Few travelers know that there is a hidden gem in Gansu province that rivals Tibet's splendor: snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, fertile grasslands, sacred temples, and godly monks in red robes. That is Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, a mere 4.5-hour drive from Gansu's capital city of Lanzhou.

Upon reaching Lanzhou, you'll be warmly greeted and escorted to your hotel. Take the leisure time to unwind or head out to explore the city at your own pace. It is worth visiting White Pagoda Mountain Park for fantastic views over Lanzhou city.

This morning, drive about 2.5 hours to Liujiaxia Reservoir, the first large-scale reservoir on the upper Yellow River, followed by a one-hour boat ride to Bingling Temple. Carved into rugged cliffs, a series of Buddhist grottoes are abundant with elegant stone carvings, clay sculptures, and murals stretching back over 1,600 years.

After your visit, hit the road again for a 3.5-hour drive to your next destination, Xiahe. Arriving in the early evening, settle into a local hotel for a well-earned rest.

Experience the essence of Xiahe in one unforgettable day. Start by visiting Labrang Monastery, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist site steeped in tradition. Adorned with vibrant prayer flags, this magnificent complex houses massive Buddha statues, sutras, murals, and musical instruments.

Then, venture to the expansive Sangke Grassland surrounded by mountains. You can also visit a Tibetan nomad family, taste their favorite buttered tea, and glimpse into the exotic Tibetan customs. Conclude with a leisurely walk through the charming ancient town of Bajiao (literally meaning "eight corners"), an old stronghold lying on the Silk Road. Narrow cobblestone streets are lined with traditional Tibetan homes.

Moving south further, after around 3.5 hours, you'll arrive at Langmushi Town inhabited primarily by Tibetans on the border of Sichuan and Gansu provinces.

The southern (Sichuan) portion of the town is dominated by the Kirti Monastery. A sacred journey awaits amidst breathtaking mountain vistas: admire intricate murals, prayer halls, and towering stupas, witness chanting monks engaged in prayer, and immerse in the peaceful ambiance.

Continue with a gentle, scenic hike to the Namo Grand Canyon, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. You may see the local horse racing and even ride a horse (optional) to experience the local nomadic life. Finally, spend the night in a local hotel.

Tibetans in Langmusi wake up earlier than the sun every day to worship the Buddha before starting a day's work. After listening to the Dharma, they will rotate prayer wheels in their hands on the way home. Before having breakfast, if you like, head out to glance into the locals' spiritual life.

On the northern (Gansu) side of Langmusi town, Sertri Monastery stretches along the hillside with golden domes shining brightly in the sun. Climbing up to the top of the slope, more open vistas of mountains, winding rivers, temples, and folk houses will all come into your sight. Despite its smaller size than Kirti, some 350 monks call Sertri home. There is a functioning sky burial ground behind the monastery to practice the traditional Tibetan death rituals.

This afternoon, depart on a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Langmusi to Diebu. The rest of today is at your leisure to settle into your hotel and relax in your surroundings.

Zhagana, meaning "Rock Box" in the Tibetan language, is a mountain village surrounded by large rocky spires on all sides in the northwest part of Diebu County. This morning, take a light hike up the mountain and traverse winding trails to see the locals farming in the fields, encounter traditional Tibetan homes, and capture stunning vistas.

After that, proceed with a 5-hour drive to Hezuo, the capital of Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, with an overnight stay at a local hotel.

Today's highlight is the remarkably 9-story towering Milarepa Buddha Pavilion, the only temple dedicated to the masters of varying sects of Tibetan Buddhism. Symbolizing enlightenment, each floor houses various Buddha statues and beautiful murals, unveiling sacred teachings and exquisite Tibetan artistry. Tibetan pilgrims flock here to turn prayer wheels and prostrate themselves to worship.

This afternoon, drive (about 3 hours) back to Lanzhou and enjoy the remainder of today at leisure.

Your adventure in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture comes to an end today. Savor a leisurely morning until your private car arrives to take you to the airport for your departure flight.

From Lanzhou, you can easily travel onward to other parts of Gansu province, such as Dunhuang or the neighboring Sichuan province, home to the lovely Giant Pandas.