck behind her ear in the afternoon. As the yak meat hotpot bubbles at the Shicheng Family Inn, prayer flags outside chant blessings for your love. In the corners of your travel bucket list, there are always places that exist especially for those in love. This May Day, stop counting heads at Instagram hotspots—true romance always flourishes where commercialization hasn't reached. Book two tickets in the opposite direction and let love blossom anew in these slow-paced small towns.

Zhagana is a place full of mystery and beauty, located in Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. Here is a detailed travel guide to Zhagana: • Transportation Guide: • Self-driving: From Lanzhou, you can take the G213 National Highway through Hezuo City. The entire journey is about 400 kilometers and takes approximately 7 hours. This route offers beautiful scenery along the way, making it an excellent choice for a road trip. • Public Transportation: There are direct long-distance buses from Lanzhou Bus Terminal to Zhagana. Although the journey takes longer, the cost is relatively low, suitable for travelers on a limited budget. • Must-visit Attractions: • Zhagana Scenic Area: Zhagana is a complete natural "stone city," surrounded by mountains on three sides, with an altitude between 3,000-3,300 meters. Dongwa Village is the first village you'll enter in the scenic area and is a location that frequently appears in scenic photos. In addition, Fairy Beach and Fairy Lake are must-see attractions where you can overlook the entire Zhagana mountain village. • Lasang Temple: As one of the commanding heights of Zhagana, Lasang Temple is an excellent spot to overlook the entire Zhagana. In the early morning when mist surrounds the area, climbing up to Lasang Temple offers a panoramic view of ancient buildings, mountain peaks, and woodlands. • Accommodation Recommendations: • Homestays in Zhagana Village: Accommodations in Zhagana are mostly homestays converted from villagers' houses. Although the conditions are relatively simple, they are affordable and offer an authentic Tibetan lifestyle experience. It's recommended to stay in Dongwa Village or Dari Village, as these two villages are at lower elevations, larger in scale, have numerous restaurants, and are close to attractions. • Food Recommendations: • In Zhagana, you can taste authentic Tibetan cuisine such as tsampa, butter tea, and highland barley wine. Additionally, local specialties like fern pork and fern rice are not to be missed.

📷 Take my advice! For May Day, you absolutely need to lock in this magical route in Gannan!!! Strongly recommend Gannan! Compared to popular cities like Zhangye and Dunhuang, it has fewer tourists, more beautiful scenery, and lower prices. It hides four incredible landscapes: the Zhagana secret realm, misty Buddhist pavilions at dawn, grassland stupas, and sacred snow lakes. When the golden sunrise pierces through the mist of Zhagana, when prayer flags flutter in the morning breeze at Langmu Temple, when yaks wander across the green fields of Sangke Grassland, when the snowy peaks of Laga Mountain reflect in Lake Gahai... this underestimated plateau paradise will overwhelm your soul with faith and poetry 😭 1⃣ How to explore the four top attractions Zhagana: Make sure to arrive at Fairy Lake viewpoint before 6:00 AM! The morning mist and light intertwine precisely at 7:00 AM - set your camera to burst mode or record video on your phone. Langmu Temple: Navigate to "Langmu Temple Town" and take a 10-minute country road to the top! Skip the 1-hour winding road from the main entrance - a blessing for lazy travelers. Sangke Grassland: This stupa grassland at 3,400 meters elevation is perfect for photos wearing Tibetan robes with prayer wheels, riding horses, yaks, or posing with Tibetan mastiffs. Laga Mountain: Divided into two main areas - Gahai (sacred snow lake) and Zecha Stone Forest (geological wonder). Recommend staying at Laga International Youth Hostel for hiking, camping, and stargazing. 2⃣ Tips to avoid pitfalls 👉🏻 Don't buy yak meat at the Zhagana scenic area entrance! It's gamey and not fresh - tsampa at Tibetan homestays is much better. 👉🏻 Sangke Grassland has rugged mountain roads - take altitude sickness medication in advance and avoid using your phone in the car. 