[2025 Diebu Attraction] Travel Guide for Zha Ga Na (Updated Aug)

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! ✨🏕️

🙆‍♂️Lately, I've been pondering which places in China are worth revisiting. Flipping through the photos I took in Gannan last summer, it's just too incredible! Not many people know about this hidden gem, and I discovered it from a recommendation in ! 🧳Pre-trip preparation: 1⃣️Few people: Hardly anyone around me knows , easy to avoid crowds. 2⃣️Great value: A bowl of noodles for 15 yuan, loaded with beef, very satisfying. Last year, I bought a Tibetan outfit for 🌸15 yuan, perfect for taking photos🎥. 3⃣️Beautiful scenery: Snow mountains, the Milky Way, grasslands🌴, highways, cattle and sheep, the Yellow River, and misty secret realms - all the beautiful scenes you can think of are here. 4⃣️Driving is not tiring: Compared to Xinjiang, 🌦 about 3 hours of self-driving each day. 🗓Itinerary: D1: Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm - Dazong Lake - Stay in Xiahe D2: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Zhagana - Stay in Zhagana D3: Zhagana - Ruoergai Grassland - First Bend of the Yellow River - Stay in Tangke D4: Tangke - Lianbaoyeze - Stay in Jiuzhi D5: Jiuzhi - Ningma Temple - Maqu - Stay in Langmusi D6: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Lanzhou 🏨Hotel environment: Xiahe: , conveniently located, beautiful surroundings, clean and tidy rooms, attentive service. Zhagana: , where you can enjoy the stunning scenery of Zhagana, rooms are warmly decorated, great value. 📝Attention tips: ▶️Strong UV rays, bring an umbrella, which can protect against both sun and rain. ▶️The food here is spicy, remember to bring medicine for stomachaches, and ask the owner to put less spice when ordering. ▶️❗️Be sure to book the B&B one month in advance❗️ ▶️Carry some cash, in case of poor signal in some places. ✅Must experience: Lanzhou Western Great Wall Film and TV City🌟🌟🌟🌟 Many people only know about Lanzhou noodles, but there's a film and TV city just 5 minutes away from Lanzhou airport, with Egyptian and Greek architecture recreated at 1:1 scale. If you're transferring through Lanzhou, it's recommended to take a look. Ticket: 50 yuan Time: Half a day Gannan Secret Realm🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 It's recommended to stay in a nearby B&B, where you can watch the Milky Way at night and the cliff sunrise in the morning, the view from God's perspective is simply breathtaking! Ticket: Free Time: Half a day if not staying at a B&B Sangke Grassland🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Highly recommended! The whole way is filled with stunning Windows wallpaper-like scenery, absolutely gorgeous! Ticket: Free Time: 2 hours Zhagana🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Enshrouded in mist, it's like a fairyland on earth. The moment you open the curtains in the morning, you feel as if you're in heaven. Ticket: Free Time: 1 day Lianbaoyeze🌟🌟🌟🌟 China's own 'Devil's Land', deep in the secret realm is a lake as blue as a sapphire, comparable to Daocheng. Ticket: Free Time: 1 day Labrang Monastery/Ningma Temple/Langmusi🌟🌟🌟 A paradise for Tibetan culture enthusiasts, home to the world's largest and longest prayer wheel, also the filming location of 'A World Without Thieves'. Ticket: Free Time: Half a day each

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.

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.

Hidden amidst the towering mountains of Gannan lies a legendary route hailed as "China's Most Beautiful 100 Kilometers"—the Rock Road (G248 National Highway, from Diebu to Zhagana). In the 1930s, American explorer Joseph Rock traversed this path on foot and marveled at it as "the last Shangri-La on Earth." Today, this winding road through snow-capped mountains, meadows, and gorges attracts countless travelers yearning for freedom and adventure. A Road to Witness Gannan's Ultimate Scenery The Rock Road stretches approximately 100 kilometers from Zagulu Town to Zhagana, with altitudes rising from 2,000 meters to 4,000 meters. Along the way, the scenery is ever-changing. You’ll encounter towering stone peaks carved like sculptures, yaks leisurely grazing on vast pastures, and primeval forests shrouded in mist. Upon reaching the Guanggaishan Pass, the view suddenly opens up—snow-capped mountains stretch endlessly, prayer flags flutter in the wind, and it feels as if you could touch the sky. A Paradise for Off-Roaders and Hikers This road is no easy ride. Its rugged charm lies in its gravel, mud, and winding mountain paths, which only off-road vehicles can navigate with ease. But it’s precisely this untamed terrain that makes the journey so thrilling. For hiking enthusiasts, you can choose to traverse the route in reverse from Zhagana, retracing Rock’s footsteps. Along the way, you’ll delve into remote Tibetan villages and experience the most authentic highland lifestyle. Best Travel Season and Tips The golden season for the Rock Road is from June to October, when the weather is mild, the grasslands are lush, and wildflowers are in full bloom. Drive cautiously and bring oxygen tanks, as some sections are at high altitudes. Arrive in Zhagana by evening, stay in a Tibetan-style wooden house, and end your journey under a starry sky, leaving you both visually and spiritually awestruck. The Rock Road is not just a highway; it’s a journey of freedom, adventure, and discovery. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter tourist spots, take this road and let your soul roam free in the wilderness. If you’re ready, click the link below to learn more!

This summer, you must visit Gannan at least once! The plateau scenery is absolutely stunning—grasslands, monasteries, and lakes all in one place, with the added bonus of fewer crowds and breathtaking views, making it a true hidden gem~ Sharing my 3-day, 2-night itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors! 🌟 Highlights of the Trip DAY1️⃣: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland Labrang Monastery (in Labrang Town, Xiahe County) is a must-visit in Gannan! The prayer wheel corridor stretches 3.5 km—it's best to come in the morning to soak in the devout atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to Sangke Grassland (in Sangke Township, Xiahe County) for horseback riding and Tibetan cuisine, then stay overnight in a grassland tent to stargaze ✨ DAY2️⃣: Langmusi → Zhagana Langmusi Town (in Luqu County) is a dreamy photo spot with the Bailong River running through it. In the afternoon, drive 2 hours to Zhagana (in Yiwa Township, Diebu County)—stay in a Tibetan-style guesthouse inside the scenic area for misty stone city views right outside your window! DAY3️⃣: Ruoergai Flower Lake → Return to Lanzhou Ruoergai Flower Lake (in Ruoergai County) is breathtaking in summer with wildflowers in full bloom! Don’t forget a telephoto lens to capture waterbirds. In the afternoon, drive back to Lanzhou (about 6 hours). 🍲 Must-Try Local Delicacies ✔️ Tibetan steamed buns (most authentic at stalls near Labrang Monastery) ✔️ Butter tea (provided by most guesthouses in Zhagana) ✔️ Yak meat hotpot (highly recommended at Koufu Ju near Langmusi Town) 📌 Practical Tips 1. Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance—avoid showering on the first day. 2. Huge temperature swings between day and night! Pack a lightweight down jacket. 3. Zhagana entrance fee: 80 RMB/person; additional parking fee for self-driving. 4. Gas stations are scarce—fill up whenever you see one.

Embark on a spontaneous road trip through Gannan🚗! Here, the sky is as blue as a canvas, the grasslands so lush they soothe the soul, and every frame is Windows-desktop-level stunning. Snapshots along the way turn into masterpieces, making it a true paradise for photography enthusiasts📸. 🌟Trip Highlights: 1. Scenery all the way: Gannan's beauty lies in the journey—no need to seek out specific spots, as every glance out the window is worth capturing. 2. Authentic experiences: Get up close with Tibetan culture, with monasteries, prayer flags, and prayer wheels everywhere. 3. Road surprises: Though some sections are bumpy, it's this rawness that adds to the charm. 📍Itinerary: Day 1: Lanzhou→Labrang Monastery (230km, 4h) - Labrang Monastery is a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist institute, famous for its long prayer wheel corridor. - Stay in Xiahe County; recommend Norlha Camp (book in advance!). - Must-try: Tsampa and yak meat at the Tibetan "Red Food" restaurant. Day 2: Sangke Grassland→Gahai Lake (120km, 2.5h) - Sangke Grassland is most beautiful in July-August; try horseback riding (remember to bargain). - Gahai Lake is a haven for migratory birds; the lakeside boardwalk offers stunning photo ops. - Stay in Langmusi Town; recommend Lijing Hotel. Day 3: Langmusi→Zagana (100km, 2.5h) - Langmusi Town spans Gansu and Sichuan; don't miss the apple pie at Lisa's Restaurant. - Zagana, known as the "Stone City," is best experienced by staying in a Tibetan-style homestay. - Wake up early for sunrise and sea of clouds at the viewpoint. Day 4: Flower Lake→First Bend of the Yellow River (150km, 3h) - Best time for Flower Lake is June-August, with spectacular flocks of waterbirds. - The First Bend is most magical at sunset; bring a thick jacket. 💡Tips: 1. Altitude sickness: Avoid washing your hair or bathing on the first day; carry glucose oral solution. 2. Clothing: Even in summer, pack a down jacket—temperature swings are extreme. 3. Road conditions: An SUV is recommended; download offline maps as some areas have no signal. 4. Local customs: Remove hats in monasteries, no photography, and walk prayer wheels clockwise. 🍜Food Guide: - Must-try Tibetan dishes: Butter tea, tsampa, yak meat hotpot. - Recommended restaurant: Gendun Choephel Tibetan Restaurant in Xiahe. - Local snacks: Barley wine, yak yogurt (very tart—add sugar!).

Itinerary Day 1: Lanzhou Sumikdanxia Day 2: Bingling Grottoes Day 3: Labrang Day 4: Jaganna Day 5: Langmusi Day 6: Ganzhou Zhongshan Bridge and Baita Temple Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located at high altitudes, so be sure to take adequate precautions against altitude sickness.

