Zhuo'er Mountain, Qilian

Background

Zhuo'er Mountain rises on the north bank of the Babao River in Babao Town, Qilian County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. A spur of the Qilian range, its highest peak reaches 4,328 metres. It is a danxia landform made mainly of red sandstone and conglomerate; the summit is green and dotted with tall pines and cypresses, blending pasture, forest and grassland. From the top you face Amnye Dongsuo, with the Ladong Gorge and Yanggou scenic areas on either side, the rolling Qilian Mountains behind, and the Babao River below circling the county town like a white khata. On the mountain stand the remains of a Western Xia beacon tower, whose many lookout openings frame the Qilian landscape like natural picture frames. The forests, rapeseed fields, villages and county town on both sides are all in view, and the mountain is a favourite sketching ground for writers, photographers and painters. Zhuo'er Mountain is a national 4A scenic area.

Local customs

• Ride the scenic-area shuttle up the mountain and walk the boardwalk to the viewing platforms overlooking Babao Town, the Babao River and the Qilian snow peaks
• from June to August, see golden rapeseed fields set against green grassland below
• climb the beacon tower for views of the Qilian peaks
• go up early for the sunrise and return to town for lunch.

Travel tips

• The scenic area is at high altitude and climbing on foot is hard work, so most visitors take the shuttle up
• allow about half a day, going up early for the sunrise and returning to town by noon. Mornings and evenings on the mountain are much colder than midday, so bring warm clothes and long sleeves if you plan to watch the sunrise or the stars
• walk slowly and guard against altitude sickness, and protect yourself from the strong sun. Tickets, shuttle fares and opening hours are as officially announced, and hours change with the season. From Xining you can drive via National Highway 227 and Ebao Town into Qilian County, or take a coach from the Xining Passenger Transport Centre to Qilian County and change to local transport. Check times at the station.
• Late June to August, when the grassland is green and the rapeseed in bloom, is the best season
• late September to early October brings vivid autumn colour
• winter is very cold and some facilities may close, so check opening status before you go.