Xiahe Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Labrang Monastery Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
The Largest Monastery Outside of Tibet
Situated in southern Gansu, Labrang Monastery in Xiahe is the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. First founded in 1709, at its peak it hosted over 3,600 monks.
Included in your entrance fee is a guided tour with an English speaking monk. You will walk through the temples and learn the history of the area. You should be lucky enough to enter the main temple during prayer time and witness the incredible chanting and humming it over 100 monks in unison.
After exploring inside the monastery, it is well worth walking around the the kora circuit. This is the pathway on the outside of the monastery walls which contains the prayer wheels. Hundreds of Tibetan pilgrims at a time walk this circuit in a clockwise circle. You’ll hear the constant chants, see their gorgeous traditional Tibetan clothing and even witness some pilgrims and monks prostrating as they walk.
To get to Labrang you need to get to the capital of Gansu, Lanzhou and then catch a 4 hour bus south to Xiahe.
#historicplaces
Labrang Tibetan Monastery in South-Gansu
About 1 km west from Xiahe County in the Gannan Prefecture, Gansu Province, lies the Labrang Monastery. A nice place in the hearts of the Tibetans, it stands by the Daxia River and faces the Dragon Mountain. The monastery is famous for its Tibetan culture, imposing Buddhist structures and the long corridor of prayer wheels. It is a holy place where Buddhism followers learn the essence of Buddhism. During its peak, there were over four thousand monks. Labrang Monastery boasts the longest corridor of prayer wheels over the world, with over 1,700 scripture wheels.
ℹ️ Chinese name: 拉卜楞寺
🚐 How to get there?
From Lanzhou, visitors can catch a direct bus at Lanzhou South Coach Station to Xiahe County. From other counties like Linxia or Hezuo, there are buses to Xiahe every day.
🎫 Admission Fee 40RMB for visiting several main halls. Otherwise, you can tour the grounds for free.
🛕I recommend spending at least 3-5 hours in the monastery, as it's really huge and impressive. You can also walk the nearby grassland.
#tibet#monastery#culturetrip
#summervacation#hikingtrails
Do you know where the longest corridor in the world is?
This Gannan self-driving tour, in addition to Zhabei that I am most worthy of thinking is this world-class top Tibetan school! It has the longest corridor in the world! No matter which country the locals take, they will take time to worship here every year! When you come here, time seems to be quiet, no distractions!
Address
is located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, 200km from Lanzhou!
From Lanzhou, it takes 4.5h to drive! The road is very good, the whole process can also take the provincial highway! Or take a direct bus in Lanzhou District!
Introduction
Strictly speaking, this is not just a temple, it retains the most complete teaching system of Tibetan Buddhism in the country. Most of the monks came to the temple when they were seven or eight years old. After 12 years of study, they were counted as learning. It was not like learning, but also a lifelong practice.
Labrang Monastery, located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, is one of the six monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is known as the World Tibetan Academy. Xiahe has only one broad main street, one side is Labrang Monastery and the other side is city. But this street has no boundaries, just like the life and beliefs of the Xiahe people. In history, the Labrang Monastery is known as the 108-genus temple (in fact, it is much larger than this number), and it is the political and religious center of Gannan. Up to now, Labrang Monastery has retained the best Tibetan Buddhist teaching system in the country. The monks who practice here are from a few years old to several decades old. Apart from the typical Tibetan temple features, Labrang Monastery is best known for its longest corridor in the world. There are more than 1,700 prayer barrels around the temple, stretching for 3.5 kilometers.
Show More
Sangke Grassland Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Departing from Xi'an on May Day, embark on a unique and pure journey to Gannan!!
In this land with an average altitude of 2900 meters, you can encounter grasslands, lakes, snow-capped mountains, seas of flowers, wetlands, forests, rivers, temples, blue skies and white clouds, fluttering prayer flags, and Tibetan charm. All your beautiful imaginations can be met in Gannan.
The itinerary includes options for coach & car, two different ways to enjoy the trip, and you can freely choose the way to play according to your schedule.
🌈First stop on the itinerary is a city walk in Lanzhou, checking in with the Northwest flavor🌈Sangke Grassland - an endless meadow where you can ride horses
🌈Zhagana - a natural stone city, God's Eden Flower Lake🌈Ruoergai Wetland, encountering the distant Black-necked Crane
🌈Labrang Monastery - a world center of Tibetan studies, experiencing the profound Tibetan culture
🌈Langmu Temple - the Oriental Switzerland, a miniature version of Shangri-La
🌈Anduo Hezuo Monastery's Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - a resplendent Tibetan studies museum
🏨Carefully selected comfortable accommodations along the way, ensuring a comfortable stay.
💰Admission fees:
A: Labrang Monastery 40 yuan (entrance to the hall)|Students 20 yuan
B: Zhagana 80 yuan|Students 40 yuan
C: Flower Lake 105 yuan|Students 75 yuan
D: Langmu Temple 30 yuan|Students half price
E: Milarepa Buddha Pavilion 20 yuan|Students 10 yuan
⚠️Warm tips for essential items:
1️⃣Gannan is a plateau region with strong ultraviolet radiation, remember to protect yourself from the sun, and be aware of the large temperature difference between day and night, around 5-18°C!
