An Ancient Marvel in Gacha County
Nestled in the tranquil Ga Yu Village in Gacha County, two walnut trees stand as living witnesses to over 1300 years of history. These majestic trees are not just plants but a symbol of endurance and natural beauty. Their trunks are so robust that it takes about seven to eight young men holding hands to encircle them. The walnut trees, adorned with naturally carved patterns that resemble intricate sculptures, are a sight to behold. Their lush branches spread out like a giant umbrella, providing shade and shelter to over 30 people at a time.
The Legendary Walnut Trees: A Source of Prosperity and Luck
These millennium-old trees are not only remarkable for their age and size but also for their bounty. They produce around 500 kilograms of walnuts annually. Historically, these trees were said to be the exclusive source of walnuts offered to the local regent. There is a popular belief among the locals that touching these ancient trees brings good fortune and success, earning them the nickname “Lucky Millennium Trees.”
Visitor Tips for Exploring Ga Yu’s Walnut Wonders
1. Explore the Walnut Groves of La Gang Village
Adjacent to Ga Yu, La Gang Village cultivates over 100,000 walnut trees across 4000 acres, with 700 acres bearing fruit. This village, located near the Zangmu Hydropower Station, offers a rich blend of natural and cultural landscapes. Here, visitors can enjoy a unique rural tourism experience that includes “Millennium Walnut Forest Sightseeing,” “Farmhouse Fun,” and “Walnut Product Processing.” This creates a picturesque tourist loop starting from Gacha County to Zangmu Hydropower Station, then to the Millennium Walnut Forest, and back to Gacha.
2. Celebrating the Dabu Walnut Festival
Initiated in 2012, the Dabu Walnut Festival is held annually in mid-September. Gacha County, renowned as the “Hometown of Walnuts,” has a rich history of walnut production dating back several thousand years. The walnuts from Gacha have been recognized for their excellence, winning the Silver Award at the first National Walnut Congress in 2008 and the Outstanding Product Award at the second China International Forestry Product Expo and fourth China Yiwu Forest Product Expo in 2011.
In summary, the Millennium Walnut Trees of Ga Yu Village and the surrounding areas in Gacha County offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene landscapes, learn about the ancient walnut trees, and partake in local festivities and traditions that celebrate this remarkable natural heritage.