👉🏻 Always carry these three essentials: sunscreen, sun hat, and lip balm. 3⃣ My tour itinerary 🚗 D1: One day tour in Lanzhou D2: Depart from Lanzhou - Liujiaxia Reservoir - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion D3: Jiangdie Highway - Fairy Beach - Zhagana D4: Zoige Grassland - Gerde Monastery - Namo Grand Canyon D5: Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery - Return to Lanzhou ✈ 4⃣ Small tips ✅ The "Tibetan Homestay Earth Hotpot" in Zhagana is amazing! Must order the yak meat hotpot ✅ I recommend joining a small tour group like I did - it's much easier, and you still have free time once you're in the scenic areas ✅ Bring a thick jacket! Temperature differences in Gannan are extreme 🌟 Trust me, Gannan is the sacred mountain realm beloved by "Chinese National Geographic"! Experience the beauty of plateau faith in 5 days, exciting throughout, just go for it this May Day holiday~

Gannan is worthy of being rated as a secret place that must be visited in a lifetime by National Geographic!! Gannan, a landscape painting with rich poetic flavor, a profound spiritual pure land in the Tibetan area. In this mysterious land, there is a deep blue sky and rolling mountains. Come to Zhagana when you are tired! There is no hustle and bustle of the city here, only the smoke from the Tibetan village and the tranquility under the snow-capped mountains. When I opened the window in the early morning, the misty valley looked like an ink painting, cows and sheep were grazing leisurely, and time seemed to have slowed down. Hiking to the top of the mountain and overlooking the entire village, my mind also became more open. At night, the starry sky is so low that you can touch it with your hand, the Milky Way is clearly visible, and your worries are instantly healed✨ Zhagana is a place where you can forget your troubles and find yourself💖 The crystal clear lake and the vast grassland There are few tourists, as if it has been forgotten in a corner by time. This is like a paradise. You can enjoy the tranquility of nature Invite you to appreciate the profound heritage of Tibetan culture, Completely empty your mind and stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A trip, a memory, enough to make people unforgettable for a lifetime~ Recommended route. Photos from Lanzhou City »» Gangga Secret Realm »》 Labrang Monastery »》 Sangke Grassland »》 Zhengning Road Night Market , Gangga Secret Land: Known as the "most beautiful village" in Gannan, it is located in Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It has the original Tibetan culture, where you can explore the pure natural scenery and relax your mind. Labrang Monastery: The Han Chinese translation means "the place where the living Buddha exists". It is known as the "World Tibetan Studies Institute" and is located between the mountains. It is a solemn and solemn Tibetan Buddhist temple. The temple has magnificent Buddha statues, fluttering prayer flags, and a sacred atmosphere that makes people feel awe. Sangke Grassland: On the vast grassland, cattle and sheep are leisurely and contented, and the blue sky and white clouds are reflected on the green grass, like a beautiful picture scroll. Taking a walk here, you can forget the trivialities of the world and feel the tranquility and tranquility of nature. Zhengning Road Night Market: Lanzhou's most popular night market. When night falls, the lights are bright and crowded. Taste authentic Northwest cuisine, buy special souvenirs, and experience the Northwest nightlife. In Gannan, time seems to stand still and the soul is purified Explore the unknown and feel the charm of nature. Every moment is a return of the soul~ When playing, please pay attention to the following warnings: ●Respect local culture and traditions and avoid offensive behavior or language D Ensure safety during play and comply with the rules and warning signs of the play area Zhi ● Protect the environment, do not litter, and do not damage natural landscapes and wild animals and plants ○ Make sure you are in good health and bring necessary medicines and first aid supplies Choose clean and hygienic restaurants or stalls, and avoid eating raw or cooked food or food that is not fresh. ○ Bring appropriate clothing and protective equipment according to local climate conditions. Sun protection, cold protection, rain protection, etc. must all be taken into consideration.

