Northwest China & Qinghai Pre-Trip Notice

  • Northwest China has large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, it’s recommended to bring two thicker pieces of clothing to add layers when needed. Also prepare for rain and sun protection with items such as umbrellas, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

  • Qinghai Lake sits at an altitude of around 3,200–3,500 meters. UV radiation is strong, and travel in this region can be physically demanding. Please be mentally prepared for long-distance travel while enjoying the scenic beauty of the west.

  • Due to the vastness of the northwest, travel times between attractions can be long. Visitors should manage their rest well and ensure sufficient physical stamina. Comfortable, breathable shoes are recommended to avoid unnecessary discomfort and stay focused on enjoying the scenery.

  • Northwest cuisine features more halal (Muslim) dishes and fewer Han-style meals. Be mentally prepared for this dietary difference. Due to natural and geographic limitations, restaurants may not match the standards of those in more developed inland regions, both in facilities and food quality. Flavors tend to be heavy and spicy. We will do our best to accommodate diverse preferences. Tibetan butter tea and similar foods may not suit all stomachs; please do not overconsume. There is a local custom of always refilling a guest’s butter tea cup—keep your cup two-thirds full to avoid causing offense. It is advised to carry anti-diarrheal medicine (e.g., berberine). Alcohol is not allowed in some halal restaurants; please respect local customs.

  • Due to limited tourism development, hotels in the northwest are generally of lower standards than inland regions. Rooms tend to be smaller, and Qinghai hotels typically lack air conditioning (except for international 5-star hotels). Please do not evaluate hotels by inland standards.

  • Religious and cultural customs in the northwest may differ significantly. Always follow the local guide’s instructions. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics related to ethnic minorities. In Muslim regions (e.g., Hui, Uighur, Salar, Kazakh, etc.):

    • Do not eat pork, dog, horse, mule, or animal blood.

    • Do not smoke or drink inside mosques.

    • Do not take photos inside prayer halls.

    • Avoid mentioning pigs or related topics in Muslim areas or restaurants.

  • Photography is generally prohibited in temples. Unauthorized photos may lead to serious consequences. In some cases, you may photograph after paying a fee—always follow local rules. Always get permission before photographing people, especially monks and women. Stay safe while photographing outdoors and safeguard your equipment.

  • Travelers should be physically prepared and carry necessary medications, such as cold medicine, anti-diarrheals, Rhodiola, aspirin, Bao Xin Wan (for the heart), band-aids, and menthol balm.

  • Local specialties include: cordyceps, deer antler, musk, Xining wool, silverware, Tibetan knives, carpets, and more. Local snacks: Xining hotpot lamb, grilled lamb, hand-held lamb, yak meat, yogurt, sweet barley wine, barley buns, jelly noodles, pressed meat slices, cheese, sweet milk powder, and lamb offal.

  • Road conditions: Qinghai is a plateau region with many mountain roads. Only higher-chassis vehicles are suitable. Seat spacing may be tight. Occasional repair stops may occur for safety reasons—thank you for your understanding.

  • Meals: Choose hygienic restaurants. Avoid raw food and do not eat at unlicensed roadside stalls.

  • Accommodation: Double rooms in main or backup hotels are arranged. One bed per adult per night. Solo travelers will be matched with others of the same gender by order of registration. If matching fails, guests must follow guide arrangements. Most hotels do not provide disposable items—please bring your own.

  • Attraction tickets: As this is a discounted package, no refunds will be given for skipped or discounted attractions. Please be aware.

  • Flight requirements:

    • Adults (12+) must carry valid original ID (e.g., ID card or passport).

    • Seniors (65+) must also provide a health certificate.

    • Children under 16 must bring the original household registration booklet.

    • Those 16 or older are treated as adults.

    • Airlines do not allow name changes after booking. Ensure names and ID numbers are accurate. Losses due to incorrect information are the traveler’s responsibility.

  • Due to the altitude in Qinghai, meals may not suit everyone’s tastes. If you’re particular about food, bring your own snacks (chocolate, instant noodles, biscuits, etc.).

  • Respect local customs and beliefs. Avoid conflicts with residents. When shopping, follow your guide’s recommendations to avoid disputes.

  • Due to the region’s terrain and climate, long journeys may occasionally lead to vehicle breakdowns. Repairs within 3 hours are considered normal—please understand.

  • If natural or social forces cause itinerary changes, the agency may adjust the schedule after obtaining guest signatures. Guests must cooperate to minimize losses and not escalate problems.

  • If there are concerns about our services, please raise them locally. Complete the feedback form honestly. We cannot accept complaints based on false or unsubmitted forms.

  • Free attractions included in the itinerary may be canceled due to timing issues. The agency reserves the right to do so.

  • Itinerary order may be adjusted according to flight schedules. Please understand.

  • Due to the high altitude in Qinghai, guests with severe respiratory, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, mental illness, or serious colds are not accepted. Medical resources are limited in Tibetan areas. Please bring medicines for altitude sickness, allergies, inflammation, and colds.
    Travelers aged 70 and above will not be accepted. Thank you for your understanding.