Kanbula Travel Guide

Plan a perfect trip to Kanbula with this comprehensive travel guide. Know where to stay, eat, visit, and what to do in Kanbula with our week-long itinerary.


Introduction to Kanbula

Kanbula is a surreal destination located in Dongxiang Autonomous County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in Northwestern Qinghai in China. It is famous for the giant stone forest, temples, caves, and trekking routes that offer travelers an unforgettable experience. It is surrounded by towering mountains in a serene and mystical atmosphere that promises an escape from the humdrum life of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Kanbula

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kanbula Forest Park

The Kanbula Forest Park is a natural wonderland with towering stone forest formations that linger for over 20 miles. This geological formation is a result of the local water streams and intense wind erosion. Visitors can experience nature in its raw form and explore the various mini-parks that the forest holds with temples and historical landmarks such as the Eight-Pagoda Ridge and the Heavenly Steed Palace.

Kanbula National Geological Park

The Kanbula National Geological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts of its unique geological appearance. It is a combination of majestic mountains, deep canyons, waterfalls, and streams. Visitors can savor the beauty of this landform by taking in the panoramic view of the terrain or exploring the temple ruins and historical towns located amidst the national park.

Natural Attractions of Kanbula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Red Rocks Ravine

The Red Rocks Ravine offers a melodious symphony of rustic charm and natural heritage. With its red and orange hues, winding paths, crystal clear streams, and sandy beaches, it offers a sublime experience for visitors. One can enjoy the natural surroundings by taking a hike along the canyons or camping amidst the backdrop of the red rocks.

Kanbula Wet Grassland

The Kanbula Wet Grassland offers a serene experience for nature lovers who crave the peacefulness of the great outdoors. One can explore the grasslands and trails, take in the panoramic views, and encounter the wildflowers, birds, and wildlife that thrive in the environment.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kanbula

Kanbula offers several hiking and biking routes to explore the region’s beauty. Some of the popular trails are:

  • Kanbula Stone Forest Trek
  • Kanbula Red Rocks Trek
  • Huangyuan-Mo De Trek

These are well-marked routes with various endpoints, and travelers can choose the routes according to their level of fitness and interest.

Best Things to Do in Kanbula: Activities and Tours

Some of the best things to do in Kanbula are:

  • Take a guided tour of the Stone forest and national park
  • Go cycling or hiking in the surrounding mountain ranges
  • Visit the temples and historical monuments.
  • Paragliding over the canyon lands
  • Camping amidst scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kanbula

Here is an itinerary for a week-long trip to Kanbula:

Day Activity
1 Arrive at Kanbula and Check-in at a guesthouse. Explore the town and take a walking tour.
2 Visit the Kanbula Stone Forest and tour the parks in the region.
3 Take a day tour of the Kanbula National Geological Park.
4 Visit the Red Rocks Ravine and explore the grasslands.
5 Take a hiking or biking tour in the surrounding mountain ranges.
6 Visit the temples and historical monuments.
7 Departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Kanbula

Must-Try Dishes

Kanbula is famous for its traditional Tibetan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

  • Yak meat dishes, such as Yak burgers, Yak steaks, and hotpot.
  • Tsampa, a roasted barley flour dish, popular among the locals.
  • Tibetan butter tea, which is salty and buttery.

Local Beverages

Some of the local traditional beverages are Chang, a fermented barley beer; Xima, a barley wine, and the sweet sugary drops Guanghui.

Where to Stay in Kanbula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kanbula has plenty of accommodation options, including guesthouses, hostels, and hotels. These accommodations are reasonably priced and comfortable. Some of the popular ones are:

  • Lanzhi Guest House
  • Kanbula Stone Forest Hotel
  • Shengjia Courtyard Boutique Hotel
  • Summer View Inn

What to Buy in Kanbula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kanbula is known for its local handicrafts and souvenirs made by the local artisans. Some of the popular souvenirs that visitors can take back home are:

  • Tibetan handicrafts, including wooden bowls, Tibetan jewelry, and Thangka paintings.
  • Wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and locally made products such as woolen scarves and blankets.
  • Local Tibetan tea and herbs.

Local Culture and Customs of Kanbula

Kanbula is mainly influenced by the ethnic groups who inhabit the area, including Tibetans, Mongols, and Chinese. Visitors can experience the unique customs and traditions of the region by interacting with the locals and attending festivals such as the local horse-racing festivals.

Best Time to Visit Kanbula

The best time to visit Kanbula is from May to October, as it offers moderate temperatures and little rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kanbula

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Carry appropriate clothing for the weather.
  • Use cash as most places do not accept credit or debit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter the public places.
  • Take pictures of the locals without their consent.
  • Overdose on the local beverages.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kanbula

Kanbula is a relatively safe place to travel. However, it is crucial to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions while exploring the area. It is advisable to avoid wandering in the surrounding mountains unless accompanied by a local guide.

Health in Kanbula

It is imperative to take necessary precautions while traveling in Kanbula. It is advisable to drink boiled water, carry sunscreen, mosquito repellents, and wear appropriate clothing. Visitors traveling to Kanbula should take all the necessary vaccinations and should carry a first-aid kit.

Getting to Kanbula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kanbula

The nearest available airport is the Xining Caojiabao International Airport located about 273km from Kanbula. From there, one can opt for a private taxi or bus service to reach Kanbula.

Bus Stations Near Kanbula

Visitors can reach Kanbula by taking a direct bus from the Xining Bus station, which operates from 7:00 am to 4:30 p.m. Private taxis and chauffeur-driven cars can be hired at a reasonable price from the bus station.

Other Options

Visitors can take a train from Xining Railway Station, which can reach Lanzhou in two hours.

How to Get Around in Kanbula

Visitors can explore Kanbula by renting a bicycle or motorbikes. One can also opt for private taxis or chauffeur-driven vehicles to explore the surroundings. Most attractions in Kanbula are located within a walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the town on foot.

Where to Go Next from Kanbula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can extend their trip and explore other nearby destinations, such as:

  • Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture
  • Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
  • Yading Nature Reserve

Conclusion

Kanbula is a unique vacation spot that offers something different and delightful for every traveler. Plan your trip to Kanbula and take in the magnificent beauty of the region. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the scenic beauty and learn about the distinct culture and customs of this enchanting land.