Morning light pierces through the mountain haze, revealing Tibetan wooden houses clinging to the steep slopes of Zhagana like scattered treasure boxes left by the gods. An elderly local turns a prayer wheel as he passes barley-drying racks, his footsteps startling the brass bells hanging from the eaves. Standing at the viewpoint with a handful of cold tsampa, it strikes me—the beauty of this place lies in its indifference to being conquered. **Note:** Altitude 3,000m. Pack a windproof jacket, camera, and patience.

This is a severely underestimated, niche pristine hiking paradise 🌳 Considered the pinnacle of hiking destinations ✅ This is Zhagana‼️ A paradise on earth rated by "National Geographic" as a must-visit in your lifetime~ - Unlike the typical desolate Gobi landscapes of Northwest China, this magical forest 🌳 features misty, lush mountains, as well as 🍃 green valleys that extend into the distance. - The 55km trail from Zhagana through Dieshan to Dayugou‼️ Features mountains, valleys, forests, grasslands, alpine lakes, and pastures along the way - an outdoor paradise showcasing Gannan's most beautiful scenery 🌟 - 🌟Recommended hiking season🌟 May-October (Rhododendrons bloom across the mountains in June)

2025 Complete Zhagana Travel Guide | Exploring the "Garden of Eden on Earth" 📍 Location Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, deep in the Min Mountains, average altitude 3,000+ meters ⏰ Best Time to Visit ✅ May-October (June-August for grassland flowers, September-October for stunning autumn colors) ⚠️ Winter (November-April) has snow on some roads, but spectacular snow scenes (warm clothing needed) 🚗 Transportation Guide 1️⃣ Self-driving (Recommended!) 6-8 hours from Lanzhou/Chengdu, along "Joseph Rock's Route" (SUVs preferred) 2025 Update: The road from Diebu County to Zhagana has been widened, but mountain roads still have many curves 2️⃣ Public Transportation - Take a bus from Lanzhou/Hezuo City to Diebu County, then hire a car to Zhagana (about 1.5 hours) 🎫 Tickets and Costs Entrance fee: 80 yuan/person (includes scenic area shuttle) Accommodation: Tibetan homestays 150-500 yuan/night, luxury hotels 800 yuan 📸 Must-Visit Spots 1️⃣ Fairy Beach Alpine meadow + panoramic view of Tibetan village, best spot for sunrise and sea of clouds 2️⃣ Joseph Rock Viewing Platform Same vantage point used by American explorer Joseph Rock, overlooking the entire "Stone City" 3️⃣ Lasang Temple 400-year-old Tibetan Buddhist temple, morning and evening bells are incredibly soothing 4️⃣ Hiking Routes Beginner: Fairy Beach to Tiger's Mouth (2 hours) Advanced: Zhagana to Dayugou (guide required, 1-2 days) 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations Value for money: Yeri Village/Dongwa Village Tibetan homestays (snow-capped mountains visible from your window) Premium experience: Yunjing Wild Tent Hotel (stargazing rooms + Tibetan herbal baths) New in 2025: Zhagana International Youth Hostel (backpackers' first choice) 🍜 Food Recommendations 🔥 Must-try Tibetan cuisine: Tsampa, yak meat hotpot, butter tea 🌿 Special wild vegetables: Bracken fern pork, highland mushrooms ⚠️ Note: Some restaurants only accept cash! ⚠️ Important Notes 1️⃣ Altitude sickness prevention: Avoid strenuous activity on the first day, bring oxygen bottles 2️⃣ Clothing guide: Summer: Windbreaker + sun hat (20°C temperature difference between day and night!) Fall: Down jacket + non-slip shoes 3️⃣ Cultural taboos: No photography inside temples, prayer wheels must be turned clockwise 💡 Hidden Experiences Tibetan costume experience: 30 yuan/hour, take a set of "Tibetan-style photos" Stargazing: Extremely low light pollution, Milky Way visible to the naked eye in summer Visit pastures: Milk yaks with herdsmen (reservation required) ✨ Summary: In 2025, Zhagana remains a hidden paradise that you "must visit in your lifetime"!

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.