Escape the summer heat of the city this August and dive into the beauty of Gannan! Zagana, a place whose name exudes an ethereal charm, is truly breathtaking beyond words! 🏔️ With misty stone towns, layered Tibetan villages, and boundless green meadows, it’s like a hidden "Oriental Little Switzerland" nestled deep in the mountains. 🇨🇭 "Little Switzerland"? Verified and true! * A fairyland surrounded by mountains: The stone mountains on all sides act as natural screens. In the early morning, as the mist spreads, the Tibetan villages appear and disappear, creating a magical atmosphere that feels like stepping into Middle-earth from "The Lord of the Rings." * Healing alpine meadows: By late July, the meadows are glowing green! Like thick velvet carpets covering the slopes, with cows and sheep grazing leisurely. Every snapshot looks like a Windows desktop wallpaper! 🐄🌿 📝 Practical tips from personal experience—save them for your trip! 1️⃣ Transportation: * From Lanzhou: The road conditions are generally good (some mountain roads have sharp turns, so drive carefully if you’re a beginner). The scenery along the way is stunning! 🚗 * Carpooling/Private car hire: Gannan has a well-developed tourist route, and finding a reliable driver is easy. * Navigation: Directly search for "Zagana Scenic Area" and buy tickets upon arrival (don’t forget your ID). 2️⃣ Accommodation: * Stay within the scenic area! Recommended villages: Yeri Village or Dari Village (best views! Open your window to see snow-capped mountains and meadows, perfect for sunrise and sea of clouds! 🌄) * Book early during peak season! July and August are busy, and accommodations vary in quality—check reviews carefully. We stayed in a Tibetan-style wooden house, and the experience was fantastic! 3️⃣ Must-see attractions: * Dari Viewing Platform: A must-visit! Overlooks the entire Zagana valley, perfect for sunrise, sunset, and cloud photography! 📸 * Fairy Beach: A spacious meadow at the foot of the mountain, with babbling streams and wildflowers everywhere. Ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and portrait photography. 👒 * Strolling through Tibetan villages: Wander around the villages to experience the authentic and simple Tibetan culture. Chat with Tibetan elders basking in the sun. 4️⃣ What to eat? * Tibetan cuisine: Butter tea, tsampa, yak jerky, and yogurt (super authentic but might be a bit sour). * Sichuan-style restaurants: Plenty within the scenic area, decent taste, though slightly pricier than outside. 5️⃣ Tips: * Weather & Clothing: Late July requires summer wear (short sleeves + light jacket) during the day, but temperatures drop significantly in the morning and evening! Bring a windbreaker/thin down jacket! Essential items: sunscreen hat, sunglasses—high-altitude UV rays are intense! ☀️ * Altitude: *Around 3,000 meters. Most people are fine, but avoid strenuous activities and carry glucose/BLF as a precaution. * Mindset: Embrace the raw natural beauty. The infrastructure isn’t as developed as mature tourist spots, but this untouched charm is what makes it special. * Environmental protection: Always take your trash with you! Help preserve this pristine land. 💖 The beauty of Zagana is something cameras can’t fully capture. Standing atop the mountains, watching the clouds roll by, listening to the wind, all the noise of life is gently embraced by the mountains. This is perhaps the essence of travel—to find inner peace and vastness in a corner of the world. Gannan’s Zagana, this "Little Switzerland," is truly worth the visit! Plan your trip before it becomes too popular! 👣

5 Days & 5000 RMB: Embark on a Dreamy Journey Through Sichuan-Gannan✨ Hey buddies👋, tired of the same old tourist spots and looking for a hidden gem to unleash your wanderlust? Today, I’m bringing you a super practical 5-day Sichuan-Gannan travel guide for just 5000 RMB, helping you see the most stunning scenery for the least amount of money! **Pre-Trip Prep** **Documents** - ID card, a small amount of cash (some areas may have no signal). **Clothing** - Gannan has big temperature swings between day and night, so even in summer, pack a thick jacket and long pants, plus a few lightweight changes of clothes. **Essentials** - Sunscreen, sunglasses, moisturizing skincare, lip balm (the climate is dry—sun protection and hydration are key!). **Medication** - Cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, etc. **Itinerary** **Day 1: Lanzhou → Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland** - **Morning**: Arrive in Lanzhou and take a bus directly to Xiahe. Check in at your hotel and rest. - **Noon**: Enjoy local specialties in Xiahe, like Tibetan dumplings and hand-grabbed lamb—delicious and super satisfying😋. - **Afternoon**: Visit Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Follow the locals in spinning prayer wheels and soak in the rich religious atmosphere. - **Evening**: Head to Sangke Grassland for a breathtaking sunset. Join a bonfire party and dance with local herders. **Accommodation**: Hotel in Xiahe (200–300 RMB). **Food**: ~200 RMB. **Transport**: Bus from Lanzhou to Xiahe (~70 RMB). **Day 2: Sangke Grassland → Langmusi** - **Morning**: Wake up early to catch the sunrise on Sangke Grassland, then pack up and head to Langmusi. - **Noon**: Try local butter tea and tsampa near Langmusi. - **Afternoon**: Explore Langmusi, known as the "Little Switzerland of the East." Admire the temple architecture, intricate murals, and Buddha statues. Visit the source of the Bailong River. - **Evening**: Stroll through Langmusi Town and soak in its laid-back vibe. **Accommodation**: Homestay in Langmusi (150–250 RMB). **Food**: ~150 RMB. **Transport**: Chartered car to Langmusi (~50 RMB/person). **Day 3: Langmusi → Zhagana** - **Morning**: Depart for Zhagana. The scenic route feels like a fairy tale. - **Noon**: Arrive in Zhagana and try local wild vegetables. - **Afternoon**: Hike through Zhagana to see stunning stone forests and picturesque farmland. Visit Fairy Beach and One-Line Sky. - **Evening**: Stay in a Zhagana homestay and gaze at the starry night sky. **Accommodation**: Homestay in Zhagana (200–300 RMB). **Food**: ~150 RMB. **Transport**: Chartered car (~60 RMB/person). **Day 4: Zhagana → Flower Lake → Ruoergai Grassland** - **Morning**: Sunrise in Zhagana, then head to Flower Lake. - **Noon**: Eat near Flower Lake. - **Afternoon**: Explore Flower Lake—crystal-clear water, vast wetlands, and playful waterbirds. Then proceed to Ruoergai Grassland. - **Evening**: Camp on Ruoergai Grassland and fall asleep to the sound of insects. **Accommodation**: Camping gear rental (~100 RMB). **Food**: ~150 RMB. **Transport**: Chartered car (~60 RMB/person). **Day 5: Ruoergai Grassland → Lanzhou** - **Morning**: Free time on the grassland for photos, then take a bus back to Lanzhou. - **Noon**: Lunch en route. - **Afternoon**: Return to Lanzhou, ending your wonderful trip. **Food**: ~150 RMB. **Transport**: Bus from Ruoergai to Lanzhou (~100 RMB). **Total Budget** - **Accommodation**: (200 + 150 + 200 + 100) = 650 RMB - **Food**: (200 + 150 + 150 + 150 + 150) = 800 RMB - **Transport**: (70 + 50 + 60 + 60 + 100) = 340 RMB - **Miscellaneous (tickets, shopping, etc.)**: ~2000 RMB - **Total**: 650 + 800 + 340 + 2000 = 3790 RMB. With a 5000 RMB budget, you’ll have plenty left for souvenirs👏. Buddies, the beauty of Sichuan-Gannan awaits—pack your bags and go! Don’t forget to share your travel stories in the comments💕.

✅ July-August temperatures range from 10-25°C. Pack spring clothes with a light jacket for daytime, and bring a fleece-lined windbreaker or lightweight down jacket for evenings. The Tibetan region has significant day-night temperature differences (10-23°C), and nights can be chilly. Most Tibetan areas don't have air conditioning. 🏯 Religious Culture & Temple Etiquette (Labrang Monastery, Langmusi Temple, etc.) 📸 Photography etiquette: Enjoy free panoramic views from the hills behind Labrang Monastery. Always ask for explicit permission before taking photos with monks or locals. 🙏 Temple taboos: No smoking, touching Buddha statues, pointing at statues, or randomly flipping through scriptures in any temple hall. Maintain reverence. 🍵 Hospitality customs: When offered butter tea, wait for the host to present it with both hands before accepting with both hands as a sign of respect. 🎫 Ticket usage: Labrang Monastery tickets include guided tours (available during regular working hours). Keep your ticket as it's checked again when entering different colleges (scripture halls). 📷 Tibetan costume experience: Many shops around Labrang Monastery and Langmusi offer costume rentals and travel photography—remember to bargain! 🌿 Grasslands & Natural Scenery (Sangke Grassland, Zhagana, Gahai Lake/Flower Lake) 🐎 Sangke Grassland: Vast area—avoid crowded paid spots and explore deeper for more beauty. Horse riding costs 60-100 RMB/ride (~20 minutes)—confirm price and duration beforehand. ⛰️ Zhagana: Strongly recommend hiking up the wooden plank trail (e.g., to Fairy Beach). Taking the shuttle or horseback (expensive and bumpy) means missing stunning views and immersive experiences. 💧 Lake choice: Choose between Gahai Lake and Flower Lake. Flower Lake currently has better-developed facilities (plank roads, viewing platforms). Select based on itinerary convenience and time. 🏞️ Hidden Gems (Ganjia Secret Land) 🗺️ Ganjia Secret Land: Typically includes Bajiao City, White Cliff Temple, etc. Note: White Cliff Grand Canyon (White Cliff Cave) usually requires separate tickets beyond basic admission—confirm included areas when purchasing. 🚗 Optimized 5-Day Classic Gannan Itinerary DAY1: Nationwide → Lanzhou DAY2: Lanzhou → Ganjia Secret Land → Labrang Monastery → Xiahe DAY3: Xiahe → Horse riding at Sangke Grassland → Langmusi Temple → First Bend of Yellow River → Ruoergai DAY4: Ruoergai → Flower Lake → 550 → Zhagana DAY5: Zhagana → Jiangdie Highway → Meiren Grassland → Lanzhou

