Hongyuan Prairie

Introducing Hongyuan Prairie

The Hongyuan Grassland is located in Sichuan Province, on the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, amidst the snow-capped grasslands of northwestern Sichuan, and in the central part of the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture. Known as the "Golden and Silver Beaches" of the plateau, the vast grassland boasts unique natural landscapes and abundant resources. A world of flowers and a sea of ​​grass, the grasslands offer a unique landscape and a variety of scenery. The Red Army, during the Long March, passed through this grassland, resting and camping there. To commemorate the Red Army's passage through this area and their reclamation and development of the grasslands, the State Council named it Hongyuan County.

Climate and best time to travel

Summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Hongyuan Grassland is located in Hongyuan County, central Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It's a landscape filled with lush green grasslands, black and white tents, and dotted with herds of cattle, sheep, and horses. The most famous Tibetan Buddhist temples in Hongyuan are Maiwa Monastery and Dagze Monastery on the Amu Ke River, and its most celebrated festival is the July 1st Horse Racing Festival.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Hongyuan Prairie

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hongyuan Prairie is a significant part of the Tibetan Plateau, located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It has been the homeland of Tibetan nomads for centuries and is a place where traditional Tibetan pastoral life continues. The prairie plays a vital role in Tibetan culture and spirituality.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Hongyuan Prairie is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, China. To get there, take a bus from Chengdu to Hongyuan County. From there, you can use local taxis or public transportation to reach the prairie. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is also recommended for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Hongyuan Prairie is an open natural area and can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the prairie is at its most vibrant. The peak tourist season is in summer, especially during cultural festivals.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for Hongyuan Prairie itself, as it is an open natural area. However, some specific attractions within the prairie, such as monasteries or cultural sites, may require a small fee. Tickets for these sites can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Tickets for the general prairie area do not need to be booked in advance. However, for specific activities or events like horse racing, festivals, or visits to popular monasteries, it’s advisable to book at least a week in advance during the peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Hongyuan Prairie, 1 to 2 days is recommended. This allows time for sightseeing, interacting with locals, and participating in activities such as horseback riding and photography.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The wide-open grasslands and meadows, perfect for landscape photography.
• Local Tibetan villages, where you can learn about the nomadic lifestyle and culture.
• The nearby Tibetan monasteries, such as the Hongyuan Monastery, which offer cultural and spiritual insights.
• Annual horse racing events or traditional festivals.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in both English and Mandarin. These tours can be arranged through local tour operators or hotels in Chengdu or Hongyuan County.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The panoramic views of the prairie from the high points along the roads.
• Early morning or sunset shots of the vast grasslands and the Tibetan villages.
• The Tibetan monasteries and their surrounding landscapes offer great photography opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting a Tibetan village to experience the local culture, then head towards the open plains for a scenic drive. Spend some time at the monasteries and enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal. If visiting during the festival or horse racing season, plan accordingly to attend these events.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not common in Hongyuan Prairie due to the natural setting. However, star-gazing is a popular activity in the clear night sky. Special tours and events, such as cultural performances, may be available during the festival seasons.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Hongyuan Prairie is not usually crowded, but it can become busy during the summer months and around local festivals. For a quieter experience, visit in spring or autumn, and avoid weekends and public holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available, including public toilets, small local food stalls, and rest areas. There are no large shops or restaurants on the prairie itself, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food, snacks, and water.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Hongyuan Prairie is an outdoor natural area, so while it is accessible for elderly and children, some parts of the terrain may be challenging for disabled visitors. It is advisable to check with local tour operators for accessible routes if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted in local villages and stalls. Credit cards and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted in larger towns such as Hongyuan County, but it’s a good idea to carry cash when visiting remote areas of the prairie.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants inside the prairie, but you will find small Tibetan food stalls offering yak meat, barley dishes, and butter tea. Larger restaurants can be found in nearby Hongyuan County.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, particularly in the form of barley dishes, vegetables, and dairy products. However, vegan and halal options are limited in the remote areas. It’s recommended to bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses in Hongyuan County offer basic accommodations.
• For a more authentic experience, stay in a Tibetan homestay in nearby villages.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The nearby Tibetan monasteries, such as the Hongyuan Monastery, are cultural highlights.
• Consider visiting the town of Aba for more Tibetan culture and history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in the area offer Tibetan handicrafts such as prayer flags, jewelry, carpets, and incense. Traditional Tibetan clothing and religious items like prayer beads are also available.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Hongyuan Prairie, you can take a bus or taxi back to Hongyuan County or Aba. From there, buses or private cars are available to continue your journey towards Chengdu or other parts of Sichuan.