Back from the suffering in Gannan, think twice before going

Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, located in the southwest of Gansu Province on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is a treasure trove where Tibetan and Han cultures blend. It boasts not only magnificent natural landscapes but also rich Tibetan customs and profound religious culture. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to Gannan. 1. Best Time to Visit The ideal time to visit Gannan is from May to October. May-June sees grasslands turning green and wildflowers blooming; July-August offers cool weather, perfect for escaping the summer heat; September-October features enchanting autumn colors. Though winter is cold, it offers a unique snowy landscape experience. 2. Transportation 1. By Air: The nearest airport is Xiahe Airport, but flights are limited. Most visitors fly to Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport and then take a bus (about 4-5 hours) to Gannan. 2. By Train: Take a train to Lanzhou or Hezuo City, then transfer to a bus. 3. Self-drive: From Lanzhou via Linxia to Hezuo, with good road conditions and beautiful scenery along the way. 3. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Labrang Monastery: One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, featuring the world's longest prayer wheel corridor. 2. Langmusi: A small town straddling Gansu and Sichuan provinces, known as the "Little Switzerland of the East." 3. Zhagana: A hidden Tibetan village nestled among stone mountains, like a paradise on earth. 4. Gahai Lake: Gannan's largest freshwater lake, a prime spot for birdwatching. 5. Sangke Grassland: Vast grasslands where you can experience horseback riding and staying in tents. 6. Milarepa Buddha Pavilion: A nine-story Tibetan-style pavilion dedicated to the revered Milarepa. 4. Unique Experiences 1. Attend Tibetan festivals: Such as the Great Prayer Festival in January and the July Dharma Assembly. 2. Experience Tibetan homestays: Stay in Tibetan homes and try local delicacies like butter tea and tsampa. 3. Pilgrimage with prayer wheels: Join local devotees in spinning prayer wheels for blessings. 4. Horseback riding on the grasslands: Gallop across the Sangke Grassland. 5. Stargazing: The clear highland night sky is a photographer's paradise. 5. Food Recommendations 1. Tibetan steamed buns: Thin-skinned buns filled with beef. 2. Hand-grabbed mutton: Authentic mutton dish. 3. Tsampa: Roasted barley flour, a Tibetan staple. 4. Butter tea: A salty, aromatic Tibetan specialty drink. 5. Yak yogurt: Rich in texture and nutrients. 6. Accommodation Suggestions 1. Hezuo City: Offers a variety of hotels, ideal as a transit point. 2. Langmusi: Features Tibetan-style inns and international hostels. 3. Zhagana: Unique Tibetan homestays for an authentic experience. 4. Xiahe County: Close to Labrang Monastery, convenient for pilgrimages and sightseeing. 7. Important Notes 1. Altitude sickness: Gannan's elevation is around 3,000 meters; newcomers should avoid strenuous activity. 2. Respect local customs: Remove hats in temples, avoid random photography, and walk clockwise around prayer wheels. 3. Variable weather: Large temperature differences between day and night; bring warm clothing. 4. Environmental awareness: Do not litter; protect the fragile plateau ecosystem. 5. Sun protection: Strong UV rays require adequate sunscreen. 8. Recommended Itineraries 3-Day Classic Tour: D1: Lanzhou - Xiahe (Labrang Monastery) - Sangke Grassland D2: Xiahe - Langmusi D3: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Hezuo - Lanzhou 5-Day In-Depth Tour: D1: Lanzhou - Hezuo (Milarepa Buddha Pavilion) D2: Hezuo - Zhagana D3: Zhagana - Langmusi D4: Langmusi - Gahai Lake - Xiahe D5: Xiahe (Labrang Monastery) - Lanzhou Gannan is a mysterious and beautiful land, captivating visitors with its natural and cultural wonders. May this guide help you plan an unforgettable journey to Gannan.