About Xining, Qinghai
Xining is the capital of Qinghai Province and an important gateway to the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Sitting on the high-altitude plateau, Xining blends Han and Tibetan cultures and serves as a convenient base for exploring Qinghai's vast landscapes, from saline lakes to mountain monasteries.
Why visit Xining
Xining is a compact city with easy access to spectacular plateau scenery. Visitors come for Qinghai Lake's turquoise waters, the historic Ta'er (Kumbum) Monastery, lively local markets, and to experience a unique mix of Tibetan, Hui and Han cultural influences.
Local museums & culture – Xining has small but informative museums and cultural centers that introduce the history of Qinghai and the traditional crafts of Tibetan and Hui communities. For travelers who want context before heading into rural Qinghai, local museums are an excellent start.
Religious and historic sites – Ta'er (Kumbum) Monastery, one of the major Gelugpa monasteries, draws pilgrims and visitors for its ornate chapels, butter sculptures and annual religious festivals. The Dongguan Mosque and traditional courtyard neighborhoods also show the region’s diverse heritage.
Top Attractions in and near Xining
China's largest lake — located about 100 km west of Xining — renowned for its vast blue waters, seasonal birdlife and summer cycling routes along the shore.
A major Tibetan Buddhist monastery with centuries-old halls, murals and a strong living monastic community — a must-visit for history and culture lovers.
The province’s leading university (est. 1958), an academic hub with a large student population and programs focused on plateau research and minority studies.
An important Hui Muslim site in Xining — architecturally striking and culturally significant, surrounded by markets selling local snacks and handicrafts.
Local Information
Xining Caojiabu International Airport and the high-speed rail link make Xining accessible by air and rail. From the airport or railway station, taxis, local buses and ride-hailing services (where available) provide easy city access. Many tours to Qinghai Lake and surrounding scenic areas depart from Xining.
Xining sits at high altitude on the Tibetan Plateau, so visitors should expect a continental, semi-arid climate: warm, relatively wet summers and cold, dry winters. Day–night temperature swings can be large; bring layered clothing and be mindful of mild altitude effects when arriving from low elevations.
- Allow time to acclimatize if you come from low altitude.
- Summer (June–September) is popular for Qinghai Lake and grassland festivals;
- Respect monastery customs (quiet tones, remove hats where requested).