East Tibet Road Trip Itinerary
The East Tibet Road Trip is an amazing journey through some of China's most stunning landscapes. Starting in the city of Jiayuguan and ending in Chengdu, the route covers a distance of approximately 1985km, and can be completed in 13 days. The best time to drive this route is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the roads are in good condition.
Along the way, you will pass through Zhangye, Xunhua, Tongren, Xiahe, Jiuzhaigou and Chuanzhusi. Each of these towns offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the culture and history of the region. You'll find ancient monuments and temples, as well as breathtaking natural beauty. One of the highlights of the journey is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jiuzhaigou, which is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear blue lakes.
The East Tibet Road Trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a fair budget. While the roads are generally in good condition, they can be curvy in some parts and may be subject to seasonal closures due to weather conditions. Despite this, the trip offers an unforgettable experience and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
13
number of days
1,867 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
Matisi Monastery
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START
Jiayuguan
Distance 1,867 km
Driving time 31.0 h
Pace: modest
485.4 kWh
Airports
JGN
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Jiayuguan is a city located in the Gansu Province of China and is the perfect starting point for the East Tibet Road Trip. It is the westernmost point of the Great Wall of China, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
The city's main attraction is the Jiayuguan Fortress, which was built in the Ming Dynasty and is one of the most important fortresses of the Great Wall. Other attractions include the Jiayuguan Pass, the Overhanging Great Wall, and the First Beacon Tower of the Great Wall. The city is also home to the Jiayuguan Museum, which features artifacts from the Ming Dynasty.
The closest international airport to Jiayuguan is Dunhuang Airport (DNH), located approximately 85 kilometers away. If you plan to travel by car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport.
Jiayuguan is the perfect starting point for an exciting journey along the East Tibet Road Trip. The city is filled with historical attractions and serves as a reminder of the past. With its unique attractions and convenient access to car rental services, Jiayuguan is a great place to begin your adventure.
Jiayuguan Fortress
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1
Jiayuguan
- Zhangye
Distance 236 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
70.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Jiayuguan to Zhangye road trip! This 236km journey will take you less than three hours to complete, and is one of the most scenic drives you will ever experience. While on the road, you'll be surrounded by stunning landscapes, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the best views! To make the most of your journey, we recommend you drive a 4WD car, as some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. There are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy along the way, so make sure to check out the Itinerary for more information on accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. The journey starts in Jiayuguan, home to the Jiayuguan Pass, an ancient military stronghold that is a must-see for any history buff. After that, you can explore the nearby Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum, or take a stroll through the city's old streets. When you arrive in Zhangye, make sure to visit the renowned Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, renowned for its rainbow-colored mountains and rock formations. You can also explore the nearby Giant Buddha Temple, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, or take a boat ride along the nearby lake. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a road trip you'll never forget!
Zhangye - China - Asia - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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2
Zhangye
- Xining
Distance 344 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: fast
103.2 kWh
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Ready for an amazing road trip? Then let's start in Zhangye, China and make our way to Xining. This 350km journey can be done in less than 5 hours, but you'll want to take your time to enjoy the stunning scenery. If you're planning to take this route, make sure you have a 4WD car, as some sections of the road may be closed seasonally. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park, where you can marvel at the incredible rainbow-colored rock formations. Then, make your way to the Giant Buddha Temple, where you can admire the world's largest reclining Buddha statue. Finally, don't forget to visit the Qinghai Hu National Nature Reserve, where you can spot some of the area's rare wildlife. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Xining - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Xining
- Xunhua
Distance 168 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
50.3 kWh
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Embark on a memorable road trip from Xining to Xunhua and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes of Qinghai province. This 165 km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, so make sure you take your time to appreciate the views. To ensure a safe and comfortable ride, we recommend using a 4WD car as some sections of the route may be closed seasonally.
Start your trip by visiting the iconic Kumbum Monastery, the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Next, head to the beautiful Cuona Lake, an alpine lake at an elevation of 4,100 meters. Here, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the crystal-clear waters.
