The Scenic Beauty of Gannan

Embark on a spontaneous road trip through Gannan🚗! Here, the sky is as blue as a canvas, the grasslands so lush they soothe the soul, and every frame is Windows-desktop-level stunning. Snapshots along the way turn into masterpieces, making it a true paradise for photography enthusiasts📸.

🌟Trip Highlights:
1. Scenery all the way: Gannan's beauty lies in the journey—no need to seek out specific spots, as every glance out the window is worth capturing.
2. Authentic experiences: Get up close with Tibetan culture, with monasteries, prayer flags, and prayer wheels everywhere.
3. Road surprises: Though some sections are bumpy, it's this rawness that adds to the charm.

📍Itinerary:
Day 1: Lanzhou→Labrang Monastery (230km, 4h)
- Labrang Monastery is a world-renowned Tibetan Buddhist institute, famous for its long prayer wheel corridor.
- Stay in Xiahe County; recommend Norlha Camp (book in advance!).
- Must-try: Tsampa and yak meat at the Tibetan "Red Food" restaurant.

Day 2: Sangke Grassland→Gahai Lake (120km, 2.5h)
- Sangke Grassland is most beautiful in July-August; try horseback riding (remember to bargain).
- Gahai Lake is a haven for migratory birds; the lakeside boardwalk offers stunning photo ops.
- Stay in Langmusi Town; recommend Lijing Hotel.

Day 3: Langmusi→Zagana (100km, 2.5h)
- Langmusi Town spans Gansu and Sichuan; don't miss the apple pie at Lisa's Restaurant.
- Zagana, known as the "Stone City," is best experienced by staying in a Tibetan-style homestay.
- Wake up early for sunrise and sea of clouds at the viewpoint.

Day 4: Flower Lake→First Bend of the Yellow River (150km, 3h)
- Best time for Flower Lake is June-August, with spectacular flocks of waterbirds.
- The First Bend is most magical at sunset; bring a thick jacket.

💡Tips:
1. Altitude sickness: Avoid washing your hair or bathing on the first day; carry glucose oral solution.
2. Clothing: Even in summer, pack a down jacket—temperature swings are extreme.
3. Road conditions: An SUV is recommended; download offline maps as some areas have no signal.
4. Local customs: Remove hats in monasteries, no photography, and walk prayer wheels clockwise.

🍜Food Guide:
- Must-try Tibetan dishes: Butter tea, tsampa, yak meat hotpot.
- Recommended restaurant: Gendun Choephel Tibetan Restaurant in Xiahe.
- Local snacks: Barley wine, yak yogurt (very tart—add sugar!).