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Qilian Mountain Grassland, one of the six most beautiful grasslands in my country, is located in the Qilian Mountains at the junction of Qinghai and Gansu. The average altitude is between 4,000 and 5,000 meters. The long and wide glacier landforms formed by the snow on the mountains are magnificent, like a giant silver dragon lying across the sky. It is a high-altitude grassland.
Grasslands, white clouds, herds of cattle and sheep, snow-capped mountains, herders, and tents with smoke rising from their cooking stoves form a breathtakingly beautiful scene. The flat and vast terrain, fertile soil, lush grass, and thriving livestock scene are home to the Shandan Military Horse Farm, currently the world's second-largest and Asia's largest horse farm.
The four seasons in the Qilian Mountains are not very distinct; spring feels neither like spring nor summer like summer. The so-called "Qilian June Snow" perfectly captures the Qilian Mountains' climate and natural landscape. Best time to visit: July and August.
1-3 hours
free
All day
Qilian Mountain Grassland, located in Qinghai’s Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is historically significant as a key area for Tibetan nomadic culture and traditional animal husbandry. It is ecologically important, serving as a high-altitude grassland ecosystem supporting diverse flora and fauna.
Located in the Qilian Mountains of Qinghai Province. Visitors typically reach the grassland via road from Xining or Zhangye by car, taxi, or bus. Private tours and rental vehicles are recommended as public transport within the grassland is limited.
The grassland is open year-round. The best time to visit is from June to September, when the meadows are green, weather is mild, and wildflowers bloom.
Advance booking is not strictly required, but recommended during peak summer months or for guided tours. Booking 1–2 weeks in advance is usually sufficient.
1–2 full days are recommended to explore the main grassland areas and enjoy cultural experiences comfortably.
Guided tours are available through local travel agencies, typically in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance with specialized tour operators.
Night visits mainly involve stargazing and experiencing the quiet grassland. Special cultural festivals and local ceremonies can be attended during peak summer months, but there are no formal light shows.
The grassland is less crowded than urban attractions. Peak crowds occur during summer holidays (July–August). Visiting weekdays in June or September offers a more peaceful experience.
Accessibility is limited in remote areas. Main scenic spots and roads are suitable for elderly visitors, but terrain can be challenging for disabled visitors or small children without assistance.
Cash is recommended, as many small eateries, guesthouses, and local services may not accept cards or mobile payments. Larger entrances may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Local Tibetan guesthouses and eateries serve traditional yak meat dishes, tsampa, butter tea, and simple snacks. There are few modern cafes, so bringing refreshments is advisable.
Vegetarian options are limited but sometimes available in guesthouses. Halal food is generally available due to Tibetan and Hui minority presence, but preparation should be confirmed locally.
