Gansu Zhagana Trekking
This trek explores the stunning natural landscapes and vibrant Tibetan culture of Zhagana, located in southern Gansu Province. The journey combines cultural visits, scenic hikes, camping in pristine environments, and encounters with nomadic traditions.
Overview:
Zhagana isn't just a destination; it's a journey into another time. Hike among jagged stone pinnacles that pierce the sky, past ancient Tibetan monasteries and secluded villages where traditional life unfolds. This is the "Stone Forest Secret Realm" of Gansu.
More Than a Hike: A Cultural Pilgrimage.
Our Zhagana trek blends moderate hiking through jaw-dropping geological wonders with authentic encounters. Share butter tea with locals, listen to monks chanting, and fall asleep under some of Tibet's clearest skies. This is immersive travel at its best.
Zhagana Trekking Highlights:
• Walk in a "Stone Forest": Navigate breathtaking limestone peaks often called China's version of Tolkien's landscapes.
• Immerse in Tibetan Culture: Stay in a village homestay, witness prayer flags flutter, and feel the deep spirituality.
• Iconic Photography: Capture the perfect shot of the unique pyramid peaks against sunrise or starry skies.
• Accessible Wilderness: Experience raw, off-the-beaten-path beauty without requiring extreme altitude or technical climbing skills.
• Seasons of Beauty: From lush green summers to golden autumns and snowy winter wonderlands.
Additional Notes:
- Trekking Distance: Approximately 55 km over several days
- Difficulty Level: ★★★★ (Suitable for experienced highland trekkers)
- Highest Altitude: 4,140 m at Klak Pass
- Key Highlights:
- Trek through canyons, grasslands, stone forests
- Encounter Tibetan nomadic culture
- Experience breathtaking mountain vistas and wildlife
Overview:
This trek explores the stunning natural landscapes and vibrant Tibetan culture of Zhagana, located in southern Gansu Province. The journey combines cultural visits, scenic hikes, camping in pristine environments, and encounters with nomadic traditions.
Day 1: Arrival & Visit to Labrang Monastery
- Start Point:Lanzhou Airport or Train Station
- Distance:260 km to Labrang
- Activities:
- Meet at Lanzhou and transfer to Labrang Monastery
- Explore the monastery, observe monks and local pilgrims
- Experience Tibetan religious traditions
- Accommodation:Hotel in Labrang
- Meals:Dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: From Labrang to Langmusi (Takstang Lhamo)
- Travel:180 km drive to Langmusi
- Activities:
- Walk around Kirti and Sertri Monasteries complex
- Short hike into Lhamo Gorge for panoramic views
- Explore local Tibetan culture and scenery
- Accommodation:Guesthouse in Langmusi
- Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Langmusi to Zoige Grassland & Zhagana Village
- Travel & Exploration:
- Drive to Zoige Grassland, one of Asia's largest grasslands, rich with yaks and nomads
- Visit the First Bend of the Yellow River, enjoy expansive views
- Free time to acclimate, relax, and interact with locals
- Optional visit to a small village and ancient Buddhist temple
- Accommodation:Guesthouse in Zhagana Village
- Meals:All included
Day 4: Trek to Zhagana Stone Forest & Highest Pass
- Start:Zhagana Village (Altitude: 2,920 m)
- Trekking Route:
- Trek through grasslands, streams, and canyon entrances
- Pass the Dani Godava gate
- Reach the Highest Passat 3,900 m
- Visit the iconic Zhagana Stone Forest
- Distance:Approx. 19 km
- Camp:Dongcai Camp (Grasslands at 3,640 m)
- Activities:Camping, enjoying mountain vistas, setting up camp in wild surroundings
- Meals:Breakfast, high-energy snacks, campsite dinner
Day 5: Trek to Klak Pass & Seven Kerr Ridge
- Start:Dongcai Camp
- Trekking Route:
- Trek from Dongcai to Klak Pass (4,140 m), the most spectacular section
- Continue to Seven Kerr Ridge for panoramic views
- Distance:Approx. 15 km
- Highlights:Wildlife spotting, snow-capped peaks, canyons, grasslands
- Camp:Seven Kerr Ridge Camp (approx. 3,580 m)
- Activities:Camping, wildlife observation, enjoying sunset views
- Meals:Breakfast, high-energy snacks, dinner
Day 6: Trek to Buddha Stone Camp
- Start:Seven Kerr Ridge
- Trekking Route:
- Trek through diverse terrains: Stool Mountain, Anziku, and arrive at Buddha Stone Camp
- Distance:Approx. 12 km
- Highlights:Incredible mountain views, sunset vistas
- Camp:Buddha Stone Camp (approx. 3,590 m)
- Activities:Camping, photography, enjoying the natural environment
- Meals:Breakfast, high-energy snacks, dinner
Day 7: Sunrise & Final Descent to Min County
- Start:Buddha Stone Camp
- Activities:
- Early morning ascent to view sunrise
- Trek downhill via Guanyin Stone Pass and Triangle Stone
- Distance: Approx. 10 km
- Transfer by vehicle to Zhuoni County
- Accommodation:Hotel in Min County
- Meals:Breakfast, snacks, dinner
Day 8: Return to Lanzhou
- Travel:High-speed train from Min County to Lanzhou
- Activities:
- Transfer to Lanzhou airport for departure
- End of the trek
Price includes:
- 4 nights' accommodation in local hotels(Twin share basis)
- Private air-conditioned minibus with licensed drivers;
- Excellent local Tibetan English-speaking tour guides services
- Entrance tickets as mentioned in the itinerary;
- Trek / camp
- Public trekking equipment: (tent, moisture proof pad & sleeping bag)
- Cooking (burner,gas & cookware)
- All the necessary cooking equipment
- Meal mentioned above ( 14 meals and 8 breakfasts)
- Horse team for luggage (15kg per person only)
- 1 bottle of mineral water per person per day;
- Bonfire dinner & afternoon tea mentioned in the itinerary;
- Lanzhou airport pick up and drop off
- Service fee
Price Excludes:
- Flight tickets to /off Lanzhou;
- Any optional activities inside the attractions;
- Meals not mentioned above in the itinerary
- Single room supplement
- Extra horse fee(if your luggage is more than 15kg)
- Any item not mentioned in the itinerary;
- Single Room Supplement;
- All kinds of gratuities for guides, drivers & others.
Map coming soon...
