Xiahe

Xiahe is a county-level division in the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Gansu Province, China. It is located in the southwestern part of Gansu, bordering Qinghai Province to the west. The region is characterized by its high-altitude plateau landscape, with an average elevation of over 3,000 meters. Xiahe is renowned for its significant Tibetan Buddhist heritage, most notably housing the Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery is a major pilgrimage site and a center for religious learning.

The local economy is largely driven by animal husbandry, particularly yak and sheep farming, and increasingly by tourism, drawn to the natural scenery and the cultural significance of Labrang Monastery. The area is home to a substantial Tibetan population, and Tibetan culture and language are prevalent. The natural environment includes grasslands, mountains, and rivers, contributing to its appeal for eco-tourism. Xiahe experiences a plateau continental climate with cold, dry winters and mild, wet summers. The accessibility of Xiahe has improved in recent years, making it a more popular destination for those interested in Tibetan culture and the unique landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.