Zhangye National Wetland Park (张掖国家湿地公园), covering a total area of 1347.65 hectares, is situated near the city of Zhangye in Gansu Province, China. It stands out as one of the largest urban wetland parks in Northwest China, boasting an impressive wetland coverage of 78.06%. This park is categorized into conservation zones (601.74 hectares), restoration and reconstruction zones (379.84 hectares), and areas for reasonable utilization (366.07 hectares), highlighting its multifaceted approach to environmental preservation and sustainable use.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhangye National Wetland Park
- Vlog about Zhangye National Wetland Park
- Other Attractions in Zhangye Urban Area
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0936-8865994 |
Location and Transportation
Zhangye National Wetland Park is situated in the northern outskirts of Zhangye City, Gansu Province, China. It is located on the eastern side of the Heihe River, positioned geographically between approximately 100°23′45″ to 100°29′10″ east longitude and 38°56′56″ to 39°0′6″ north latitude.
To get there, you can take bus 4 or 21 and get off at Wetland Park West Entrance (湿地西口站), where you will see the tourist center immediately.
Highlights of Zhangye National Wetland Park
Ecological Diversity and Conservation
The park primarily focuses on the conservation of grasslands in the subaqueous zone of the Heihe River Basin, inland salt marsh wetlands, and a diverse array of wetland ecosystems. Zhangye National Wetland Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting a variety of wetland plants and animals. The park supports 195 species of plants from 45 families and 124 genera, including 22 dominant species from 9 families and 9 genera. These plants not only enhance the natural beauty of the environment but also provide abundant food sources and habitats for numerous animal species.
In terms of fauna, the park is home to a diverse range of animals belonging to 3 classes, 24 orders, 42 families, and 75 genera. These include fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals, totaling over 100 species. Among them, five species are under China’s first-level protection, 23 species under second-level protection, and seven species are key protected wildlife in Gansu Province. During spring and summer, the park becomes a breeding ground for tens of thousands of birds, painting a vivid ecological picture.
Scenic Highlights
Zhangye National Wetland Park is characterized by its distinctive landscapes, dominated by extensive reed marshes intersected by clear streams and several serene lakes. In spring, the park blooms with wildflowers, and the fragrance of tamarisk flowers fills the air. Summer sees lotus flowers gracefully adorning the lakes, providing a refreshing sight for visitors. Autumn transforms the reeds into a sea of golden waves, creating a mesmerizing golden ocean. Winter blankets the park in picturesque snowscapes, adding a serene and peaceful ambiance.
To enhance visitor experiences and facilitate ecological appreciation, the park features wooden walkways, bird-watching platforms, and resting areas strategically placed throughout. These facilities allow visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of the wetlands from different perspectives, ensuring a harmonious blend of conservation and tourism.