2️⃣Clothing: For travel between April and May, it is recommended to prepare clothes for both spring and winter, lightweight down jackets, windbreakers, and thin outerwear with long sleeves for the daytime
3️⃣Shoes: Comfortable sports shoes/hiking shoes are both suitable
4️⃣Thermal water bottle: When going out for a trip, it is recommended to drink hot water throughout the journey
5️⃣Electronic payment is available, but also carry a small amount of cash
6️⃣Sun protection: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, face masks
May Day Travel | 3-Day Gannan Loop | The Road of Zhagana and Loka
The beauty of nine colors, the secret realm of Gannan🌈 When the first rays of the morning sun sprinkle on Zhagana amidst the clouds🌞 Herds of cattle and sheep stroll on the Sangke Grassland, and red-robed monks murmur scriptures in the Milarepa Buddha Pavilion... The whole world seems peaceful and serene~
Those who are preparing for the May Day holiday, take a look here, you must not miss this niche scenic area❗❗
.
🚘Itinerary at a glance
D1⃣️Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe
D2⃣️Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Langmu Temple - Zhagana
D3⃣️Zhagana - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
.
🎨Exquisite Attractions
Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: 'Tibetan Buddhism Museum' ✨ The red Tibetan-style nine-story pagoda in Hezuo City of Gansu's Amdo Tibetan area
Tips: 🎫20/person
Tibetan area V1⃣️ houses the architecture that worships masters of various sects of Tibetan Buddhism, each floor is a separate Buddha hall, representing different sects, worshiping different main deities
.
Gannan Secret Realm: ✨ In Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture's Xiahe County, Gannan Town, the scenic area contains rich geological structures and unique Tibetan customs
Tips: 🎫80/person
The eastern part of Ganjia Grassland has the mark of the Silk Road in the ancient Octagonal City, and at the end is the magical Baishi Cliff, with caves, grand canyons, and other landscapes in between
.
Zhagana: A hidden paradise among the clouds surrounded by mountains, where one can watch the morning mist and the starry sky at night, a utopian land of half fireworks and half celestial
Tips: 🎫80/person (half price for student tickets)
Dari Viewing Platform is good for watching the sunrise but often crowded, Fairy Beach is the best spot for sunset in the scenic area, with crystal clear water
.
Labrang Monastery: 'World Tibetan Academy', built against the mountain with red walls and glazed tiles, has the world's longest prayer corridor
Tips: 🎫 Main hall, namely Wensi Hall, 40/person, Gontang Pagoda 20/person
The prayer corridor should be visited clockwise, and there is a wooden bridge across the Daxia River to the southwest of the monastery, where you can take a panoramic photo of Labrang Monastery 50 meters south of the Buddha sunning platform
.
Langmu Temple: Not a temple but a town, the Bailong River inside the town divides Langmu Temple into two, which are Gerdeng Monastery in Sichuan and Sertri Monastery in Gansu
Tips: 🎫30/person (same price for both temples)
The Flesh Relic Hall in Sichuan Gerdeng Monastery is the essence of Langmu Temple, and you can also pass through the Namo Grand Canyon, through the Fairy Cave, Tiger Cave, and explore the source of the Bailong River
.
Sangke Grassland: One of the largest highland grasslands in Gannan, also a natural pasture, where local Tibetans often pray and celebrate festivals
Tips: Grassland protection 💰15 yuan Horse riding price 50-80/30min
Respect the local customs and religious beliefs, try not to enter yurts/temples at will, and do not damage stone carvings, prayer flags, etc.
.
🌟Considerate Tips
1⃣️The average altitude of Gannan is over 3000m, so it is necessary to prevent altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise
2⃣️You can prepare some anti-altitude sickness medicines, such as Rhodiola, oxygen, and glucose, etc.
3⃣️Colorful clothes can produce photos with richer layers
4⃣️The region is mostly inhabited by Tibetans and some Hui people, so it is necessary to respect local customs and habits
I regret it! I should have gone to Gannan during the National Day holiday, it's so cost-effective!
🤔Why should you visit Gannan at least once?
1⃣It's not prone to altitude sickness, Gannan has plateau scenery, but the altitude is relatively moderate, making it the first stop for those challenging the plateau👍
2⃣Great value for money, you can see the authentic Tibetan scenery without spending much, and you don't have to worry about the risk of altitude sickness
3⃣Diverse landscapes, highland grasslands, canyons, wetlands, Tibetan villages, temples, and rural roads, everyone who has been there regrets not going earlier
🌸The best time to enjoy autumn in Gannan
September to mid-October
📷Must-visit scenic spots
🍃Zhagana | 💰80
Surrounded by impressive stone mountains! The Dari viewing platform offers a full view of the village, and the Fairy Beach is great for taking photos and playing, with very affordable prices💰
🍃Flower Lake | 💰105
A beautiful marsh wetland, with blue skies and white clouds scattered among the aquatic plants, home to many water birds. It takes 4 hours to walk the entire boardwalk, and there's no shade along the way, so be sure to wear sunscreen and carry an umbrella on sunny days🌂
🍃Labrang Monastery | 💰40
Home to the world's 1⃣ longest prayer wheel corridor! The Buddhist atmosphere is very strong, and if you don't plan to visit the halls, you can enter from the commercial street and take photos outside the walls📷
🍃Jianlangmu Temple | 💰30
To be precise, it's a town with two temples. Gansu Temple leads to the burial platforms, and Sichuan Temple backs onto the Namo Grand Canyon. You can hike deep into nature along the stream, and horseback riding is also an option🐎
🍃Milariba Buddha Pavilion | 💰20
Compared to the other temples, Milariba Buddha Pavilion is smaller, but it contains many exquisite murals, painted sculptures, Thangkas, and statues! You need to take off your shoes or bring shoe covers to enter👣
🍃Huosanku Grassland | 💰Free
The Sangke Grassland is vast, with not only highland pastures but also wetland parks, and it's all free. Walking yaks on the grassland, and horseback riding is the right way to experience galloping across the grassland🐂
🍃Guomang Wetland | 💰Free
This is a habitat for black-necked cranes, comparable to Bayanbulak, and there's a huge prayer flag. Both close-up and distant photos are very atmospheric🌈
Hurry up and plan for the National Day💖
The Sangke Grassland on the plateau is stunningly beautiful
After returning from Labrang Monastery to Xiahe County, I passed through the main street and remembered there was a 'Labrang Westland Grand Hotel'—I passed it on the way here, a five-story building with glass walls, looking quite fashionable. In fact, the county is not very large, with a population of less than 90,000.
