Xiahe Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Labrang Monastery Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
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
historicplaces
Wandering Laowai
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
tibet
monastery
A_Wanderer
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.
Shandi33.
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.
Ling Chik.
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Zhagana Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
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
tibet
village
A_Wanderer
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.
Jinling_Mosquito_Bites.
Travel to Gannan, regret not coming earlier!|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds
In spring.
|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds. In spring. Travel to Gannan, regret not coming earlier!|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds. The temperature in Gannan in spring is not so cold anymore, the scenery is starting to become beautiful, it's quiet and there are few people, it's worth a visit.
~
👉👉👉About traveling to Gannan in April and May:
1. Generally, it's quite convenient to enter and exit through Lanzhou, with many trains or flights to Lanzhou;
2. For the route, a small loop of 4~5 days is quite comprehensive;
3. The grasslands along the way have started to turn green, although not as beautiful as in summer, but the scenery is still nice during the May Day holiday;
4. Importantly, there are fewer people and lower costs, it's a relatively niche route;
-
🎬🎬🎬Transportation & Accommodation & Clothing
1. First of all, the Gannan route generally starts from Lanzhou and then returns to Lanzhou;
2. There is a big temperature difference, so be prepared for sun protection and warmth, and bring a winter coat for the mornings and evenings during the May Day holiday;
3. Accommodations along the way are quite convenient and not expensive;
4. For dining, Tibetan meals/Halal meals or Sichuan cuisine are mainly available, which is very convenient~
-
👉👉👉Places worth visiting in Gannan:
1. Labrang Monastery
2. Zhagana
3. Langmu Temple
4. Lianbao Yeze
5. Tangke Yellow River First Bend
6. Meiren Grassland
7. The Road of Rock
8. Gannan Secret Realm
9. Seda
10. Guan'e Valley
-
🆘🆘🆘Departure & Transportation:
1. The Gannan route generally starts and ends in Lanzhou, a loop is better. You can also consider entering and exiting through Lanzhou and Chengdu, but a single line might miss some scenery;
2. Public transportation is not recommended, as it is very inconvenient. Self-driving or carpooling is the main method.
-
🎬🎬🎬Gannan 4-Day Loop:
Day 1 Lanzhou--Gannan Secret Realm--Labrang Monastery--Xiahe Stay
Day 2 Sangke Grassland--Zhagana--Diebu Stay
Day 3 Zoige Grassland--Flower Lake--Langmu Temple Stay
Day 4 Langmu Temple-Gahai-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
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🌟🌟🌟Gannan 5-Day Loop:
Day1 Lanzhou-Gannan Secret Realm-Labrang Monastery-Xiahe
Day2 Labrang Monastery-Sangke Grassland-Zhagana
Day3 Flower Lake-Zoige Wetland-Yellow River First Bend-Tangke
Day4 Tangke-Suo Ke Tibetan Temple-Gahai Lake-Langmu Temple
Day5 Langmu Temple-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
-
👉👉👉Gannan 6-Day Loop:
D1. Lanzhou—Gannan Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe
D2. Labrang Monastery—Sangke Grassland—Zhagana
D.3 Zhagana—Zoige Flower Lake—Yellow River First Bend—Tangke
D4. Tangke—Wa Qie Ta Lin—Lianbao Yeze—Aba
D5. A Wan Cang Wetland—Gahai Lake—Langmu Temple
D6. Langmu Temple—Mirariba Buddha Pavilion—Linxia to Lanzhou
-
❤️❤️❤️Gannan Classic 7-Day (Seda Edition):
D1 Lanzhou-Gannan Secret Realm-Labrang Monastery-Xiahe
D2 Xiahe-Langmu Temple-Zhagana
D3 Flower Lake-Zoige Grassland-Yellow River First Bend-Tangke
D4 Wa Qie Ta Lin-Lianbao Yeze-Jiuzhi
D5 Tibetan Zebra County-Seda Wuming Buddhist Institute
D6 Seda In-depth Tour-Jiuzhi-Maqu
D7 Maqu-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
~
Aiden.Peterson^29
Refuse to flock together! Five low-budget, high-enjoyment niche travel destinations for the May Day holiday
Hermit's Wonderland: Gansu·Zhagana
🏞️Recommended reason: A paradise on earth, hidden in the highland valleys, Zhagana is known as 'the last Shangri-La on earth'. Not only does it boast the majestic beauty of its stone forest, but also the simplicity of Tibetan customs and the breath of an original ecological lifestyle, allowing you to fully enjoy tranquility and comfort during the May Day period.
💰Average budget: About ¥2000 (including transportation, accommodation, dining, and admission fees)
📍Recommended spots: Fairy Beach, Stone Forest, Dongwa Village, Lhasang Temple
⚠️Precautions: The altitude is relatively high, be aware of altitude sickness; respect local customs, protect the environment.
