Tuguhun Daying in Huzhu County, Haidong

Tuyuhun Grand Camp: Relive the Glory of a Lost Kingdom on the Tibetan Plateau

Deep in the rolling hills of Huzhu County, the Tuyuhun Grand Camp invites you to step back in time to the era of a oncemighty nomadic empire. For over three centuries, the Tuyuhun people ruled vast swathes of the QinghaiTibet Plateau, leaving behind a legacy of horse culture, silk road trade, and epic legends. Today, this unique cultural destination brings that history to life, offering travelers a chance to sleep in royalstyle yurts, feast on traditional barbecue, and witness thrilling horseback performances against a backdrop of stunning highland scenery.

Echoes of a Forgotten Empire: Who Were the Tuyuhun?

The Tuyuhun were a nomadic people of Xianbei origin who migrated westward and established a powerful kingdom that flourished from the 3rd to the 7th century. At its height, their realm controlled key routes of the ancient Silk Road, bridging Central Asia and the Tibetan Plateau. Though their kingdom eventually faded, their cultural DNA runs deep in this region. The Grand Camp is built as a tribute to their legacy—a sprawling complex of felt tents, watchtowers, and banners that recreate the atmosphere of a royal encampment, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of khans and traders from a bygone age.

Live the Nomad Way: Yurts, Feasts & Horsemanship

At Tuyuhun Grand Camp, you don't just observe history—you live it. Stay overnight in a beautifully decorated yurt (traditional felt tent), complete with warm Tibetanstyle furnishings and modern comforts. Feast on a lavish "king's banquet" featuring tender roasted lamb, yak butter tea, and barley wine, often accompanied by live music and song. During the day, witness the breathtaking skill of local riders as they perform acrobatic stunts on horseback, a tradition inherited from the Tuyuhun warriors who once roamed these very grasslands. You can even try your hand at archery or don traditional robes for a truly immersive portrait.

Festive Nights Under the Stars: Bonfire & Song

As the sun sets behind the distant Qilian Mountains, the camp transforms into a stage of celebration. A massive bonfire is lit, and performers dressed in dazzling ethnic costumes invite you to join in circle dances to the rhythm of drums and flutes. The air fills with laughter, the crackle of the fire, and the soulful melodies of Tibetan and Tu folk songs. It's a magical evening where travelers from around the world gather as one, sharing in the timeless joy of nomadic hospitality.

Visitor Tips for an Unforgettable Stay

Location: Situated in the scenic foothills of Huzhu County, about a 1.5hour drive from Xining. The journey itself offers beautiful views of terraced fields and mountain passes.

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather and the most vibrant grassland scenery, ideal for overnight stays and outdoor activities.

What to Expect: Temperatures drop significantly at night, even in summer, so pack warm layers. The experience is familyfriendly and suitable for all ages. Advance booking is recommended for overnight stays and group feasts.