Gansu, a vast territory stretching across northwestern China, is both a masterpiece of nature and a historical corridor of thousand-year-old civilization. From snow-capped mountains to vast Gobi Desert, from cave art to ethnic customs, every corner holds breathtaking beauty. This comprehensive guide will help you deeply appreciate Gansu's unique charm! 🌟 Must-Visit Areas and Highlights 📍 Lanzhou and Surroundings - Yellow River Scenic Belt: Stroll through Lanzhou's "city living room," visit the iconic Zhongshan Bridge, a century-old iron bridge spanning the Yellow River that has witnessed the city's transformation; climb White Pagoda Mountain for a panoramic view of the Yellow River and city; don't forget to take photos with the lifelike Yellow River Mother Sculpture and feel the profound Yellow River culture. - Shuimo Danxia Scenic Area: Not far from Lanzhou, featuring red bay landforms with rock textures resembling ink-wash paintings. Colors are most stunning during sunrise and sunset, perfect for photography. - Hekou Ancient Town: An ancient ferry port from the Ming and Qing dynasties, preserving numerous old residences and temples. Walking on the bluestone paths feels like traveling back in time, and you can taste authentic Jiangshui noodles. 📍 Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture - Labrang Monastery: As one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, it has the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. Join pilgrims for morning prayer wheel turning to feel the power of faith; enter the temple to admire exquisite thangkas and butter sculptures. - Zhagana: A "stone city wonderland" like a paradise on earth, with Tibetan villages nestled among mountains, especially mysterious when shrouded in clouds. Here you can hike to explore Fairy Beach and Fairy Lake, experiencing nature's serenity and grandeur. - Langmusi Temple: The White Dragon River flows through the town, dividing it between Gansu and Sichuan. Known as the "Little Switzerland of the East," it features both magnificent natural scenery and rich Tibetan-Han cultural fusion. - Sangke Grassland: More pristine and pure than Dangzhou Grassland. In summer, wildflowers bloom across the prairie where you can go horseback riding or enjoy authentic milk tea and hand-pulled mutton in a yurt. 📍 Hexi Corridor Region - Dunhuang: - Mogao Grottoes: A World Heritage site with 735 existing caves, featuring exquisite murals and colored sculptures that carry a thousand years of Buddhist art glory. Recommend booking A-type tickets in advance on the official website for access to 8 caves with professional guide service. - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: The "Desert's First Spring" Crescent Spring is embraced by Mingsha Mountain. At sunset, ride camels through the desert, watch the dunes turn golden, and feel the desert's magnificence and romance. Star camping is available at night. - Jiayuguan: - Jiayuguan Fortress: The western starting point of the Ming Great Wall, known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven." Climb the tower to view the Qilian Mountains and imagine the grand historical scenes of warfare. - Overhanging Great Wall: Built along the ridge like a cantilever, offering exciting climbing experiences and panoramic views of the vast Gobi Desert beyond the pass. - Zhangye: - Rainbow Danxia Geological Park: Like God's spilled palette, the colorful Danxia landforms are dazzling in sunlight. Platform No. 4 is the perfect spot for sunset viewing. - Binggou Danxia: Distinctly different from Rainbow Danxia, featuring majestic and mysterious palace-like Danxia landforms with window-like formations, showing more primitive and rugged beauty. - Mati Temple: With over 1,600 years of history, its grottoes and temples are carved into steep cliffs. The spectacular Thirty-three Heavens Grottoes are awe-inspiring. - Wuwei: - Wuwei Confucian Temple: The best-preserved Confucian temple in Northwest China, with ancient cypresses and magnificent architecture. Its plaque museum houses numerous valuable Ming and Qing dynasty plaques. - Leitai Han Tomb: Famous for unearthing China's tourism symbol "Flying Horse," with murals and artifacts inside showing Han Dynasty social life. 