Diebu Autumn Notes: When the forests of Zhagana are dyed in layers, this guide helps you unlock the most beautiful autumn colors in Gannan!

Diebu Autumn Notes: When the forests of Zhagana are dyed in layers, this guide helps you unlock the most beautiful autumn colors in Gannan

As the autumn chill fades in the north and the south remains sultry, Zhagana in Diebu, Gansu quietly dons its "golden armor"—needle-leaf forests across the mountains turn golden, birch trees are adorned with orange-red leaves, barley stalks are stacked into golden fortresses in the fields, Tibetan-style wooden roofs are covered with a thin frost, and mist flows through the valleys, turning this "place where immortals live" into an autumn fairy tale. This super practical guide helps you precisely capture the autumn romance of Zhagana.

1. Best time to enjoy autumn: Early October to late October

At this time, the autumn atmosphere in Zhagana is strongest, with the forests transitioning from light yellow to deep red, creating rich layers; barley has been harvested, and the barley racks in the fields form a unique autumn backdrop. This period avoids the summer crowds and arrives before the November snowfall, making it easy to hike and enjoy the scenery. If you want to catch the morning mist, on clear mornings between 7:00-9:00, the mist wraps around the stone city, resembling a fairyland.

2. Must-visit spots: Avoid crowds and unlock niche perspectives

1. Dari Viewing Platform: The "center stage" for overlooking the entire Zhagana panorama. You can shoot the sunrise over the stone city in the early morning, with autumn sunlight shining on the golden forests and smoke curling from Tibetan villages—every shot is wallpaper-worthy.
2. Fairy Beach & Fairy Lake: A 1.5-hour walk from Dari Viewing Platform, the path is covered with fallen leaves that rustle underfoot; the meadows at Fairy Beach have turned light yellow, paired with distant red birch forests, perfect for camping and picnics; Fairy Lake, though small, reflects the surrounding colorful forests, peaceful and photogenic.
3. Yeri Village Barley Fields: A niche but stunning autumn viewing spot. Villagers bundle harvested barley and hang it on wooden racks to dry. The golden barley racks stretch among the colorful forests. Standing on the field ridges to take photos offers a sense of daily life and the fullness of autumn harvest.

3. Transportation & Accommodation: Comfortable travel, stay immersed in autumn colors

- Transportation: Diebu County has no airport. It is recommended to fly to Lanzhou or Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport first, then drive or charter a car to Zhagana (about 4.5 hours from Lanzhou to Zhagana, about 2.5 hours from Jiuzhaigou to Zhagana). Inside the scenic area, you can walk or take sightseeing buses. The hiking routes are moderately difficult and manageable for ordinary tourists.
- Accommodation: Prioritize Tibetan-style homestays in Yeri Village or Dari Village. Rooms with viewing balconies are recommended so you can wake up to colorful forests and mist outside your window. Some homestays offer Tibetan dinners featuring local delicacies like hand-grabbed mutton, tsampa, and butter tea, allowing you to experience authentic Tibetan flavors.

4. Tips: Attention to detail makes your trip more comfortable

1. Zhagana has a large temperature difference between day and night in autumn. Wear a light jacket during the day, but at night temperatures may drop below 0°C, so be sure to bring a down jacket or thick outdoor jacket.
2. UV rays are strong in the mountains, so even on cloudy days, apply sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.
3. Respect local Tibetan customs: remove your hat when entering temples, do not take photos of villagers without permission, and ask before photographing.

The autumn in Zhagana lacks the gentleness of Jiangnan and the grandeur of the north, but it has the unique tranquility and brilliance of the Tibetan area. While the forests are still colorful and the mist lingers, pack your bags and set off—here, every step is a scene, and every glance is unforgettable autumn light.