Continue your journey to the picturesque Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Here, you can visit the majestic Haixi Grand Canyon and the Shengjin Pagoda, an ancient Tibetan pagoda located in the middle of the canyon. Before reaching Xunhua, make sure to visit the Danghe Nangba Grand Canyon, a natural wonder with amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Xunhua - China - Asia - Road Trip - en.m.wikipedia.org
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4
Xunhua
- Tongren
Distance 83 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
24.8 kWh
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Embark on an incredible journey from Xunhua to Tongren! This 90 km drive, taking fewer than 2 hours, is one of the most scenic roads in China. The route is best driven in a 4WD car and some sections may be closed seasonally. Along the way, you can stop in Xunhua to visit the beautiful Xunhua Salt Lake, or in Tongren to explore the Wutong Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist temple. Don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Tongren - China - Asia - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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5
Tongren
- Xiahe
Distance 103 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: modest
26.9 kWh
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Start your road trip in Tongren, China, and make your way to Xiahe, a journey of 104km that should take less than 3 hours. This is an exciting stage of your journey, and a 4WD car is recommended. As you make your way to Xiahe, you'll be driving along a scenic road, though some sections may be closed seasonally and the road is very winding in some parts. Make sure you take your time and enjoy the views!
Once you arrive in Xiahe, you'll be able to explore the Labrang Monastery, one of the most important monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is renowned for its stunning architecture and its vibrant atmosphere. You can also visit the nearby Sangke Grassland, a beautiful grassland with stunning views of the mountains and nearby lakes.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Xiahe - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Xiahe
- Langmusi
Distance 184 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
55.3 kWh
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Start your road trip in Xiahe, China, and end in Langmusi, a 184 km drive that takes less than 3 hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly. A 4WD car is advisable for this route, as some sections may be closed seasonally.
In Xiahe, visit the Labrang Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery outside of the Tibet Autonomous Region. Take in the stunning views of the Yellow River and the nearby grasslands. And don’t miss the colorful local market, where you can find traditional Tibetan crafts and souvenirs.
As you make your way to Langmusi, stop at the Hezuo Gannan TAP Scenic Area. Here, you can explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Gannan Plateau, with its snow-capped mountains and rolling hills. You can also take a stroll through the local villages and visit the local temples.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Langmusi - China - Asia - Road Trip - 维基百科
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7
Langmusi
- Jiuzhaigou
Distance 273 km
Driving time 6.0 h
Pace: modest
70.9 kWh
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Take a road trip from Langmusi to Jiuzhaigou and explore the picturesque landscapes of western China! This 293 km journey will take you fewer than 5 hours to complete and will offer you some of the most stunning views in the region. Along the way, you will be able to visit UNESCO Heritage sites and take in the breathtaking scenery. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so please check the road conditions before you set off. You will be able to find more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the wonders of western China!
Jiuzhaigou - China - Asia - Road Trip - Flickr
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8
Jiuzhaigou
- Jiuzhaigou National Park
Distance 44 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
11.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Jiuzhaigou National Park! This 43km drive takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. To make the most out of your road trip, we recommend you use a 4WD car and be mindful of the fact that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. Along the way, you can take in the beauty of the UNESCO Heritage sites and enjoy some of the most stunning views in the region. This is only one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Jiuzhaigou National Park - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Jiuzhaigou National Park
- Chuanzhusi
Distance 88 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
23.0 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Jiuzhaigou to Chuanzhusi! This beautiful 87 km journey will take you less than two hours and will take you through breathtaking Huanglong. As you drive, make sure to keep an eye out for the scenic roads, and if possible, take a 4WD car as some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. Along the way, take a break and visit the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find colorful lakes, snow-capped mountains, and forests. Don't forget to also visit the Huanglong Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple located in the valley. Finally, end your journey in Chuanzhusi and explore the area's historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Chuanzhusi - China - Asia - Road Trip - zh.wikipedia.org
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Chuanzhusi
- Chengdu Panda Base
Distance 314 km
Driving time 5.7 h
Pace: modest
81.6 kWh
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Your road trip from Chuanzhusi to Chengdu will be an amazing experience! It is a 372 km drive and takes less than 6 hours. As you drive, be sure to take in the stunning scenery along the way. Make sure to stop at Chengdu Panda Base, where you can observe and learn about the playful pandas in their natural habitat. You can also take a stroll around the base and explore the nearby temples and gardens. Once you reach Chengdu, you can take a walk around the city and explore the many local attractions. Make sure to check out the People's Park and the Chengdu Museum. You can also visit the Jinli Street and the Wuhou Memorial Temple. You can find more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Chengdu Panda Base - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pikist
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Chengdu Panda Base
- Chengdu
Distance 30 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
6.9 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Chengdu Panda Base to Chengdu! This journey of just 39km and less than 1 hour of driving time will take you past some of the most interesting places in China. From the Panda Base, you will be able to take in the sights of the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as the stunning landscapes that make up the region. Along the way, you will be able to explore traditional villages, ancient temples, and much more. As you make your way to Chengdu, you will be able to appreciate the unique culture and history of the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready to explore the wonders of Chengdu and its surroundings!
