Live Your Best Lives
Visit Kunlun Bridge to admire the impressive view of the Kunlun Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape. It's a great spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows on the bridge and mountains. Take a scenic walk across the bridge to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the area.
Kunlun Bridge, also known as the "One Step to Heaven" Bridge, is located at the foot of the Kunlun Mountains south of Golmud in Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, approximately 50 kilometers from Golmud City. It is a major treacherous pass on the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. Spanning just over four meters, the reinforced concrete bridge spans the dangerous path.
Plateau climate
free
All day
Kunlun Bridge is a historic and vital structure located on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It connects the region and provides a unique viewpoint of the Kunlun Mountains. The bridge is significant as part of the critical infrastructure that connects Qinghai with Tibet, enhancing the transportation of goods and people across this rugged region.
Kunlun Bridge is located in the Qinghai province, along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It can be reached by train from Xining, which is the nearest major city. There are no direct metro or bus routes to the bridge, so traveling by train or private car is recommended.
Kunlun Bridge is accessible year-round, and there are no specific opening hours as it is a functional railway bridge. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, avoiding the extreme cold of winter or the heat of summer.
As a railway bridge, there is no formal entrance fee to access the area around Kunlun Bridge. However, if you wish to travel by train and get closer views, you will need a train ticket to Xining or other nearby stations. Tickets can be bought online or at train stations.
If traveling by train to reach the area, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days in advance should be sufficient.
Since Kunlun Bridge is part of the railway, you do not need much time to explore it. A 1-2 hour visit is typically enough to appreciate the views, take photos, and walk across the bridge.
The main highlight is the view from the bridge of the surrounding Kunlun Mountains. The sight of the vast, open desert landscape and the bridge spanning across it is awe-inspiring, especially for photography enthusiasts.
Guided tours are not typically available directly at Kunlun Bridge, as it is primarily a transportation route. However, local tours of the area or organized travel groups may provide some form of guidance in Chinese, and occasionally in English.
The best photography spots are from the bridge itself, with wide-angle shots of the Kunlun Mountains and the valley below. Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographs, as the shadows and colors shift over the landscape.
Start at the train station in Xining and take the train to a nearby station close to the Kunlun Bridge. Once there, explore the surrounding areas, take photographs from different angles, and walk across the bridge for the best views. Spend some time appreciating the rugged terrain and peaceful atmosphere of the region.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Kunlun Bridge. However, the natural beauty of the area is still captivating at night, with the mountain silhouettes visible under the stars.
The bridge itself is not usually crowded, as it is part of the railway system. However, during peak travel seasons or holidays, it can get busier. Weekdays and off-peak months (like spring and autumn) are generally quieter times to visit.
There are limited facilities around the bridge. You may find basic rest areas and small shops near the nearby train stations. It is advisable to carry your own water and snacks, especially if traveling through remote areas.
The area around Kunlun Bridge may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rugged terrain. However, children and families can easily enjoy the scenic views from nearby vantage points without difficulty.
Cash is commonly used, especially in remote areas. In major cities like Xining, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash, as card payment facilities may not be available in remote areas.
There are a few small local eateries near the train stations. For a more diverse selection, head into Xining where you can find various restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local eateries, especially in Xining. For halal food, the region is home to a significant Muslim population, so halal options can also be found in and around the city.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Xining, ranging from budget to mid-range. There are no accommodations directly near the Kunlun Bridge, so staying in Xining is recommended.
Nearby attractions include the Qinghai Lake, which is a short drive away from Xining. The Ta'er Monastery and the Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum are also notable landmarks worth exploring on a day trip.
Souvenir shops in the area primarily sell local handicrafts, including Tibetan and Uyghur items. Popular souvenirs include traditional Tibetan jewelry, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and handwoven textiles.
After visiting Kunlun Bridge, the best options for continuing your trip are by train from nearby stations back to Xining or to other destinations in Qinghai and Tibet. For more flexibility, private car hire or taxis are also available for onward travel.
