Back from Gannan, let me tell you the plain truth. I came to this city because of a song.

"The chanting of Labrang Monastery, floating in the sky, the green waves of Sangke Grassland, rolling into the distance, the stone city of Zhagana, hiding the vicissitudes of time, the amorous feelings of Gannan, shining between heaven and earth..." Humming "The Song of Gannan," the mysterious and colorful land of Gannan, like a dreamy Shambhala, slowly came into view, attracting me to embark on this spring exploration trip in March, when everything comes back to life😃. 🔵Best time to visit The temperature in Gannan in March is between -5°C and 10°C. Although there is still a slight chill in the early spring, the warm sun has gradually dispelled the gloom of winter. At this time, the grassland begins to turn green, the rivers thaw and flow, and the golden roof of Labrang Monastery becomes even more dazzling in the sunlight. It is the perfect time to experience the unique charm of Gannan✨. 🔵Itinerary D1: Lanzhou - Labrang Monastery - Xiahe County Hotel (Overnight) Depart from Lanzhou in the morning (you can choose to arrive in Lanzhou by plane or train and then transfer to a car) and head to Labrang Monastery. Stepping into one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, it is as if you have entered a hall of faith. In the long circumambulation corridor, believers devoutly turn prayer wheels, chanting words, and the air is filled with the aroma of butter lamps. In the afternoon, follow a lama for a lively Dharma lesson (if you have the opportunity) and experience the profoundness of Tibetan Buddhism. Check in to a hotel in Xiahe County in the evening to replenish supplies and recharge for the next leg of the journey. D2: Sangke Grassland - Zhagana - Zhagana Homestay (Overnight) Head to Sangke Grassland in the morning. In March, the grassland is freshly green, and yaks and sheep graze leisurely. Rent a horse and gallop across the grassland, letting the spring breeze caress your face. In the afternoon, head towards Zhagana, a natural stone city that resembles a fairyland when shrouded in clouds and mist. Walk along the boardwalk through villages and forests, explore ancient Tibetan villages, and admire the unique rock formations. Stay in a Zhagana homestay in the evening, falling asleep to the tranquility of the mountains and the occasional barking of dogs, immersed in a primitive and simple atmosphere. D3: Fairy Beach - Return After breakfast, head to Fairy Beach, the perfect place to overlook the entire view of Zhagana. Standing on the viewing platform, clouds and mist rise in the valley, and villages, terraces, and forests come into view, like a paradise. In the afternoon, with beautiful memories, embark on your return journey, reminiscing about Gannan along the way. 🔵Transportation • Airplane: You can first arrive at Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, and then transfer to the airport bus, train, or car to various places in Gannan. There are also some direct flights to Gannan Xiahe Airport✈️. • Train: Lanzhou Railway Station and Lanzhou West Railway Station have frequent trains. After arriving in Lanzhou, transfer to a car to Gannan and enjoy the scenery of the Loess Plateau along the way🚉. 🔵Accommodation • City center: Xiahe County hotels have complete living facilities, are close to Labrang Monastery, and are convenient for travel and shopping. • Near scenic spots: Zhagana homestays are close to nature. In the early morning and evening, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility and magnificence of Zhagana, experiencing local life. 🔵Must-see attractions 📍Labrang Monastery (Circumambulation Corridor): Take devout and solemn photos against the backdrop of the long circumambulation corridor, dressed in plain clothes📸. 📍Zhagana (Dari Viewing Platform): Standing on the viewing platform, capture the fairyland moment with the cloud-shrouded stone city as the backdrop. 📍Fairy Beach (Viewing Platform): Here, leave stunning images with the panoramic view of Zhagana as the backdrop. 🈲Tips: • The temperature difference between morning and evening in March is large, so remember to bring warm clothes🧣, such as down jackets and sweaters. • Respect local religious beliefs and customs, keep quiet when entering monasteries, and follow the rules. • There may be mild altitude sickness when you first arrive in the plateau area. You can prepare anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance and avoid strenuous exercise. During the few days in Gannan, accompanied by the melodious singing of "The Song of Gannan," I embraced the spring grass, faced the holy temple, and danced with the mountains and rivers. Every inch of beauty in this city is engraved in my heart. When I leave, I am full of nostalgia, looking forward to returning to continue the wonderful story of Gannan.💕