Once out of the county, the car headed west directly to Sangke Grassland, just in time to digest after a meal! This was a planned trip.
The Sangke Grassland is only about a dozen kilometers away from Xiahe County. Although I was dozing off, I couldn't bear to miss the beautiful scenery outside the car window. What does 'embracing nature' mean? It starts with your eyes first!
Outside the car window is the vast grassland, with the road extending into the distance through the middle of the large meadow.
Looking around, the green grass is tinged with yellow, the season of harvest, and also the season for tourists to view the autumn. Some areas are already covered in yellow, the sections of the low slopes where the sunlight is best. The grassland is not flat; the terrain is undulating, mostly gentle slopes, so there is a sense of layering, or rather, a 'curvy' beauty.
In the distance are rolling hills, with more mountains behind them, looking very far away, like on the horizon, connected with large clouds, giving an endless visual experience.
In the grassland, dots of cattle and sheep are scattered—black dots, white dots, what a great pasture! No wonder people in Gansu like to eat beef noodles; the free-range environment here is good, the cattle must be in a good mood, and certainly robust!
In no time, we arrived at a scenic spot in the vast Sangke Grassland, which covers an area of about 70 square kilometers and is said to have several attractions, including a wetland park.
The scenic spot we passed through is actually the 'Tashi Grassland Happy Camp'.
I hurried off the bus for a stroll. I like this environment, looking into the distance, seeing green, breathing the air with the most natural 'flavor', finding the space with the most sense of freedom.
We also enjoyed free treatment. Actually, for the camp, it is more suitable for young people to 'check in'.
Here, there are tents set up, wooden pavilions for resting and strolling, and an arched passageway—a tunnel shape, with colorful prayer flags and white hadas hanging all over the metal frame, which can be seen when passing by on the road, very beautiful and dazzling. Especially when the wind is strong that day, the prayer flag fabric is light and thin, all blown in one direction by the wind, neat and uniform.
Walking through the arched corridor of prayer flags, I wrapped my head well, the colorful prayer flags around me rustled in the wind, and I couldn't miss the bright colors of the 'time-space tunnel' here, took photos, very beautiful—'Prayer Flag Tunnel'!
The prayer flags in blue, white, red, green, and yellow are printed with Buddha's teachings and images, which is the most typical style of the Tibetan area, not for beautifying the environment, but for praying for blessings and disaster relief.
Nearby stands a large stone monument over 4 meters high, with the front inscribed 'Sangke Grassland Altitude Three Thousand Meters', and the back: Sangke Grassland is 13 kilometers west of Xiahe County, Gannan State, part of the Dajutan Grassland in Sangke Township, surrounded by mountains, with a wide and flat highland grassland in the middle, famous in the northwest Tibetan area for its excellent pastures and for historically holding grand Tibetan Buddhist religious activities.
We strolled in the grass, the dense little grasses not growing tall, but forming an endless green carpet, a vibrant scene that satisfied me. The vastness of the earth, the beauty of the plateau grassland, attracts more and more tourists to come for sightseeing.
The main entertainment games set up here include: horse riding and archery. Especially horse riding, young people will basically go to experience it. The horse riding is not about letting the horses run on the grassland; I saw that there is always a horseman leading the horse slowly, with safety as the priority.
The private pastures on the hills near the grassland have lush grass and dense colorful wildflowers in summer, quite beautiful.
The driver told us that during the summer holidays, there are especially many people coming, and then you can join the crowd to dance the Guozhuang dance; on festival days, it's even more lively!
I was thinking, if I lay flat on the grass at night, how many stars there must be in the night sky!
The wind was strong that afternoon, the sky cloudy, the clouds thick, and even raindrops drifted by. We didn't stay long and continued on towards Hezuo!
Show More
Zhagana Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Visiting a local mountain festival
Sometimes you're just at the right place at the right time. During our roadtrip in South-Gansu, we climbed a mountain and found out about the local Tibetan festival, that occurs for one week during August. We tried some homemade food and had a chat waiting for the sunset. We even met a guy from Xi'An who travels there every summer.
Where? Zhagana offers a stunning landscape, forests and small villages. Locals do both farming and pasturing work in Zhagana. The best season to visit is from May to October. Summer is the best time to go as everything turns to green, winter gets cold!
⭐ While visiting Zhagana, there are many opportunities to experience the local culture. Just walk around and see what happens. 😊 Enjoy your trip!
🚐 Zhagana is better for a car trip. 🎫 Entrance fee is around 20 RMB.
#tibet #village
#historicculture#summervacation#hikingtrails
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.
Departing from Xi'an on May Day, embark on a unique and pure journey to Gannan!!