Gannan｜A Summer Adventure Chased by Rain Mid-July in Gannan is like a mischievous child—one moment splashing sunlight everywhere, the next moment dragging rain curtains to drench you. Our journey hopped forward to the rhythm of alternating sun and rain: just as we raised our cameras on the boardwalk of the Yellow River's Nine Bends, pea-sized raindrops came crashing down, sending us laughing and shouting toward the viewing platform, mud splattering our pants without a care. At Nianbaoyuze, we encountered pouring rain before the clouds could fully disperse; as we tightened our windbreakers and hurried downhill, the deep indigo of the mountain peaks became even clearer. The most magical moment was at Flower Lake, where wind-whipped rain lashed horizontally—with nowhere to hide, we stood on the boardwalk watching whitecaps roll across the lake, as if we'd stumbled into a living ink painting. 👔 Outfit Guide: Weather-Proof Essentials A windbreaker with a liner is a must—zip up to block the rain, bundle tight to withstand mountain winds at sunrise, practically Gannan's exclusive "skin." Long pants are non-negotiable, especially at Nianbaoyuze, where gusts could turn a short skirt into a flag—long pants are your safety net. Pack some summer T-shirts and light tops; if you're cold-sensitive, toss in a spring/fall jacket—more than enough for the day-night temperature swings. 🎈 Sweet Moments: More Vivid Than the Scenery Looking back, the "since we're here" sights might blur, but moments like pressing against the car window with friends, yelling "Look at the sheep!" or curling up in a homestay gossiping are clearer than any landscape. Of course, Nianbaoyuze's jagged peaks and Zhagana's morning fog are exceptions—the former like ink jade split by gods, the latter like crushed clouds drifting over villages, leaving you standing there dumbstruck. 📸 Photo Notes: The Truth About Grasslands Grasslands are classic "better from afar"—from a distance, they're glowing green carpets, up close they're riddled with tiny bugs and cow pats. Want to lie or sit for a photo? Either tough it out in long pants or bring a mat as your "savior," unless you're fine with jumping up immediately to brush off your pants. 💊 Travel Tips: Don’t Panic, but Be Prepared Gannan's altitude isn’t extreme, so most won’t get altitude sickness—don’t psych yourself out. If you feel fine, enjoy; if unwell, seek help. But do pack motion sickness meds! The winding roads here might leave you "wilted" without them. This rain-chased journey was messy, but the joy was real. Just like Gannan’s weather—never predictable, yet always hiding surprises in the unexpected.

【A Mind-Blowing Visual Feast—Magical Realism in the Stone City】 "Zagana, meaning 'Stone Box' in Tibetan, left American explorer Joseph Rock exclaiming, 'I've never seen such breathtaking scenery in my life!' This is no movie set but a real-life 3D fantasy mountain town: the pale stone peaks of 'Guanggai Mountain' reflect like mirrors, shrouded in mist, resembling Middle-earth from *The Lord of the Rings*; the meadows of Fairy Beach bloom with wildflowers up to your knees, Tibetan villages perch on the mountainside, and the golden roof of Lhasang Monastery glitters in the morning light—every glance redefines 'paradise on earth'! 💡 Highlights: • Sunrise at Dari Viewpoint: Arrive by 5 AM to watch the morning mist flow like milk over four Tibetan villages, with gasps erupting as the sun gilds the mountains. • Picnic at Fairy Beach: Spread out a blanket, munch on tsampa while facing the snow-capped peaks, and watch marmots peek curiously from the grass. • Self-Drive on the Locke Road: Ranked among China's top 100 most scenic highways, it leads straight to Zagana, packing grasslands, canyons, and snow mountains into one epic journey! ------ 【Seasonal Magic—From Verdant Fields to Snow Kingdom】 "Zagana’s four seasons unfold like four distinct divine scripts: • Summer (June-August): Emerald grasslands carpeted with wildflowers, perfect for escaping the heat at just 20°C. • Autumn (September-October): Forests ablaze with color, golden barley racks—a photographer’s golden hour. • Winter: Snow blankets the stone city, ice waterfalls hang like crystal—your private *Frozen* wonderland! 📸 Photography Guide: • Morning Mist: Capture silhouettes of Tibetan villages against backlight at Riri Village viewpoint, with mist as a natural softbox. • Stargazing: Dongwa Village offers zero light pollution—shoot the Milky Way or star trails even with your phone. • Cultural Close-Ups: Snap sunlight etching wrinkles on an elder’s face or the heartwarming sight of Tibetan children chasing sheep. ------ 【Deep Dive—Immersive Tibetan Life】 "More captivating than the scenery is the living Tibetan culture: 1. Homestay Visit: Learn to make butter tea and listen to grandma’s tales of the mountain deity Nyaindawawa. 2. Prayer Wheel at Lhasang Monastery: Join devotees circling the white stupa at dawn, amid chants and incense smoke. 3. Shoton Festival Revelry: Visit in July for horse races, Guozhuang dances, and endless barley wine till sunrise! ------ 【Practical Tips—Avoid Pitfalls & Save Money】 • Tickets: Adults ¥80, children/students ¥40, free for seniors over 65! Open 24/7. • Transport: 7-hour drive from Lanzhou, or take a bus to Diebu County and hire a car (≈1 hour). • Stay: Book a homestay in Dongwa Village (e.g., 'Zagana Cloud Retreat') for wake-up-to-cloud-sea views. • Avoid: ◦ Skip 'undeveloped scenic spots'—some areas have rockfall risks. ◦ Pack for 15°C temperature swings! A windbreaker + sunscreen is essential. ------ "As the mist of Guanggai Mountain swallows the last flickering light of Tibetan homes, and the wind from Fairy Beach carries the warmth of barley wine—I finally understood why *China National Geographic* calls Zagana 'a hidden utopia you must visit in this lifetime.' Here, there’s no influencer filter, only raw awe and sacred serenity." 📍 Location: Yiwa Town, Diebu County, Gannan, Gansu (navigate to "Zagana Scenic Area"). ⏰ Best Time: June-October; stay 2 nights to unlock magical dawn and dusk moments! The Crown Jewel of Gannan

🌟 Gannan, a place filled with mystery and beauty, is home to the enchanting "Little Duku Highway," a hidden gem that radiates irresistible charm. Today, let me share my journey along this captivating route 🎈. 🌟 Self-Drive Itinerary: Zhagana — Gannan Little Duku Highway (County Road 550) — Flower Lake — Ruoergai Grassland — Aba County. Route Overview The Gannan Little Duku Highway is actually County Road 550 in Ruoergai County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It connects Gansu's Diebu (or the Zhagana Scenic Area) with Sichuan's Ruoergai Flower Lake Scenic Area, spanning approximately 45-50 kilometers. When navigating, set your GPS to cycling mode or navigate from Zhagana to Flower Lake, adding Tiebu Town as a waypoint. 🏞️ Stunning Scenery • Canyon Forests: Driving through this area feels like entering a green fairy tale world. The deep canyons, peculiar rock formations, and vast stone seas of the Zasage Grand Canyon are awe-inspiring. Dense forests with interwoven branches allow sunlight to filter through, creating patches of light and shadow. • Grassland Views: Crossing the Zasage Sacred Mountain, the landscape opens up to reveal the boundless Ruoergai Grassland. Herds of cattle and sheep graze leisurely, resembling stars scattered across a green ocean. The distant mountains complement the scene, creating a picturesque and poetic view. • Cultural Landscapes: Along the way, you'll pass through traditional Tibetan villages like Rege Village and Bengba Village. Beautiful white stupas stand tall in the villages, where locals circle them in prayer, exuding rich Tibetan cultural vibes. Colorful prayer flags flutter atop the mountains, seemingly narrating ancient stories. 🚗 Travel Tips • Vehicle Choice: While most of the route consists of asphalt or concrete roads, the roads are narrow, often single-lane, with some unpaved sections. An SUV or off-road vehicle is recommended. • Essentials: Due to the high altitude and strong UV rays, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so pack warm clothing like a jacket or lightweight down coat. Also, download offline maps in advance and prepare enough snacks and water. • Best Time to Visit: The ideal time is from June to October, avoiding the rainy season's landslide risks. The autumn colors in September are particularly breathtaking. Important Notes • Some sections are narrow and lack guardrails. Drive cautiously, especially when passing other vehicles. • There is no cell signal along the route, so download offline maps beforehand. • Respect local customs and religious beliefs, protect the environment, and avoid littering.