Sino-Western Fusion: Sichuan·Nanxun Ancient Town
🏡Recommended reason: Full of the charm of a southern ancient town, Nanxun stands out with its unique Sino-Western architecture and the leisurely atmosphere of a water town. Avoid the hustle and bustle, stroll on the bluestone paths, boat through the waterways, and experience the comfort of a slow life.
💰Average budget: About ¥1500
📍Recommended spots: Hundred Rooms Building, Zhang's Old Residence, Jiaye Hall Library
⚠️Precautions: Plan your trip in advance to avoid peak crowds, take care of cultural relics, and try to visit off-peak on non-holidays.
Pearl of the East Sea: Fujian·Yushan Island
🏝️Recommended reason: Far from the mainland, Yushan Island, with its blue seas and skies and continuous grasslands, is like a pearl on the sea. The island's tens of thousands of acres of grasslands and lakes complement each other, making it a paradise for camping enthusiasts and an ideal place for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of nature.
💰Average budget: About ¥1800
📍Recommended spots: Moon Bay, Tianhu Grassland, Zao'ao Fishing Village
⚠️Precautions: The island's climate is variable, please be prepared for rain and sun protection, follow outdoor activity regulations, and maintain the ecological environment.
Picturesque Poetry Town: Anhui·Chaji Ancient Town
-art-station-Recommended reason: A poetic village from the painter's brush, Chaji Ancient Town retains a large number of ancient Ming and Qing buildings, with small bridges over flowing water and deep alleys, where time stands still. During the May Day holiday, come here to return your mind and body to simplicity and feel the profound cultural heritage.
💰Average budget: About ¥1200
📍Recommended spots: Xu Creek, Chaji Ancient Residential Group, Renrang Square
⚠️Precautions: Keep quiet, do not disturb the local residents' life, take your trash with you, travel civilly.
Charm of the First Emperor: Shandong·Yangma Island
🐎Recommended reason: Yangma Island is named after the First Emperor of Qin raised horses here. It has both the romance of a seaside resort and the mystery of historical legends. During the May Day holiday, enjoy horse riding, sea farming, and watching the sunrise, and enjoy the leisure time on the island.
💰Average budget: About ¥1000
📍Recommended spots: Qin Emperor Cultural Square, Yangma Island Yangma Island Racecourse, Tianma Square
⚠️Precautions: Please pay attention to safety when playing by the sea, follow beach regulations, pay attention to sun protection, and be aware of tide changes.
Pack your mood, pack your bags, and let's find the belonging of our souls and the joy of travel in these little-known beautiful scenes this May Day! 🎈🎈🎈
ANNIKA WALSH
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Sangke Grassland Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Gannan Travel Guide, for friends visiting Gannan during the May Day holiday
📍Gannan, located at the junction of Qinghai, Gansu, and Sichuan provinces, on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, boasts a paradise comparable to Tibet, a Shambhala secret realm away from the hustle and bustle of the city
📍Due to its unique geographical location, itineraries from 3-6 days are all feasible.
.
✅ First Encounter with Gannan >> 3+1 days
💫 Budget: 1.4k
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel🏨 - Free time in Lanzhou
D2 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland🌱 - Diebu
D3 Diebu - Zhagana - Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Guomang Wetland - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
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💫 Classic Gannan mini circuit, enjoy the essence of Gannan in the shortest time.
.
✅ Exploring Gannan >> 4+1 days
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
💫 Budget: 2.4k
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel - Lanzhou City Walk
D2 Lanzhou - Zagulu Town - Laojun Mountain Road🛣️ - Zhagana
D3 Fairy Beach light trekking - Xiaodukou - Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Namo Gorge - Guomang Wetland - Sangke Grassland - Xiahe
D5 Xiahe - Labrang Monastery⛩️ - Ganjia Secret Land - Lanzhou
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💫 Specially includes Laojun Mountain Road, one of China's most beautiful 100 kilometers.
.
✅ Sacred Gannan >> 4+1 days
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
💫 Budget: 2.3k
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel - Lanzhou City Walk
D2 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Ganjia Secret Land - Xiahe
D3 Xiahe - Sangke Grassland🌱 - Langmusi - First Bend of the Yellow River - Tangke Town
D4 Tangke Town - Zoige Grassland - Flower Lake - Xiaodukou🛣️ - Zhagana
D5 Zhagana - Guomang Wetland - Eight Alleys and Thirteen Lanes - Lanzhou
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💫 A deep dive into the Tibetan culture of Gannan, experiencing the devout faith of the Tibetan people.
.
