"Coker: A Free Journey Where the Soma Flowers Bloom"
⛱️Must-see attractions: - Soma Flower Sea: From May to June every year, the Soma flowers are in full bloom all over the mountains of Gukede. The purple flowers dot the mountains like stars, forming a spectacular sea of flowers. It is the core attraction of the scenic spot.
- Alpine Meadow: The vast meadow has undulating terrain and green grass. Walking among it, you can feel the tranquility and magnificence of nature. It is also a great background for taking photos.
- Sunrise and Sunset Observation Deck: Here you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sunset views. In the early morning, the sun shines on the mountains and meadows, shining brightly with golden light; in the evening, the afterglow dyes the sky orange-red, like a dream.
🌄Travel guide: - Travel route planning: After arriving at Gukede in the morning, go to the Soma Flower Sea to enjoy the view and take photos, and feel the beautiful scenery surrounded by flowers; at noon, enjoy the Yi specialties near the scenic area to replenish energy; in the afternoon, stroll along the alpine meadow and experience the fun of hiking; in the evening, go to the sunrise and sunset viewing platform to enjoy the sunset and end the day's trip.
- Tour experience: You can participate in Yi folk culture experience activities, such as Yi song and dance performances, torch making, etc., to deeply experience the local ethnic customs. If you are traveling with children, you can also experience horseback riding in the designated area to add to the fun of the trip.
- Season selection: The best season to visit is May to June when the Soma flowers are in bloom, when the scenery is most beautiful. But other seasons also have their own characteristics. In summer, the meadows are green and lush, in autumn you can see golden grass, and in winter you can encounter snow scenery if you are lucky.
🏨Accommodation Guide: - B&Bs in the scenic area: There are some special B&Bs in Gukede that can provide a more original accommodation experience. Some B&Bs also have viewing platforms where you can directly enjoy the Soma flower sea or meadow scenery. However, the quantity is limited and reservations must be made in advance through the online platform.
- Zhaojue County Hotel: It is about an hour's drive from Gukede Scenic Area. There are many hotel options in the county, ranging from economy to mid-range and high-end. The facilities are relatively complete and the price range is also larger, which is suitable for tourists with higher requirements for accommodation conditions.
- Camping: If you like to get close to nature, you can camp in the designated camping area of the scenic area. You need to bring your own tent and other camping equipment, and pay attention to keeping warm and safe while enjoying the starry sky.
💗Other tips: - Transportation: It is recommended to drive there by yourself, so you can arrange your itinerary flexibly and enjoy the scenery along the way. You can also charter a car in Zhaojue County to go to the scenic spot. Most of the roads in the scenic area are mountain roads, so you need to drive carefully when driving.
- Weather and clothing: The weather in the mountains is changeable, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening. You need to bring a thick coat even in summer. At the same time, prepare rain gear in case of sudden rain.
- Civilized tourism: Respect the local Yi customs and habits, do not pick Soma flowers at will, do not damage the ecological environment of the scenic area, and take away the garbage consciously or place it in the designated area.
- High Altitude Notes: Gukede is at a high altitude and some tourists may experience altitude sickness. You can prepare anti-altitude sickness drugs in advance, avoid strenuous exercise, and get enough rest.