China
Qinghai's varied terrain creates opportunities for exhilarating outdoor activities.
Various trekking routes, from easy day hikes to multi-day strenuous treks (needs local guides).
Moderate hiking trails with scenic views of Danxia landforms and reservoir.
Easy walking trails around scenic areas. Flat but long distances along perimeter. Altitude awareness needed for all hikes.
All outdoor activity in Qinghai needs careful acclimatization due to high altitude. Even moderate activity may feel strenuous. Consult a doctor about altitude sickness prevention.
Connect with Qinghai's rich ethnic cultures through unique experiences.
Observing prayer ceremonies at Kumbum Monastery or other Tibetan Buddhist monasteries forms a powerful cultural experience. Be respectful, no photography inside.
Tu Nationality Cultural Park in Huzhu: see traditional dances, music, customs. Tibetan guesthouses/villages: informal performances (peak season).
Butter Lamp Festival (Monlam Chenmo) at Kumbum Monastery (15th day of first lunar month, around CNY) features elaborate butter sculptures. Hui festivals like Eid al-Fitr offer special feasts.
Xining offers limited entertainment options, mainly local. Live music venues limited to local bars. Qinghai Grand Theatre hosts opera, ballet, Chinese performances. Small number of nightclubs/KTV bars cater locally. Mojiajie Food Street active late.
High-end spa/wellness centers limited to luxury hotels in Xining. Traditional Chinese massage parlors available. Hot springs not prominent. Organized yoga/meditation retreats very limited or non-existent. Tibetan medicine can be learned about at Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum.
Traditional markets: Mojiajie (food, some products), Dongguan Mosque area (Hui goods, spices, clothing), Xining General Merchandise Building, local wet markets. Artisan workshops in Kumbum/Tongren for thangkas, silverwork.
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts in Qinghai's markets.
Kumbum Monastery Area: Shops sell Buddhist artifacts, thangkas, prayer beads, Tibetan jewelry. Tongren (Rebkong): Famous for Thangka painting school, visit workshops.
Tibetan Handicrafts (thangkas, prayer wheels, jewelry, clothing), Qingke (Highland Barley) Products (flour, cakes), Yak Products (jerky, yogurt, wool), Salt Sculptures (Chaka Salt Lake), Hui Muslim Goods (spices, clothing, baked goods).
Limited. Some luxury brands might be found in major department stores or hotel arcades in Xining, but not extensively. Boutique shopping is not a prominent feature.
Support local artisans directly. Avoid counterfeits. Never purchase products made from endangered or protected wildlife, this is illegal and harmful.
Common in markets, but do so respectfully and politely. Prices for fixed-price items in stores generally not negotiable.
Ship large items from major post offices in Xining. Declare all items. Be aware of restrictions on cultural relics, which need official documentation for export, and certain animal products.
Prepare for Qinghai's diverse outdoor conditions with appropriate gear.
Nalgene Wide Mouth or Hydro Flask for reusable hydration.
Black Diamond or Leki for stability on uneven terrain, strain reduction.
Consult your doctor for Diamox or other preventative medication if altitude sickness is a concern.
Find and book a wide range of activities and experiences in Qinghai. Explore on GetYourGuide
Discover hiking, cycling, and scenic tours adapted for Qinghai's unique landscapes. View Outdoor Tours
Immerse yourself in local traditions with curated cultural tours. Find Cultural Immersions
Always prioritize safety during outdoor activities. Inform someone of your plans, carry emergency supplies, and be aware of weather changes.