In this land with an average altitude of 2900 meters, you can encounter grasslands, lakes, snow-capped mountains, seas of flowers, wetlands, forests, rivers, temples, blue skies and white clouds, fluttering prayer flags, and Tibetan charm. All your beautiful imaginations can be met in Gannan.
The itinerary includes options for coach & car, two different ways to enjoy the trip, and you can freely choose the way to play according to your schedule.
🌈First stop on the itinerary is a city walk in Lanzhou, checking in with the Northwest flavor🌈Sangke Grassland - an endless meadow where you can ride horses
🌈Zhagana - a natural stone city, God's Eden Flower Lake🌈Ruoergai Wetland, encountering the distant Black-necked Crane
🌈Labrang Monastery - a world center of Tibetan studies, experiencing the profound Tibetan culture
🌈Langmu Temple - the Oriental Switzerland, a miniature version of Shangri-La
🌈Anduo Hezuo Monastery's Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - a resplendent Tibetan studies museum
🏨Carefully selected comfortable accommodations along the way, ensuring a comfortable stay.
💰Admission fees:
A: Labrang Monastery 40 yuan (entrance to the hall)|Students 20 yuan
B: Zhagana 80 yuan|Students 40 yuan
C: Flower Lake 105 yuan|Students 75 yuan
D: Langmu Temple 30 yuan|Students half price
E: Milarepa Buddha Pavilion 20 yuan|Students 10 yuan
⚠️Warm tips for essential items:
1️⃣Gannan is a plateau region with strong ultraviolet radiation, remember to protect yourself from the sun, and be aware of the large temperature difference between day and night, around 5-18°C!
2️⃣Clothing: For travel between April and May, it is recommended to prepare clothes for both spring and winter, lightweight down jackets, windbreakers, and thin outerwear with long sleeves for the daytime
3️⃣Shoes: Comfortable sports shoes/hiking shoes are both suitable
4️⃣Thermal water bottle: When going out for a trip, it is recommended to drink hot water throughout the journey
5️⃣Electronic payment is available, but also carry a small amount of cash
6️⃣Sun protection: hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, face masks
May Day Travel | 3-Day Gannan Loop | The Road of Zhagana and Loka
The beauty of nine colors, the secret realm of Gannan🌈 When the first rays of the morning sun sprinkle on Zhagana amidst the clouds🌞 Herds of cattle and sheep stroll on the Sangke Grassland, and red-robed monks murmur scriptures in the Milarepa Buddha Pavilion... The whole world seems peaceful and serene~
Those who are preparing for the May Day holiday, take a look here, you must not miss this niche scenic area❗❗
.
🚘Itinerary at a glance
D1⃣️Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe
D2⃣️Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Langmu Temple - Zhagana
D3⃣️Zhagana - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
.
🎨Exquisite Attractions
Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: 'Tibetan Buddhism Museum' ✨ The red Tibetan-style nine-story pagoda in Hezuo City of Gansu's Amdo Tibetan area
Tips: 🎫20/person
Tibetan area V1⃣️ houses the architecture that worships masters of various sects of Tibetan Buddhism, each floor is a separate Buddha hall, representing different sects, worshiping different main deities
.
Gannan Secret Realm: ✨ In Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture's Xiahe County, Gannan Town, the scenic area contains rich geological structures and unique Tibetan customs
Tips: 🎫80/person
The eastern part of Ganjia Grassland has the mark of the Silk Road in the ancient Octagonal City, and at the end is the magical Baishi Cliff, with caves, grand canyons, and other landscapes in between
.
Zhagana: A hidden paradise among the clouds surrounded by mountains, where one can watch the morning mist and the starry sky at night, a utopian land of half fireworks and half celestial
Tips: 🎫80/person (half price for student tickets)
Dari Viewing Platform is good for watching the sunrise but often crowded, Fairy Beach is the best spot for sunset in the scenic area, with crystal clear water
.
Labrang Monastery: 'World Tibetan Academy', built against the mountain with red walls and glazed tiles, has the world's longest prayer corridor
Tips: 🎫 Main hall, namely Wensi Hall, 40/person, Gontang Pagoda 20/person
The prayer corridor should be visited clockwise, and there is a wooden bridge across the Daxia River to the southwest of the monastery, where you can take a panoramic photo of Labrang Monastery 50 meters south of the Buddha sunning platform
.
Langmu Temple: Not a temple but a town, the Bailong River inside the town divides Langmu Temple into two, which are Gerdeng Monastery in Sichuan and Sertri Monastery in Gansu
Tips: 🎫30/person (same price for both temples)
The Flesh Relic Hall in Sichuan Gerdeng Monastery is the essence of Langmu Temple, and you can also pass through the Namo Grand Canyon, through the Fairy Cave, Tiger Cave, and explore the source of the Bailong River
.
Sangke Grassland: One of the largest highland grasslands in Gannan, also a natural pasture, where local Tibetans often pray and celebrate festivals
Tips: Grassland protection 💰15 yuan Horse riding price 50-80/30min
Respect the local customs and religious beliefs, try not to enter yurts/temples at will, and do not damage stone carvings, prayer flags, etc.
.
🌟Considerate Tips
1⃣️The average altitude of Gannan is over 3000m, so it is necessary to prevent altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise
2⃣️You can prepare some anti-altitude sickness medicines, such as Rhodiola, oxygen, and glucose, etc.