📍 Southeast Longnan Region - Tianshui: - Maiji Mountain Grottoes: One of China's four major grottoes, renowned for its clay sculpture art. Grottoes are carved into steep cliffs with winding plank roads, allowing close-up appreciation of thousand-year-old Buddha statues. - Pingliang: - Kongtong Mountain: A famous Taoist mountain combining spectacular natural scenery with ancient cultural sites. Take the cable car up to visit Middle Platform, Imperial City, and other attractions to experience the profound Taoist culture. - Qingyang: - Nanxiaohe Valley: A "green pearl" on the Loess Plateau with beautiful ecology and attractions like "Eastern Gansu's First Dam," perfect for leisure vacations and nature experiences. 📍 Longnan Region - Guan'e Valley: Known as "Little Jiuzhaigou," featuring 13 lakes of varying sizes and shapes set in canyons, with opposing green mountains and waterfalls, ideal for summer cooling and fresh air. - Yunping Three Gorges: Composed of Tudi Gorge, Guanyin Gorge, and Xigu Gorge, with dense forests, flowing streams, and many rustic villages full of pastoral poetry. 🍜 Gansu Cuisine - Lanzhou: Besides the nationally famous Lanzhou Beef Noodles (featuring clear soup, white radish, red chili oil, green herbs, and yellow noodles with chewy texture and savory broth), try special snacks like gray peas and sweet fermented rice. Recommend visiting Dazhong Lane, home to many time-honored restaurants. - Gannan: Must-try hand-pulled mutton, tender meat dipped in salt and pepper, authentic flavor; Tibetan dumplings with unique taste, usually filled with beef and green onions, perfect with butter tea. - Hexi Corridor: Dunhuang donkey meat yellow noodles, thread-thin noodles with tender donkey meat; Zhangye beef rice with unique small flour bits in beef soup; Jiayuguan barbecue including lamb legs and kidneys, paired with local apricot drink for refreshment. - Longnan: Stirred flour balls are a specialty, made from corn or buckwheat flour with sour and spicy soup; Wudu potato stirred balls are worth trying, with soft mashed potatoes and rich seasonings. 🚗 Classic Route Recommendations 1. Hexi Corridor Cultural Discovery Route Dunhuang (Mogao Grottoes, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring) → Jiayuguan (Jiayuguan Fortress, Overhanging Great Wall) → Zhangye (Rainbow Danxia, Binggou Danxia, Mati Temple) → Wuwei (Wuwei Confucian Temple, Leitai Han Tomb) Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts to deeply experience the Silk Road's glory. 2. Gannan Grassland Circuit Lanzhou → Xiahe (Labrang Monastery, Sangke Grassland) → Langmusi → Zhagana → Hezuo (Dangzhou Grassland) Experience unique prairie, temple, and Tibetan village culture, feel Tibet's tranquility and sacredness. 3. Southeast Cultural Journey Tianshui (Maiji Mountain Grottoes) → Pingliang (Kongtong Mountain) → Qingyang (Nanxiaohe Valley) Explore cave art and Taoist culture while enjoying unique Loess Plateau scenery. ⚠️ Practical Tips Gansu is vast with long distances between attractions. Recommend chartered car or self-driving for flexibility; trains and long-distance buses are also options but require careful planning. Northwest climate is dry; stay hydrated and protect against sun and moisture loss; prepare thick jacket even in summer due to large temperature differences. In Tibetan areas like Gannan, respect local religious beliefs and customs, such as turning prayer wheels clockwise and not photographing monks without permission. Book Mogao Grottoes tickets 30 days ahead on official website; arrive early at popular sites like Rainbow Danxia to avoid crowds. Gansu's beauty needs to be measured by footsteps and felt with the heart. Pack your bags and start this thousand-year journey through Northwest China!