✅ Touring Gannan >> 5 days
💫 Bus tour from Xi'an
💫 Budget: 1.6k
D1 Xi'an - Langdu Wetland Grassland - Dangchang
D2 Dangchang - Guan'e Valley - La Zi Mouth - Diebu
D3 Zhagana - Zoige Grassland - 💐Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery - Lanzhou
D5 Lanzhou - Lianhuo Expressway - Xi'an
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💫 Starting from Xi'an, check off Longnan➕Gannan in one trip, reaching the Shambhala kingdom on earth.
.
✅ Self-driving in Gannan >> 5 days
💫 Self-driving car from Xi'an
💫 Budget: 1.9k
D1 Xi'an - Langdu Wetland Grassland - Min County
D2 Min County - Laojun Mountain Road🛣️ - Zhagana
D3 Zhagana - County Road 550 - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery - Linxia
D5 Linxia - Tianshui - Maijishan - Xi'an
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💫 Starting from Xi'an, discover the nine-colored Shambhala and deeply traverse Laojun Mountain Road!
Milton Metz
Experience the classic Gannan mini-tour this May Day, four days and three nights for around 1k+ per person
📣 If you don't know where to go for the May Day holiday, head to Gannan!
Grasslands, lakes, 🏔️ snow-capped mountains, 💐 seas of flowers, wetlands, 🌲 forests, rivers, temples, ☁️ blue skies with white clouds, fluttering prayer flags, and Tibetan charm—all your beautiful imaginations can be found in Gannan.
❓❗ Is it worth going to Gannan for May Day?
✅ Fewer people→ Gannan has relatively fewer people during May Day, so you won't be stuck in crowds of people everywhere you go👩👩👦👦
✅ Tibetan culture→ Rich in Tibetan culture, the world-renowned Tibetan academy 'Labrang Monastery' is located here. You can experience Tibetan specialty foods🍲, take Tibetan-style portraits, and more
✅ Low altitude→ The average altitude is around 3000 meters, which is considered a 'low altitude' area in Tibet, 👍🏻 and most people will not suffer from altitude sickness
✅ Low cost→ Prices increase slightly during May Day, but are much lower compared to July and August
❓❗ What can you see in Gannan during May Day?
✅ Only in May can you see the half snow-capped mountains🏔️ and half green lands!
✅ Secluded and leisurely Tibetan villages, sacred and solemn temples, fewer noisy tourists, making this land peaceful and quiet, allowing you to calm down, contemplate life, and feel the devout Tibetan faith
✅ The beauty lies in the landscape, and when you're at the scenic spot, the feeling of having the mountains and waters all to yourself is undoubtedly a pleasure
💫 First stop of the journey—Lanzhou city walk, check in with the taste of the Northwest
💫 Sangke Grassland—Endless meadows where you can ride horses🐴
💫 Zhagana—Natural stone city, God's Eden
💫 Flower Lake—Ruoergai Wetland, encounter the distant Black-necked Cranes
💫 Labrang Monastery—World-renowned Tibetan academy, appreciate the profound Tibetan culture
💫 Langmu Temple—The Eastern Switzerland, a miniature version of Shangri-La
💫 Milarepa Buddha Pavilion—A resplendent Tibetan cultural museum
💫 Select comfortable accommodations along the way, 🏨 stay comfortably, relax and rest
💫 38 degrees users are mostly young people aged 16-39, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere
🌈 This route is suitable for friends who are visiting Gannan for the first time!
👍🏻 First encounter with Gannan >> Lanzhou distribution >> 3+1 days
D1 Nationwide - Free travel to Lanzhou
D2 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland - Diebu
D3 Diebu - Zhagana - Flower Lake - Langmu Temple
D4 Langmu Temple - Guomang Wetland - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
📣PS: The itinerary includes buses & cars, two different ways to play, choose your travel style freely based on your schedule
Tips:
1⃣️ The grassland has a large temperature difference between day and night, ☔ the weather is changeable, bring a thick coat, the night sky is beautiful
2⃣️ Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, 🌞 the UV rays are strong in the plateau areas
3⃣️ Although the altitude is not very high, altitude sickness varies from person to person, it is recommended to bring altitude sickness medicine, as well as some chocolate🍫, glucose
4⃣️ There are many cattle and sheep on the grassland, be careful when driving
Liam.Perez^49
Recommended five-day self-driving tour from Xi'an to Gannan!
👍Most recommended:
There are many travel routes from Xi'an to Gannan, and here is a popular five-day tour itinerary:
🗓Itinerary:
Day 1: Xi'an—Sangke Grassland. The whole journey is about 790 kilometers.