3⃣️Colorful clothes can produce photos with richer layers
4⃣️The region is mostly inhabited by Tibetans and some Hui people, so it is necessary to respect local customs and habits
Show More
Mandala Reality Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
May Day Travel | 3-Day Gannan Loop | The Road of Zhagana and Loka
The beauty of nine colors, the secret realm of Gannan🌈 When the first rays of the morning sun sprinkle on Zhagana amidst the clouds🌞 Herds of cattle and sheep stroll on the Sangke Grassland, and red-robed monks murmur scriptures in the Milarepa Buddha Pavilion... The whole world seems peaceful and serene~
Those who are preparing for the May Day holiday, take a look here, you must not miss this niche scenic area❗❗
.
🚘Itinerary at a glance
D1⃣️Lanzhou - Gannan Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe
D2⃣️Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Langmu Temple - Zhagana
D3⃣️Zhagana - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
.
🎨Exquisite Attractions
Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: 'Tibetan Buddhism Museum' ✨ The red Tibetan-style nine-story pagoda in Hezuo City of Gansu's Amdo Tibetan area
Tips: 🎫20/person
Tibetan area V1⃣️ houses the architecture that worships masters of various sects of Tibetan Buddhism, each floor is a separate Buddha hall, representing different sects, worshiping different main deities
.
Gannan Secret Realm: ✨ In Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture's Xiahe County, Gannan Town, the scenic area contains rich geological structures and unique Tibetan customs
Tips: 🎫80/person
The eastern part of Ganjia Grassland has the mark of the Silk Road in the ancient Octagonal City, and at the end is the magical Baishi Cliff, with caves, grand canyons, and other landscapes in between
.
Zhagana: A hidden paradise among the clouds surrounded by mountains, where one can watch the morning mist and the starry sky at night, a utopian land of half fireworks and half celestial
Tips: 🎫80/person (half price for student tickets)
Dari Viewing Platform is good for watching the sunrise but often crowded, Fairy Beach is the best spot for sunset in the scenic area, with crystal clear water
.
Labrang Monastery: 'World Tibetan Academy', built against the mountain with red walls and glazed tiles, has the world's longest prayer corridor
Tips: 🎫 Main hall, namely Wensi Hall, 40/person, Gontang Pagoda 20/person
The prayer corridor should be visited clockwise, and there is a wooden bridge across the Daxia River to the southwest of the monastery, where you can take a panoramic photo of Labrang Monastery 50 meters south of the Buddha sunning platform
.
Langmu Temple: Not a temple but a town, the Bailong River inside the town divides Langmu Temple into two, which are Gerdeng Monastery in Sichuan and Sertri Monastery in Gansu
Tips: 🎫30/person (same price for both temples)
The Flesh Relic Hall in Sichuan Gerdeng Monastery is the essence of Langmu Temple, and you can also pass through the Namo Grand Canyon, through the Fairy Cave, Tiger Cave, and explore the source of the Bailong River
.
Sangke Grassland: One of the largest highland grasslands in Gannan, also a natural pasture, where local Tibetans often pray and celebrate festivals
Tips: Grassland protection 💰15 yuan Horse riding price 50-80/30min
Respect the local customs and religious beliefs, try not to enter yurts/temples at will, and do not damage stone carvings, prayer flags, etc.
.
🌟Considerate Tips
1⃣️The average altitude of Gannan is over 3000m, so it is necessary to prevent altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise
2⃣️You can prepare some anti-altitude sickness medicines, such as Rhodiola, oxygen, and glucose, etc.
3⃣️Colorful clothes can produce photos with richer layers
4⃣️The region is mostly inhabited by Tibetans and some Hui people, so it is necessary to respect local customs and habits
2024 Gannan Travel New Routes, Tested Itinerary Included
Families planning to travel to Gannan in 2024, take a look!
These are all personally tested routes and local delicacies recommended 👍🏻
Here are several routes, you can choose according to your travel time
We chose a local small group tour, and the driver arranged for us was a local, which made the trip particularly interesting 😎
In the morning, the driver waited for us on time at the hotel entrance, and along the way, he introduced us to some of the local customs
He also let us get off the bus along the way to rest and take photos, and we were lucky to encounter a stunning sunset 🌄
·
🚗 Gannan 4-Day Route:
D1: Depart from Lanzhou -- Labrang Monastery - Gannan Secret Realm - Bajiao City - Baishiya Karst Cave
D2 - Sangke Grassland - Guomang Wetland - Langmu Monastery - Namo Grand Canyon - First Bend of the Yellow River in Zoige
D3 - Zoige Grassland - Zoige Flower Lake - Zhagana
D4 - Zhagana - Loke Route - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Darzong Lake - Lanzhou
·
🚗 Gannan 5-Day Travel Route:
D1: Lanzhou -- Milarepa Buddha Pavilion -- Meiren Grassland -- Loke Route -- Zhagana
D2: Zhagana -- Flower Lake -- Zoige Grassland -- First Bend of the Yellow River -- Tangke
D3: Tangke -- Wache Monastery -- Moon Bay -- Gemu Monastery -- Lianbao Yezhe -- Aba
D4: Aba -- Ningma Monastery -- Awan Warehouse Wetland -- Namo Grand Canyon -- Langmu Monastery -- Xiahe
D5: Sangke Grassland -- Labrang Monastery -- Gannan Secret Realm -- Lanzhou
·
🚗 Gannan 5-Day Travel Route:
D1: Lanzhou -- Gannan Secret Realm -- Labrang Monastery
D2: Xiahe -- Sangke Grassland -- Awan Warehouse Wetland -- Ningma Monastery
D3: Lianbao Yezhe -- Gemu Monastery -- First Bend of the Yellow River
D4: Zoige Grassland/Flower Lake -- Langmu Monastery
D5: Langmu Monastery -- Half-day tour of Zhagana
D6: Zhagana sunrise mist -- Loke Route -- Niba Village Gongba Monastery -- Milarepa Buddha Pavilion -- Lanzhou
·
🍑 Food Recommendations:
Gannan's popular restaurant Wuze Linka, Tibetan milk tea, buttered fern root rice, tsampa, stone-cooked lamb, Tibetan yak yogurt
Northwestern cuisine is quite strong, be careful to prevent getting 'heaty'
⚠️ Precautions:
🔸 The altitude in the Gannan area is around 3000-4500 meters, pay attention to slow down to avoid catching a cold and prevent altitude sickness, the temperature difference between day and night is large
🔸 Lanzhou airport is far from the city center, you can take an intercity train or airport bus to reach the city center
🔸 On the last day back to Lanzhou, it's around 7 pm, you can eat some local snacks in the city center of Lanzhou, and return the next day
Gannan Secret Realm: Exploring the Soul-Healing Land of Gansu
Gannan, this secret realm praised by 'National Geographic' as a 'must-visit in a lifetime', what charm does it hold? It's not Tibet, yet it has a similar Tibetan culture, stunning natural scenery, and few tourists.
