Nestled in the heart of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu Province, Dangzhou Grassland (当周草原) is a stunning natural destination offering a unique blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. This picturesque landscape is characterized by its gentle terrain, lush greenery, and a harmonious blend of high mountains, dense forests, and expansive grasslands.
Dangzhou Grassland features a diverse topography that transitions smoothly from shaded, forested valleys to sunlit, open meadows. The rolling grasslands are adorned with vibrant wildflowers during the summer months, creating a colorful tapestry against the backdrop of the verdant hills and clear blue skies. The air here is refreshingly clean, with abundant sunshine enhancing the breathtaking natural scenery. Whether you are looking to relax amid the serene beauty of the landscape or engage in outdoor activities, Dangzhou Grassland offers a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
One of the main attractions of Dangzhou Grassland is the Xianglang Festival (香浪节), a traditional Tibetan celebration with a history dating back centuries. Held annually since the summer of 2000, this grand festival has become the centerpiece of the Gannan Shambhala Tourism Arts Festival (甘南香巴拉旅游艺术节). The festival is a vibrant celebration of Tibetan culture and features a wide range of events and activities that draw visitors from all over the world.
During the festival, the grassland transforms into a lively cultural hub. Highlights of the Xianglang Festival include:
- The Grand Horse Parade: A spectacular display of equestrian skills and traditional Tibetan horse culture, featuring a thousand-strong horse-riding procession that captivates audiences with its grandeur.
- The Boasting Dance: A dynamic and energetic performance of the traditional Guozhuang dance (锅庄舞), where dancers in colorful ethnic costumes move in intricate patterns to the beat of lively music. This dance has gained international fame for its festive and joyful expression of Tibetan culture.
- Cultural Exhibitions: Visitors can experience a variety of Tibetan cultural exhibitions, including displays of traditional costumes, ethnic dance performances, and the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Bonfire and Lama Music: The festival features a dazzling bonfire evening, where visitors gather around the flames to enjoy traditional music performed by Lama bands. The atmosphere is vibrant and warm, creating a sense of community and celebration.
- Tibetan Opera and Sports: The festival also includes performances of traditional Tibetan opera, as well as a range of sports and games, such as shooting competitions, tent displays, and folk singing.
The name “Shambhala” (香巴拉) holds deep significance in Tibetan Buddhism and folklore. According to Buddhist texts, Shambhala is a mythical utopia where peace and harmony prevail. Described as a perfect world surrounded by snow-capped mountains and blooming with lotus flowers, it is believed to be a place where people live in spiritual purity and happiness. This idyllic vision serves as the inspiration for the Xianglang Festival, which seeks to embody the serene and harmonious spirit of Shambhala.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 19.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0941-8212002 |
Location and Transportation
Dangzhou Grassland is located in Hezuo City, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, China, near Milariba Buddha Pavilion. It is approximately 2.5 kilometers from the city center and is intersected by National Highway 213 and Provincial Highway 306. Hezuo serves as the capital of Gannan Prefecture, and there are bus connections available from cities such as Lanzhou, Xiahe, and Diebu to Hezuo. To get to Dangzhou Grassland:
From Lanzhou: Buses depart daily from Lanzhou South Bus Station between 7:00 and 16:30, approximately every 20-30 minutes. The journey takes about 4 hours, and the ticket price is around 74 yuan.
From Labrang Temple (Xiahe): There are buses available to Hezuo from Labrang every day at 6:30, 7:20, and 12:00. The travel time is about 3 hours, and the ticket costs approximately 50 yuan.
After arriving in Hezuo, you can take a taxi to Dangzhou Grassland.
