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Locke's Road in Gansu offers a scenic journey through traditional Tibetan landscapes, including ancient monasteries and rolling hills. It’s a great spot for trekking, photography, and exploring Tibetan culture. Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine, visit Tibetan villages, and experience the unique atmosphere of this less-traveled route.
Rock Road, the scientific expedition route chosen by American botanist Joseph Rock from Zaguluo Township, Zhuoni County, Gannan to Diebu, has become famous for its challenging nature and breathtaking scenery along the way, and has become a classic route for self-driving tours in Gannan.
The Rock Road is also known as the most beautiful 100 kilometers in China. It starts in Zhagulu Town, Zhuoni, and ends in Zhagana. The entire scenic area is also called Chebagou, with the Tao River running through it (the Tao River is the second largest tributary of the Yellow River, second only to the Wei River).
Plateau continental climate, suitable for all seasons
Recommended itinerary:
D1: All over the country - Lanzhou
Day 2: Lanzhou - Two Rivers Confluence - Liujiaxia Reservoir - Weijiapo - Bingling Temple Grottoes - Eight Lanes and Thirteen Alleys - Linxia
D3: Linxia - Labrang Monastery - Gangga Secret Realm - Xiahe
Day 4: Xiahe - Sangke Grassland - Guomang Wetland - Gahai Lake - Geldi Monastery - Langmusi Zhaqiongcang Ecological and Cultural Center
D5: Langmusi Town - Langmusi Temple - Ruoergai Flower Lake - Zhagana
Day 6: Zhagana-Lok Road-Niba Village-Zhoni County
D7: Zhuoni - Chanding Temple - Kangle County - Lintao County - Lanzhou - Return
Open all year round
Locke's Road is historically significant as it was named after the British explorer and missionary, Sir Francis Locke. The road connects remote Tibetan villages with more populated regions, offering access to unique landscapes and Tibetan culture. It’s a peaceful alternative to the more tourist-heavy Tibetan regions, preserving much of its traditional charm.
Locke's Road is located in Gansu Province, Gannan Prefecture, China. The best way to get there is by car, either via taxi or rented vehicle. Buses from the larger towns in Gansu can also take you close to the area. Walking is possible but requires significant physical stamina as the area is mountainous.
Locke's Road is an open area with no specific opening hours. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are particularly beautiful. Summer can be crowded, while winter might be too harsh for outdoor activities.
There is no formal entrance fee to Locke's Road itself, as it is a public road. However, some nearby attractions like monasteries may have small entrance fees, typically ranging from 20 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite or as part of a guided tour.
For general access to Locke's Road, no advance booking is needed. However, for tours or specific attractions along the road, it's recommended to book 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A visit to Locke's Road typically takes about half a day, but if you're interested in trekking, photography, or visiting the monasteries along the route, you may want to allocate a full day.
The must-see highlights include the scenic views of the Tibetan Plateau, the traditional Tibetan villages, and monasteries such as the Labrang Monastery nearby. The road also offers amazing photography spots of the natural landscapes and local life.
Guided tours are available, especially in the main Tibetan areas near Locke's Road. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it’s advisable to check in advance or opt for a Mandarin-speaking guide. Audio guides are typically not available, but a guidebook or a local guide can provide useful information.
The best viewpoints along Locke's Road include the panoramas of the Tibetan Plateau and the valleys below. The rolling hills and Tibetan villages also provide great photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly beautiful for capturing the landscape.
Start by driving along Locke's Road and stopping at the nearby Tibetan villages. Visit the Labrang Monastery for its cultural and architectural significance, then continue through the scenic route to capture the best views. If you're trekking, start early to enjoy the sunrise views over the plateau.
Night visits and light shows are not commonly available on Locke's Road, as it’s a rural and natural area. However, some local tours may offer evening cultural performances or stargazing activities due to the clear skies and remote location.
Locke's Road is less crowded compared to other Tibetan regions, but it can still attract tourists during peak seasons like summer and Chinese holidays. For fewer crowds, visit during weekdays or in the off-peak months of spring and autumn.
Basic facilities like toilets are available in the area, particularly around the monasteries. There are also small shops selling local snacks and Tibetan handicrafts. For more substantial meals or rest, you can head to nearby towns in Gannan.
Locke's Road itself is not fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the mountainous terrain. The area can be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, children and more mobile visitors can enjoy the road with some caution.
Cash is commonly used in rural areas around Locke's Road, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly accepted in some shops. It's advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas.
Local restaurants near Locke's Road offer traditional Tibetan dishes such as yak meat and barley porridge. For more dining options, head to the larger towns in Gannan or Lanzhou.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan cuisine, which features barley, potatoes, and vegetables. Vegan and halal options are less common but can be found in larger towns or specialized restaurants.
There are guesthouses and basic hotels near Locke's Road, typically run by local families. For more comfort and amenities, staying in Gannan or Lanzhou is recommended, where you will find more variety in accommodation options.
Nearby attractions include Labrang Monastery, one of the six major Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. You can also visit the scenic hills and valleys in the area, which are perfect for hiking and nature walks.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer beads, woolen items, and handmade textiles. Traditional Tibetan art and jewelry are also common souvenirs in the area.
After visiting Locke's Road, you can continue your trip by taxi or bus to nearby attractions in Gannan. If traveling further, buses and trains from Lanzhou provide connections to other cities in China.
