September in Zhagana: Encounter the Autumn Secret Realm in the Stone Box

Surrounded by mountains and shrouded in mist, Zhagana in autumn is the most fairy-tale-like season of the year. This natural "stone city" combines natural wonders, cultural heritage, and rural charm. With the autumn colors beginning to emerge in September, it is the perfect time to explore this earthly paradise.

Architectural Marvel: Stilted Houses in Harmony with Nature
The most common dwellings in Zhagana are the unique "stilted houses." These homes, featuring a blend of Han and Tibetan architectural styles, are primarily made of wood, combined with earth, wood, and stone. The walls are thickly built with earth or stone, and the foundation is reinforced with rocks. Traditional stilted houses are constructed along the mountains, facing south, and consist of two main parts: the main house and the corridor house. The central area of the main house has a hearth connected to an earthen bed, with a skylight above for ventilation and lighting. Smoke is expelled through a chimney under the earthen bed, which also heats the bed, saving firewood and providing warmth. Today, these traditional homes have been modernized into guesthouses that blend Tibetan charm with modern comfort, offering visitors a unique lodging experience that combines rustic and contemporary elements.

Natural Scenery: A Palette Spilled by the Divine
Zhagana is a relic of the Quaternary glaciation, with an average altitude of about 3,000 meters. In September, it transforms into a sea of colors. From the Dari Observation Deck, the entire Zhagana valley unfolds before your eyes, with four villages scattered across the U-shaped valley.
Fairy Meadow: A highland meadow just a 20-minute hike from the village, which turns into a golden sea in autumn, perfect for photography and picnics.
One-Line Sky Canyon: Driving through this canyon, the stone peaks on both sides almost converge, with the narrowest point allowing only one vehicle to pass. Sunlight filters through the crevices, casting dappled shadows on the ground.

Culinary Delights: Tibetan Flavors from the Grasslands
Zhagana's cuisine is rich in Tibetan flavors, with every bite offering a taste of the grasslands:
Tibetan Feast: Tender, bone-off lamb served with salt and pepper for a mouthful of meaty goodness; tsampa mixed with butter tea becomes more flavorful with every chew.
Yak Yogurt: Freshly made yogurt sold in village shops, mixed with two spoons of sugar for a dense texture and rich dairy aroma.
Wild Mushroom Noodles: Wild mushrooms harvested during the rainy season are incredibly fresh, paired with handmade noodles for a chewy and smooth delight.

Unique Experiences: Immersive Exploration of the Secret Realm
Starry Sky Photography: Zhagana's night sky is a "visible Milky Way." On clear nights, you can gaze up and see the dazzling Milky Way stretching across the heavens.

September in Zhagana, with its stunning autumn scenery, awaits your exploration and discovery in this "stone box" secret realm.
👉 Click the link below to learn more about in-depth travel routes.
Have questions about trip planning? Feel free to message us. We offer multiple unique routes to provide you with a personalized cultural journey.