Depart from Xi'an, take the Lianhuo Expressway westward, with almost no traffic after Baoji, exit the expressway at Wushan County, and then drive for an hour and a half to reach Langdaban Grassland. Watch the sunrise here, camp and rest.
Depart at noon to reach Min County for lunch, then continue west along National Highway 316, passing through the terraced fields of thousands of acres, the viewing platform of Zhuoni County, and arrive at Hezuo City. The Duohe'er Temple and Zhayou Temple along the way can be visited for free.
If you don't want to camp, you can stay in the city. For camping, navigate to Zhayou Township, follow the road to the mountain pass, which is part of the Sangke Grassland, sparsely populated, and an excellent spot for camping and stargazing.
Day 2: Sangke—Langmu Temple. The whole journey is about 160 kilometers.
Wake up naturally in the morning on the grassland, have breakfast, and then enter the Sangke Grassland. Even on the boundless grassland road, the beauty of Guomang Wetland and the tenderness of Gahai Lake touch people's hearts. Arrive at Langmu Temple in the afternoon, the only place in the town that may get congested, where you can gather in the town or visit the temples.
Langmu Temple has two temples, belonging to Ruoergai County in Sichuan and Luqu County in Gansu. If you want to see rippling blue waves, you can go to the Namo Grand Canyon in Sichuan's Langmu Temple, which is the source of the Bailong River. The clear stream flows past the caves on the cliff edge, where you can throw stones for good luck, and of course, feeding pigeons is also a good choice.
Day 3: Langmu Temple—Zhagana. The whole journey is about 330 kilometers.
Leave Langmu Temple and take the U13 county road into Ruoergai. This is a city of grasslands, where you will pass the winding Heihe Ranch, see cattle and sheep running freely, galloping horses, and also pass the Yellow River's Great Bend, where you can listen to the low cry of the mother river.
Drive north from Tangke on National Highway 248, and you can reach Zhagana Village by evening, where you can choose to stay in the village or camp at the viewing platform.
Day 4 Zhagana—Lintan County. The total length is about 140 kilometers.
Catch the sunrise over Zhagana in the early morning, and start the essence of this journey, the Loke Crossing—Zhagana to Zagulu Town, 100 kilometers of unpaved road, 40 kilometers of bomb craters, which will shake you to doubt life, but it does not affect your anticipation of the beautiful scenery.
In the middle of the crossing, a new hiking trail has been built, where you can walk a short distance and stand high to overlook the entire valley. If you can only go to one place in Gannan by self-driving, then the Loke Road is the best answer. When the car reaches Zagulu Town, you finally escape the bumpy road section and stay in Lintan County in the evening.
Day 5 Lintan—Xi'an. Return to Xi'an via the expressway. If you have more time, you can also detour to Liuba to experience the passion of red leaves.
Gannan has rich scenery and many options, you can adjust according to your time.
KAIDEN WATTS
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
TrailblazingExplorer
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Mandala Reality Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Travel to Gannan, regret not coming earlier!|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds
In spring.
|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds. In spring. Travel to Gannan, regret not coming earlier!|||Take a trip to Gannan, avoid the crowded crowds. The temperature in Gannan in spring is not so cold anymore, the scenery is starting to become beautiful, it's quiet and there are few people, it's worth a visit.
~
👉👉👉About traveling to Gannan in April and May:
1. Generally, it's quite convenient to enter and exit through Lanzhou, with many trains or flights to Lanzhou;
2. For the route, a small loop of 4~5 days is quite comprehensive;
3. The grasslands along the way have started to turn green, although not as beautiful as in summer, but the scenery is still nice during the May Day holiday;
4. Importantly, there are fewer people and lower costs, it's a relatively niche route;
-
🎬🎬🎬Transportation & Accommodation & Clothing
1. First of all, the Gannan route generally starts from Lanzhou and then returns to Lanzhou;
2. There is a big temperature difference, so be prepared for sun protection and warmth, and bring a winter coat for the mornings and evenings during the May Day holiday;
3. Accommodations along the way are quite convenient and not expensive;
4. For dining, Tibetan meals/Halal meals or Sichuan cuisine are mainly available, which is very convenient~
-
👉👉👉Places worth visiting in Gannan:
1. Labrang Monastery
2. Zhagana
3. Langmu Temple
4. Lianbao Yeze
5. Tangke Yellow River First Bend
6. Meiren Grassland
7. The Road of Rock
8. Gannan Secret Realm
9. Seda
10. Guan'e Valley
-
🆘🆘🆘Departure & Transportation:
1. The Gannan route generally starts and ends in Lanzhou, a loop is better. You can also consider entering and exiting through Lanzhou and Chengdu, but a single line might miss some scenery;