📍 Location: Southwest Gansu Province
🚗 Travel Guide: First arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, then transfer to various places in Gannan.
🔍 Tour Route:
1. Lanzhou → Gannan Secret Realm → Labrang Monastery → Xiahe
2. Labrang Monastery → Sangke Grassland → Zhagana
3. Zhagana → Ruoergai Flower Lake → Nine-Bend Yellow River → Tangke
4. Tangke → Wache Tower Forest → Hongyuan, Moon Bay → Jiuzhi
5. Jiuzhi → Lianbaoyuze → Aba
6. Jiuzhi → Awan Warehouse Wetland → Gahai Lake → Langmu Temple
7. Langmu Temple → Milarepa Buddha Pavilion → Linxia → Lanzhou
🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions:
1. Gannan Secret Realm: The greenery here can heal the soul, with Bajiao City, Baishi Cliff, and Baishi Cliff Temple, each spot is breathtakingly beautiful.
2. Labrang Monastery: One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, known as the 'World's Tibetan Academy'. Remember to rent a set of Tibetan clothes and experience this sanctity.
3. Sangke Grassland: A plateau at an altitude of 4000 meters, step on the grassland and look up at the sky.
4. Self-drive Rock's Road: Follow Joseph Rock, cross the Guanggai Mountain, and explore Diebu Zhagana.
5. Zhagana: Pure, primitive, and tranquil, the beauty here is unforgettable.
🍜 Food Recommendations: Milk tea, fried dough sticks, Zanba, yogurt, meat dumplings, meat buns, noodles, and hand-grabbed mutton, etc.
📝 Travel Tips:
1. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, bring a jacket, and cold protection in the morning and evening is essential.
2. Equipment: Thermos, power bank, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, rain gear, etc.
3. Medicines: Cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, band-aids, etc.
Are you ready? Let's embark on the secret journey of Gannan together and feel the magic and beauty of this land! 🧳🌄
Gannan Secret Realm Travel Guide!!!
Itinerary:
Day 1: Gather in Lanzhou - Xiahe (Stay overnight)
Day 2: Ganjia Secret Realm - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Gahai Lake - Luqu (Stay overnight)
Day 3: Langmu Temple - Awan Cang Wetland - Niangma Temple - Jiuzhi (Stay overnight)
Day 4: Gemu Temple - Lianbaoyeze - Hongyuan (Stay overnight)
Day 5: First Bend of the Yellow River - Ruoergai Grassland - Zhagana (Stay overnight)
Day 6: The Road of Rock - Hezuo (Stay overnight)
Day 7: Meiren Grassland - Liujiaxia Reservoir - Jingtai (Stay overnight)
Day 8: Yellow River Stone Forest - Lanzhou (end)
Low cost of living:
Beef noodles: 8-12 yuan
Sichuan cuisine: about 45 yuan per person
Watermelon: 1.5 yuan/kg Cherries: 8-12 yuan/kg
Hand-grabbed mutton: 56-68 yuan/kg
Horse riding: 15 yuan per round
Accommodation: 150-200 yuan for a comfortable and clean stay
Tickets: Few, Lianbaoyeze 120, Zhagana 80
Road expenses: Only tolls when entering and exiting Lanzhou via the expressway, most of the rest are on national roads
Our journey passes through Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, and Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai.
Precautions⚠️:
1. Staying in the Tibetan area for a long time, the altitude is high, please search for precautions against altitude sickness on your own
2. The Road of Rock will be completely closed in July, and it is expected to be under construction until September
3. The weather in the Tibetan plateau grassland is very uncontrollable, check the weather forecast in advance, bring warm clothes, sometimes if the weather is bad you can wait a bit and it might clear up
4. You can drive up to Langmu Temple, climbing up is too tiring, and recently there is a high probability of sky burials being held in the morning
5. Respect Tibetan customs
Show More
Norden Camp Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)
Norden Camp in Xiahe town, Southern Gansu
Norden Camp in Xiahe, Gansu Province, is one of the most unique and unforgettable hotels we have ever stayed in. The camp is situated just a short distance away from the Labrang Monastery, one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world, which makes it an ideal place to stay for travelers interested in Tibetan culture and religion.
The camping experience itself was truly amazing. The tents are spacious, comfortable and beautifully decorated in traditional Tibetan style, with warm blankets to keep you cozy during the night. The meals served were delicious and authentic Tibetan cuisine, which added to the overall experience of staying in the camp.