Chengdu - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Chengdu
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Chengdu is the last stop on the East Tibet Road Trip and it's an amazing place for travelers to visit. Located in the Sichuan province, Chengdu is known for its stroll-worthy streets, culinary delights and its famous pandas.
The Kuanzhai Alley is one of Chengdu's most popular attractions, with its narrow alleyways lined with traditional houses and shops. People come here to experience the city's unique culture and to sample the local delicacies. The Jinli Street is another great place to explore. Here, visitors can find a variety of traditional Chinese snacks and souvenirs.
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-see for those interested in pandas. The base has become a popular tourist destination, where visitors can learn about the giant pandas' lifestyle and the conservation efforts for their protection.
The Wenshu Monastery is another great spot to visit in Chengdu. The monastery is known for its ancient architecture and beautiful gardens. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The closest international airport to Chengdu is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). It's about 20 km from the city center and is well-connected with major cities in China and other countries.
Chengdu is full of amazing places to explore, from its traditional streets to its giant pandas. So if you're looking for an exciting end to your East Tibet Road Trip, Chengdu is the perfect destination.
Chengdu - China - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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East Tibet Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Jiayuguan
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End:
Chengdu
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Distance:
1,867 km
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Stay:
13 days
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Getting there:
Jiayuguan Airport (JGN)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The East Tibet Road Trip is an enthralling 1985km journey that connects Jiayuguan to Chengdu, traversing the diverse and picturesque landscapes of China. This expedition, typically covered over 13 days, allows Roadtrippers to immerse themselves in the country's stunning natural scenery and delve into its profound cultural heritage.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The route is dotted with a series of must-visit destinations that offer a blend of historic architecture, religious sites, and breathtaking natural wonders:
- Zhangye: Famous for the Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, which boasts an array of vividly colored hills, often referred to as the Rainbow Mountains, formed from layers of different colored sandstone and minerals.
- Xunhua and Tongren: These areas provide a deep dive into the Salars and Tibetan communities, respectively, showcasing unique traditions, intricate Thangka paintings, and rich local histories.
- Xiahe: Renowned for its Labrang Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and a hub of religious education and festivals that attract pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Jiuzhaigou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley is celebrated for its ethereal landscapes, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse ecosystems that include many endangered plant and animal species.
- Chuanzhusi: Not only a charming town but also the threshold to the mesmerizing Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong National Parks, known for their calcite pools of vibrant turquoise.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for this Road Trip is from May to October when the weather is temperate and conducive to exploration, and the Roads are more likely to be clear of snow and ice, providing safer driving conditions.
Potential Risks:
Drivers should exercise caution due to winding Roads, high altitudes, and changing weather patterns that could lead to temporary closures. It's important to plan for altitude acclimatization and check the status of mountain passes before travel.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Much of the route follows parts of the ancient Silk Road, which has been a conduit for trade and cultural exchange for centuries.
- The route also skirts the edges of the Tibetan Plateau, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Tibetan communities without entering the Tibet Autonomous Region.
- Roadtrippers will have the opportunity to sample a variety of local cuisines, from Sichuan's spicy dishes to Tibetan momos (dumplings) and butter tea.
A good choice for:
The East Tibet Road Trip is more than just a drive; it's a cultural odyssey and a nature enthusiast's dream. With its fusion of historical sites and scenic splendor, this journey is poised to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of travelers seeking the essence of China's diverse legacy.
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