How to get to Tongliao

Planning a trip to Tongliao reveals a colourful city in Inner Mongolia, China, where steppe traditions harmoniously blend with the rhythm of a major regional hub. Travellers deciding how to reach Tongliao have a wide range of routes to choose from: thanks to developed infrastructure, you can arrive here by plane, train, or intercity bus.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach your destination is by air. The city is served by Tongliao Airport (TGO), which welcomes many passengers annually and connects the region with the country's key transport hubs. The terminal is located quite conveniently relative to the city limits, so the journey to the centre after landing will not take much time.

Alternatively, experienced travellers sometimes choose to fly to neighbouring cities and then continue their journey by land. The nearest option is Siping, located approximately 180 kilometres away; routes via Tieling or Baicheng can also be considered. This choice often allows you to find better ticket fares or combine the trip with sightseeing in other interesting locations within the region.

Tongliao is one of the most important railway junctions in the region, connecting Inner Mongolia with the northeastern provinces and the central part of the country. Thanks to its favourable geographical position and developed infrastructure, travelling by train often becomes the most convenient and reliable option for tourists.

The city is served by both classic passenger trains and modern high-speed trains, which allow for significant time savings. Regular direct services are established with major metropolises such as Beijing, Shenyang, Changchun, and Dalian. By choosing the railway, travellers can enjoy a high level of comfort and the scenic views changing outside the window.

Bus trips to this region allow you not only to save money but also to witness the smooth transition of landscapes: from bustling city blocks to endless plains. One of the fastest options is the route from the city of Siping, where the transport covers the distance of about 130 kilometres in an average of 2–2.5 hours. The journey from the city of Tieling, located approximately 220 kilometres to the south, will take a bit longer, around 3–4 hours.

For travellers heading from the northwest, Baicheng is a convenient departure point: the 260-kilometre journey usually takes about 4 hours. Modern intercity coaches are typically equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, making the trip along quality highways a pleasant and untiring part of the adventure.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy picturesque steppe landscapes on the way to Tongliao. It is most convenient to travel from the city of Siping: a drive of about 140 kilometres will take less than 2 hours. Comparable time, about 3 hours, will be required for the road from the city of Tieling, which is located at a distance of approximately 220 kilometres from the destination.

If you are driving from Baicheng, be prepared to spend about 3.5 hours behind the wheel, covering a distance of 260 kilometres. The roads in this region are generally of good quality, and for those who prefer the passenger seat, booking an intercity taxi or private transfer is available. Although the cost of a private transfer will be higher than a public transport ticket, the comfort and the ability to make stops at beautiful locations make this option very attractive.

To ensure your trip to Tongliao goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth learning in advance about the local features of this colourful corner of Inner Mongolia. The city, located in China, combines modern rhythm with ancient steppe traditions, so tourists will find several proven recommendations useful.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate here is sharply continental. Winters can be cold and windy, so be sure to bring a warm down jacket, a hat, and thermal wear. Summers, on the other hand, are warm and sunny, but evenings can be cool—a light jacket or windbreaker in your luggage will not go amiss even in July.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to get around the city is by taxi, which is quite affordable here. It is recommended to download Chinese taxi-hailing apps in advance or have the name of your hotel and desired attractions written in characters to show the driver.
3. Finances: International bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are not accepted everywhere. The main payment method is mobile apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay, to which you can link a foreign card. Also, always keep a small supply of cash Yuan, especially small denominations.
4. Health and Safety: Tongliao is a safe city, but drinking tap water is strongly discouraged; buy bottled water in supermarkets. Pharmacies are common (look for the green cross sign), but it is better to bring medicines with you, as finding familiar Western brands can be difficult.
5. Communication: English is not widely spoken here. It is vital to install a translation app on your smartphone that works offline, or one with a photo translation function to read menus and signs.
6. Local Etiquette: Mongolian traditions of hospitality are strong in the region. If you are offered tea or food, accept the bowl with both hands—this is a sign of respect. When visiting yurts or traditional dwellings, try not to step on the threshold.
7. What to Avoid: Do not rely on familiar Western social networks and maps—without special preparation (roaming or VPN), they may not work. Download local map alternatives for navigation in advance.
8. Gastronomic Advice: Tongliao is famous for its beef, which is considered some of the best in the region. Be sure to try the dried meat or traditional roast — this is a hallmark of the local cuisine.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid domestic inconveniences and focus on exploring the unique culture and nature of the region. Be open to new experiences, and the journey will give you plenty of vivid impressions.