2. Public transportation is not recommended, as it is very inconvenient. Self-driving or carpooling is the main method.
-
🎬🎬🎬Gannan 4-Day Loop:
Day 1 Lanzhou--Gannan Secret Realm--Labrang Monastery--Xiahe Stay
Day 2 Sangke Grassland--Zhagana--Diebu Stay
Day 3 Zoige Grassland--Flower Lake--Langmu Temple Stay
Day 4 Langmu Temple-Gahai-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
-
🌟🌟🌟Gannan 5-Day Loop:
Day1 Lanzhou-Gannan Secret Realm-Labrang Monastery-Xiahe
Day2 Labrang Monastery-Sangke Grassland-Zhagana
Day3 Flower Lake-Zoige Wetland-Yellow River First Bend-Tangke
Day4 Tangke-Suo Ke Tibetan Temple-Gahai Lake-Langmu Temple
Day5 Langmu Temple-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
-
👉👉👉Gannan 6-Day Loop:
D1. Lanzhou—Gannan Secret Realm—Labrang Monastery—Xiahe
D2. Labrang Monastery—Sangke Grassland—Zhagana
D.3 Zhagana—Zoige Flower Lake—Yellow River First Bend—Tangke
D4. Tangke—Wa Qie Ta Lin—Lianbao Yeze—Aba
D5. A Wan Cang Wetland—Gahai Lake—Langmu Temple
D6. Langmu Temple—Mirariba Buddha Pavilion—Linxia to Lanzhou
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❤️❤️❤️Gannan Classic 7-Day (Seda Edition):
D1 Lanzhou-Gannan Secret Realm-Labrang Monastery-Xiahe
D2 Xiahe-Langmu Temple-Zhagana
D3 Flower Lake-Zoige Grassland-Yellow River First Bend-Tangke
D4 Wa Qie Ta Lin-Lianbao Yeze-Jiuzhi
D5 Tibetan Zebra County-Seda Wuming Buddhist Institute
D6 Seda In-depth Tour-Jiuzhi-Maqu
D7 Maqu-Mirariba Buddha Pavilion-Lanzhou
~
Aiden.Peterson^29
Gannan Travel Guide, for friends visiting Gannan during the May Day holiday
📍Gannan, located at the junction of Qinghai, Gansu, and Sichuan provinces, on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, boasts a paradise comparable to Tibet, a Shambhala secret realm away from the hustle and bustle of the city
📍Due to its unique geographical location, itineraries from 3-6 days are all feasible.
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✅ First Encounter with Gannan >> 3+1 days
💫 Budget: 1.4k
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel🏨 - Free time in Lanzhou
D2 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Sangke Grassland🌱 - Diebu
D3 Diebu - Zhagana - Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Guomang Wetland - Milarepa Buddha Pavilion - Lanzhou
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💫 Classic Gannan mini circuit, enjoy the essence of Gannan in the shortest time.
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✅ Exploring Gannan >> 4+1 days
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
💫 Budget: 2.4k
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel - Lanzhou City Walk
D2 Lanzhou - Zagulu Town - Laojun Mountain Road🛣️ - Zhagana
D3 Fairy Beach light trekking - Xiaodukou - Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Namo Gorge - Guomang Wetland - Sangke Grassland - Xiahe
D5 Xiahe - Labrang Monastery⛩️ - Ganjia Secret Land - Lanzhou
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💫 Specially includes Laojun Mountain Road, one of China's most beautiful 100 kilometers.
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✅ Sacred Gannan >> 4+1 days
💫 4-8 person carpool from Lanzhou
💫 Budget: 2.3k
D1 From all over the country to Lanzhou hotel - Lanzhou City Walk
D2 Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Ganjia Secret Land - Xiahe
D3 Xiahe - Sangke Grassland🌱 - Langmusi - First Bend of the Yellow River - Tangke Town
D4 Tangke Town - Zoige Grassland - Flower Lake - Xiaodukou🛣️ - Zhagana
D5 Zhagana - Guomang Wetland - Eight Alleys and Thirteen Lanes - Lanzhou
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💫 A deep dive into the Tibetan culture of Gannan, experiencing the devout faith of the Tibetan people.
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✅ Touring Gannan >> 5 days
💫 Bus tour from Xi'an
💫 Budget: 1.6k
D1 Xi'an - Langdu Wetland Grassland - Dangchang
D2 Dangchang - Guan'e Valley - La Zi Mouth - Diebu
D3 Zhagana - Zoige Grassland - 💐Flower Lake - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery - Lanzhou
D5 Lanzhou - Lianhuo Expressway - Xi'an
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💫 Starting from Xi'an, check off Longnan➕Gannan in one trip, reaching the Shambhala kingdom on earth.
