Xining Travel Guide

Xining is located on the Qinghai-Tibet border and is the cultural, political and economic heart of Qinghai Province. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, ensuring there are plenty of historic sights to see.

Worth It?: If you are in this area, it is the most developed city in the region.
What to Do: visit the ancient sites, enjoy the local cuisine.
Best Time to Go: June, July and August offer the best weather.
How Long?: Anywhere from three to five days is long enough in Xining.
Trivia: Xining is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in China, housing over 37 nationalities.

It lies in a strategic position, which has helped its development throughout the ages; it is the only gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet plateau. Xining is not only strategically important, it also culturally very important as over 37 nationalities call the city home.

The main societies are: Han, Hui, Tu and Tibetan. The local customs and traditions are therefore very different to those in the rest of China as they are deep-rooted in Tibet and the hill tribes.

Xining is regarded by many as being the 'Summer Resort Capital of China', due to its cool summers. There are a number of natural attractions to enjoy including Qinhai Lake, Birds Island, Ta'er Monastery, Beichan Temple and Dongguan Mosque (one of the largest mosques in northern China).

Travel to Xining - Getting There

Xining is home to its own small international airport, known as Caojiabao Airport. It is located just 30kms from the city center and has daily flights to and from Beijing (2 hours) as well as other domestic destinations and a selection of other Asian cities. Another way to reach the city is to take a train. There are daily services from Lhasa, Tibet (2 hours) and Qinghai (45 minutes) as well as longer journeys from Beijing (10 hours) and Shanghai (12 hours).

Xining Things to Do

Xining Attractions

Dongguan Mosque

dating back over 600 years, this mosque is located in the center of the city and is one of the most famous sights. It is a beautiful building with a fascinating past.

Ta'er Monastery

located in the southwest part of the city, this is one of the six famous monasteries which make up the Gelugpa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Beichan Temple

is set on a hill and offers spectacular views across the city. It is a very peaceful place with many ancient relics.

Side trips from Xining

Qinhai Lake: this stunning lake is located just outside of the city and is a must-visit for all nature lovers.
Bird Island: located on Qinghai Lake, this island is home to a number of different species of migrating birds and also houses temples, beautiful scenery and the ruins of an ancient monastery.
Riyue (Sun and Moon) Mountain: divides Qinghai Province into two parts. It is a beautiful sight and offers people the chance to enjoy fantastic mountain trekking.

Events

Ta'er Monastery Lantern Festival: held every January, this is a beautiful festival which sees religious dancing, prayer meetings and parades throughout the city.