Tulugou National Forest Park (吐鲁沟国家森林公园, Tulu Valley National Forest Park) is located on the eastern slopes of the Qilian Mountains in Gansu Province, China. Spanning an impressive 5,848.4 hectares, the park boasts a forest coverage rate of 79.2%, with elevations ranging from 1,998 to 3,165 meters above sea level. The name “Tulu” is derived from ancient Mongolian, meaning “beautiful orchard.” The park is also known as “Tulu Green Valley” due to its lush, evergreen forests and stunning, unspoiled natural scenery. Influenced by the mountain climate, the area receives abundant rainfall, making it a pristine natural landscape.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Tulugou National Forest Park
- Vlog about Tulugou National Forest Park
- Other Attractions in Lanzhou Suburbs
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | 50 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.30 – 17.30 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0931-6423851 0086-0931-6530015 |
Location and Transportation
Tulugou National Forest Park is located in the heart of the Liancheng Forest Area in Yongdeng County, Lanzhou City, Gansu Province. The park is approximately 160 kilometers from both Lanzhou, Gansu Province, and Xining, Qinghai Province.
To reach the park, visitors can take a bus from the Lanzhou West Bus Station. There is a daily bus departing at 13:30 to Tanshanling Town in Tianzhu County. The fare is 36 yuan for the entire journey. The bus ride takes about three hours. Visitors should get off at the entrance of Tulugou. From there, it’s a short trip into the park.
Highlights of Tulugou National Forest Park
Scenic Landscapes and Diverse Vegetation
Tulugou National Forest Park is renowned for its unique topography and breathtaking landscapes. The park’s terrain varies dramatically, from the lush, expansive pastures at the top to dense forests along the slopes and fertile farmland at the base. The undulating terrain and rugged mountain peaks create a picturesque natural setting, often referred to as a “mythical green valley.”
The park is home to over 1,600 plant species, including 122 families of seed plants and 1,614 species in total. Among these are 103 species of trees, 261 species of shrubs, and 1,250 species of herbs. The park is rich in wild edibles such as willows, deer antler mushrooms, regular mushrooms, and bracken, which are known as the “four mountain delicacies.” Additionally, the park houses rare and endangered plants like starleaf grass, peach root seven, feathery lilac, astragalus, and cistanche.
Key Attractions and Activities
The park is divided into four main areas: Sancha Village, Great Tulugou, Little Tulugou, and the Grassland Tour Area.
- Sancha Village: Visitors start their journey here, taking a shuttle bus (30 yuan fee) to explore the park. Sancha Village serves as a hub with two primary paths.
- Great Tulugou: This area features a dramatic canyon with striking rock formations and cliffs. Continuing along this path leads visitors to the Grassland Tour Area, where expansive grasslands offer breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility.
- Little Tulugou: Known for its dense forests and serene environment, Little Tulugou is perfect for leisurely walks and nature observation.
Exploring the entire park typically takes half a day. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photography. The park’s well-maintained trails and scenic spots provide ample opportunities to appreciate the diverse flora and striking geological features.
