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Maixiu National Forest Park, located in Zeku County, Huangnan Prefecture, 32 kilometers from Longwu Town, the prefectural capital, is a primeval forest scenic area. Located in the core ecological protection and development zone of the Qinghai Sanjiangyuan Nature Reserve, it is a key forest area for the state-owned natural forest protection project. Officially designated Maixiu National Forest Park in December 2005, it covers a total area of 67,596 hectares.
Maixiu National Forest Park has rich forest landscapes, natural landscapes, ancient monuments and cultural landscapes, and a cool and pleasant climate. It is significantly different from the landforms, climate and landscapes of the surrounding areas.
The climate of Maixiu National Forest Park is cool temperate and semi-humid. Influenced by the altitude and topography, it has the following climatic characteristics: a long, dry and cold cold season, a short, warm and cool warm season, large daily temperature differences, concentrated precipitation, abundant light, strong sunshine, frequent strong winds, and a short frost-free period.
Maixiu National Forest Park's scenery primarily features primeval forests, large rivers, lakes, wildlife habitats, peaks, wetlands, historical sites, and folk customs. A rich and diverse botanical landscape forms the core of the park's landscape, combining unique geological and waterscapes, astronomical and cultural attractions characteristic of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Specific attractions include:
Geological attractions: Otter Looking Back, Millennium Divine Turtle, Yin-Yang Peaks, Changing Mountain God, Camel Peak, Lion Bathing in the Sun, Giant Stone Scripture, Golden Child Facing the Sky, A Line of Sky, Return of the Immortals, Proud Stone Turtle, Dolphins Playing with the Moon, General Peak
Hydrological attractions: Sanhekou, Ice Waterfall, Guanyin Waterfall, Mist-locked Dangerous Pool, Dangerous Rock Beach, Black Spring, Black Bridge Pool, Maixiu Spring Rise, and Three Springs.
Cultural attractions: Garang Gomba, suspension bridge, spruce mother forest, fairy cave, Dasi Beach, watchtower, Zongmarji Temple, sightseeing nursery, and King Gesar's footprints.
free
All day
Maixiu National Forest Park is a protected area in Huangnan, Qinghai, notable for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The park plays an important role in environmental conservation and provides a habitat for numerous plant and animal species.
The park is located in Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from nearby towns; public bus access is limited, so arranging local transport is recommended.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are from May to October when the weather is mild and the forest is most vibrant.
Entrance fees vary by season, typically around 50–80 CNY per adult. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance; online booking is sometimes available through official tourism websites.
Booking is not mandatory for general admission, but during peak season or for guided tours, it is advisable to book 1–2 weeks in advance.
Plan for 3–5 hours to explore the main trails and scenic areas. A full day is recommended for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Guided tours may be arranged in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly available.
Start at the park entrance, follow the main forest trail, stop at scenic viewpoints, visit rivers and waterfalls, then return via a loop trail to the entrance.
Night visits are not permitted. Special eco-tours may be offered during peak season or environmental awareness events.
The park is generally quiet. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times, while weekends and public holidays see more visitors.
Basic facilities include toilets, rest areas, and some food stalls near the entrance. Carry water and snacks for longer hikes.
Main paths are moderately accessible for children and the elderly. Some trails are uneven and may not be suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small purchases. Mobile payments may be accepted at larger facilities near the park entrance.
Small local eateries and snack stalls near the park entrance offer simple meals and refreshments. No large restaurants are inside the park.
Vegetarian options are generally available. Vegan and halal options may be limited; bringing your own food is advisable.
Souvenirs near the park include local handicrafts, small Tibetan-themed items, and nature-inspired crafts.
Private car or taxi is most convenient for reaching nearby towns or attractions. Limited local buses may be available.