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✅ Self-driving in Gannan >> 5 days
💫 Self-driving car from Xi'an
💫 Budget: 1.9k
D1 Xi'an - Langdu Wetland Grassland - Min County
D2 Min County - Laojun Mountain Road🛣️ - Zhagana
D3 Zhagana - County Road 550 - Langmusi
D4 Langmusi - Sangke Grassland - Labrang Monastery - Linxia
D5 Linxia - Tianshui - Maijishan - Xi'an
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💫 Starting from Xi'an, discover the nine-colored Shambhala and deeply traverse Laojun Mountain Road!
Milton Metz
For a unique Labor Day travel experience, consider visiting an underrated and less crowded city
This destination is cheaper than Tibet and has a lower risk of altitude sickness.
The endless meadows stretch to meet the distant snow-capped mountains.
Colorful jungles spread across canyons and hillsides.
Beneath the sacred mountain lies the hidden village of Zhagana.
Forests, snow mountains, valleys, grasslands, and temples,
This place has its own memorable name📍Gannan.
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Generally, seven days is enough.
Day 1-3 Lanzhou-Linxia-Hezuo-Zhagana
Day 4-5 Langmusi-Sangke Grassland-Labrang Monastery
Day 6-7 Xiahe-Baishiya-Ganjia Secret Land
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✈️Fly to Zhongchuan Airport, then take the city rail to Lanzhou Station.
There are many direct flights, ✈️with fares as low as 800+ offering great value for money.
Alternatively, 🚄taking a direct train to Lanzhou is very convenient, with a journey time of about 10 hours.
-
🌟6 must-visit highlights
📍Ganjia Secret Land
Drive through the sprawling grassland roads to enter a cloud-top secret land where ancient cities, monasteries, villages, grasslands, canyons, pastures, and caves merge into one.
-
📍Langmusi
Known as the 'Little Switzerland of the East,' this town is where a small stream brings together the peacefully coexisting Tibetan and Hui ethnic groups. You can hike into the Namu Canyon to seek the source of the Bailong River and delve into the area's mystical legends.
-
📍Zhagana
A hidden paradise known as 'Earth's Eden,' and one of the '50 places to go in your lifetime' as rated by 'Chinese National Geography.' It consists of four Tibetan-style villages and a scenic area. Stay in a small village at the foot of the sacred mountain, take an early morning stroll through the stone city, and hike to a viewpoint to await the sunrise🌅.
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📍Labrang Monastery
The 'Harvard and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism,' the outer walls of Labrang Monastery are made up of more than 2,000 prayer wheels, holding the Guinness World Record for the 'world's longest prayer wheel corridor.' On the way to Labrang Monastery, the golden domes are visible from afar, with Tibetan incense swirling around and Buddhist devotees prostrating devoutly on the ground, praying for happiness.
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📍Sangke Grassland
The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, where herds of cattle and sheep roam freely. Lead a gentle pony and gallop forward on horseback, listening to the melodious Tibetan folk songs, purifying the soul.
-
📍Baishiya
The lesser-known 'Dolomites' of Gannan, Baishiya, where a natural mountain screen divides the Ganjia Grassland into two high-altitude pastures with a 1000-meter elevation difference. Clouds hang like jade belts over the cliffs, and the temples and villages nestled in the mountains seem to tell endless stories.
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✅Tips
🌟The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant, so bring warm clothing; the night sky is beautiful🌃.
🌟Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as the UV radiation is strong in high-altitude areas!
🌟There are many cattle and sheep on the grassland, so drive carefully.
aelin_6778
The reverse travel during the May Day holiday was a success! Let me recommend an underrated and less popular city
It's cheaper than Tibet,
and it's not prone to altitude sickness. The endless meadows stretch to meet the distant snow-capped mountains, and the colorful jungles are scattered across canyons and hillsides.
The secret village of Zhagana at the foot of the holy mountain,
forests, snow mountains, river valleys, grasslands, and temples.
This place has its own name worth remembering Gannan.
Usually, seven days is enough.
Day 1-3 Lanzhou-Linxia-Hezuo City-Zhagana
Day 4-5 Langmusi-Sangke Grassland-Labrang Monastery
Day 6-7 Xiahe-Baishiya-Ganjia Secret
Zhongchuan Airport, then take the city rail to Lanzhou Station.
There are many direct flights, and the cost is not less than 800+, offering great value for money.
Or 🚞 direct to Lanzhou is very convenient, with the journey taking about 10 hours.
👍Most recommended:
6 essential places to visit
Ganjia Secret
Drive through the sprawling grassland roads, enter the cloud realm of Ganjia Secret, which integrates ancient cities, monasteries, villages, grasslands, canyons, pastures, and caves.
