Qinghai China Travel Guide
Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN) is Qinghai's main air gateway, located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of Xining city center.
Peak season (July-August) sees increased flight frequency to Xining, with greater prices. Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) offer more reasonable prices. Low season (November-April) has fewer flights but cheaper prices.
Use comparing flight prices sites like Skyscanner or subscription services like Dollar Flight Club to find excellent prices.
A worldwide airfare comparison site that helps find the best airfare options for your route to Xining.
A service that sends advisories for exceptionally low flight prices, potentially economizing on long-haul journeys.
A reliable platform for booking domestic flights within China, hotels, and train tickets.
Xining Train Station is a primary hub and the starting point of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, referred to as the world's highest railway.
Xining Long-Distance Bus Station serves as the main hub for bus travel within Qinghai and to neighboring provinces. Regular services link Xining to towns around Qinghai Lake and other county towns.
Foreign tourists face challenges with self-driving inside China; an International Driving Permit (IDP) alone does not grant driving privileges. OF Chinese origin driver's license is good, which is often complex for short visits.
Major highways and provincial roads in Qinghai are generally well-maintained. Rural roads in mountainous areas can be unpaved or rough, and may face seasonal closures owing to snowfall.
Xining's public bus network is the main technique for city transit. Xining currently does not have a metro or tram system. Extensive bus routes cover the city and its suburbs.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient point-to-point transport. Licensed taxis in Xining are typically green or blue, with a "TAXI" sign and meter.
Xining city center, Mojiajie (food street), Dongguan Mosque, and Xinning Plaza are walkable. Monasteries like Kumbum are best explored on foot.
Bicycle sharing apps exist in Xining (challenging for foreigners). Bicycles are for hire around Qinghai Lake, with a devoted cycling path.
Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs is limited. Public transport is generally not wheelchair accessible.
Many local tour operators in Xining offer guided day trips or multi-day tours to main sights such as Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, and Kumbum Monastery. These present a convenient way of exploring the region.
Within large scenic areas, specialized vehicles often transport visitors. For example, electric golf carts or small trains operate at Chaka Salt Loch or Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area.
Qinghai is an inland province; sea travel does not apply.
While the Yellow River flows through eastern Qinghai, river getting around for tourists does not serve as a main travel method.
Scenic boat trips may be available in specific areas (e.g., Qinghai Lake), but they aren't for inter-transportation in the city.
For navigating Xining, Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Ditu) apps are highly beneficial. They offer real-time bus information and route planning.