If you're weary of bustling city life and long for a trip that purifies your soul, then Gannan is undoubtedly your ideal destination. Here, there's no overwhelming commercial development—only vast grasslands, mysterious temples, hospitable Tibetan locals, and skies so clear you feel you could touch the clouds. 📅 Itinerary (5-Day Tour) - Day 1: Lanzhou - Ganjia Secret Land - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe Explore the Octagonal Ancient City and White Stone Cliff in Ganjia Secret Land. In the afternoon, visit the prayer wheel corridor at Labrang Monastery, and stay overnight in Xiahe. - Day 2: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Guomang Wetland - Langmusi Gallop freely on horseback across Sangke Grassland 🐎, watch birds glide over Guomang Wetland, and experience the tranquil charm of Langmusi in the evening. - Day 3: Langmusi - Ruoergai Flower Lake - Zhagana Stroll through Langmusi in the morning, admire the "Mirror of the Sky" at Flower Lake at noon, and stay in a Tibetan-style homestay in Zhagana by evening. - Day 4: Zhagana - First Bend of the Yellow River - Tangke Capture the morning mist over Zhagana at dawn 🌫️, then head to the First Bend of the Yellow River for a breathtaking sunset in the afternoon. - Day 5: Tangke - Hezuo - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou Visit the nine-story Buddha Pavilion to admire thangka paintings before returning to conclude the journey. 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions - Labrang Monastery: Home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, its Tibetan architecture is awe-inspiring. - Zhagana: A "stone treasure box" embraced by snow-capped mountains, its villages resemble a paradise on earth. - Ruoergai Flower Lake: Lush with water plants, the lakeside is covered in wildflowers in summer, offering a healing sight. - First Bend of the Yellow River: The river glitters golden at sunset, making every shot a masterpiece. - Langmusi: A town straddling Gansu and Sichuan, where temples and grassland scenery blend perfectly. 🚗 Transportation Guide - Major Transport: First reach Lanzhou (easily accessible by plane/high-speed rail), then depart for Gannan from there. - Self-Driving: Enjoy the freedom to stop for scenic views, but note some mountain roads require experienced drivers 🚗. - Private Car Hire: Hassle-free and safe, with drivers doubling as guides—ideal for group travel. - Bus: Buses from Lanzhou South Bus Station go to Xiahe, Hezuo, etc., but schedules are limited—check times in advance. 🍱 Food Recommendations - Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Freshly boiled and eaten with salt and pepper—so delicious you'll lick your fingers. - Yak Yogurt: Perfect with sugar—tart, sweet, and refreshing. - Tibetan Dumplings: Juicy yak meat filling makes them irresistible. - Butter Tea: Savory and warming—once you acquire the taste, you'll be hooked 😋. 🎒 Travel Prep - Clothing: Pack a windbreaker + light jacket (large day-night temperature swings), plus sun hats and sunglasses. - Medicine: Bring altitude sickness meds, stomach remedies, and sunscreen if sun-sensitive. - Essentials: ID, camera, power bank.

🌄Zagana｜The Ultimate Guide to the Tibetan Secret Land｜Stay in the 5 Days 4 Nights Featured on National Geographic!🚶♂️✨ 📍 Location: Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu (Navigate to "Zagana Visitor Center") 🎫 Ticket: 80 RMB/person (including insurance), free entry within 3 hours (quick check-in via North Gate) 🚗 Transportation: ▫️ Self-drive: 6 hours from Lanzhou (G316 new highway), 10 hours from Chengdu (G213 national road), SUV recommended for stability ▫️ Car hire: Shared ride from Lanzhou/Chengdu costs 300-500 RMB per person, Tibetan drivers familiar with the route (Recommended: Master Zhaxi: 138XXXX5678) ▫️ Inside the scenic area: Electric cart 40 RMB/person (walking on boardwalk possible), horse riding 100-200 RMB/segment (One Line Sky → Fairy Beach) 🌟 Must-Visit Highlights 1. Dari Viewing Platform · Golden Mountain Sunrise Arrive before 6 AM, capture the Tibetan village and snow mountains framed together amid rolling sea of clouds, use telephoto lens to shoot the "Stone City" silhouette, after sunrise when fog clears, shoot panoramic views. ✨ Hidden tip: Use time-lapse photography to record light changes, drone shooting allowed after registration (apply to scenic area management one day in advance). 2. Fairy Beach Light Hiking · The Wizard of Oz 2-hour wooden boardwalk leads straight to Fairy Lake, wildflowers bloom from June to August, ride horses in Tibetan costumes (50 RMB/hour) galloping on the meadow, afternoon portrait shots with backlight are super healing. 🌿 Bonus: At the end of the boardwalk, buy freshly squeezed yak milk (15 RMB/bowl) from herders’ hut, warm and sweet! 3. One Line Sky Secret Realm · Canyon Adventure 3-hour hike through fir forests and streams, the stone forest at the end looks like an alien landscape. Experienced adventurers can challenge Guangai Mountain Pass (guide needed, 200 RMB/day). ⚠️ Note: Some sections muddy during rainy season (July), wear anti-slip shoes and bring trekking poles. 4. Stargazing Camping · Milky Way Falls Summer-only tent camp (1200 RMB/night) offers yak meat hotpot, the Milky Way arch is visible to the naked eye. Use tripod for long exposure (ISO3200, 30 seconds exposure), avoid full moon on the 15th lunar day. 5. Century-old Tibetan Village · Local Life Evening smoke rises over terraced fields in Yeri Village, occasionally see marmots peeking out; in Dongwa Village, century-old stone houses offer butter tea making experience (50 RMB/person). 🗓️ 5 Days 4 Nights In-Depth Itinerary Day1: Lanzhou → Zagana (6 hours) → Dari Viewing Platform sunset → Tibetan hotpot Day2: Fairy Beach hike → Picnic at Fairy Lake → Stargazing camping Day3: One Line Sky adventure → Visit Tibetan family in Dongwa Village → Circumambulate Lasang Monastery Day4: Essence section of Rock Road (Zagana → Niba Village) → Explore Gongba Monastery Day5: Runwu Valley Waterfalls → Return trip (stop by Langmu Temple) 🍜 Food Recommendations and Warnings ✅ Must-try: • Yunju Tibetan Restaurant (Dongwa Village): Yak meat hotpot + wild mushroom soup, about 80 RMB per person • Zabina Tibetan Homestay (Yeri Village): Butter tea + tsampa, owner sings traditional toasting songs • Chuandiexian Restaurant (scenic area entrance): Sichuan cuisine + Tibetan stir-fry, about 50 RMB per person, reliable ❌ Avoid: • "Internet-famous restaurants" inside the scenic area with overpriced dishes, yak meat fried rice 40 RMB/portion but small servings • Avoid buying "wild mushroom dried goods" at the scenic area entrance, mostly cultivated ⚠️ Pitfall Avoidance Guide 1. Accommodation: ◦ Peak season (July-October) book 1 month in advance! Recommended: Xisa Hidden Mountain Residence opening in 2025 (oxygen supply + floor heating, facing Thumb Mountain) ◦ Avoid: Some guesthouses advertise "view rooms" but actually have no windows, confirm room layout before booking 2. Altitude Adaptation: ◦ Avoid showering on the first day, choose guesthouses with diffused oxygen supply (e.g., Shixiazi Inn) ◦ Oxygen tanks cost 30% more inside the scenic area, buy in Lanzhou or Diebu town (25 RMB/can) 3. Cultural Taboos: ◦ No photography inside temples, spin prayer wheels clockwise ◦ Do not photograph local elders or monks without permission 📸 Photography Tips • Portraits: Use telephoto lens at Fairy Beach to compress background, wear solid color long dresses (white/red preferred); use wide-angle lens in Tibetan village to capture stone houses and snow mountains together • Starry sky: Use large aperture lens (e.g., 24mm F1.4), manual focus to infinity, settings ISO3200, 30 seconds exposure • Time-lapse: Fix phone on Dari Viewing Platform to record cloud movement (shoot for over 1 hour recommended) 🎁 Interactive Giveaway Comment "Zagana must experience" to enter a draw for 3 Tibetan hand-painted postcards + blessing khata! Follow me for more secret Gannan travel tips～ (💡 DM "Zagana" to get the latest 2025 hiking map + Tibetan phrasebook!)

**7-Day In-Depth Travel Guide to Zhagana** Zhagana, meaning "Stone Box" in Tibetan, is located in Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province. This hidden Tibetan village nestled among snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands is hailed as "the last Shangri-La on Earth." With its breathtaking natural scenery, pristine Tibetan culture, and simple folk customs, it’s an ideal destination for hiking, photography, and summer retreats. Below is a **7-day in-depth travel guide** tailored for you, covering Zhagana’s core scenic spots, surrounding grasslands, and Tibetan village experiences, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this hidden paradise. --- **Itinerary Overview** - **Day 1**: Arrive in Lanzhou/Chengdu, transfer to Diebu County - **Day 2**: Diebu County → Zhagana (acclimatize to high altitude, light hiking) - **Day 3**: Dongwa Village → Fairy Meadow → One-Line Sky (core scenic area hike) - **Day 4**: Zhagana → Stone City → Dari Viewing Platform (panoramic photography) - **Day 5**: Zhagana → Ruoergai Flower Lake → First Bend of the Yellow River - **Day 6**: Langmusi Town → Bailong River Gorge → Gerdi Monastery - **Day 7**: Return trip, stop by Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion in Hezuo City --- **Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou/Chengdu, Transfer to Diebu County** - **Transportation**: - From **Lanzhou**: Take a bus to Hezuo City (~3 hours), then transfer to Diebu County (~4 hours). - From **Chengdu**: Take a bus to Ruoergai County (~8 hours), then transfer to Diebu County (~2 hours). - **Accommodation**: Hotels in Diebu County (advance booking recommended due to limited availability in peak season). - **Tips**: - Avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival at high altitude; stay hydrated and keep warm. - Prepare Rhodiola or oxygen cans in advance to prevent altitude sickness. --- **Day 2: Diebu County → Zhagana (Acclimatize to High Altitude, Light Hiking)** - **Transportation**: Charter a car or shared ride to Zhagana (~1.5 hours, 30 km). - **Entrance Fee**: Zhagana Scenic Area: ¥80/person (includes eco-shuttle). - **Recommended Activities**: - Stay in a Tibetan-style homestay in **Dongwa Village** or **Yeri Village** to experience local culture. - Light hike to **Lhasang Monastery** (3,000m altitude) for a panoramic view of Zhagana. - Capture the **Golden Mountain Sunset** at Dari or Yeri Viewing Platform in the evening. - **Dinner**: Try Tibetan cuisine (tsampa, butter tea, yak meat stew with potatoes). --- **Day 3: Core Scenic Area Hike (Fairy Meadow → One-Line Sky)** - **Hiking Route**: Dongwa Village → Fairy Meadow → One-Line Sky → Shenwang Temple (~5-6 hours round trip). - **Fairy Meadow**: Alpine grassland blooming with wildflowers in summer, perfect for photos. - **One-Line Sky**: A narrow canyon with clear streams, ideal for cooling off. - **Shenwang Temple**: A small Tibetan Buddhist temple for blessings. - **Tips**: - Wear anti-slip hiking shoes and bring sufficient water and snacks. - Pack a windbreaker and rain gear due to unpredictable weather. --- **Day 4: Zhagana → Stone City → Dari Viewing Platform (Panoramic Photography)** - **Morning**: Hike or horseback ride to **Stone City** (highest point in Zhagana, 4,000m altitude) for views of stone forests and sea of clouds. - **Afternoon**: Return to the village and head to **Dari Viewing Platform** for a classic panoramic shot of Zhagana (four villages and one monastery). - **Evening**: Join a Tibetan bonfire party (if organized by homestay) and dance the Guozhuang. --- **Day 5: Zhagana → Ruoergai Flower Lake → First Bend of the Yellow River** - **Transportation**: Charter a car to Ruoergai (~3 hours). - **Highlights**: - **Flower Lake** (¥75): In summer, the lake mirrors the sky and hosts waterbirds. - **First Bend of the Yellow River** (¥60): Stunning light and shadow at sunset. - **Accommodation**: Ruoergai County or Tangke Town. --- **Day 6: Langmusi Town → Bailong River Gorge → Gerdi Monastery** - **Transportation**: Ruoergai to Langmusi Town (~2 hours). - **Recommended Activities**: - **Gerdi Monastery** (¥30): A Gelugpa Tibetan Buddhist temple where sky burials may be observed (respect local customs). - **Bailong River Gorge**: Hike along the gorge with red cliffs and clear streams. - **Dinner**: Local specialties like yogurt and yak meat pies in Langmusi Town. --- **Day 7: Return Trip, Stop by Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion in Hezuo City** - **Transportation**: Langmusi Town → Hezuo City (~3 hours), visit **Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion** (the only high-rise Buddhist pavilion in Tibetan areas). - **Return**: Take a bus from Hezuo City back to Lanzhou or Chengdu. --- **Travel Tips** 1. **Best Season**: July-August for green grasslands and wildflowers, but prepare for rain. 2. **Altitude Sickness**: Zhagana’s elevation is 3,000-4,000m; avoid overexertion and carry oxygen. 3. **Transport Advice**: Limited public transport in Gannan; charter a car (~¥600-800/day) or join a tour. 4. **Cultural Respect**: No photography inside temples; walk prayer wheels clockwise. Zhagana’s snow-capped peaks, Tibetan villages, and morning mist paint a picture of untouched beauty. May this guide help you deeply explore this hidden gem! 🌄🏞️