Langmusi
Known as the 'Little Switzerland of the East', this town merges the Tibetan and Hui ethnic groups living in peace. A stream flows through it, with lamaseries and mosques occupying both banks of the stream. You can hike into the Namu Grand Canyon to seek the source of the Bailong River and delve into the magical legends of this place.
Zhagana
A hidden paradise known as 'Earthly Eden', and also one of the '50 places to go in your lifetime' as rated by 'China National Geography'. It consists of four Tibetan-style villages and one scenic area. Stay in the small village at the foot of the holy mountain, take an early morning stroll in the stone city, and hike to the viewing point to wait for the sunrise.
Labrang Monastery
Known as the 'Harvard and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism', the outer wall is made up of more than 2,000 prayer wheels, holding the Guinness World Record for the 'world's longest prayer wheel corridor'. On the way to Labrang Monastery, you can see the golden dome from afar, with Tibetan incense wafting through the air, and Buddhist devotees prostrating devoutly on the ground, praying for happiness.
Sangke Grassland
The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, where cattle and sheep are scattered all along the way. Lead a gentle pony and gallop forward on horseback, listening to the melodious Tibetan folk songs, purifying the soul.
Baishiya
The less-known adverse condition of Gannan's 'Dolomites' Baishiya, a natural mountain range screen divides the Ganjia Grassland into two high mountain pastures with a drop of 1000 meters. White clouds hang like jade belts over the cliff valleys, and the temples and village homes nestled in the mountains seem to tell endless stories...
📝Note tips:
The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant, so bring a thick coat; the night sky is beautiful.
Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as the UV radiation is strong in the plateau region
There are many cattle and sheep on the grassland, so drive carefully
LOUIS DOYLE
Show More
Langmu Temple Resort Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Langmu Temple | Gannan must pass the pilgrimage site
Some people say "Do not come to Langmu Temple, equal to not to Gannan", which shows the importance of this Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Gannan. Langmu Temple is generally planned to travel in Gannan or North Sichuan. It is close to the Gannan Labrang Monastery to the north and the Zoige Grassland to the south.
[Recommended travel itinerary]
arrive at Langmu Temple at noon on the first day. In the afternoon, visit the Gedi Temple in Sichuan, then walk to the Bailongjiang Gorge and stay in the town at night. The next morning, I went to the Gandan Sai Chi Temple in Gansu. After that, you can take the Noons shuttle bus to leave Langmu Temple and go to other attractions in Gannan.
[What can I experience here?
1 Langmu Temple Riding
Langmu Temple There is a horse-riding tour nearby. The horse team has a consultation shop in the town. The price ranges from 150-400 yuan. The horse-riding destination includes the source of Bailongjiang and Hongshi. Cliffs, flowers and other places.
2 Langmu Temple celestial burial
is biased toward Gansu in Langmu Temple. There is a celestial burial platform on the back hill of Saiji Temple. The celestial burial in this area is more open and can be viewed by tourists. If you have the consent of your family, you can take pictures.
3 Turning the mountains and turning the water to the stupa
Tibetan people's devout faith is the snow lotus in the sky, full of pure to pure. They are kind and simple, and they only turn for the faith. An ancient turn of the road outside Xiahe Labrang Monastery is a lap I have to go to the Labrang Monastery every time. This is also one of my favorite temples.
Tango.
A must-visit temple in this lifetime, any casual snapshot is National Geographic worthy
I personally think it's even more photogenic than Labrang Monastery. Although Labrang Monastery has a strong background and reputation, in terms of scenery and photography, I prefer Langmu Temple (of course, Labrang Monastery is also beautiful~)
Langmu Temple is located at the border of Gansu and Sichuan. There are two Langmu Temples, one in Sichuan (which is where my photo was taken), and another in Gansu (due to time constraints, I arrived on the evening of the first day🌇 and left early the next morning, so I didn't have time to visit the one in Gansu). The two Langmu Temples are very close to each other, within walking distance. (In picture 2, the golden roofs in the distance are the Gansu Langmu Temple)
The Sichuan Langmu Temple🎫 entrance fee is 30 yuan per person, and there is also a canyon inside, which is worth visiting if you have enough time.
Right upon entering the Sichuan Langmu Temple, you can see a hillside, which I think offers the best views (there is also a slope on the Gansu side that is very beautiful, so if you have time, you can go to the one in Gansu). Photography tips: These pictures were taken with a 24-200 lens or a drone. Wide-angle lenses below 24mm were rarely used
I personally feel that the Sichuan side of Langmu Temple is suitable for shooting sunsets, while the Gansu side is suitable for sunrises, and of course, drones can also capture stunning shots. A casual snap is a National Geographic picture, but if you're short on time, I recommend the Langmu Temple in Sichuan.
