Promise me, you must visit Zhagana at least once.

If you're tired of the hustle and bustle of city life, want to let your kids experience the purity of nature, capture the most pristine landscapes with your camera, or explore an untouched hidden gem on foot, then Zhagana is undoubtedly your best choice. This Tibetan village tucked away in Gannan, Gansu, boasts magnificent canyons, tranquil Tibetan settlements, simple and honest local customs, and unforgettable highland cuisine.

Accommodation: Tibetan-style charm, living in a painting
Zhagana offers a variety of accommodation options, including cozy Tibetan-style inns and budget-friendly hostels for backpackers. Families on a parent-child trip can opt for Tibetan homestays, which usually feature spacious and warm rooms. Open the window, and you'll see misty mountain peaks; kids will surely be awakened by the sound of yak bells in the morning. Photography enthusiasts can stay at inns with great views, such as those in Dariz Village, where you can capture golden mountain ridges at sunrise right from your window. Hikers can choose more economical hostels and exchange route tips with fellow travelers in the evening.

Local Cuisine: Highland flavors, a treat for your taste buds
Zhagana's cuisine carries a strong Tibetan flavor. The must-try dish is yak meat buns, with thin skin and generous filling; one bite fills your mouth with rich meat aroma, and kids will love them. Butter tea is a highland staple; its unique taste might surprise you at first, but after a few sips, you'll fall in love with its richness. There's also tsampa made from barley flour, which can be eaten directly as a ball or mixed with yogurt—perfect for replenishing energy during hikes. If you're lucky, you might get to taste homemade yak yogurt from the locals, which is sweet and tangy with a rich texture.

Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in Tibetan life
The Tibetan locals in Zhagana are warm and hospitable. If you visit during festivals like the Arrow Festival or Xianglang Festival, you can witness grand rituals and horse racing performances. Families with kids can visit Tibetan households to learn how to make tsampa and butter tea, giving children a chance to experience a different lifestyle. Photography enthusiasts can capture the daily lives of the locals—elderly people spinning prayer wheels, children herding livestock, or the incense-burning rituals—all of which make for stunning cultural shots. Hikers can chat with locals to hear legends about sacred mountains and lakes, and perhaps even discover a hidden trail.

Scenery: Every step is a masterpiece
Zhagana's scenery resembles a three-dimensional landscape painting. The grasslands of Fairy Beach are vast and open, with wildflowers blooming in summer, making it a perfect playground for kids. The Tiger Mouth Canyon is steep and unique, with sunlight streaming through mountain crevices—a favorite spot for photographers seeking magical light and shadow effects. The stone forest and One-Line Sky are paradises for hikers, where every step reveals a new view along the creek. If you have the stamina, climb up to the Rock Observation Deck for a panoramic view of Zhagana—layered Tibetan villages, winding mountain roads, and distant snow-capped peaks that will take your breath away.

Come to Zhagana and experience the purest moments. Whether you're traveling with kids to connect with nature, carrying a camera to chase the most beautiful light, or packing your gear to challenge hiking trails, Zhagana has something for everyone. Here, you'll find no over-commercialized noise, only the most pristine landscapes, the most genuine local customs, and unforgettable highland memories. Pack your bags and set off—Zhagana is waiting for you!
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Post by “踏上奇妙之旅，探索世界每一个角落。我是极地之光，热爱旅行分享、带你领略别样风景，发现旅途惊喜。 | Aug 17, 2025