! Today I want to recommend a hidden paradise ✨ Zhagana in Gansu! This place is literally like God's spilled palette 🎨 🔥【Basic Info】 📍Address: Yiwa Town, Diebu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province 🎫Ticket: 85 RMB/person (students can enjoy discounts with ID~) 🕒Opening hours: Open 24/7, ready for check-ins anytime! 💫【Must-Visit Spots】 🌈 Dari Viewing Platform The absolute best spot for sunrise! Morning mist + sunrise + cooking smoke = ethereal vibes 🌅 (Tip: Get up at 5am to secure your spot!) 🌷 Fairy Meadow Flower fields everywhere in spring and summer 💐 At sunset, the distant Tibetan villages and snow-capped mountains create picture-perfect frames 📸 🌳 Runwu Valley Discover this hidden gem! Waterfalls + primeval forest, a dream for nature lovers ✨ (White dresses make for stunning photos!) ⛪ Lhasang Temple Overlook the panoramic view from the highest point, the white stupas and prayer flags are so healing~ (Remember to walk clockwise around the prayer wheels!) 🍜【Food Recommendations】 🐮 Yak Meat Hot Pot The broth is incredibly flavorful! Tender meat that warms you up in winter ❤️ 🥟 Tibetan Dumplings The joy of juicy bursts with every bite! Perfect with chili sauce 🌶️ ☕ Butter Tea The ultimate remedy for altitude sickness! The salty taste grows on you~ (Best enjoyed with tsampa) 🏠【Accommodation Picks】 Tibetan-style: Black Yak Inn (authentic Tibetan vibes) For comfort: Zhagana Stone City Hotel (with floor heating!) Budget options in town: Diebu Hotel | Baiyun Hotel (near scenic area entrance) ⚠️【Important Notes】 1️⃣ Altitude warning: Take rhodiola in advance and bring oxygen 2️⃣ Layer up: Don't forget sunscreen and windbreakers! 3️⃣ Respect customs: No photos in temples, don't point at Buddha statues 4️⃣ Driving tips: Prepare anti-slip chains in rainy season, not recommended for beginners

【Dream Itinerary Route】 Day1️⃣: Yunxi Hotel (Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street Branch) 📍Address: Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street, Lanzhou 👉 First day in Northwest China, settle in and experience Lanzhou's charm on this lively pedestrian street~ Don't forget to visit the neighboring Zhengning Road Night Market for skewers!🍡 Day2️⃣: Dangzhou Grassland Scenic Area 👉 This is where Tibetan compatriots hold their annual Xianglang Festival!🌈 July-August is the most beautiful season with blooming grasslands, every shot is postcard-worthy📸 Day3️⃣: Hezuo Yale Hotel → Meiren Grassland 🐎 Known as the "Pearl of Gannan Grassland", Meiren Grassland is perfect for horseback riding!🏇 Day4️⃣: Maqu Snowland Jinzhu Hotel → First Bend of Yellow River 🌅 The First Bend of Yellow River is absolutely breathtaking! Best photography time is 4-6pm with perfect lighting🌄 Day5️⃣: Langmusi Scenic Area 🙏 Sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, morning chanting with rising smoke creates a fairy-tale atmosphere✨ Day6️⃣: Ruoergai Flower Lake 💐 July-August brings peak bloom, like God's spilled palette! Wear white dresses for stunning photos👗 Day7️⃣: Zhagana ⛰️ "The Last Eden on Earth", stay in Tibetan-style homestays for authentic experience🏡 Day8️⃣: Dayu Valley Scenic Area 🌲 A hidden gem rivaling Jiuzhaigou! Might encounter wild red pandas along the way🐾 Day9️⃣-🔟: Lanzhou Highlights Tour Must-visits: 🌉 Zhongshan Iron Bridge: Century-old landmark 🏯 Yellow River Tower: Panoramic city views 🎨 Danxia Landform: Nature's masterpiece 🔥【Top 5 Must-Do Experiences】 1️⃣ Zhagana: Misty fairyland☁️ 2️⃣ Ruoergai Flower Lake: Alpine floral wonderland🌸 3️⃣ Langmusi: Photographer's paradise📷 4️⃣ First Bend of Yellow River: Breathtaking to tears😭 5️⃣ Dayu Valley: Secret rival to Jiuzhaigou🏞️ 💡【Local Tips】 ✅ July-August is peak season with comfortable temperatures ✅ Bring jackets for large day-night temperature differences ✅ Prepare sunscreen and altitude sickness medicine ✅ Respect local Tibetan customs

Seven-Day Tour of Zhagana, Gansu✨Explore the Fairyland on Earth Ding dong~ Found another magical place! 🔥 This super detailed seven-day Zhagana travel guide will unlock the breathtaking scenery of this mysterious land for you✨ Quickly save and collect it~ 📖 Itinerary 🚩Day 1: First Impressions of Lanzhou🌆 📍Location: Lanzhou City, Gansu Province 👉Morning: ✈️ Arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport → Airport shuttle bus to downtown 💫Ps: The airport is about 75 km from downtown Lanzhou, shuttle bus costs 35 RMB per person 🍜 Lanzhou Beef Noodles check-in: Highly recommend the old brand "Ma Zi Lu"! One sip of the soup will bring your soul back😋 👉Afternoon: 🚶‍♂️ Stroll along the Yellow River Scenic Line 📸 Photo spots: Zhongshan Bridge "The First Bridge over the Yellow River", Baita Mountain Park overlooking the whole city of Lanzhou 🌇 Remember to take beautiful sunset photos in the evening~ 🚩Day 2: Pilgrimage to Labrang Monastery🛕 📍Location: No.1 West Street, Xiahe County, Gannan Prefecture, Gansu Province 💰Ticket: 40 RMB 👉Morning: 🚍 4-hour drive to Xiahe 🏯 Pilgrimage tips: Spin the prayer wheels clockwise! No photography inside the Buddha hall🙅‍♀️ The most stunning is the world's longest prayer corridor with over 1,700 prayer wheels!😱 🚩Day 3: Fun at Sangke Grassland🌱 📍Location: 10 km southwest of Xiahe County Town, Gannan Prefecture 💰Horse riding: 80-120 RMB/hour 🤩 Must-try: Gallop like a child of the grassland Experience archery like a grassland warrior Picnic under the fluffy white clouds☁️ Super healing~ 🚩Day 4: Exploring Langmu Temple🔍 📍Location: Langmu Temple Town, Luqu County, Gannan Prefecture, Gansu Province ⚠️Notes: Please keep solemn when visiting the sky burial platform No hats or photography allowed inside Tibetan Buddhist temples 🚩Day 5: First Encounter with Zhagana😍 📍Location: Yiwa Township, Diebu County, Gannan Prefecture, Gansu Province 🚗 Drive: About 3 hours 🏡 Accommodation: Highly recommend Tibetan-style guesthouses! Around 100 RMB per person 🌄 Recommended photo spots: Fairy Beach panoramic shooting point The smoke curling from Tibetan villages at dusk is stunning! 🚩Day 6: In-depth Tour of Zhagana🚶‍♂️ ⛰️ Hiking routes: Route 1 (Easy): Fairy Beach - One Line Sky Route 2 (Advanced): Grand Canyon Loop 📸 Sunset viewing spot: Dari Viewing Platform 🎒 Essential gear: Windbreaker + hiking shoes 🚩Day 7: Return to Lanzhou🚗 🛒 Souvenir recommendations: 🍖 Yak jerky 🧣 Tibetan scarves 🔮 Turquoise jewelry (remember to bargain) 🚗 Transportation Guide 🚘 For self-driving travelers: 1️⃣ Lanzhou → Hezuo → Zhagana (about 7 hours) 2️⃣ Lanzhou → Linxia → Zhagana (about 6 hours) ⚠️ Tips: Mountain roads have many curves, novice drivers be cautious 🏠 Accommodation Guide 🏨 Recommended in Lanzhou: Atour Hotel (near Zhongshan Bridge) 🏡 Must-stay in Zhagana: ✔️ Yunju Hotel (excellent views) ✔️ Zhaxi Dele Tibetan Family Guesthouse (experience Tibetan life) 🍜 Foodie List 🌟 Must-eat in Lanzhou: Ma Zi Lu Beef Noodles Du Ji Sweet Shop’s Gray Beans Zhengning Road Night Market’s Milk Egg Fermented Rice 🌟 Tibetan Area Delicacies: First taste of butter tea + tsampa Tibetan yogurt (so sour it makes you question life🤣) Hand-grabbed mutton with garlic—fragrant warning! ❗ Essential Tips 1️⃣ Altitude sickness prevention: Drink Rhodiola in advance, don’t show off after arriving on the plateau 2️⃣ Large temperature difference: Bring both down jackets and short sleeves 3️⃣ Eco-friendly travel: Take your trash with you 4️⃣ Sunscreen is a must: The plateau UV rays will teach you a lesson in no time