Highly recommended reasons: Want to avoid the crowds and enjoy beautiful scenery from May to August? Gannan is perfect. Located in the southwest of Gansu Province, with an average temperature of 20°C, this low-altitude area is like a "Little Tibet," with fewer tourists and no altitude sickness. With over 90% vegetation coverage and abundant oxygen, it offers diverse landscapes, including forests, valleys, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and temples. 📍Location: Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (Southwest Gansu Province) 🚗Transportation: - You can first arrive in Lanzhou. From Lanzhou South Bus Station, there are buses to Gannan, reaching major cities like Hezuo. Then, transfer to local transportation to reach various attractions. - If you choose to drive, starting from Lanzhou, follow the Lanlin Expressway and Kanglin Expressway to reach Gannan. Road conditions are generally good, but some sections may have mountain roads, so drive carefully. 💞Must-see attractions: ✔Labrang Monastery: An important center of Tibetan Buddhism, its outer walls feature over 2,000 prayer wheels, forming the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, certified by Guinness World Records. The monastery has a rich religious atmosphere. ✔Langmusi Temple: A small stream separates the Tibetan and Hui communities, with a Lama Temple and a Mosque on opposite banks. Two cultures coexist harmoniously here, creating a unique experience. ✔Sangke Grassland: The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, dotted with cattle and sheep. You can ride horses, listen to Tibetan folk songs, and experience the tranquility and beauty of the grassland. ✔Zagana: Listed as one of the 50 places to visit in your lifetime by *Chinese National Geography*, it's like a Garden of Eden, a hidden paradise. ✔Amigonghong Pastureland: White Tibetan tents are scattered across the grassland, with cattle and sheep roaming freely. The rooms are detached tents with 360° floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the grassland's sea of flowers. ✔Ganjia Secret Realm: Like a "magnificent and miraculous spectacle," it exists above the clouds, offering breathtaking scenery. ⚠️Ticket information: - Labrang Monastery: Please refer to the official website for specific ticket prices, which may vary between peak and off-seasons. It is recommended to check the official website or WeChat official account in advance. - Langmusi Temple: Ticket prices are around tens of yuan. Please refer to the actual price. Some special areas may have separate fees. - Sangke Grassland: Generally, no tickets are required, but some special activities, such as horseback riding, may require payment. - Zagana: Ticket prices are relatively low, but some special attractions or activities within the scenic area may have additional charges. - Amigonghong Pastureland: There may be a site fee or accommodation packages that include tickets. Please inquire when booking. - Ganjia Secret Realm: Please refer to the official announcements for specific ticket prices. 🎇Other tips: - Gannan has strong UV rays, so take sun protection measures, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. - Respect local religious beliefs and customs, especially in religious places like temples. - There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring warm clothes even in summer to avoid catching a cold at night. - When tasting local delicacies, such as yak meat and butter tea, consume in moderation to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.

### Gansu · Diebu Five-Day Travel Guide✨ Opening Hey, travelers! If you're looking for a place to empty your mind and feast your eyes, Diebu County, Gansu Province, is definitely worth a visit. Zhagana, in particular, is a true masterpiece of nature! 👀 This guide will ensure your five-day trip is full of surprises and wonder. Grab a notebook and jot it down! ### Five-Day Travel Guide Route - **Day 1: Depart from Lanzhou, head to Diebu, and encounter Zhagana** - **Morning**: Bid farewell to the bustling city of Lanzhou and embark on your journey to Diebu. Upon arrival, head straight to Zhagana, settle your luggage, take a short rest, and recharge for the upcoming adventure. 🚗 - **Afternoon**: Rush to Zhagana's Dasi Viewing Platform. When the first rays of sunlight sprinkle on the valley, the picturesque scenery will instantly captivate you, as if you've stepped into a fairyland. 🌅 - **Evening**: Visit a Tibetan family restaurant, sit together, and savor the taste of tsampa with butter tea, immersing yourself in the rich Tibetan culture. This unique delicacy will surely leave you wanting more. Tsampa with butter tea, a perfect match! 