Xiahe (Gannan Xiahe) Airport

Welcome to the "Roof of the World"! Gannan Xiahe Airport is not just a standard transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the mystical world of Tibetan culture and endless green meadows. Located at an altitude of over 3,000 metres above sea level, this air terminal immerses travellers in the majestic atmosphere of Gansu Province's nature from the very first minute. Even during the approach, passengers become spectators of a breathtaking show: picturesque mountain ranges and the famous Sangke grasslands float past the windows, promising an unforgettable start to your adventure.

Airport Features and Advantages

High-Altitude Experience. Gannan Xiahe is among the highest civil airports in the world (about 3,200 metres). The air here is thin and crystal clear. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for the comfortable adaptation of passengers, including access to oxygen for those sensitive to altitude changes.

Unique Architecture. The terminal building is harmoniously integrated into the surrounding landscape and reflects local cultural traditions. The design includes elements of Tibetan architecture: characteristic roof shapes, traditional ornaments, and colour schemes, creating the feeling of entering an ethnographic museum immediately upon arrival.

Speed and Comfort. Thanks to its compact size and the absence of the huge passenger traffic typical of megacities, all procedures here are incredibly fast. The journey from the aircraft stairs to the terminal exit takes minimal time, allowing tourists to head to the region's main gem — Labrang Monastery — without unnecessary bustle.

Strategic Location. The airport serves as an ideal starting point for exploring "Little Tibet". It is equidistant from key tourist locations: the ancient monastery complex in Xiahe and the prefecture's administrative centre, Hezuo City, making travel logistics around the region simple and straightforward.

Below is the main contact information for Xiahe Airport. Please note that for small regional airports, some data, such as an official website or direct email addresses, may not be publicly available.

• Official Website: Currently, Xiahe Airport (GXH) does not have a separate official website. For information on flight schedules, departure or arrival status, it is recommended to consult the websites of airlines operating flights to Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, or major travel aggregators.
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries, you can try contacting the general enquiries number: +86 941 822 6666. Please take into account a possible language barrier.
• Airport Address: Gansu Province, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Xiahe County, Amuquhu Town, China.
• Email: An official public email address for contacting the airport is not provided.
• Social Media: Specialised social media accounts for the airport have not been found.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should appeal directly to the representative of the airline you flew with. It is the carrier that bears responsibility for processing such requests.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to tickets, booking, special services on board, or carriage rules, please contact your airline's customer support. General questions about airport operations can be asked via the phone number listed above.

Xiahe Airport (GXH), serving the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in China, is located in a picturesque but rather remote mountainous area. Therefore, for a comfortable journey, it is important to plan in advance how you will get to your hotel or next destination. The trip from the airport to Xiahe Town, where the famous Labrang Monastery is located, usually takes about 1.5–2 hours.

Public Transport is mainly represented by special shuttle buses. This is the most economical option. Shuttles usually connect the airport with Xiahe Town and the prefecture's administrative centre — Hezuo City. It is important to note that their schedule is usually strictly tied to flight arrival and departure times. If your flight is delayed or you are flying at an unscheduled time, the bus may not be available. There is no direct railway or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the most convenient and predictable way to travel. Cars can be found at the designated stand outside the terminal exit. It is recommended to either agree on the price with the driver before the trip begins or ensure they use the taximeter. To avoid language barriers and price uncertainty, you can book a transfer in advance through your hotel or a specialised online service. In this case, the driver will meet you with a name sign in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement but is not suitable for everyone. This option should only be considered by experienced drivers ready for the peculiarities of mountain roads. Note that a special permit may be required in addition to an international driving licence. A simpler and safer alternative for many tourists is renting a car with a local driver for the entire duration of their stay in the region.

For those arriving at the airport by private transport, parking is available. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. However, given the airport's remoteness, most travellers find using shuttles or taxis more convenient.

Traveller's Tip: Due to the low traffic at Xiahe Airport, many tourists prefer to fly to larger transport hubs, such as Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport or Xining Airport. From there, you can reach Gannan on a comfortable intercity bus or a hired car, turning the transfer into an exciting journey across the plateau.

Xiahe Airport (Gannan Xiahe) (GXH) is a small regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. It is designed for the convenience of passengers travelling to this unique corner of China, so navigating it will not cause difficulties even for inexperienced tourists.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to the compact size of the building, all key zones are within walking distance of each other. You won't have to worry about long walks or searching for the right wing: everything here is intuitively understandable and logically organised.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, immediately followed by a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrivals area with the baggage claim belt is located in the same part of the building but has a separate exit.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Xiahe Airport usually takes no more than 30-40 minutes, as passenger traffic here is low. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5–2 hours before departure, to check in and pass security without haste. Orienting yourself in the terminal is easy: follow the signs that will guide you from the entrance to the gate itself.