Here is a travel guide for Zhagana, allowing you to fully experience its beautiful scenery and culture. Preparation •Documents: Bring your ID card, other potentially required documents (e.g., student ID, senior citizen ID, etc.). •Clothing: Prepare a hardshell jacket, fleece liner, thermal underwear, sun protection clothing, hat, sunglasses, sports shoes, etc. For June-August, a light jacket is sufficient; for September-October, warmer clothing is needed. •Items: High-SPF sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products, lip balm, wet wipes, thermos, toiletries, personal medications, power bank, etc. •Medications: Prepare altitude sickness medication like Rhodiola, as well as cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine, painkillers, etc. Transportation Guide •Self-driving: Depart from Lanzhou, navigate to "Zhagana Scenic Area Ticket Office", drive along "Rock Road", and enjoy the beautiful scenery of grasslands, valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Some sections have many loose stones, so an SUV or 4WD vehicle is recommended. •Public Transportation: First, go to Lanzhou South Bus Station, take a bus to Diebu, then charter a car or carpool from Diebu to Zhagana. Carpooling costs approximately 60-100 RMB/one-way. Accommodation •Dongwa Village: Zhagana Guzong View Homestay, with floor heating, where the owner's mother personally changes bed sheets, and the Sichuan cuisine in the restaurant is delicious; Black Yak Homestay, with distinctive Tibetan-style tatami rooms, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the stream. •Dari Village: Boyang Homestay offers window views of snow-capped mountains, is a 5-minute walk to the observation deck, and the owner provides oxygen tanks and photography guidance. •Diebu County Town: Jiantou Hotel has well-equipped facilities and a high cost-performance ratio, suitable for tourists returning the next day. Attractions •Xiannvtan (Fairy Beach): Go up the mountain around 5 PM, stroll through the meadow, and enjoy the sunset around 7 PM, when the golden sunlight sprinkles on the Stone City, making it as beautiful as a fairyland. •Dari Observation Deck: The best sunrise viewing spot. Wake up around 5:30 AM to see a dreamy scene of morning mist, sunrise, and cooking smoke intertwined. •Runwugou Valley: A summer resort, beginner-friendly for hiking. You can complete the entire journey in 1 hour. There are waterfalls along the way, remember to bring a raincoat. •Yixiantian (One-Line Sky) Canyon: Narrow rock walls only allow one person to pass. Sunlight sprinkles on the moss, like a time tunnel, suitable for hiking enthusiasts. Special Experiences •Tibetan Home Visit: Visit Tibetan homes in Gaoza Village and Yeri Village in Zhagana, taste local delicacies, learn to churn butter, dance Guozhuang dance, and experience Tibetan customs. •Hand-painted Thangka: At the Tibetan Culture Experience Center in Zhagana Scenic Area, hand-paint Thangka and learn about the religious secrets behind it. •Handmade Tibetan Incense: Also at the Tibetan Culture Experience Center, follow study tours to touch natural spices and learn traditional Tibetan incense making techniques. Food Recommendations •Tibetan Steamed Buns: Yak meat buns with thin skin and generous filling, paired with highland barley noodle soup, delicious and satisfying. •Butter Tea: Herdsmen's homemade salty butter tea, dispels cold and cuts grease, can be eaten with tsampa. •Hand-grabbed Lamb: Tender and not gamey meat. "Donggaer Tibetan Restaurant" in Diebu County Town is a local favorite.

✨ **Opening with a bang!** What kind of fairyland is Zhagana? 📍 Located in Diebu County, Gannan, Gansu, its Tibetan name means "Stone Box"—a wonderland surrounded by towering rocks! 🌄 Mist-shrouded stone citadels, Tibetan village chimneys, and flower-filled grasslands are so stunning that even *National Geographic* certified it as "the birthplace of Adam and Eve." 🏔️ Explorer Joseph Rock raved about it—miss this, and you'll regret it for life! 💥 🔥 **2-day itinerary locked and loaded! 💸 Budget: 2000 RMB, even backpackers can have a blast! 👇** **Day1️⃣:** 🕕 **Morning**: Drive/carpool from Lanzhou/Xi'an to Zhagana (the adrenaline-pumping "Rock Road"! 🚀 SUV recommended~). First stop: **Dari Viewing Platform** 🌅 Wake up at 5 AM for sunrise—divine light spills over the valley, and your phone storage will explode from photos! 📸 🕛 **Noon**: Try *tsampa* (roasted barley flour with butter) in Dongwa Village 🍚—so fragrant you won’t stop eating! 🕠 **Evening**: Stay at **Zhagana Cloud Hotel** 💫 Open the window to a starry sky! Electric blankets + Tibetan-style plank beds, lulled to sleep by mountain winds~ 🌌 **Day2️⃣:** 🌞 **Morning**: Hike to **Fairy Meadow** 🧚‍♀️ A 1-hour wooden trail leads to panoramic views of the canyon villages. Spread out a picnic mat and snap photos—instant fairy vibes! 🍂 🌤 **Noon**: Explore **Runwu Gorge** 🎋 Free canyon waterfalls + wooden walkways, with streams so clear you can spot fish! 🐟 🌆 **Evening**: Rent Tibetan costumes in Yeri Village 🎀 (30 RMB) and twirl on the meadows—your social media will blow up! ✨ 💎 **Must-do checklist!** (Key highlights!) 💥 🌟 **Attractions**: - **Dari Viewing Platform**: The ultimate sunrise spot! 🌅 Mist + golden canyon light = natural filter. - **Fairy Meadow**: Picnic paradise 🍁 Golden in autumn—lie back and breathe in the serenity. - **Runwu Gorge**: Hidden waterfall gem 🗻 Free! Wear comfy shoes for splashing—refreshing screams guaranteed! 🆓 **Free bonus**: Glacier remnants at the Rock Road pass! 📌 🍴 **Eateries**: - **Tibetan Grandma’s Kitchen**: Yak hotpot 🍲 Freshly sliced meat + wild mushroom broth = heartwarming! - **Barley Pub**: Barley wine with *tsampa* 🍶 Sip under the stars while Tibetan grannies tell stories~ ✨ 🏨 **Stay recommendation**: 🔝 **Zhagana Cloud Hotel** 💙 🌟 Why? Highest altitude! Floor-to-ceiling windows + electric *kang* beds (no altitude worries!). Breakfast includes *tsampa*—service is top-notch! 💯 🚌 **Transport tips**: ✅ **Self-drive**: Take the epic "Rock Road"! 🚗 But watch for potholes (tire pressure at 2.6 Bar!). ✅ **Carpool**: Lanzhou → Diebu County bus → Zhagana (30 RMB/person) 🚐 💔 **Suffering alert**: Don’t push it with altitude sickness! Skip showers on Day 1, and carry oxygen! 💊 📌 **Pro tips (bombshell edition)** 💣: 1️⃣ **Sunshield trio mandatory!** 🌞 SPF50+ sunscreen + sunglasses + hat, or you’ll turn lobster-red. 2️⃣ **Rock Road best from May-Oct!** ❄️ Snowblocks it post-Nov—no regrets allowed! 3️⃣ **No littering!** 🚮 Protect Tibetan ecology (and don’t step on prayer flags!). 😋 **6 foodie musts!** (Drool warning!) 🔥 1️⃣ **Yak meat buns**: Thin skin, juicy filling! 🐂 One bite = happiness. 2️⃣ **Butter-glazed ginseng fruit**: Sweet like honey—Tibetan wellness secret! 3️⃣ **Tibetan cold noodles**: Spicy sauce = next-level tangy! 🍜 4️⃣ **Barley pancakes + milk tea**: Crispy + creamy—breakfast soulmates! 5️⃣ **Dried yak jerky**: Chewy AF, perfect for binge-watching! 🐃 6️⃣ **Iced yogurt**: So tart it’ll make you pucker (but you’ll keep drinking!) 🍼 💰 **Budget breakdown (2000 RMB)**: - Transport: Carpool (200) + gas (300) = 500 - Stay: Cloud Hotel (500/night ×1) = 500 - Food: 60 RMB/meal ×6 = 360 - Tickets/activities: Rock Road = free! 🆓 Horseback riding (200, optional) - Misc: Oxygen (50) + snacks (100) = 150 = **Exactly 2000!** 💸 🎉 **Verdict**: Zhagana feels like a hidden RPG map! 🌿 Morning mist, midday hikes, starry nights—even the air tastes free! 2000 RMB = max thrills. 🚀 Go now, or cry over friends’ Zhagana pics later! 💔 💬 **Final ramble**: Tibetan costumes = insta-fame! 📸 Pack a thick jacket. The Rock Road’s bumps are like life—but the views? Priceless. Go go go! 🦆

