Beyond the Rainbow: The Emerald Heart of the Qilian Mountains at Kangle Grassland

A Sanctuary of Health and Happiness

Nestled in the southern reaches of Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Zhangye, the Kangle Grassland derives its name from the local desire for a life of "health and happiness". Spanning over 268 square kilometers, this alpine paradise sits at an altitude between 2,500 and 3,500 meters, serving as a vital ecological corridor within the Qilian Mountain National Park. Unlike the flat plains often associated with northern grasslands, Kangle is a rhythmic landscape of rolling hills, deep canyons, and dense forests that "breathe" with the pulse of the ancient Silk Road.

The Convergence of Red Earth and Green Seas

1.One of the most striking features of: Kangle is the dramatic visual contrast between its lush meadows and the surrounding Danxia landforms. Visitors can witness the "Red Stones" and vibrant terracotta cliffs of the Qilian Mountains rising directly from a sea of emerald grass. This geological rarity creates a three-dimensional landscape where the white of distant snow peaks, the dark green of virgin spruce forests, and the fiery red of the exposed earth meet under a brilliant plateau sky.

The Living Heritage of the Yugur People

Kangle Grassland is not merely a natural wonder; it is a "living museum" of the Yugur and Tibetan nomadic cultures. Historically a key junction between the Central Plains and the Western Regions, it remains a place where traditional nomadic lifestyles persist. Travelers can visit Yumu Village (榆木庄) to experience authentic folk customs, traditional architecture, and the hospitality of the Yugur people, who have maintained their harmony with this high-altitude environment for centuries.

A Symphony of the Four Seasons

2.The landscape of: Kangle undergoes a breathtaking transformation throughout the year. From June to August, the grassland is carpeted in a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, with temperatures remaining a cool and refreshing 15-25°C. As autumn arrives in September and October, the meadows turn a deep golden yellow, creating a sharp contrast with the permanent ice of the Qilian peaks—a period often referred to as the "Golden Hour" of the Hexi Corridor.