Beyond the Ordinary: Exploring the Hummocky Wonders of Meiren Grassland

A Divine Meadow on the Roof of the World

1.Located in the eastern part of the: Qinghai-Tibet Plateau within Hezuo City, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Meiren Grassland is a breathtaking sanctuary of natural and cultural beauty. Unlike the vast, flat plains often associated with high-altitude pastures, Meiren offers a distinct topography characterized by its "hummocky" landscape—thousands of small, soft mounds that look as if the earth itself has rippled into a velvet carpet. Spanning a significant area at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, this grassland serves as a vital ecological barrier for the Yellow River source region and remains one of the most pristine alpine meadow ecosystems in the world.

The Mystery of the Hummocks

2.The defining feature of: Meiren is its unique geological landform known as hummocks (grass mounds). These formations are created by the natural cycle of frost action and seasonal freezing and thawing in the high-altitude soil. According to local Tibetan legends, these mounds were formed when divine maidens dropped their silk scarves, which then transformed into the rolling ripples of the earth. For photographers, this terrain creates a dramatic play of light and shadow, especially during the "golden hours" of sunrise and sunset when the mounds are outlined in brilliant contrast.

A Gateway of Faith and Nomadic Heritage

Meiren Grassland is not only a natural wonder but also a living museum of Tibetan nomadic culture. One of the site’s most iconic landmarks is the massive Mani Prayer Flag Tunnel, an epic structure decorated with thousands of colorful flags that flutter in the mountain wind. As visitors pass through, they witness the spiritual devotion of the local people. During the summer months, the landscape is dotted with the traditional black yak-hair tents of nomads and herds of grazing cattle and sheep, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle that has remained harmonious with nature for centuries.

Seasonal Splendor and the Shambhala Spirit

3.The aesthetic of: Meiren shifts beautifully with the seasons. From June to August, the grassland is a vibrant emerald sea filled with alpine wildflowers such as Gentiana and various high-altitude blooms. By September and October, the landscape turns into a golden masterpiece under the crisp blue highland sky. As a central site for the "Shambhala" tourism festivals, the grassland often becomes a stage for horse racing and traditional folk performances, making it an essential destination for those seeking the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Gannan region.