Travel itineraries, how to plan a Qinghai trip

Qinghai, a magical land known as the "mirror of the sky", has become a paradise for self-driving tour lovers with its vast grasslands, magnificent lakes, mysterious salt lakes and profound ethnic culture. Want to experience a different kind of travel trip? Following are the recommended itineraries in Qinghai.

While all itineraries are flexible, we've provided a recommended itinerary to help you. If you need a customized Qinghai itinerary, please contact us.

Exploring the natural beauty of Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake

This is the largest lake in China and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, visit the nearby bird sanctuary, and explore the surrounding mountains and grasslands.

1-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Start your day early and head to the lake to catch the sunrise. Take a boat ride on the lake and admire the beautiful scenery. Visit the nearby Bird Island, where you can see a variety of migratory birds. Take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the fresh air and stunning views. End your day with a visit to a local restaurant to try some authentic Tibetan cuisine.

2-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Emerald Lake

Day 1: Take a bus to Qinghai Lake after arriving in Qinghai, the "Sapphire of the Plateau", passing by Riyue Mountain along the way. Take some photos with the stunning lake, and watch the birds at Bird Island. In midsummer, you can also enjoy the endless sea of blooming rapeseed flowers. Erlangjian Scenic Area is the main attraction there, with a variety of recreational and commercial facilities, as well as boat rides on the lake. In the evening, travel along the lakeside highway and arrive in Chaka Town for an overnight stay.

Day 2: After breakfast, head to Chaka Salt Lake, the "Mirror of the Sky". You can stroll across the salt lake that feels as if it floats above the clouds, fully immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery where water meets the sky. Try creating your own salt sculpture to experience the unique culture of the salt lake, or board a vintage train that travels deep into the heart of the lake along historic tracks, placing you in a magical world of salt. In the afternoon, you can also visit the pristine Gangca Grassland to admire the tranquil beauty of plateau pastoral life, where the scenery unfolds like a peaceful highland melody.

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3-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Mojia Street

Day 1: After arriving in Xining, take a short rest in to your hotel and before heading to Kumbum Monastery. Admire the monastery's three treasures, murals, embroidery and butter sculptures, while learning about the rich history of this ancient temple. In the evening, you can visit Mojia Street to explore the local cuisine and sample a variety of Qinghai specialties.

Day 2: Head to the Riyue Mountain and stand atop the summit to take in the striking contrast of landscapes, grasslands on one side and towering mountains on the other. In the afternoon, head to Qinghai Lake to admire its crystal-clear blue waters and wait for the sunset as it slowly sinks toward the horizon. Stay overnight in Heimahe Town.

Day 3: Wake up early to witness the sunrise over Qinghai Lake, as the deep blue waters gradually turn into shimmering gold. Then visit the Chaka Salt Lake, where you will find numerous salt sculptures, and have the chance to create your own. Take the small train deep into the lake for sightseeing, or walk barefoot onto the surface to admire your reflection.

• Birding itineraries in Qinghai »

4-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Bird Island

Day 1: Arrive in Xining, the capital of Qinghai province. Take a private car or public transportation to Qinghai Lake, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Xining to Qinghai Lake. Check into your accommodation in Qinghai Lake. Explore the nearby area, including the beach and the Tibetan-style temples.

Day 2: Watch the sunrise over the lake. This is a stunning sight, as the sun rises over the mountains and the lake turns shades of pink and orange. Take a boat ride on the lake, a great way to see the lake up close and to enjoy the surrounding scenery. Visit the Bird Island, which is located in the middle of the lake and is home to many species of birds, including black-necked cranes and bar-headed geese. Visit the Riyue Mountain, which is located near the lake and offers great views of the area.

Day 3: Visit the Kumbum Monastery, which is located about 30 minutes from Qinghai Lake. This is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China. Explore the nearby town of Xining, which is known for its Muslim Quarter and its many delicious food options. Return to Qinghai Lake for one last night.

Day 4: Depart from Qinghai Lake and return to Xining or continue your travels in Qinghai.

This itinerary can be adjusted depending on your interests and the amount of time you have available. Additionally, it is important to be aware of altitude sickness when visiting Qinghai Lake, as it is located at an elevation of over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet). Be sure to take it easy and drink plenty of water to avoid any discomfort.

