A summer resort at Yushu's grasslands attracts tourists.[Photo by Yang Feiyue/ China Daily]

"Rafting equipment is also available and we have rescue teams and other support facilities in place," he says.

Separately, the Aquatic Sports Administrative Center of China is working with the local government to build a national high-altitude rafting training facility.

Feng Chun from Sichuan, a veteran rafter with 30 years experience, has been invited to help develop rafting in Yushu.

"We should respect nature when rafting and enjoy it," says Feng.

He suggests that amateur rafters use waterproof or quick-dry clothes as water temperatures are relatively low at high altitudes.

"Rafters should also get adapted to a rafting environment and listen to instructions from their captain," he says.

As of now, tourists can raft along the Batang River for as little as 100 yuan ($15).

The Tongtian River will also open for tourists soon, says Feng.

Sun Xiaochen contributed to the story.

Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn

If you go

It takes roughly two hours to fly from Beijing to Xining Caojiabo Airport, and then another hour to fly to Yushu.