Luqu

What are the most recommended things to do in Luqu?

Visit Labrang Monastery, a key Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the region.
Explore the scenic Maqu Grasslands for hiking, photography, and local Tibetan culture.
Attend local Tibetan festivals and experience traditional music, dance, and customs.
Visit the surrounding rivers and valleys for nature walks and wildlife observation.
Interact with Tibetan nomads and learn about their daily life and crafts.

Introducing Luqu

Luqu County is 78 kilometers from the prefecture capital, Hezuo. Luqu County means "Tao River" in Tibetan. The Tao River originates from the Daifusang Grassland at the southern foot of Qingshan Mountain in the southwest of Luqu County and its tributary, Liqiaru Mountain. It stretches 330 kilometers within Gannan.

Luqu County is home to more than ten ethnic groups, primarily Tibetans. It is a small grassland town with rich ethnic characteristics, primarily animal husbandry, with a focus on agriculture and forestry. It boasts abundant water and grass, vast grasslands, picturesque mountains and rivers, and abundant natural resources.

Gahai Lake, known as the Pearl of the Plateau, is a haven for migratory birds, nestled between the sky and the water. Zechashilin, with its towering peaks, cascading forests, and crystal-clear waters, has been ingeniously crafted by nature, creating dozens of scenic spots such as "A Line of Blue Sky" and "Ape Gazing at the Moon." The magnificent and magical Langmusi Temple and Xicang Tibetan Buddhist monasteries complement the rich and simple customs of the Tibetan people.

Climate and best time to travel

The summer in Luqu Grassland is the most charming, with flowers blooming everywhere, green grass forming shades, and mushroom-like tents everywhere. During the Xiaxianglang Festival, the Gannan Grassland is in full bloom, with thousands of people celebrating and enjoying an unprecedented grand occasion.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Langmusi

Langmusi is a Tibetan Buddhist temple. "Langmu" means "fairy" in Tibetan. The name comes from a cave containing rocks resembling graceful fairies, which locals believe are the incarnations of fairies. At the foot of the mountain lies a lush, lush pine forest. Langmusi, located not far from the main Lanzhou-Langmu Highway, is a famous attraction on the Lanzhou-Jiuzhaigou tourist route and has recently opened to the public.

Zecha Stone Forest

Here, towering and steep mountains, towering rock forests, clear streams, lush forests, and rare species of birds and animals create a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The area's unique topography and climate have created a unique and relatively intact vertical landscape of pristine vegetation. At its lowest point, sparse woodland and shrub grasslands rise above, followed by dense forests of juniper, fir, and purple spruce. Continuing upward, temperate shrubs and subalpine shrub meadows rise, culminating in a barren, snow-covered summit.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Most Popular FAQs for Luqu

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

Luqu is located in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu. It is significant for its Tibetan cultural heritage, beautiful highland landscapes, and its proximity to important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries such as Labrang Monastery. The region is also known for traditional Tibetan nomadic life.

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

Luqu County is in southern Gansu Province. Visitors typically reach it by long-distance bus from Lanzhou or Xining. Within the county, taxis, local buses, and walking are common ways to explore nearby attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Labrang Monastery and local temples: 8:00–18:00 daily.
Best times to visit are summer and early autumn (June–September) for mild weather and accessible grasslands.

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

Labrang Monastery: approx. 50–80 RMB; tickets can be bought onsite or sometimes online.
Grassland tours: may require guide fees, arranged locally.

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

For major monasteries or guided grassland tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance during peak season (summer and festival times) is recommended. Off-season visits may not require advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days to visit key monasteries, nearby grasslands, and experience local culture.

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

Labrang Monastery complex
Surrounding Tibetan grasslands
Local rivers and valleys for hiking
Traditional Tibetan villages

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

Guided tours are usually available in Mandarin; English tours may need to be booked in advance. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Labrang Monastery courtyards and prayer halls
Grasslands during sunrise or sunset
Mountain valleys and rivers near Luqu
Local festivals and cultural events

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with Labrang Monastery, then explore nearby villages and grasslands, finishing with rivers or scenic viewpoints for photography.

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

Night visits are generally limited. Special tours during Tibetan festivals may include evening cultural performances.

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

Peak crowds occur during summer holidays and Tibetan festivals. Off-season weekdays are least crowded.

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

Basic toilets and rest areas in monasteries and tourist spots
Local eateries and small restaurants near main attractions
Small souvenir and craft shops in villages and monasteries
Limited water stations in remote grasslands

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

Main monastery areas are accessible, but grasslands and villages may require walking on uneven terrain, limiting access for those with mobility issues.