Direct private transfer from Lanzhou Airport to Xiahe. Settle in and adapt gently to plateau altitude with relaxed grassland sightseeing, no intense touring. After landing at Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport, meet your private guide and driver for exclusive transfer to Xiahe (3.5–4 hours drive). En route, admire the landscape shifting from loess plateaus to sprawling alpine grassland. Upon check-in, rest well to minimise altitude reaction. In the late afternoon, stroll the quiet fringe of Sangke Grassland and savour soft sunset light sweeping across rolling meadows and distant mountain ridges.

Dive into Gannan’s core Buddhist culture in the morning, explore primitive grassland Labrang Monastery One of China’s six major Gelugpa Tibetan monasteries and the most prestigious Tibetan Buddhist academic institute. Wander the world’s longest winding prayer-wheel corridor, spinning countless bronze prayer wheels alongside local pilgrims. Admire grand golden-roofed halls, delicate butter sculptures and sacred thangka paintings within a deeply devout atmosphere. Ganjia Grassland & White Cliff Bajiao Ancient City An expansive, lightly developed alpine pasture with abundant wildlife and fewer crowds. Walk freely across lush meadows dotted with yaks and sheep. Visit the ancient Bajiao City ruins beside White Cliff, blending imposing natural scenery with relics of ancient frontier civilisation. - Local Tibetan family home visit with butter tea tasting

Comfortable transfer to Zhagulu, the starting town of Joseph Rock’s Trail. Settle in and fully prepare for tomorrow’s mountain crossing. Depart Xiahe after breakfast for Zhagulu Town. En route, pause briefly at Milarepa Buddha Pavilion, a distinctive multi-tiered Tibetan Buddhist shrine with striking architectural details. Arrive in Zhagulu in the afternoon. Complete vehicle checks and stock supplies for tomorrow’s mountain journey. Wander quiet local lanes to experience the simple lifestyle of mountain Tibetan communities.

The signature highlight day. Cross the full length of Joseph Rock’s Trail, stopping repeatedly for photography, before descending to the stone village of Zhagana for sunset views. Joseph Rock’s Trail (Jiangdie Road G248) This legendary 106km mountain passage honours the 1925 expedition of botanist-explorer Joseph Rock. The route transitions from terraced barley fields and riverside hamlets to high-altitude glacial stone forests at Guanggaishan Pass (4,200m), then descends through pine forests and alpine meadows. We stop at Niba ancient Tibetan village and mountain viewpoints to capture the ever-changing landscape. Vehicle note for this day: 4WD off-road vehicle is guaranteed for this rugged mountain crossing. Zhagana Stone Village Arrive in late afternoon. Wander layered stone houses clinging to the mountain slopes, then walk the gentle Fairy Beach trail for panoramic views of the horseshoe-shaped rock basin, awaiting golden sunset over the cliffs.

A fully restful day in Zhagana, no long transfers. Enjoy slow exploration of the stone valley and surrounding countryside to recover from yesterday’s mountain crossing. Rise early optionally for sunrise and mist over Zhagana’s rock peaks. Roam village lanes, visit local households or take an easy walk along Runwu Gully. The schedule remains flexible, allowing ample downtime to absorb the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Scenic drive across the vast Ruoergai wetland grassland, then arrive at Tangke to watch the stunning sunset at Yellow River First Bend. Ruoergai Grassland One of China’s largest alpine wetlands. Drive across boundless meadows dotted with wildflowers, yaks and sheep, with wide-open sky and endless pastoral scenery. We make short photo stops along the way. Yellow River First Bend The most iconic scenic spot on the upper Yellow River. The river meanders slowly across the grassland, forming countless graceful curves. Climb the viewing platform to wait for the golden sunset, when the whole river valley is dyed warm orange.

Leisurely morning in Tangke, then segmented transfer back toward Lanzhou with a stop in Hezuo. Conclude the tour with drop-off at Lanzhou airport or city hotel. Spend quiet final moments wandering the grassland near Tangke before departure. Drive to Hezuo with rest breaks en route. Pause briefly at Milarepa Buddha Pavilion for short sightseeing, then continue to Lanzhou. Upon arrival, transfer to airport or railway station. What’s Included

✅ 4WD off-road vehicle guaranteed exclusively for Joseph Rock’s Trail crossing on Day 4

✅ Private vehicle (standard SUV or MPV) for all other transfer segments (no mandatory 4WD, for a more comfortable ride)

✅ Experienced English-speaking plateau tour guide for the full itinerary

✅ 6 nights carefully selected accommodation (Xiahe, Zhagulu, Zhagana, Tangke)

✅ Entrance fees for all listed scenic sites

✅ All meals marked in daily itinerary

✅ Complimentary bottled drinking water each touring day

What’s Not Included

❌ Long-distance flight or train tickets to the tour starting city

❌ Personal travel insurance (highland plateau insurance strongly recommended)

❌ Optional upgraded experiences and exclusive services

❌ Personal shopping, souvenirs and private consumption

❌ Tips for guide and driver

❌ Any unlisted personal expenses