The Oriental Switzerland on the Plateau: Zhuoer Mountain and the Danxia Palette

The Oriental Switzerland

1.Located in Qilian: County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, Zhuoer Mountain (Zhuoer Shan) offers a landscape so picturesque that it has earned the moniker "Oriental Switzerland." Situated just north of the county seat, this mountain serves not merely as a scenic spot but as a comprehensive 360-degree viewing platform that encapsulates the diverse beauty of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Although it is not a World Heritage site, its unique combination of red Danxia landforms, lush green alpine meadows, dense forests, and snowy peaks makes it a "must-visit" destination for travelers exploring the Hexi Corridor and Qinghai. The core scenic area covers about 20 square kilometers and sits at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters, offering a visual feast that is both accessible and breathtaking.

A 360-Degree Visual Feast

2.The primary allure of Zhuoer: Mountain lies in its panoramic visibility. Standing on the summit's observation deck, visitors are treated to a stunning array of contrasting landscapes. To the south, the majestic Niu Xin Mountain (Ami Dongsuo), a holy mountain revered by the local people, rises with its snow-capped peak piercing the sky. To the north, the entire panorama of Qilian County Town (Babao Town) is laid out like a map. Looking east and west, one can see the rolling, endless Qilian Grasslands and the winding Babao River, which flows like a white jade belt through the valley. This convergence of snow mountains, red cliffs, forests, rivers, and pastoral villages creates a harmonious "Heaven, Earth, and Man" composition that is rarely seen elsewhere,.

The Legend of Zongmuma

The mountain's beauty is enriched by local Tibetan and Hui folklore. The Tibetan name for the mountain is "Zongmuma," meaning the "Beautiful Red Queen." Legend has it that Zongmuma was a dragon princess who fell in love with a young hero named Ami Dongsuo (the mountain god of Qilian). Defying heavenly laws to be together, they transformed into mountains—he became the towering Niu Xin Mountain, and she became the graceful Zhuoer Mountain—to eternally guard the land and its people. The Babao River flowing between them represents the white hada (ceremonial scarf) symbolizing their pure love. This romantic mythology adds a layer of spiritual depth to the red sandstone cliffs and soft green curves of the mountain.

The Red Danxia Landform

Geologically, Zhuoer Mountain belongs to the Qilian Mountains system and features a distinctive Danxia landform. The mountain body is composed of red sandstone and conglomerate rock, presenting vibrant shades of crimson and red-brown. These rugged, fiery colors contrast sharply with the emerald green pine forests and pastures that cover the slopes. In July and August, the visual palette is further enhanced by fields of golden rapeseed flowers blooming at the foot of the mountain. Under the blue highland sky, the interplay of red rocks, green grass, yellow flowers, and white snow creates a high-saturation oil painting that captivates photographers and nature lovers alike,.

A Beacon of History

Beyond its natural splendor, Zhuoer Mountain holds historical significance. At the commanding height of the scenic area stands the Xifeng Beacon Tower (Xifeng Duntai) ruins. Historically, Qilian was a strategic passage connecting the Central Plains with the Western Regions. This beacon tower served as a crucial military observation point in ancient times. Standing by the ruins today, looking out over the peaceful town and the vast mountains, visitors can imagine the smoke signals of the past and reflect on the region's history of border defense and cultural exchange.