🎒 "Don't blink! Gansu's most photogenic summer route" is here—3-4 days taking you from Lanzhou all the way to the cloud-kissed stone city of Zhagana, with grasslands, temples, and the Milky Way all in one package! 📸 After reading this, just toss it to your travel buddy and say: Let's go, copy this itinerary! 🗓️ Daily Itinerary at a Glance Day 1｜Lanzhou ⚡️ Labrang Monastery ⚡️ Sangke Grassland ⚡️ Zhagana – 🌅 Morning: Pick up your rental car at Lanzhou Airport/High-Speed Rail Station and head straight to Xiahe's Labrang Monastery, home to the world's longest prayer wheel corridor—perfect for racking up steps! – 🌾 Afternoon: Dive into the flower fields of Sangke Grassland, where road-trip photos come effortlessly; arrive at Dongwa Village in Zhagana by evening, staying at the foot of the "Cloud Stone City." Drive: Lanzhou → Zhagana, 380 km, ~5.5 hrs 🚗💨 🎫 【Ticket Tip】Labrang Monastery 40 RMB, Zhagana 85 RMB—book in advance on Trip.com for instant entry with a scan, no queues! Day 2｜In-Depth Exploration of Zhagana – 🌄 05:30 Dari Viewing Platform: Morning mist + stone city = wallpaper-worthy sea of clouds! – 🧚‍♂️ 09:00 Dongwa Village → Fairy Meadow light hike (1.5 hrs), frolic in the meadows and tease the marmots. – 🐎 14:00 Horseback ride to Locke Viewing Platform → Stone Gate Viewing Platform → One-Line Sky—heroic angles for epic shots! – 🌌 19:00 Fairy Meadow sunset + Milky Way: Bring a tripod—your Instagram grid will thank you! Note: July-August brings rain—pack a windbreaker + non-slip shoes = survival kit 🌧️👟 🎫 【Ticket Tip】Fairy Meadow round-trip shuttle 30 RMB, horseback rides ~80-120 RMB—add them to your Trip.com cart in advance to skip the rush! Day 3｜Zhagana ⚡️ Langmusi ⚡️ First Bend of the Yellow River – 🏯 Morning: Langmusi, "a town straddling two provinces"—choose between Gansu Temple or Sichuan's Gerdi Temple, then hike Namo Gorge for a lung-cleansing adventure. – 🌅 Afternoon: Drive to Tangke Town and stake out the sunset at the First Bend of the Yellow River from Suokezang Temple’s hilltop—golden light on the S-curve guarantees winning shots! – 🌙 Overnight in Tangke or return to Langmusi Town—the starry sky never clocks out. 🎫 【Ticket Tip】Langmusi Gansu Temple 30 RMB, Sichuan Gerdi Temple 30 RMB, First Bend of the Yellow River 105 RMB (includes escalator)—book all on Trip.com to breeze through sunset crowd control with your ID! Day 4｜Langmusi ⚡️ Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion ⚡️ Return to Lanzhou – 🕍 Morning: Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion in Hezuo—a nine-story architectural marvel of Tibetan Buddhism. – 🛬 Afternoon: Speed back to Lanzhou via highway, 380 km (~5 hrs)—no stress for flights/trains! 🎫 【Ticket Tip】Milarepa Buddhist Pavilion 20 RMB—book on Trip.com to save 5 minutes in line! 🏡 Where to Stay in Zhagana? 🏕️ Cloudscape Wild Tent Hotel: Glass tents with panoramic views of the stone city—reach out and touch the Milky Way at night! 800-1200 RMB/night, book 1 month ahead! 🏔️ Yangjin Linka Homestay (Dari Viewing Platform): Cloud-sea breakfasts on the balcony + oxygen machines & smart toilets, 500-700 RMB/night, family-friendly with Tibetan breakfasts. 🏠 Tibetan Family Lodge: Traditional wooden cabins with yak-milking and butter-churning experiences, 200-300 RMB/night, budget-friendly (some shared bathrooms). 🍽️ You’ll Gain Three Pounds—Guaranteed 🍲 Tibetan Hot Pot: Musar Cuisine or family lodges—yak meat + barley bread + fern root broth, dipped in chili powder for a kick! 🔥 Roasted Juema Pig: Bazanlin Tibetan Restaurant (Diebu town)—crispy skin dripping with fat, ~90 RMB/person. 🍛 Amdo Tibetan Rice + Butter Tea: Yangjin Linka’s restaurant—barley grains + yak meat cubes, the ultimate breakfast recharge. 🥛 Yak Yogurt: Street stalls in Langmusi—so thick the spoon stands upright, add honey for heaven! 🚗 Transport & Practical Tips 1. Rentals: Pick up/drop off at Lanzhou Airport—SUVs handle mountain roads like a pro. 2. Altitude: Zhagana 3000-3300 m—low risk of altitude sickness (just avoid partying too hard). 3. Weather: Day 15-25°C, night 8-12°C—rain gear + sunscreen = layering art. 4. Internet: 4G works in Zhagana, tent Wi-Fi is spotty—download offline maps. 5. Etiquette: Walk prayer wheels clockwise; don’t point at Buddha statues; sip butter tea three times upon entering homes—manners level: 10086! 🎉 TL;DR This route packs "Gansu’s most stunning stone city" + grasslands + temples + Yellow River sunsets into a summer blockbuster. Leisurely drives, stays ranging from glamping to cultural immersion. Forward to your crew now: See you this weekend—clinking glasses under Zhagana’s starry sky!

📍Destination Introduction: Zhagana, located in Diebu County, Gannan, Gansu, is rated as one of the "Top Ten Lesser-Known Mountains" by China National Geography⛰️. Here, snow-capped mountains, Tibetan villages, and forests intertwine, resembling a paradise on earth. It is a haven for photography enthusiasts and hikers📸! --- 🚗Transportation Guide ✔️Self-driving: About 6 hours from Lanzhou, with stunning scenery along the way (navigate to "Zhagana Scenic Area"). ✔️Bus: Take a bus from Lanzhou/Hezuo City to Diebu County, then charter a car to Zhagana (about 1 hour). ⚠️Note: Some mountain roads have many curves, novice drivers should be cautious! --- 🎫Tickets and Fees: 💰Entrance Fee: 80 RMB/person (peak season May-October), 40 RMB in the off-season. 🅿️Parking Fee: 10-20 RMB/day. --- 🏡Accommodation Recommendations: 1️⃣ Tibetan-style Homestay: Experience local customs, recommended "Zhagana Yunju"☁️, with snow mountains visible from the window. 2️⃣ Budget: Hotels in Diebu County, affordable prices (1-hour drive). ✨Tips: Book rooms in advance during peak season! --- 📸Must-Visit Attractions: 1. Zhagana Fairy Beach: Alpine meadows + panoramic Tibetan village, sunrise and sea of clouds are breathtaking🌄. 2. Zhagana - Lasang Monastery: A century-old Tibetan Buddhist temple, spin prayer wheels and pray🙏. 3. Stone Forest Hiking: Traverse canyon forests and experience pristine wilderness (guide required)🥾. 4. Dari Viewing Platform: The best spot to capture panoramic views of Zhagana📷! --- 🍴Food Recommendations: 🍲 Tibetan Hot Pot: Yak meat + wild mushrooms, warming and delicious! 🥛Butter Tea: Local specialty, relieves altitude sickness (savory taste). ⚠️Note: Some restaurants are pricey, it is recommended to ask prices in advance. --- ⚠️Precautions: 1. Altitude over 3000 meters, avoid strenuous exercise, bring oxygen bottles💊. 2. Large temperature difference between day and night, bring a windbreaker/down jacket❄️. 3. Respect Tibetan customs, no photography inside temples📵. --- 💡Itinerary Suggestions: ✅ 2 days 1 night: Day 1 Fairy Beach + Tibetan village, Day 2 Stone Forest hiking. ✅ In-depth 3-day tour: Add the Rock Road (requires off-road vehicle)🚙. --- The beauty of Zhagana can only be truly experienced in person! Save this guide and set off now🌈~