🍵 - **Day 2: In-depth exploration of Zhagana, unlocking more surprises** - **Morning**: Embark on a hike along the Rock Road. As you walk along the winding path, every step reveals a different view. The mountain breeze, the gurgling streams, and the distant snow-capped mountains all beckon you. 🚶‍♂️ - **Afternoon**: Arrive at Lasang Temple. The ancient architecture and solemn atmosphere seem to tell stories of the past. Here, you can quietly embrace the tranquility or chat with elderly Tibetans turning prayer wheels, learning about their beliefs and lives. 🙏 - **Evening**: Return to your Tibetan-style homestay, lie down on the comfortable bed, gaze through the window as the stars light up the night sky, and listen to the distant Tibetan songs. Isn't this the life you've been yearning for? 🏡 - **Day 3: Depart from Zhagana and explore historical footprints** - **Morning**: Bid farewell to Zhagana and head to the site of the Battle of Lazikou. Step into the memorial hall, where precious historical photos and artifacts seem to transport you back to that era of war and smoke, allowing you to experience the bravery and fearlessness of the Red Army soldiers. 🕍 - **Afternoon**: Stroll around the battle site. Every stone and every tree seems to tell the magnificent history, deeply touching your soul. 🚶‍♀️ - **Evening**: Return to Diebu County and find a comfortable hotel for a good night's rest, preparing for the next leg of your journey. 🏨 - **Day 4: Experience different scenery around Diebu County** - **Morning**: Visit the Doe Watermill Cluster and watch the ancient watermills slowly turn under the impetus of the flowing water, as if time has slowed down. The tranquility and beauty here will surely make you linger. ⛲ - **Afternoon**: Head towards Cuomei Peak. Standing at the foot of the mountain, look up at the towering peak and feel the majesty and magnificence of nature. If you have enough stamina, you can also try climbing part of the way to experience the charm of Cuomei Peak up close. 🏔️ - **Evening**: Return to the county town, find a restaurant with a good reputation, and indulge in a feast of local specialties, concluding the day's journey perfectly. 🍽️ - **Day 5: Stroll around Diebu County and return with cherished memories** - **Morning**: Wander through the streets and alleys of the county town. Don't forget to visit the "Ama La" shop and buy some yak jerky, a Diebu specialty and the perfect souvenir for your trip. 🛍️ - **Afternoon**: Embark on your return journey with cherished memories. Although the trip has ended, those beautiful moments will surely linger in your heart. 🚍 ### Recommended Hotels - **Zhagana Cloud Realm Wild House**: Located within the scenic area, just step out the door to embrace the stunning natural scenery. The viewing balcony allows you to admire the beauty of Zhagana at any time, and the underfloor heating makes cold nights warm and comfortable. Prices during peak season are around CNY 600, offering excellent value for money! 🏞️ - **Diebu Zhagana Shenshan Inn**: The environment here is superb, nestled amidst mountains and rivers, as if isolated from the world. The inn's service is also very attentive, with dedicated guides available to take you to nearby attractions, allowing you to easily explore Zhagana. 🌳 - **Diebu Grand Hotel**: Located in the heart of the county town, it offers convenient transportation and is surrounded by numerous restaurants. The hotel is fully equipped and provides a delicious breakfast, ensuring you start each day full of energy. The food street is only a 5-minute walk away, a must-visit for food lovers! 🏨 ### Local Specialties - **Tsampa with Butter Tea**: This traditional Tibetan delicacy is made with roasted barley flour and butter tea, offering a unique taste and rich nutrition. Enjoy it at a Tibetan family restaurant in Zhagana and experience the authentic Tibetan culture. 🍵 - **Tibetan Buns**: Don't let their ordinary appearance fool you. One bite reveals a filling of yak meat, paired with a special chili vinegar dipping sauce. The taste is simply amazing! 🥟 - **Yak Jerky**: When you come to Diebu, you must try the yak jerky. The yak jerky here has a chewy texture and a rich flavor, making it the perfect travel snack. Buy it at the "Ama La" shop for guaranteed authenticity. 🍖 - **Fern Root Rice**: Fern root rice made with highland quinoa, paired with fresh wild mushroom soup, is sweet, soft, and glutinous. Every bite is a taste of nature. 🍚 - **Yak BBQ**: The county town's night market (Binhe Road) opens every evening at 7pm. The yak BBQ here is a must-try. At CNY 5 per skewer, it's affordable and delicious. Each skewer is grilled to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with an irresistible aroma. 🍢 Well, that's all for this guide! If you have any other questions about traveling to Diebu or want to learn more about fun places to visit, feel free to ask me! I wish you a pleasant journey and a rewarding experience! 😊