Xining

Xining

Located on the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau and with an average altitude of over 2200 metres, Xining is home to an intriguing blend of minority groups, including Hui Muslims, Tibetans, Kazakhs and Mongols. Take time to visit the Ta’er Temple, one of the six major Tibetan Temples in China and popular with both pilgrims and tourists. Xining also serves as a base from which to explore Qinghai Lake, the largest salt water lake in China, where birdlife is in abundance. The desert vistas en route are reason enough to warrant this popular side-trip.

Qinghai Provincial Museum

The Qinghai Provincial Museum covers exhibits and artifacts stretching over a vast period of time. From the relatively modern history of the famed Silk Road to the Stone Age. A visit to the museum will open your eyes to the immense history of the region.

Beishan Si (North Mountain Temple)

15- 20 minutes from the city of Xining, discover the Beishan Si Temple with views of the temple site and its 1700 year old history. The temples hang from the side of the cliff face. The ancient Buddha statue still remains and stands at an impressive 30 metres high. The temple has accommodated both Buddhism and Taoism in its rich history.

Ta er Temple

Located 25 kilometres from Xining city, the Ta er Monastery derives from the Gelugpa branch of Tibetan Buddhism. It is one of the six key monasteries of the Gelugpa faith. The site is rich in Tibetan pageantry and covers 35 acres. Enjoy the fascinating Tibetan influenced art and architecture.

Qinghai Lake

The largest inland Salt lake in China, Qinghai Lake is abundant in bird life. The water shimmers on this massive stretch of water that has traditionally been viewed as the mid point between Mongolia and Tibet. The Grass lands which carpet the area are immense and only stop when the colossal mountains take over the landscape. No visit of the Silk Road is complete without a visit to Qinghai Lake.

Mengda Nature Reserve

Mengda Nature Reserve is 200 kilo0metres South East of Xining. The stunning scenery impresses and holds a deeper, more sacred value to the Muslim and Buddhist populace. The Nature Reserve is an Oasis with its rich deep forest and Blue and Green Lakes, contrasting with the often arid landscape of Qinghai Province.