Qinghai Cycling Itineraries and Routes

How to plan a cycling trip

Qinghai offers a number of routes for cycling enthusiasts. Some popular options include:

The Qinghai-Tibet Highway: This route takes cyclists through some of the most stunning landscapes in China, including the Tibetan Plateau and the Qinghai Lake. The entire route is around 2,000 km long, but cyclists can choose to do shorter sections of it as well.

The Qinghai-Xining-Golmud route: This route starts in the city of Xining, the capital of Qinghai province, and goes all the way to Golmud, a city in the west of the province. The route is about 600 km long and offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes.

The Qinghai Lake Cycling Route: This route circles around the Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China. The route is around 300 km long and offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

It is important to note that cycling in Qinghai can be challenging due to the high altitude and harsh weather conditions, so it's important to be well-prepared and in good physical shape before embarking on any of these routes.

The best time to do a cycling trip in Qinhai

The best time to do a cycling trip in Qinghai would be during the summer months of June to September. During this time, the weather is generally mild and dry, making it perfect for cycling. The temperature during the day is usually around 20-25C (68-77F) and the evenings can be cool. Also, the scenery is at its best during this time with the grasslands, the plateau and the mountains in full view.

It is important to note that the weather in Qinghai can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for a range of temperatures and bring appropriate clothing. Also, bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a good quality sunscreen. It is also important to be aware that some of the roads in Qinghai can be quite remote, so it's best to bring a detailed map, a compass, and a GPS device.

5 days cycling itinerary for Qinghai

Day 1: Xining to Tongren (approx. 130 km)

Start your journey in the city of Xining, the capital of Qinghai province. From there, cycle to Tongren, a town known for its Tibetan culture and architecture. Along the way, you'll pass through the beautiful countryside, dotted with small villages and farms.

Day 2: Tongren to Menyuan (approx. 150 km)

Continue your journey by cycling to Menyuan, a county located in the Haidong region. The route takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of Qinghai, including rugged mountains and grasslands. You will also see the first glimpse of Qinghai Lake on this stretch.

Day 3: Menyuan to Qilian (approx. 120 km)

From Menyuan, cycle to Qilian, a county located in the northwest of Qinghai province. This stretch of the route takes you through the foothills of the Qilian Mountains, with beautiful views of the mountains and the grasslands.

Day 4: Qilian to Golmud (approx. 150 km)

Cycle from Qilian to Golmud, a city located in the west of Qinghai province. This stretch of the route takes you through the heart of the Qaidam Basin, with beautiful views of the mountains and the desert.

Day 5: Golmud to Xining (approx. 600 km)

Your final day of cycling takes you back to Xining, where you can explore the city's many temples and other cultural attractions.

5-day cycling itinerary for exploring the Qinghai Lake:

Day 1: Xining to Gangcha (approx. 300 km)

Start your journey in the city of Xining, the capital of Qinghai province. From there, cycle to Gangcha, a small town located on the shore of Qinghai Lake. Along the way, you'll pass through the beautiful countryside, dotted with small villages and farms.

Day 2: Gangcha to Haixi (approx. 100 km)

From Gangcha, cycle to Haixi, a county located on the west shore of Qinghai Lake. This stretch of the route offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You will also pass through some small villages and towns where you can learn about the local culture and history.

Day 3: Haixi to Golmud (approx. 150 km)

From Haixi, cycle to Golmud, a city located in the west of Qinghai province. This stretch of the route takes you through the heart of the Qaidam Basin, with beautiful views of the mountains and the desert.

Day 4: Golmud to Qilian (approx. 120 km)

Cycle from Golmud to Qilian, a county located in the northwest of Qinghai province. This stretch of the route takes you through the foothills of the Qilian Mountains, with beautiful views of the mountains and the grasslands.

Day 5: Qilian to Xining (approx. 300 km)

Your final day of cycling takes you back to Xining, where you can explore the city's many temples and other cultural attractions.