The highlight of our stay was the evening chanting at the Labrang Monastery. We were able to witness the monks performing their evening rituals, which was truly a humbling and spiritual experience.
In addition to the cultural attractions, the surrounding landscape is absolutely stunning, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and the grasslands stretching out before you.
Overall, we highly recommend Norden Camp for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Tibetan culture and enjoy a unique and unforgettable camping experience.
Location: Norden Camp is located just a short distance away from Labrang Monastery in Xiahe, Gansu Province.
Rating: 5/5
Price per night: Approximately 1200 RMB per night.
Driving instructions: Xiahe is approximately a 5-hour drive from Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province. From Lanzhou, take the G75 expressway westbound towards Xiahe.
A 5-day exquisite accommodation route in the secret realm of Gannan
Who wouldn't love the less-traveled secret spots of Gannan, away from the crowds? Staying on the vast grasslands, with cattle and sheep everywhere, and the starry Milky Way overhead at night, the mountains do not see me, I go to see the mountains... The most beautiful scenery must be matched with the most beautiful hotels, and these hotels alone are worth a trip to Gannan!
The grasslands of Gannan in summer are absolutely unbeatable, plus the red-walled and golden-roofed temple architecture, cattle and sheep everywhere, lush water and grass, no need to jostle with crowds, both day and night are scenic, with high-standard accommodations throughout the journey, staying in luxury tent hotels, enjoying a leisurely vacation...
✅ Itinerary at a glance:
D1 Lanzhou airport pick-up + hotel gathering (free time)
🏨 Eurasia International High Altitude Yado S/Wyndham Garden
D2 Lanzhou—Gannan Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe
🏨 Xiahe Amigonghong Ranch/Xiahe Nordang Camp
D3 Xiahe—Sangke Grassland—Langmusi (Gerdie Monastery + Namo Grand Canyon)—First Bend of the Yellow River—Tangke
🏨 Zoige Yuntu Starry Sky Ranch
D4 Tangke—Flower Lake—Little Duku—Zhagana (Fairy Beach)
🏨 Zhagana Yunjing Wilderness Luxury/Yunshang Meiju/Yunju
D5 Zhagana—Rock's Path—Eight Squares and Thirteen Alleys—Lanzhou (ends around 18:00)
⭐️ Highlights of the itinerary:
🔷 Gannan Ecological Camping Site: Located on the Gannan grasslands, in summer the ground is covered with colorful wildflowers, with blue skies overhead, clouds by your side, and sunset on the horizon. Hike to Baishi Cliff to see the spectacular sea of clouds. Each tent room is independent, offering a quiet time
🔶 Xiahe Amigonghong Ranch: Built on the Sangke Grassland, very close to Xiahe Airport, with horse riding, bonfire parties, temple blessings and pilgrimages, etc. At night, you can take photos of the starry sky. Each room is independent, with panoramic view rooms, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and cattle and sheep grazing outside the door, making it an ideal natural ranch
🔷 Zhagana Yunju Hotel: Built within the Zhagana scenic area, the hotel has its own viewing platform, from which you can see the entire village from your room window, and watch the sunrise and starry sky of Zhagana
🔶 Zhagana Yunjing Wilderness Tent Hotel: The hotel is located in a corner of Zhagana, backed by the Zhagana peaks, with a tent-like appearance, wild luxury high-end, one of the top high-end Tibetan-style resorts in the scenic area, with standalone themed rooms connected by wooden walkways, and rooms equipped with large viewing platforms
🔷 Zoige Yuntu Starry Sky Ranch: The hotel is located next to the Nine-Bend Yellow River Bay, with direct views of the Yellow River from the rooms, first-class ecological environment, modern and simple decoration inside the hotel, with mountain view rooms, tent rooms, triangular wooden tent rooms, star-gazing tent houses, etc.
✅ Play Experience:
❣️ Classic loop attractions:
✔️ Rock's Path: Half canyon, half mountain, a magnificent road
✔️ Zhagana: 'Little Switzerland of Gannan', shrouded in clouds, with sacred lakes, blue skies, fields, villages, and cattle and sheep
✔️ Langmusi: At the junction of Gansu and Sichuan, a place where ethnic styles blend
✔️ Zoige Flower Lake: A natural highland wetland reserve
✔️ Sangke Grassland: Open high-altitude grassland, lush with water and grass, herds of cattle and sheep, galloping on horseback
✔️ Gannan Secret Realm: Baishi Cliff, the ancient octagonal city and the distant plateau reflect each other, spectacularly
✔️ First Bend of the Yellow River: Wetlands and grasslands merge together, with a distant view of the Yellow River, reflecting the sunset, seamlessly integrated
National Day Gannan Travel Guide | Golden Autumn Gannan 4-Day Guide | Must play like this in Gannan
Half of the 'Mysterious Gannan' is the scenery, half is the faith💕
Let's set off on National Day👣, go to Gannan, this niche secret place to appreciate the beauty of Gannan, go to see the grassland🍀, lakes, temples, go to see the beautiful and mysterious holy paradise🔥, go to see the holy land known as 'Pure Land of the World'🌟
.
✈Transportation
✅It is recommended to start from Lanzhou, high-speed rail and airplanes are very convenient
✅Many roads in Gannan area are mountain roads, if you are not good at driving, it is recommended to charter a car
.