Accommodation🏠 There are many options near the scenic area, but book online in advance as there are not many hotels with elevators.
Dining🍚 There are many Sichuan and Chongqing restaurants nearby that taste quite good.
OliviaMcPhee29
The ultimate summer retreat! My top pick for a niche hidden gem travel destination, I absolutely love Gannan
🔸 'Langmusi' is the general name for this area where Sichuan and Gansu meet, mainly featuring two temples, the Sichuan side's Gerdi Temple and the Gansu side's Sech Temple.
🔸 Both temples have their own unique charm, but personally, I feel that for photographing the temples themselves, the Sech Temple in Gansu stands out more with its iconic large gilded roofs and yellow-white walls that shine brilliantly under the sunlight.
🔸 For the Gerdi Temple on the Sichuan side, after entering the scenic area's main gate, I directly climbed the hill on the left. From there, you can overlook the entire scenic area, capturing both the Sech Temple in Gansu and the Gerdi Temple in Sichuan in all their beauty‼️
📍Location | Langmusi Town, Luqu County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu
🚘Transport | The roads along the way are national highways and are good to drive on, but the traffic can get congested when entering the small town
🎫Ticket | Normally, both temples do not charge for admission, but they may do so during holidays
🍱Food & Lodging | There are many accommodations and restaurants in the town, and you can stay directly in the town
⏳️Touring Suggestions | You can take a small path from the back mountain to Sech Temple, then exit through the main gate, so you don't have to backtrack
⭕Caution | The altitude here is around 3480 meters, so you may experience altitude sickness. Remember to walk slowly during your visit and avoid running vigorously
Z1pp3r_3n1gm@t1c
For a unique Labor Day travel experience, consider visiting an underrated and less crowded city
This destination is cheaper than Tibet and has a lower risk of altitude sickness.
The endless meadows stretch to meet the distant snow-capped mountains.
Colorful jungles spread across canyons and hillsides.
Beneath the sacred mountain lies the hidden village of Zhagana.
Forests, snow mountains, valleys, grasslands, and temples,
This place has its own memorable name📍Gannan.
-
Generally, seven days is enough.
Day 1-3 Lanzhou-Linxia-Hezuo-Zhagana
Day 4-5 Langmusi-Sangke Grassland-Labrang Monastery
Day 6-7 Xiahe-Baishiya-Ganjia Secret Land
-
✈️Fly to Zhongchuan Airport, then take the city rail to Lanzhou Station.
There are many direct flights, ✈️with fares as low as 800+ offering great value for money.
Alternatively, 🚄taking a direct train to Lanzhou is very convenient, with a journey time of about 10 hours.
-
🌟6 must-visit highlights
📍Ganjia Secret Land
Drive through the sprawling grassland roads to enter a cloud-top secret land where ancient cities, monasteries, villages, grasslands, canyons, pastures, and caves merge into one.
-
📍Langmusi
Known as the 'Little Switzerland of the East,' this town is where a small stream brings together the peacefully coexisting Tibetan and Hui ethnic groups. You can hike into the Namu Canyon to seek the source of the Bailong River and delve into the area's mystical legends.
-
📍Zhagana
A hidden paradise known as 'Earth's Eden,' and one of the '50 places to go in your lifetime' as rated by 'Chinese National Geography.' It consists of four Tibetan-style villages and a scenic area. Stay in a small village at the foot of the sacred mountain, take an early morning stroll through the stone city, and hike to a viewpoint to await the sunrise🌅.
-
📍Labrang Monastery
The 'Harvard and Peking University of Tibetan Buddhism,' the outer walls of Labrang Monastery are made up of more than 2,000 prayer wheels, holding the Guinness World Record for the 'world's longest prayer wheel corridor.' On the way to Labrang Monastery, the golden domes are visible from afar, with Tibetan incense swirling around and Buddhist devotees prostrating devoutly on the ground, praying for happiness.
-
📍Sangke Grassland
The most beautiful pasture in Gannan, where herds of cattle and sheep roam freely. Lead a gentle pony and gallop forward on horseback, listening to the melodious Tibetan folk songs, purifying the soul.
-
📍Baishiya
The lesser-known 'Dolomites' of Gannan, Baishiya, where a natural mountain screen divides the Ganjia Grassland into two high-altitude pastures with a 1000-meter elevation difference. Clouds hang like jade belts over the cliffs, and the temples and villages nestled in the mountains seem to tell endless stories.
-
✅Tips
🌟The temperature difference between day and night on the grassland is significant, so bring warm clothing; the night sky is beautiful🌃.
🌟Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, as the UV radiation is strong in high-altitude areas!
🌟There are many cattle and sheep on the grassland, so drive carefully.