The stunning golden autumn guide to Qilian Mountains—every frame is unbelievably beautiful!

In autumn, the air in the Qilian Mountains is filled with the fragrance of golden meadows 💛 If autumn had a signature perfume, this would definitely be the limited edition! Valleys dyed in layers of colorful forests, sunlit ridges, even the air you breathe feels like a fairy tale filter 🧚‍♀️ First time here and I’m breathless from the beauty—is this really not a dream?! Take advantage of the fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, quickly save this comprehensive guide~

📍【Core Route】
⏰7:30 Depart from Xining by car
🚗3h → Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Viewing Platform (G227 National Road, Menyuan County, Haibei Prefecture, Qinghai Province)
🚗1h → Lunch in Qilian County Town
⛰14:00 Zhuo’er Mountain Scenic Area (Babao Town, Qilian County, Haibei Prefecture, Qinghai Province)
🌄16:00 Amindongso Viewing Platform (Free! Right opposite Zhuo’er Mountain)
🏨 Overnight in Qilian County Town (Recommended: Babao Riverside Homestay Cluster)

✨【Three Must-Visit Photo Spots】
1️⃣ Zhuo’er Mountain Summit 360° Viewing Platform (Entrance fee 60 RMB)
👉 Red Rock Canyon + Danxia Landform + Snow Mountains in one frame
2️⃣ Amindongso Prayer Flag Viewing Platform
👉 Sunset with Buddha’s light shining brilliantly—perfect for photos 📸
3️⃣ Babao Riverside Boardwalk
👉 Stunning like an ink painting in the morning mist

⚠️【Hard-Earned Tips】
✔️ Sunscreen + sunglasses are a must! UV rays are so strong you’ll question life 😎
✔️ Temperature difference of 15℃+ between morning and night! Down jacket is a lifesaver 🧥
✔️ Zhuo’er Mountain limits visitors during peak season! Buy tickets in advance on Trip.com 🎫
✔️ Must-try Tibetan food: Butter tea and hand-pulled lamb at Zongmu Mountain Villa 🥘

🛣️【Transportation Tips】
🚙 The entire route from Xining to Qilian is paved, with breathtaking snow mountains and meadows along the way
🅿️ Scenic area parking fee is 10 RMB per visit, remember to bring cash change
🐑 Sheep often cross the road, please drive slowly~

📅 Best viewing period: Mid-October to early November
📸 Recommended photography gear: Combination of wide-angle and telephoto lenses
🌌 Hidden bonus: On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye!!

Raise your hand in the comments 🙋‍♀️
➡️ Which photo spot do you most want to check in at?
➡️ Any other highland travel tips to share?