💡Must Check-in Itinerary💡
❤Namo Grand Canyon + Fairy Beach Light Hiking
❤Zha Ga Na sunset morning fog, watch the ancient village fireworks
❤Experience the coffee shop in Langmu Temple
❤Gan Jia Secret Horse Riding Experience
❤Go to the depths of Baishi Cliff to feed ground squirrels
❤Stack NiMa pile by the lake of Lianbao Yeze
❤Check in the sunset of the first bay of the Yellow River
.
✅Gannan 4 days and 3 nights
🚘Day1 Lanzhou—Hezuo (Mila Ribafoge)—Zha Ga Na
🚘Day2 Zha Ga Na—Xia Du Ku—Hua Lake—Geerdi Temple (Canyon)—Langmu Temple
🚘Day3 Langmu Temple—Ga Hai—Sangke Grassland—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe
🚘Day4 Xiahe County—Gan Jia Secret—Lanzhou
.
⭕Attractions Introduction⭕
📍Labrang Monastery, World Cultural Heritage, one of the six major monasteries of Tibetan Buddhism Gelug Sect, a large-scale temple, let you appreciate the profoundness of Tibetan religious culture.
📍Gan Jia Secret
Under the high blue sky and white clouds, grasslands, lakes, snow mountains, temples, each place is full of mysterious and beautiful colors. Baishi Cliff, Baishi Cliff Cave, Octagonal Ancient City, Gan Jia Grassland, horse riding on the grassland is super awesome
📍Zha Ga Na
The natural scenery is poetic and picturesque, like a fairyland in the world, a combination of pastoral scenery and plateau scenery, the nearby Lasang Temple, known for its golden top, can be reached by car
📍Langmu Temple
Langmu Temple is a small town, known as the Eastern Switzerland, with a small stream of Bailong River separating Gansu and Sichuan, Gansu Sai Chi Temple is built on the mountain and is more luxurious
📍Lianbao Yeze
The real version of the World of Warcraft, the rugged mountains and the famous lakes scattered all over, the sunset lake is the most classic sunset spot
📍The first bay of the Yellow River Nine Bends
At the junction of Gansu and Sichuan, it is the first turning point of the Yellow River, located in the Ruoergai Grassland, the scenery is very beautiful
📍Langmu Temple: World Tibetan Studies, has the world's longest prayer wheel corridor, the explanation is the monks in the temple, many have accents must listen carefully
📍Sangke Grassland: Although it is a free scenic spot, the scenery is very beautiful, taking National Highway 316 back to Xiahe will pass through the entire Sangke Grassland
.
🏠About Accommodation (Comfortable Accommodation/Luxury Accommodation)
📍Lanzhou: Star Journey, Vienna / Yado s
📍Xiahe: Sangzhu Hotel / Tianzhu Hotel
📍Zha Ga Na: Diebu Herdsmen, Tibetan Home / Cloud Above Beauty Residence
📍Langmu Temple: Zhuzong Hotel / Langmu Temple International Hotel
📍Beautiful Campsite: Ganjia Ecological Campsite, Ami Gonghong Ranch, Nuoerdan Campsite, Ruoergai Cloud Tour Starry Sky
⭐Ps: Gannan is in the Tibetan area and the accommodation environment is relatively poor, everyone should check the hotel environment online in advance when booking a hotel.
.
Popular Topics
# labrangmonastery
# snowlandart
# xiahe
# tibetan
# gansu
Popular Trip Moments
May Day Travel | 3-Day Gannan Loop | The Road of Zhagana and Loka | I regret it! I should have gone to Gannan during the National Day holiday, it's so cost-effective! | Overlooking Labrang Monastery | 2024 Gannan Travel New Routes, Tested Itinerary Included | To the left is the mortal world, to the right is the pure land: Labrang Monastery | World's Tibetan Studies Center || Labrang Monastery | The Sangke Grassland on the plateau is stunningly beautiful | Labrang Monastery offers a serene beauty away from the hustle and bustle | Labrang Monastery, a world-renowned center for Tibetan studies | 8-Day Trip to Gannan | Cost Breakdown | The Sangke Grassland is adorned with only two colors, azure and emerald green | Gannan Secret Realm: Exploring the Soul-Healing Land of Gansu | A 5-day exquisite accommodation route in the secret realm of Gannan | The young monks of Labrang Monastery | Taking stock of the pure play routes in Gannan, it's truly amazing, family members | Gannan Xiahe | A hotel with great value for money | May Day Travel | Gannan 4-Day Loop | Off-the-Beaten-Path Pure Play Sanctuary | How amazing is the place that National Geographic says is a must-visit in this lifetime? | Gannan Tourism | A 3-day 2-night guide to the lesser-known wonders of Gannan | The first time you come to Gannan, these 7 places are really worth it | Sangke Prairie (Part 2) | My 2023 - Gansu, Qinghai Travel Notes (13) The Sunshine of Labrang Monastery | Self-driving in Gannan, the journey is full of stunning scenery | Gannan self-driving small loop, the wind blows the grass low to see cattle and sheep | National Day Gannan Travel Guide | Golden Autumn Gannan 4-Day Guide | Must play like this in Gannan | The Land of Miracles - Ganga Secret Realm | 2024 Gansu Culture and Tourism First Ray of Sunshine - Gannan Chapter | Gannan Travel Guide丨National Day Gannan 4 days and 3 nights Zha Ga Na Labrang Monastery Gannan Secret Realm | 【Gannan】I learned to ride a horse on the grassland|Sangke Grassland | The secret realm of Lianbaoyeze is even more beautiful than Daocheng Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
Popular Restaurants in Xiahe