Xining塔尔寺 and Qinghai Lake Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

Departing from Xining City
塔尔寺
  • Qinghai Lake: China's largest inland saltwater lake, a sapphire on the plateau, a paradise for migratory birds, and an ecological miracle.
  • Laji Mountain: The boundary between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau, a stunning sunrise and sea of clouds, and a great place for self-driving adventures.
  • Ta'er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery): One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, its three unique arts (butter sculpture, murals, and appliqué embroidery) are breathtaking.
  • Riyue Mountain (Sun and Moon Mountain): Witness to Princess Wencheng's distant marriage, with vast grasslands, majestic mountains, and rich ethnic customs.
  • Diverse Experiences: From lake and mountain scenery to plateau snow mountains, from religious art to folk customs, experience Qinghai's diverse charm in one stop.

What to expect

Depart from Xining in the morning and head to Kumbum Monastery first. Located in Huangzhong District, Xining City, Kumbum Monastery is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, renowned for its exquisite butter sculptures, murals, and appliquéd embroidery, known as the "Three Wonders." Here, you can gain an in-depth understanding of Tibetan Buddhist culture and experience the tranquility and peace of the monastery.

Afterward, drive to Mount Laji. Mount Laji is the dividing line between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the Loess Plateau. The scenery along the way is magnificent, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. At the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the continuous mountain ranges and vast grasslands, and feel the fresh air of the plateau.

Next, head to Sun Moon Mountain. Sun Moon Mountain was a must-pass on the ancient Silk Road and Tea Horse Road. There are two small peaks on each side of the mountain pass, with Sun Pavilion and Moon Pavilion built on them respectively. This place is not only picturesque but also carries rich historical and cultural connotations.

Finally, arrive at Qinghai Lake. As China's largest inland saltwater lake, Qinghai Lake is famous for its clear water and rich ecological resources. Here, you can stroll along the lake, admire the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains, and experience the magnificence and tranquility of nature.

Qinghai Lake
Qinghai Lake
Laji Mountain
Laji Mountain
Ta'er Monastery
Ta'er Monastery
Sun and Moon Mountain
Sun and Moon Mountain
Recommended Cuisine in Xining
Recommended Cuisine in Xining
Recommended Cuisine in Xining
Recommended Cuisine in Xining
Recommended Cuisine in Xining
Recommended Cuisine in Xining

Reviews

Good to know

-【Pick-up Range】 Pick-up and drop-off from hotels within Xining city. Schedule: The group tour departs around 7:00 AM and generally concludes around 6:00 PM, with drop-off back at your hotel or the original pick-up location. We will inform you of the exact pick-up time the day before the tour. Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Qinghai Lake sits at an altitude of approximately 3200-3500 meters, with strong ultraviolet radiation. This tour involves a long journey, so please be prepared for long-distance travel while enjoying the beautiful scenery of western China. Due to the high altitude in Qinghai, please bring medication and oxygen tanks/bags to prevent altitude sickness.

Essentials: raincoat or umbrella, athletic shoes, cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, insect repellent, sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, etc.

Travelers should prepare physically and bring some commonly used essential medicines, such as: cold medicine, anti-diarrheal medicine, Rhodiola, aspirin, Bufferin, heart medication, and bandages, mentholatum, etc.

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