5-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Riyue Mountain

Day 1: Depart from Xining and arrive at Kumbum Monastery, a sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism, where you can explore its halls, admire the murals, and appreciate the exquisite butter sculptures.In the evening, you may head to Mojia Street to explore local delicacies.

Day 2: Take a train to Menyuan, then transfer to a bus bound for Qilian. Visit Zhuo'er Mountain, where striking red Danxia landforms contrast beautifully with lush green forests and alpine meadows, all set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The rich layers of color create a truly spectacular landscape. From the summit viewing platform, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire Qilian Valley and its picturesque rural villages, a scene that is both soothing and awe-inspiring. Stay overnight in Qilian County.

Day 3: Visit the Qilian Grassland, then take a bus to Qinghai Lake, enjoying the scenery along the way and taking in the vastness and grandeur of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Upon arrival at Erlangjian Scenic Area, get up close to the shimmering blue waters of Qinghai Lake and admire the breathtaking view where the lake meets the sky. You may also take a boat cruise across the lake, or try your hand at Thangka painting. In the evening, stay overnight in Chaka Town.

Day 4: In the morning, visit the Chaka Salt Lake, where the pristine white salt flats create a clean, serene, and almost therapeutic landscape. Then travel along the shores of Qinghai Lake to Gangca Grassland, where you can experience the near-pristine tranquility of this vast pastoral land. In the afternoon, return to Xining to relax.

Day 5: Head to Ping'anyi Hehuang Folk Culture Experience Area to experience the local customs of Qinghai. When you turn back to Xining to prepare for returning, you may also visit the Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum, trying Tibetan costumes.

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7-Day Qinghai Itinerary

Cycle around Qinghai Lake

Seven or Ten days offer ample time for extensive activities, such as cycling around Qinghai Lake or trekking around the Amne Machin Snow Mountain. Of course, heading to Yushu City in the southernmost part of Qinghai is also an excellent option.

Yushu Prefecture is the source of the Yangtze River, boasting vast grasslands adorned with wildflowers, magnificent lakes and rivers, towering mountains and deep canyons, as well as unique temples and rich cultural heritage. Its breathtaking scenery rivals that of Xinjiang and western Sichuan. Unlike popular tourist hotspots like Qinghai-Gansu, Gannan, and Ili, Yushu still preserves its original purity and tranquility.

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2-Week Qinghai Itinerary

Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

If you have two weeks to fully experience the charm of Qinghai, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Silk Road are the best destinations.

A combined Silk Road and Qinghai loop tour encompasses three major natural landscapes: the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, the northwestern desert, and the eastern monsoon zone. The journey traverses the Hexi Corridor and the ancient Silk Road, bringing together a diverse range of scenery, including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, deserts, lakes, Danxia landforms, and Yardang formations. This route perfectly blends the breathtaking natural beauty of northwest China with the rich cultural heritage of the Silk Road.

• More 14 days Qinghai itineraries »

Discovering the culture of the Tibetan people

Horse Racing Festival

Qinghai is home to a large population of Tibetans, and visitors can experience their unique culture by visiting traditional Tibetan monasteries, attending religious ceremonies, and learning about the history of the region.

Xining - Labrang Monastery - Tongren

Start your journey in Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province. Take some time to explore the city's many Tibetan temples and mosques, including the Dongguan Mosque and Ta'er Monastery. From Xining, head to Labrang Monastery in Xiahe County, which is one of the six great monasteries of the Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Spend a few days in Labrang, exploring the monastery and the surrounding area. Then head to Tongren County, which is known for its traditional Tibetan art and culture. Visit the Wutun Monastery, which is famous for its intricate murals and thangkas.

Xining - Qinghai Lake - Yushu

Yushu

Start in Xining and then take a scenic drive to Qinghai Lake, which is the largest saltwater lake in China. Along the way, you will pass through many Tibetan villages and see the nomadic lifestyle of the Tibetan people. Spend a day or two exploring the lake and its surrounding grasslands, then head to Yushu County, which is home to many Tibetan people. Visit the Gyegu Monastery and the Yushu Cultural Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

Xining - Rebkong - Maduo

Begin your journey in Xining, then head to Rebkong County, which is known for its traditional Tibetan arts and crafts. Visit the Rongwo Monastery, which has a long history and is known for its intricate murals and carvings. Then continue on to Maduo County, which is home to many nomadic Tibetan people. Visit the nearby Lake Namtso and hike in the surrounding mountains to experience the stunning scenery of the region.

