How to get to Yushu

If you have decided to visit Yushu, prepare to encounter a distinctive city situated amidst the picturesque mountains of Qinghai Province in China. The question of how to get to Yushu is resolved quite simply: this centre of Tibetan culture is connected to the outside world by regular flights, as well as a network of roads for those who prefer travelling by bus or car. Whether you choose a quick flight or a long overland route, the journey will mark the beginning of a fascinating immersion into the atmosphere of the region.

The fastest way to reach this high-altitude region is to take flights arriving at Yushu Batang Airport (YUS). The airport receives aircraft from major Chinese hubs, such as Chengdu or Xining, offering travellers stunning views of the mountain ranges during the descent. Thanks to regular air connections, flying remains the most comfortable and least tiring option for starting your expedition.

If direct tickets are unavailable, one might consider flying to neighbouring cities, such as Chamdo or Golmud, located several hundred kilometres away. However, it is worth noting that the subsequent journey by land will take considerable time due to the difficult terrain. Upon arriving directly at the local airport, you will easily reach the centre, as it is well-connected to the city's infrastructure.

There is no direct railway connection to Yushu, as the high-altitude terrain has not yet allowed for rails to be laid directly to the city. Nevertheless, the train remains a popular way to reach the region if combined with a bus or car transfer for the final leg of the journey.

The main railway hub through which most tourists travel is Xining — the capital of Qinghai Province. Trains from many major cities in China arrive here. After arriving in Xining, travellers will need to transfer to an intercity bus that will take them to Yushu (the trip takes a significant amount of time but allows you to enjoy the views of the Tibetan Plateau).

Golmud can be considered as an alternative station on the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway. However, please note that the journey from here to Yushu by car or bus will also be long and requires careful route planning.

Travelling by bus to Yushu is a true adventure, passing through the impressive high-altitude landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. One of the most popular routes is the road from the city of Golmud, which serves as an important transport hub in Qinghai Province. This journey, covering a distance of about 800 kilometres, usually takes between 12 to 14 hours, allowing passengers to enjoy mesmerising views of endless steppes and rugged mountain peaks.

You can also reach the region from neighbouring areas, which adds an ethnographic flair to the trip. Regular services connect the city with Chamdo, covering a distance of approximately 550 kilometres in 10–11 hours along picturesque winding roads. For those who have time and wish to see the natural diversity of the country's west, the long but incredibly beautiful route from Daocheng County is suitable.

A trip by car to Yushu is a chance to independently explore the grandeur of the highlands, enjoying complete freedom of movement. A sufficiently comfortable route leads from the city of Golmud: a distance of about 850 kilometres can be covered in approximately 10 hours, admiring the rugged landscapes of Qinghai Province. Many travellers prefer to hire taxis or private drivers for such trips to have the opportunity to stop at the most picturesque locations.

The alternative path from the city of Chamdo, although shorter — only 470 kilometres — will take about 14 hours due to complex and winding mountain roads. For lovers of long road trips, the road from Daocheng County is suitable: prepare to spend over 18 hours on the road, covering a distance of nearly 850 kilometres through passes and valleys. Please consider that the cost of a taxi for such long distances is high and usually requires prior arrangement with the driver.

Preparing for a trip to Yushu requires special attention, as this region is distinguished by a harsh high-altitude climate and unique Tibetan culture. To ensure your trip to China is as comfortable as possible and free of unpleasant surprises, we have compiled a list of important recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The weather here is extremely changeable, and even in summer, temperature fluctuations between day and night can be significant. Be sure to bring a warm windproof jacket, thermal underwear, and comfortable trekking shoes. Do not forget sunglasses and cream with high SPF, as the mountain sun is very active.
2. Transport: Within the city, it is convenient to move around by taxi, which is quite affordable here. However, for trips to remote monasteries and natural attractions, it is better to hire a car with a local driver, as public transport does not reach all areas.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Chinese Yuan. Although major shops and hotels may accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat), in remote districts, small shops, and temples, it is more reliable to carry cash, so ensure you withdraw funds in advance.
4. Health and Safety: The city is located at an altitude of about 3,700 metres, so the risk of altitude sickness is high. Drink plenty of water, strictly avoid alcohol during the first few days, and carry a personal first aid kit with painkillers and remedies that help with hypoxia.
5. Communication: The main languages of communication are Chinese (Mandarin) and Tibetan. Few people know English, so we strongly recommend installing an offline translator on your smartphone to communicate with hotel staff and taxi drivers.
6. Local Etiquette: Respect Buddhist traditions: walk around stupas and temples strictly in a clockwise direction, do not point your finger at Buddha statues, and always ask for permission before photographing local residents, especially monks.
7. What to Avoid: Do not make sudden movements, run, or lift heavy weights immediately upon arrival — give your body time to acclimatise. Also, avoid discussing sensitive topics and consuming raw tap water.
8. Additional Tip: Try local yak products — dried meat and yoghurt. This is not only an exotic gastronomic experience but also very nutritious food that helps the body stay warm and restore strength in high-altitude conditions.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to focus on what matters most — contemplating the majestic landscapes and getting to know the deep spiritual culture of the region. May your journey be safe, easy, and full of vivid impressions!