Sangke Grassland

桑科草原

A high mountain grassland west of Labrang Monastery, with the Daxia River winding through it. Horse riding, tent stays and Tibetan meals make it Xiahe's most convenient grassland experience.

Sangke Grassland lies in Sangke Town in Xiahe County, about 15 km from Labrang Monastery, at an altitude of about 3,100 metres. It covers about 70 square km. The Daxia River winds across the grassland, surrounded by gently sloping hills. In summer the grassland is green and covered with wildflowers, with yaks and sheep scattered across it, making it the most accessible grassland in Gannan. The grassland has many tent camps and resorts run by Tibetan herders. They offer horse riding (about 100 yuan per hour, negotiable), archery, photos in Tibetan costume, bonfire parties and Tibetan meals of hand-grabbed mutton, yogurt, butter tea and tsampa. You can also stay in a tent or wooden cabin and watch the stars. In mid-to-late July, Sangke Grassland hosts a traditional horse race, and the Xiangliang Festival (grassland outing festival) of Xiahe's Tibetan people takes place during the same period, with lively celebrations. The grassland has no entry gate, but some camps and the wetland park charge admission. The Sangke Wetland Park has wooden boardwalks that take you deep into the riverside wetlands. To get there, hire a car or cycle from Xiahe. In the evening, watch the sunset over the grassland. Or stop here on the way from Xiahe to Hezuo or Luqu. Note: the grassland weather changes quickly, and afternoon thunderstorms and strong winds are common, so bring a warm jacket. Always wear a helmet when riding and follow the herder who leads your horse. The UV is strong. In peak season, weekends are crowded, so book tent camps in advance. Do not drive into the pastures. Coordinates are estimated for the centre of the grassland.

Opening hours

All day

Grassland · Horseback riding · Tent camping · Horse racing festival

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby

Norden Cafe