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The red Danxia landform, with eighteen peaks rolling up and down, has a high forest coverage rate and a pleasant climate.
May to October is the most suitable time for travel, with July to August being the best time for travel
Jianzha County has a plateau continental climate, a special climate zone of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, with an average annual temperature of 7.8°C, 4,432 hours of sunshine per year, an average annual precipitation of 350-400 mm, and a frost-free period of 186 days.
Ticket price: 50 yuan per person
April 1st to June 14th, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
June 15th to September 15th, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
September 16 to October 31, 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Legal holidays 7:00-19:00
Danxia Eighteen Peaks is part of the Danxia landform, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic red sandstone formations. The peaks and surrounding area are geologically significant, showcasing the erosional processes that have shaped the landscape over millions of years. The area is also culturally important, offering insight into local Tibetan traditions and lifestyles.
Danxia Eighteen Peaks is located in the Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai. It can be accessed by private car or taxi from Xining, which is about 2 to 3 hours away. Public transport options are limited, so renting a vehicle or taking a taxi is the most convenient method of getting there.
The park is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the colors of the landscape are most vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography and avoiding crowds.
The entrance fee is generally modest and can be paid on-site. Online ticket purchases may not be available, so it is advisable to buy tickets upon arrival.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Visitors can purchase tickets on the day of their visit, although it’s a good idea to check for any seasonal events or restrictions that might require prior reservations.
Exploring Danxia Eighteen Peaks typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent hiking and taking photographs. If you plan to explore the entire park and take in all viewpoints, you might need a bit more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they are a great way to learn about the geology and cultural significance of the area. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin as well, but English options are limited.
Start by visiting the main entrance and walking along the paved paths to the first peak. From there, explore the series of peaks, stopping at various viewpoints along the way. Ensure you have time to hike to the highest point for a panoramic view of the area. End the visit with a stop at the geological exhibition if available.
Night visits or light shows are not available at Danxia Eighteen Peaks. The best time to visit is during the day, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.
The park can be moderately crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially during the peak tourist seasons in summer and fall. Weekdays, particularly early mornings, are the least crowded times to visit.
The park offers basic facilities, including public toilets, rest areas, and water stations. There are no large restaurants or shops inside the park, so visitors should bring their own food and water. Small vendors near the entrance may sell snacks.
The park has some accessible paths, but due to the uneven terrain and steep trails leading to the peaks, it may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the park, but parental supervision is recommended during hikes.
Cash is typically required for tickets and small purchases. Mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, but credit cards may not be as common in rural areas.
There are no large restaurants inside the park. Small local eateries near the park entrance offer basic Tibetan cuisine such as barley soup and noodle dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local eateries, particularly Tibetan-style vegetable dishes. Halal options may be limited, depending on the area.
Accommodations near the park are limited, with options mostly in the nearby towns. Visitors can find budget hotels and guesthouses in Xining or local Tibetan villages, where they can stay for a more immersive experience.
There are no souvenir shops inside the park, but small handicrafts such as Tibetan prayer beads, textiles, and local art can be purchased in nearby villages or at the entrance to the park.
The best transportation option is to rent a car or take a taxi to continue your trip. Public transport options are limited, especially to remote areas like Qinghai Lake or Kumbum Monastery.