🌄 I. Top 10 Must-See Attractions 1. **Mogao Caves (Dunhuang)** - Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage with 735 caves housing 45,000㎡ of murals. Special caves (e.g., Cave 220's "Playing Pipa Backwards") require extra booking. - Tips: Book Class A tickets (8 caves + digital film) 30 days in advance. Special cave tickets available onsite at 14:00. - Experience: Capture cave silhouettes & camel caravans at sunset by Dangquan River Bridge🌅. 2. Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake - Highlights: Miraculous desert oasis. Try camel rides, sandboarding & dune buggies. - Tips: Enter at 6 AM or after 8 PM to avoid heat. Photograph Milky Way reflections. 3. Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains 🌟 - Highlights: Post-rain colors resemble oil paintings. View "Cloud Sea Platform" for panoramas, "Rainbow Glow Platform" for textures. - Pro tip: Helicopter tours > hot air balloons (weather cancellations common). 4. Jiayuguan Fort - Highlights: "First Great Fort Under Heaven." Climb walls for Qilian Mountain views & try Hanfu passport ceremonies. - Night show: Friday/Saturday 8 PM holographic battle projections. 5. Maijishan Grottoes - Highlights: "Oriental Sculpture Museum." Cave 133's "Smiling Little Monk" exudes mystery. - Note: Narrow cliff paths—not for acrophobes. Use shuttle buses. 6. Labrang Monastery (Gannan) - Highlights: World's Tibetan studies hub. Attend 6:30 AM sutra chanting & walk the 3.5km prayer wheel corridor. - Experience: Make wolfberry paper scriptures📜 outside. 7. Zhagana - Highlights: "LOTR"-style village. Shoot morning mist at Dari Viewpoint🌄 & hike Fairy Meadow. - Stay: Yeri Village Tibetan homestays with stone city views. 8. Jinta Poplar Forest (mid-late Oct) - Highlights: Golden autumn reflections. Wear red/blue for iconic photos. 9. Yellow River Stone Forest - Experience: Raft on sheepskin boats with folk songs & find "The Myth" filming locations. 10. Kongtong Mountain - For martial arts fans: Climb 1,200-step "Stairway to Heaven" & sip Four Treasures Tea with fried twists. 🍜 II. Top 10 Must-Try Foods 1. Lanzhou Beef Noodles🍜 - Legendary spots: Mógōuyán, Mǎzilù (best broth before 3 PM). - Pair with: Sweet fermented barley dessert. 2. Dunhuang Donkey Meat Noodles - Tender donkey meat + chewy noodles with secret sauce. 3. Jiayuguan BBQ - Charcoal-grilled lamb ribs with apricot kernel drink. 4. Zhangye Cuo Yu Noodles - Hand-pulled "fish" noodles with minced meat. 5. Hand-Torn Lamb - Original flavor with salt-pepper dip. Best at Tibetan/Muslim restaurants. 6. Snow Mountain Camel Paw - Lanzhou delicacy: camel paw + ham + mushrooms. 7. Pao Zhang Noodles - Firecracker-shaped noodles stir-fried with beef & peppers. 8. Braised Lamb with Flatbread (Dunhuang) - Fall-off-the-bone lamb wrapped in bread. 9. Tibetan Buns - Sapphire-like lamb buns with translucent skins. 10. Milk Egg Rice Wine (Night Market MUST) - Zhengning Road's Old Ma Family tops with peanuts & raisins. 🗺️ III. Classic Itineraries Route 1: 5-Day Hexi Corridor | Day | Route | Highlights | |-----|-------|------------| | D1 | Lanzhou→Zhangye | Danxia sunset🌅 | | D2 | Zhangye→Jiayuguan | Fort ceremony + BBQ | | D3 | Jiayuguan→Dunhuang | "Child of Earth" statue + desert camp⛺ | | D4 | Dunhuang | Mogao + camel ride | | D5 | Return | Bring apricot juice as souvenir | Route 2: 4-Day Gannan Hidden Gems - D1: Lanzhou→Labrang→Sangke Grassland - D2: Langmusi (sunrise at Gansu Temple + Sichuan Temple's red walls) - D3: Zhagana hike👣→Tibetan homestay - D4: Ganjia Secret Realm (aerial shots of White Cliff Canyon). ⚠️ IV. Pro Tips 1. Transport: - Attractions are scattered—rent cars (¥400-600/day). - Lanzhou→Zhangye high-speed train (3hrs). 2. Accommodation: - Stay near Xiguan Cross (Lanzhou/Dunhuang); Tibetan homestays (Gannan); desert camps near Nanhu for stargazing. 3. Avoid Pitfalls: - No photos in Mogao Caves📵. - Rent desert shoe covers (¥15) or wear Crocs. - Danxia is post-rain—check weather. 4. Gear: - Sunscreen + sunglasses + scarf (UV/sandstorms). - Autumn: Jackets for 15℃+ day-night swings.

My advice to avoid trouble in Gannan is 😡 Traveling to Gannan with my boyfriend, the reality is quite different from what’s online! · ⚠️ Tearful summary of 13 life-saving tips after returning from Gannan! Highly recommend saving this! ❗Tip 1: Bring down jackets/3-in-1 jackets in August! Night temperatures on the grasslands drop close to 0℃, 🌧️ rain can come suddenly, jackets > umbrellas! ❗Tip 2: Navigation trap for Zha Ga Na! ❌ Don’t search directly for "Zha Ga Na." The correct route is to navigate to 📍 "Zha Ga Na Scenic Area Visitor Center" (in Diebu County direction). ❗Tip 3: When entering Labrang Monastery/Langmu Temple, wear long pants/skirts (must cover knees). No photos allowed inside the prayer hall 📵, and spin prayer wheels clockwise! ❗Tip 4: Best time for Ganjia secret spots! For shooting Baishi Cliff, go in the morning ⏰. For cave exploration, bring a flashlight with at least 300 lumens 🔦. ❗Tip 5: Don’t trust cheap horse riding on the grasslands! 20 yuan only covers leading the horse for 50 meters 🐎, galloping costs an extra 150 yuan/hour! ❗Tip 6: Drive carefully on Jiangdie Highway with two spare tires, wear 😷 dust masks in July and August! ❗Tip 7: Ask the price before photographing yaks (5-20 yuan varies). Do not step on or cross prayer flags; you can photograph them but not touch or pull! ❗Tip 8: Long queues over 2 hours for sightseeing buses in the peak season at Lianbaoyeze. Suggestions: ① Enter the park by 7:30 am and self-drive ② Bring oxygen bottles + glucose ③ Descend immediately if blood oxygen is below 88% ❗Tip 9: Be cautious choosing grassland homestays with dry toilets! Most have no heating and are freezing. Hotels in the county with floor heating over 200 yuan are much better 🔥! ❗Tip 10: Sun protection is critical! The UV index on the plateau often exceeds level 8 ☀️. Must-have: ① UV400 sunglasses ② face-covering sun shield ③ waterproof SPF50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours) ❗Tip 11: Some areas in Gannan have weak signal. Download offline maps in advance (Aowei Interactive Map APP) and carry cash (200 yuan in small change) with you. ❗Tip 12: Don’t rush straight to altitudes above 3500m! Arrive in Lanzhou 2 days early to acclimate ⏳. Take Rhodiola pills 💊 at least a week in advance for effectiveness! ❗Tip 13: Tibetan etiquette taboos! ❌ Forbidden: touching heads (including children), stepping on scriptures, pointing at Buddha statues with one hand. When receiving a khata scarf, bow and accept with both hands 🙏 · 💰 My actual expenses (6 days 5 nights): Over 3,000 yuan, including tickets, transportation, and accommodation D0: From all over the country -- Lanzhou hotel -- free time in Lanzhou D1: Lanzhou -- Labrang Monastery -- horse riding on the grassland -- Luqu D2: Luqu -- Langmu Temple -- Niangma Temple -- Aba D3: Aba -- Lianbaoyeze -- First Bend of the Yellow River -- Tangke D4: Ruoergai -- Flower Lake -- 550 County Road -- Zha Ga Na D5: Zha Ga Na -- Jiangdie Highway -- Meiren Grassland -- Lanzhou Tips: Ganjia secret spots are accessible! Flower Lake ticket is 105 yuan, some local herders on Xiaoduku Road charge 50 yuan randomly, depends on luck!

Gannan's Mini Duku Highway — Y550 County Road Dubbed the "Condensed Version of Duku Highway," this hidden gem connects canyons, grasslands, and forests. Every snapshot here is wallpaper-worthy. Here's a meticulously compiled guide—you're welcome! 🌟 Core Route: Zhagana → Tiebu Town → Flower Lake (Total: 54km) ▪️ Navigation: Input "Donglie Village, Tiebu Town → Bengba Village → Flower Lake" ▪️ Road Conditions: 70% asphalt + 30% gravel; sedans are passable but SUVs are recommended. Some single-lane sections require cautious passing. ▪️ Signal Coverage: No signal in canyon sections; download offline maps on Amap in advance. 📸 Photography Tips 1️⃣ Cliffside Road Shots: Navigate to "7km northwest of Bengba Village" for wide-angle shots of winding roads and canyons. Wear bright-colored outdoor jackets for standout photos. 2️⃣ Grassland Wildflower Vibes: Near Re'er Township, wildflowers are abundant. Capture running shots in a white dress and sunhat, or use wildflowers as props. 3️⃣ Tibetan Village Cultural Scenes: Use a telephoto lens to capture elderly women spinning prayer wheels. Tibetan-style houses and prayer flags in Bengba Village create a story-rich backdrop. 4️⃣ Aerial Views: After drone registration, capture the full view of the Mini Duku Highway. Key spots include "One-Line Sky Canyon" and "Pass Prayer Flags." 🍽️ Food Recommendations ✅ Must-Try Dishes Zhagana: Tibetan yogurt (5 RMB/bowl at roadside stalls), yak meat hotpot ("Zhagana Tibetan Homestay") Langmusi: Tibetan dumplings ("Lisa Restaurant"), butter tea (freshly made at a local's home near "Saichisi") Ruoergai: Homemade yogurt ice cream by locals (5 RMB/cup at the Flower Lake entrance) ❌ Avoid These Restaurants near the First Bend of the Yellow River are overpriced; bring your own snacks. Some restaurants inside Zhagana Scenic Area charge tourist prices—confirm the menu beforehand. 📌 Essentials Before Departure Vehicle: SUVs preferred; carry snow chains (rainy season from June to August can make some sections muddy) Clothing: Outdoor jacket + light down jacket (temperature difference exceeds 15°C between day and night), sun hat + sunglasses (UV rays are very strong) 💊 Supplies: BLF (for altitude sickness), PTT oral solution, motion sickness pills Others: Oxygen canisters (15 RMB/can at pharmacies), thermos, power bank (some guesthouses lack charging facilities) ⚠️ Important Notes Some sections of the Mini Duku Highway lack guardrails. Parking is prohibited on cliff sections (K15-K22); use the mountaintop viewing platform instead. Zhagana's north gate will start charging admission fees in August 2024. Tickets are required regardless of the direction of travel. Respect local customs: photography is prohibited inside temple halls, and prayer wheels should be spun clockwise. Gannan's Mini Duku Highway is a paradise for the eyes, a challenge for the body, and a sanctuary for the soul. Every curve on this road holds surprises and emotions.