Xiahe Airport (GXH) is a relatively young but strategically important transport hub that opened the beauties of the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture to the world. Its history began not long ago: the official opening took place on 19 August 2013. The construction of the airport was a key step in the development of the region, the main goal of which was to increase tourism appeal and improve transport accessibility to remote areas of Gansu Province.

The project was implemented in a short time: construction began in 2011 and was completed two years later. Xiahe Airport is one of the highest airports in the world — it is located at an altitude of about 3,200 metres above sea level. This required special engineering solutions both for the construction of the 3,200-metre runway and for the erection of the terminal. Since its opening, it has served as a vivid example of modern construction in complex geographical conditions.

The main historical significance of the airport lies in the fact that it radically changed travel logistics to this part of China. Previously, to get to the famous Labrang Monastery in Xiahe County, tourists and pilgrims had to make multi-hour bus journeys from Lanzhou. With the advent of the air harbour, travel time was reduced significantly, which gave a powerful impetus to the development of local tourism and allowed more people to get acquainted with the unique culture and nature of the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.

Since its opening, the airport has not undergone significant renovations, as it was originally built to modern standards. Its work is focused on serving domestic flights connecting the region with major cities in the country. An interesting fact: the airport's name — Gannan Xiahe — reflects its dual purpose: to serve the entire autonomous prefecture (Gannan) and provide convenient access to its main gem — Xiahe County, a centre of Tibetan Buddhism.

Xiahe Airport (GXH) is a small regional air hub that provides passengers with all basic amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-organised and offers a set of necessary services.

For passengers, there are small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite or drink hot beverages before departure. Shops are also located here, where you can buy souvenirs, travel goods, and local products. The selection of establishments and goods is limited but sufficient to satisfy basic needs.

The airport has a comfort lounge (VIP lounge) where passengers can relax in a quieter atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas.

Banking services are represented by ATMs. There may not be a currency exchange point at the airport, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance in major cities. A medical point operates to provide urgent assistance. Families with small children can use the mother and child room.

For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created: there are ramps and specially equipped toilets. Airport staff are ready to provide necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, the nearest hotels are located in Xiahe Town, which can be reached by taxi or bus. Specialised business centres or conference halls are absent at the airport.

Xiahe Airport (GXH) is a compact high-altitude airport serving the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is important to understand that its infrastructure is quite modest, and the choice of dining establishments here is limited, unlike major airports in China. Do not expect food courts with global chains or a variety of restaurants here.

As a rule, all dining options are concentrated in one or two small cafes or snack bars in the general hall of the single terminal. This is the main option for those looking for a full lunch. The menu usually features simple and filling Chinese dishes: a portion of fried rice, noodle soup, or dumplings. Sometimes you can find local specialities, for example, Tibetan milk tea. It is worth noting that prices for food and drinks are typically noticeably higher than in city establishments, which is typical for most airports.

For a quick snack, you can purchase packaged snacks, biscuits, crisps, and drinks in the same cafes or small vending machines, if installed. This is the most convenient choice if you have little time before boarding. All establishments are within one small building, so you will find them easily.

For passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal dishes), finding suitable food will be practically impossible within the terminal. It is strongly recommended to bring food with you or eat in town beforehand. The opening hours of food outlets depend directly on the flight schedule — they open a few hours before departure and close shortly after the plane takes off.

To ensure your journey through Xiahe Airport is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, make use of these useful tips. Whether you are arriving in the picturesque Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture or setting off on a new adventure, good preparation is the key to success.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within China, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Although Xiahe is a relatively small airport, extra time is never wasted. To avoid queues, use online check-in on your airline's website. If you are travelling with hand luggage only, this will allow you to head straight to the security screening area.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Screening procedures at Chinese airports are known for their thoroughness. Remove laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets from your bags in advance. Pay special attention to external batteries (power banks): they are permitted only in hand luggage, their capacity must be clearly marked on the casing, and must not exceed established limits (usually 100 Wh). Carrying lighters and matches is generally completely prohibited.

Customs Control: It is important to know that Xiahe Airport serves mainly domestic flights. This means that for passengers travelling between Xiahe and other cities in China, there is no customs control. If you are arriving in China from another country, you will go through all customs procedures, including declaring goods, at your first airport of arrival in the country (for example, in Beijing or Shanghai).

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: Given the airport's location, the flight can offer you unforgettable impressions. If you want to enjoy stunning views of mountain ranges and endless plateaus, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Tips for Connecting Passengers: If your itinerary involves a transfer, verify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Calculate time with a margin, especially if you need to change terminals or pass additional controls for the next flight.

How to Save Time and Money: Bring an empty water bottle with you — after security, you can fill it for free at drinking fountains. Booking an airport transfer online often costs less than a taxi taken on the spot. Also, try to avoid exchanging currency at the airport, as the rate there is usually less favourable than in city banks.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible compensation options (meal vouchers, hotel accommodation). Keep all receipts for necessary expenses — they will be useful for claiming reimbursement through travel insurance.