Exploring the city of Xining

Xining Dongguan Mosque

This is the capital city of Qinghai, and visitors can explore its rich history by visiting the Xining Museum and the Daci Monastery, and also enjoy local food, shopping and nightlife.

1-Day Xining Itinerary

Visit the Kumbum Monastery, one of the main attractions in Xining, where you can explore its treasure of art. Then you may walk around the Dongguan Mosque and experience its rich Islamic heritage. Nearby, you can also visit the Nanchan Temple and Beichan Temple. In the evening, head to Mojia Street, to enjoy local snacks and delicacies.

3-Day Xining Itinerary

Kumbum Monastery

Day 1: Visit the Kumbum Monastery and Nanchan Temple as described in the one-day itinerary. Walk around the People's Park: This park is a popular spot for locals to relax and exercise. You can see the sculpture of the Yellow River and have a picnic.

Day 2: If possible, wake up early to witness the sunrise over Qinghai Lake—it will surely not disappoint. The Erlangjian Scenic Area by the lake is one of the core ttractions at Qinghai Lake, offering both sightseeing and cultural experiences. In the afternoon, head to the Riyue Mountain and climb it, where the striking contrast on both sides is a rare sight in China. At dinner, turn back to Xining, enjoy local snacks at Mojia Street.

Day 3: In the morning, head to Dongguan Mosque to experience its rich Islamic culture and observe the Moslem prayer. Then spend your time at nearby Nanchan Temple and Beichan Temple. In the afternoon, visit Xining Wildlife Park, where you can observe snow leopards and other wild animals up close. This is also the only zoo in China where you can see manuls and desert cats.

• More 3 days Xining itineraries »

5-Day Xining Itinerary

Menyuan Rape Flower

Day 1-3: Follow the three-day itinerary as described above.

Day 4: Trek in the Kunlun Mountains: You can take a one-day trekking tour to the nearby mountains. You can see the glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildlife in the area. Visit Riyue Mountain: This mountain is about 20 km from Xining and has a scenic area with hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Day 5: Go to Menyuan Hui Autonomous County: This county is about 2.5 hours from Xining and is known for its rape flower fields. You can see the yellow flowers blooming in spring and enjoy the local culture and cuisine. Visit Dongguan Mosque: This is a famous mosque in the county and has a history of more than 600 years. You can see the traditional Islamic architecture and learn about the Hui ethnic minority.

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Trekking in the mountains

Zhuo'er Mountain

Qinghai is home to some of the most beautiful and rugged mountains in China, including the Amne Machen and the Gangdise Mountains, visitors can enjoy hiking, climbing, and camping in these areas.

Qinghai Lake Trek

Qinghai Lake is located in the northeastern part of Qinghai Province and is the largest saltwater lake in China. The trekking route here is relatively easy and suitable for beginners. The route covers a distance of about 60 kilometers and takes about 3-4 days to complete. The trek will take you through beautiful grasslands, rolling hills, and scenic lakeshores.

Hoh Xil Nature Reserve Trek

Hoh Xil

Hoh Xil Nature Reserve is located in the northwest of Qinghai Province and is known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife. The trekking route here is quite challenging and requires experienced hikers. The route covers a distance of about 100 kilometers and takes about 7-8 days to complete. The trek will take you through high-altitude grasslands, rugged terrain, and snow-capped mountains.

Kanbula National Forest Park Trek

Kanbula National Forest Park is located in the eastern part of Qinghai Province and is known for its beautiful forests and crystal-clear rivers. The trekking route here is relatively easy and suitable for beginners. The route covers a distance of about 50 kilometers and takes about 3-4 days to complete. The trek will take you through lush forests, scenic valleys, and mountain passes.

Amne Machin Snow Mountain Trek

Amne Machin Snow Mountain is located in the southern part of Qinghai Province and is known for its stunning snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes. The trekking route here is quite challenging and requires experienced hikers. The route covers a distance of about 80 kilometers and takes about 6-7 days to complete. The trek will take you through rugged terrain, high-altitude grasslands, and beautiful alpine lakes.

• Qinghai trekking itineraries »

Customize Your Unique Qinghai Plateau Tour

If you are interested in the Qinghai itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Qinghai Tour, please visit our Qinghai Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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