Xining, Qinghai — Gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, holy site of Tibetan Buddhism, a crossroads of multi-ethnic cultures. Visit Kumbum Monastery, circumnavigate Qinghai Lake, experience the unique charm of the plateau.
Xining's main urban area, concentration of Hui culture
Xining's old town, commercial and cultural center
Modern new urban area, cultural and educational center
Industrial logistics base, North Mountain scenic area
Location of Kumbum Monastery, Tibetan Buddhist holy site
Source of the Beichuan River, multi-ethnic cultural area
Transition zone between Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Loess Plateau
Visit Tibetan Buddhist holy sites, circumnavigate Qinghai Lake, experience multi-ethnic culture, taste plateau cuisine
Arrive in Xining, adapt to the plateau climate, then visit Dongguan Grand Mosque to experience Islamic culture. Explore the Qinghai Provincial Museum in the afternoon to learn about Qinghai's history and culture. Head to Mo Family Street in the evening to taste local specialty foods.
Full day visit to Kumbum Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, admiring the three artistic treasures (butter sculpture, mural, applique). In the afternoon, head to Lotus Lake scenic area to experience the tranquil beauty of the plateau lake.
Full day circumnavigation of China's largest inland saltwater lake — Qinghai Lake, enjoying rapeseed flower fields, Heima River sunrise viewpoint, Bird Island Nature Reserve and other landscapes along the way.
Morning trip to the 'Mirror of the Sky' Chaka Salt Lake, stroll across the salt lake, capture dreamlike reflections. Return to Xining in the afternoon, enjoying the Jinyintan Grassland scenery along the way.
A traditional Qinghai dish, using plateau free-range sheep. Tender meat with no gamey taste, pure and original flavor, uniquely delicious when eaten by hand.
Xining specialty yogurt, with a yellow milk skin congealed on the surface. Thick texture, sweet and sour taste, with a unique plateau flavor.
A traditional Northwestern beverage, fermented from highland barley. Sweet and sour taste with a hint of wine aroma, refreshing and thirst-quenching.
A Qinghai specialty snack, chewy noodles served with mustard, vinegar and chili oil. Sour and spicy, refreshing and tasty.