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Travel along the ancient Tang-Tibet Road, enjoying scenic views of Qinghai's natural landscapes and learning about its rich cultural heritage. Stop at various ancient towns and historical landmarks along the route. Visit local monasteries and enjoy the unique Tibetan culture while hiking or driving through the picturesque mountain passes.
The Tang-Tibet Ancient Road is a renowned thoroughfare in ancient Chinese history. Since the Tang Dynasty, it has been the only way for people from the Central Plains to travel to Qinghai, Tibet, and even Nepal, India, and other countries. Starting from Xi'an (Chang'an) in Shaanxi Province, it passes through Gansu and Qinghai, and ends in Lhasa (Lhasa) in Tibet. It stretches over 3,000 kilometers, with more than half of the route within Qinghai.
The entire ancient road traverses western China, spanning the world-renowned Roof of the World and connecting my country with its friendly neighbors to the southwest. It is also known as the Southern Silk Road. In many places along the ancient road, post stations, cities, villages, and ancient temples still stand, leaving behind the splendid culture created by people throughout the ages.
Continental plateau climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to spend 2 to 3 hours along the way
free
All day
The Tang-Tibet Ancient Road is a historical trade route that connected the Tang Dynasty in China with Tibet, facilitating cultural and economic exchanges. It has been an important pathway for Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan culture, as well as for the movement of goods such as silk, tea, and horses.
The Tang-Tibet Ancient Road stretches through Qinghai Province and into Tibet. It can be accessed from Xining, the capital of Qinghai, by car or bus. There are no metro lines, and traveling by taxi or private vehicle is the most convenient option. The road is best explored by road trip or guided tour.
The road itself is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to October), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are especially stunning. Winter and summer can be harsh due to temperature extremes.
There is no specific entrance fee for traveling the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, as it is an open route. However, some of the historical sites and monasteries along the way may charge a small entry fee. Tickets for these attractions can be purchased at the entrance.
For most parts of the route, no advance booking is needed. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or stay in hotels along the way, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn).
To fully explore the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, plan for at least 5-7 days, depending on the stops and detours you wish to make. A road trip with several key stops should take about a week to properly experience the historical and cultural landmarks along the route.
Key highlights include the ancient towns of Lhasa, Qinghai Lake, the city of Xining, and various Tibetan monasteries along the route such as the Ta'er Monastery. The stunning natural scenery, including the majestic mountains and vast plateaus, are also a major attraction.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. You can find local tour operators offering guided tours that can be booked online or through hotels. Audio guides are not as commonly available, but some guides offer detailed historical explanations.
The best viewpoints are along the mountainous passes of the route, particularly near Qinghai Lake and the Tibetan Plateau. Scenic spots include high-altitude landscapes, ancient fortresses, and panoramic views from the monasteries.
Start in Xining, Qinghai, and drive towards the south along the road. Visit the Ta'er Monastery, then continue towards Qinghai Lake for stunning natural views. Head further into Tibet, stopping at the towns of Golmud and Lhasa, with detours to historical sites and monasteries.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available along the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, as the area is more suited for daytime exploration. However, some cities along the route, like Lhasa, may offer special cultural events in the evening.
The road can be crowded during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times to visit are during the winter months or early spring, when temperatures are colder, and fewer tourists are traveling the route.
Facilities are limited along the road, but you will find basic rest areas, small shops, and food stalls in the towns and near key attractions. It’s best to carry water and snacks with you, especially if traveling through remote areas.
The road itself is accessible by vehicle, but some areas, particularly the monasteries and high-altitude locations, may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the road trip but should be prepared for long drives in some parts of the journey.
Cash is recommended, especially in more remote areas where mobile payments and cards may not be accepted. Larger cities like Xining and Lhasa may accept mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay.
Local restaurants along the route serve Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, including dishes like yak meat, momo (dumplings), and noodle soups. In larger towns, there are also Western-style cafes offering more diverse options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most towns, especially in Tibetan monasteries and restaurants catering to travelers. Halal food is available in some regions, particularly in areas with a Muslim population.
Accommodations vary from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels along the road. The major cities like Xining and Lhasa have a variety of hotels, while smaller towns offer simpler lodgings.
Nearby attractions include the Qinghai Lake, Ta'er Monastery, and the city of Lhasa. These can be combined into a road trip with the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road.
Souvenir shops along the route offer Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer beads, Tibetan knives, woolen scarves, and yak wool products. You can also find traditional Tibetan jewelry and paintings.
After visiting the Tang-Tibet Ancient Road, taxis or buses are available for traveling to other parts of Qinghai or Tibet. Train services are also available from Lhasa to other major cities in Tibet and beyond.
