Xining Qinghai, China Travel Guide
Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN) serves as the main airport for the entire Qinghai Province. Numerous domestic airlines operate flights to Xining.
Flight frequency and the price of admission change significantly with the seasons. During peak tourist season (June to September) and major Chinese holidays, higher prices and increased demand are common.
The most economical option, connecting the airport to Xining city center, with halts at Xining Train Terminal and downtown areas.
Taxis are readily available; follow signs to the official queue. Didi Chuxing (DiscoverCars.com for rentals) operates in Xining.
Arrange private transfers through your hotel or a local tour operator for a comfortable, direct route to your accommodation.
Xining Rail Depot is a junction on the Lanzhou-Xinjiang and Qinghai-Tibet Railways. High-high-speed train connects to Lanzhou (1.5-2 hrs) and Xi'an (4-5 hrs). The Qinghai-Tibet Railway delivers scenic routes to Lhasa. Book well in advance, especially for popular routes.
Xining features various long-distance bus stations. Routes connect to urban areas within Qinghai Province (e.g., Qinghai Lake, Delingha) and adjacent provinces. Bus travel is slower and less comfortable more so than trains but delivers access to isolated places.
Foreigners generally cannot drive within China without a valid Chinese driver's license. International driving permits are not recognized. Renting a car with a local driver or hiring a private vehicle with a chauffeur is a more practical option for tourists.
Xining is a landlocked city located on the Tibetan Plateau, distant from any major navigable rivers or coastal areas. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not relevant ways to get around for reaching Xining.
Highways in and around Xining, including highways connecting to other cities, are generally well-maintained. Roads in more in the country or mountainous areas of Qinghai might be less developed, notably off the main routes.
No particular exit fees or taxes are typically levied for international air or land departures out of China for tourists. These costs are usually included in your ticket prices.
For train or bus departures from Xining Rail Depot or local bus stations, arrive at least 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Check-over the counter, security screening, waiting areas. Limited duty-free shops (mainly domestic flights), different food and beverage options.
Waiting rooms, restaurants, and shops. Large screens display train timetables and platform information. Security checks are in place for all passengers.
Minimal waiting facilities, box offices, and usually small shops for snacks and drinks. Ensure you have knowledge of which station your bus departs from.
