Sangke Grassland, located in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, China, is a vast and breathtaking natural wonder. It covers an area of about 70 square kilometers and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and a sea of golden grass. The grassland is home to a large number of Tibetan nomads who have lived there for generations, and their traditional way of life can still be seen today.
- Location: Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, China
- Opening Time: All day
- Ticket Price: Free
- Time Needed: Half a day to a day
- Altitude: over 3,000 meters
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Suited to: Nature lovers, photographers, hikers
What to See and Do in Sangke Grassland
Immerse in Tibetan culture
Guests can fully experience the rich heritage of Tibetan folk culture by donning traditional Tibetan costumes and embarking on horse or yak rides across the vast lands. It is also possible to visit local Tibetan nomads’ homes to experience the traditional way of their life.
Overnight with locals or camp out
Visitors have the option to spend the night with a local family or camp out on the prairie for a chance to gaze at the clear night sky and bask in the warmth of campfires.
Attend Buddhist rituals
Sangke Grassland is renowned for its grand and frequent Buddhist ceremonies, offering visitors the chance to witness and partake in the spiritual traditions of the region.
Indulge in natural beauty
During the summer season, the grassland transforms into a sprawling green carpet that extends far into the horizon, adorned with a myriad of blooming wildflowers, creating a picturesque view. The Daxia River meanders through the prairie, resembling a flowing silk ribbon that undulates over the grassy carpet.
Best Time to Visit Sangke Grassland
The best time to visit Sangke Grassland depends on what you want to experience during your trip.
If you are interested in the local festivals, then it is best to plan your visit during the Horse Racing Festival which typically takes place in August. This festival is a great opportunity to witness traditional Tibetan culture and sports.
However, if you are looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sangke Grassland then the best time to visit is during the months of June to September. During this time, you can witness the lush green expanses of the grassland and the wildflowers in full bloom. The clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures make it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding.
It is important to note that the Sangke Grassland is located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters and temperatures can drop significantly at night, even during summer months. So, make sure you pack warm clothing and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Attractions Nearby Sangke Grassland
- Labrang Monastery: Labrang Monastery, located in Xiahe County, is one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China.
- Huanglong Scenic Area: Huanglong Scenic Area, located about 70 kilometers from Sangke Grassland, is known for its stunning natural beauty, including colorful pools, waterfalls, and forests.
- Zoige Grasslands: Zoige Grasslands, located about 50 kilometers from Sangke Grassland, is home to a large population of Tibetan nomads. Visitors can experience the traditional way of life of the nomads and enjoy the natural beauty of the grasslands.
Getting to Sangke Grassland
To get to Sangke Grassland, you can take a flight to Xiahe Airport which is located about 43 kilometers away from Sangke Grassland. Alternatively, you can take a train to Lanzhou West Railway Station and then take a bus or private car to Sangke Grassland. It is recommended to arrange a private car for the journey as public transportation to Sangke Grassland can be limited and not very frequent. You can check with your hotel or travel agency for assistance in arranging transportation.
To reach Sangke Grassland, it is recommended to visit Labrang Monastery first and then continue to the grassland. There are several transportation options available, such as taking a dedicated van from the monastery’s parking lot for a fee of CNY 3 or renting a bicycle for a leisurely ride. From Xiahe County, the grassland is around 18km away, and the journey is relatively smooth, with well-paved roads and manageable traffic.
