Majestic Wilderness: Exploring the Hidden Secrets of Lexiu Grand Canyon in Gannan

The Strategic Plateau Rift

Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Hezuo City in the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, the Lexiu Grand Canyon is a profound geological sanctuary where the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau meets the Yellow River highlands. Formed over millennia by the erosion of the Lexiu River (a primary tributary of the Tao River), this canyon system stretches for dozens of kilometers with sheer cliffs rising over 500 meters high. At an altitude ranging from 2,800 to 3,500 meters, it remains one of Gannan’s most pristine and uncommercialized natural wonders, offering a raw experience of the "highland rift" landscape.

A Tapestry of Stone and Myth

1.The geological allure of: Lexiu lies in its dramatic red and yellow stone layers, which create a vibrant "painted" effect across the canyon walls, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Beyond its physical beauty, the canyon is steeped in Tibetan mythology. Local legends identify the area as an ancient battlefield of the legendary King Gesar, with specific rock formations, such as the "Golden Pillar," believed to be petrified guardians of the valley. The name "Lexiu" itself translates from Tibetan as "unique" or "mysterious," reflecting the spiritual reverence held for this terrain.

Living Tibetan Heritage and Ecosystems

The canyon is home to a rich vertical ecosystem, transitioning from dense spruce and fir forests to alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. Tucked away in the branching ravines are traditional Tibetan villages such as Amukuquhu and Ren'dao, where the local communities maintain a lifestyle harmonious with the seasons. A significant cultural landmark is the Lexiu Temple (also known as the Hezuo Temple), a sanctuary of the Kagyu sect that provides a spiritual anchor to the surrounding wilderness. For travelers traversing Highway 316, the canyon offers a dramatic sequence of panoramic viewing platforms that reveal the true scale of Gannan’s "Shambhala" landscapes.