Zhalonggou Scenic Area

What are the most recommended things to do in Zhalonggou Scenic Area?

  • Hike along scenic trails to enjoy the natural landscapes and grasslands.
  • Photography of rivers, mountains, and seasonal flowers.
  • Birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
  • Explore cultural or historical sites within the scenic area.
  • Picnic or relax in designated leisure areas.

Introducing Zhalonggou Scenic Area

The Zhalonggou Scenic Area, located within the Haidong Administrative Office of Qinghai Province, is renowned for its unique scenery, 13 kilometers from the park. With its lush green mountains, serene forests, verdant pines, vibrant azaleas, and gurgling streams, it's a perfect place for exploring the mysteries of nature. A 2,000-meter-long mountain trail weaves through the forest, leading directly to Yaoshuiquan Waterfall. Along the way, visitors will encounter cold ponds, serene waters, winding paths, and the lifelike depiction of Bear Embrace Mountain, a solemn mother and child worshipping Buddha, the stunning natural beauty of an old herbalist, and the lifelike Lying Cow Rock. This perfect fusion of nature's uncanny craftsmanship and human artistry will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

When the plateau's belated spring embraces Zhalong, the mountains below are already ablaze with vibrant sunshine, a sea of ​​green, and a delightful late spring. On the mountain, however, the freshness of early spring still lingers. The young azaleas, having weathered the harsh winter, unfurl their lush green leaves, their branches thick with lush purple blossoms, their stems bent with weight. Among the young azaleas, clumps of large azaleas rustle, their roots tangled, their branches intertwined, their leaves intertwined, their branches laden with bowl-sized blossoms, some white, some pink, some dark purple.

The mountains and plains are a sea of ​​flowers, a scene as breathtaking as a fairyland. If you hadn't seen it in person, you'd mistake it for a masterpiece, a master painter's eloquent, richly colored painting. Gentle breezes sweep across the mountains, swaying waves of blossoms. Wisps of delicate fragrance emanate from the troughs and crests of the blossoms, permeating the entire mountain, blending with the air and sky, and seeping deeply into the depths of the mountains. Even the water, fresh from the spring, exudes a refreshing fragrance.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate is cold temperate in the continental zone; Zhalonggou Scenic Area is densely forested and has beautiful scenery. The scenery varies in spring, summer, autumn and winter, but each has its own interesting features, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yaoshuiquan Waterfall, Ranbuzhang Ridge, the Pillar of Heaven, the Herb Collector;

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

62 yuan/person

A. Free ticket policy: Children under 1.2 meters in height are free; seniors over 60 years old with valid ID are free; disabled people with disability certificates are free.

B. Preferential policies: Students can purchase discounted tickets to scenic spots with their student IDs; active military personnel can purchase discounted tickets to scenic spots with their officer IDs; and officers can purchase discounted tickets to scenic spots with their officer IDs.

Attraction opening hours

7:00-19:00


Most Popular FAQs for Zhalonggou Scenic Area

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

Zhalonggou Scenic Area is a natural and cultural site in Qinghai, known for its picturesque valleys, rivers, and grasslands. It preserves local ecosystems and provides a glimpse into the region's natural beauty and traditional lifestyles.

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

Located in Mutual Aid, Qinghai, the scenic area can be reached by taxi or private car. Public buses may connect nearby towns, but walking is only practical within the scenic area itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn for mild weather and vibrant scenery.

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

Entrance fees are modest and tickets can usually be purchased on-site. Online booking may be available through local tourism websites.

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

Advance booking is not mandatory for regular visits, but recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours depending on whether you hike, photograph, or relax at scenic spots.

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

  • Riverside viewpoints and scenic valleys
  • Grassland areas with wildflowers
  • Cultural or historical markers in the area
  • Observation points for wildlife and birds

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

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin; no audio guides are typically provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • High vantage points overlooking the valleys
  • Riverside scenic areas at sunrise or sunset
  • Grasslands during blooming season

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, follow marked trails to rivers and grasslands, stop at viewpoints, and circle back to the entrance via the scenic loop.

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

Night visits are not generally permitted; no light shows are offered. Special guided nature tours may be available seasonally.

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

Weekdays are the least crowded; weekends and public holidays see more visitors.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, drinking water stations, benches, and small snack kiosks. Souvenir shops may be limited.

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

Some paths are accessible for elderly and children. Wheelchair access may be limited on hiking trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended; mobile payment options may be accepted at main entrance and some kiosks.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and cafés are available in nearby towns offering traditional Qinghai cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some local restaurants offer vegetarian or halal options, but choices may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and small hotels are located in nearby towns, offering basic accommodations for overnight stays.

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

  • Local Tibetan villages
  • Nearby rivers and grasslands
  • Historical or cultural markers in Mutual Aid region

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, postcards, and small artworks reflecting the scenery and culture.

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

Taxi or private car is recommended for continuing to nearby towns or scenic spots; limited bus services may connect to larger towns.