Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, known as "Little Tibet"

Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, abbreviated as "Gannan Prefecture," is located in the southwestern part of Gansu Province, at the transitional zone between the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the western part of the Loess Plateau. It serves as a water conservation and replenishment area for both the Yellow River and the Yangtze River. To the east, it borders Dingxi City and Longnan City; to the south, it connects with the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan; to the west, it adjoins the Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai Province; and to the north, it neighbors the Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture, covering a total area of 45,000 square kilometers. Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is called "Little Tibet" primarily due to its plateau landscapes and Tibetan cultural atmosphere. With an average altitude of about 3,000 meters, it offers the stunning plateau scenery of Tibet without the risk of altitude sickness, and its landscapes are even more beautiful than those of Dunhuang. Gannan boasts diverse natural scenery, including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, canyons, and temples, showcasing a unique blend of natural and cultural beauty. Main Attractions: - **Zagana**: Known as a "fairyland on earth," it is surrounded by mountains, with Tibetan villages faintly visible in the morning mist, making it a paradise for photography and road trip enthusiasts. - **Sangke Grassland**: In summer, the grassland is lush with green grass and wildflowers, offering a great place to experience Tibetan culture and witness the grand Buddha Sunning Ceremony. - **Labrang Monastery**: One of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, it features the world's longest prayer wheel corridor and is a key site to immerse in Tibetan Buddhist culture. - **Langmusi**: Straddling the border between Gansu and Sichuan, it is a cultural crossroads for Tibetans and Hui people, with the Bailong River flowing through the town, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. - **Maqu First Bend of the Yellow River**: Here, the Yellow River makes its first major bend, and the sunset views are particularly breathtaking, making it a paradise for photography lovers.