Lotus Peaks in the Clouds: The Mystical Splendor of Mount Lianhua

The Blooming Lotus of the Northwest

1.Located in the southern part of Kangle: County, within the Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu Province, Mount Lianhua is a breathtaking geological and cultural landmark. The mountain is named for its unique physical form; when viewed from a distance, its cluster of peaks resembles a massive, blooming lotus flower set amidst the rugged landscape. With its primary peak reaching an altitude of 3,578 meters, the mountain serves as a dramatic intersection between the natural beauty of the limestone peaks and the dense secondary forests that cover its slopes.

The "West Kongtong" Pilgrimage Site

Mount Lianhua is historically revered as the "West Kongtong," marking it as a significant holy land for both Buddhism and Taoism in the Gannan and Linxia regions. Over the centuries, a complex of temples and monasteries has been constructed directly into the steep cliffs, reflecting an ancient tradition of cliff-side architecture that integrates human devotion with the natural rock formations. These sites have long been a destination for scholars and monks, serving as a center for religious study and spiritual retreat in the Northwest highlands.

A Stage for Intangible Cultural Heritage

The mountain is perhaps most famous for the Lianhua Mountain Flower Festival (Hua'er会), which has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Every year during the early summer, tens of thousands of people from the Hui, Han, Tibetan, Dongxiang, and Salar ethnic groups gather on the mountain slopes to participate in traditional "Hua'er" singing. This vibrant festival transforms the quiet valleys into a massive stage for mountain songs, preserving a unique form of folk music that has been passed down through generations of Qiang and other local ethnic communities.

Geological Gorges and Natural Sanctity

The scenic area is characterized by dramatic "Danxia-like" limestone features and deep, parallel trenches. Notable landmarks include the "Ladder to Heaven" (天梯), a steep ascent that offers panoramic views of the surrounding Gannan grasslands, and the "Yizi Gate" (一字门), where massive stone slabs form a natural gateway into the heart of the mountain. The environment is a haven for biodiversity, featuring rare flora and a temperate highland climate that makes it a premier destination for photography and adventure trekking.