4 Days Qinghai Tour: Xining Highlights & Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake Nature Beauty

Xining (西宁), the capital of Qinghai Province, is nestled in eastern Qinghai Province. It is also located in the northeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It stands as the eastern gateway to the plateau. A vital link on the ancient Silk Road and Tang-Fan Road, Xining's historical significance is profound. Its name, meaning "peaceful in the western frontier", was bestowed during the Northern Song Dynasty. Renowned for its pleasant summers, averaging 17-19°C, Xining is aptly called the "Summer Capital of China". The city is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders, including the iconic Kumbum Monastery (Ta’er Monastery) and the breathtaking Qinghai Lake.

Ni Hao! Welcome to Xining! Upon arrival at the airport/train station in Xining, your guide and driver will meet you at the exit and escort you to the downtown area in Xining City. The rest of today is free on your own to explore the city.

Xining Arrival Ideas (for your reference):

The main airport in Xining is Xining Caojiabao International Airport (XNN), located about 30 km from downtown Xining. It is well-connected by domestic flights to major cities across China, such as Beijing (2.5 to 3 hours), Xi'an (1.5 hours), Shanghai (3.5 hours), Urumqi (2.5 hours), Chengdu (1.5 to 2 hours), Chongqing (2 hours), Guangzhou (3.5 to 4 hours), Shenzhen (3.5 to 4 hours), Lhasa (2 hours), Kunming (2.5 hours). Xining also has Xining Railway Station, with high-speed trains linking the city to destinations like Xi’an (4-5 hours), Lanzhou (1-1.5 hours), Zhangye (1.5-2 hours), Dunhuang (6 hours), Beijing/Shanghai (10 hours), Chengdu (7-8 hours), Chongqing (8-9 hours), and more.

Free Time in Xining (explore on your own):

There are several famous night markets in downtown Xining where you can experience the lively atmosphere of local street life. If you're interested, try some local delicacies like yogurt, hand-pulled mutton, egg and milk rice wine, and lamb skewers.

This morning, you'll be escorted from downtown Xining to Qinghai Lake (about 145 km, 2.5-3 hours).

Qinghai Lake (青海湖), sitting at an elevation of 3,194 meters above sea level, is China’s largest inland saltwater lake, covering over 4,400 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, including the snow-capped Kunlun Mountains to the south and the Qilian Mountains to the north. The landscape transitions from vast, flat grasslands at the foot of the mountains to the lakeshore. In summer, golden fields of canola flowers contrast beautifully with the lake’s boundless blue waters. Wildflowers dot the grasslands, and countless cattle and sheep graze like pearls scattered across a majestic yet serene painting. National Geographic China has named Qinghai Lake "China's most beautiful lake", and it's listed as one of the "55 must-see places in a lifetime". With a comfortable summer average temperature of 15°C, it is a popular retreat and photography destination.

As you drive, you'll pass through vibrant rapeseed fields around the lake, a sea of yellow flowers stretching across the horizon - an unforgettable display of earthly beauty. (Best Time to Visit: July to August, when the weather is pleasant, and the rapeseed flowers and grasslands are in full bloom.)

Upon arrival, you will explore the Erlangjian Scenic Area (二郎剑景区), Qinghai Lake's crown jewel. Be captivated by the panoramic views of the vast, turquoise lake. On clear days, enjoy views of distant snow-capped mountains. Discover the rich cultural heritage of the area, including the awe-inspiring sacrificial altar, vibrant prayer flags, the enigmatic statue of the Queen Mother of the West, the auspicious symbols, and a serene Buddha statue.

Optional Activities - self-pay on your own: To fully immerse in the beauty of the expansive lake, consider taking a cruise to experience Qinghai Lake in comfort. Choose from the High-Speed Cruise (25-minute single trip for CNY140) or the Catamaran Cruise (50-minute round trip for CNY180). Also, you can go horseback riding or enjoy biking around the lake.

After exploring Erlangjian Scenic Area, continue your trip westward along the picturesque shores of Qinghai Lake. The drive to Chaka Town (3,100 meters) is about 153km, taking about 2.5 hours. This charming town is renowned for the stunning Chaka Salt Lake it boasts. Spend the night in Chaka Town.

In this morning, you will be transferred from Chaka Town to Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖, 4km, 10 minutes’drive).

“Chaka" is a Tibetan word meaning "salt lake". As a salt lake, it is one of the birthplaces of China's salt culture. Embedded amidst snow-kissed peaks and verdant meadows, Chaka is a brine lake, a harmonious blend of liquid and solid. Its waters, a shimmering expanse of blue, are interspersed with crystalline salt flats. The lake's beauty is enhanced by the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the gentle caress of surrounding grasslands. It is a natural masterpiece, adorned with salt formations of exquisite shapes.

You will visit the "Mirror of the Sky" Scenic Area, a stunning destination known for its breathtaking reflections. Start your journey by ascending the Observation Tower, where you can take in a full panoramic view of Chaka Salt Lake. Next, explore the Salt Sculpture Group, the largest outdoor sculpture display in the world, showcasing the rich history and culture of Chaka. For an even more immersive experience, hop on the sightseeing train that takes you deep into the lake’s heart, away from the crowds. From there, you can leisurely walk back toward the entrance, a stroll that takes about 40 minutes. If you prefer not to walk, you can return by train (additional cost).

As you walk, visit the Qianying Muxue Area, where the lake and the distant snow-capped mountains blend into a breathtaking natural scene. Along the way, stop for photos at the Tianlu Yingchen Station and Tianji Xinyue Station, where you can capture iconic images with signs like “I Love Chaka” and “Love Crystals”.

Useful Travel Tips:

• To experience the salt lake up close, you can wear shoe covers(10 CNY extra fee) and walk on the lake surface, capturing reflections that resemble a "mirror of the sky," as if you're walking among the clouds.
• Riding the sightseeing trainoffers stunning views of endless white sea salt sands under the blue sky, with the lake reflecting the sky above.
• Every corner of Chaka Salt Lake is perfect for photography. Some of the top spots include Romantic Tianjing, Qianying Muxue, the Water Train, and areas near the salt sculptures. The Romantic Tianjing area is especially picturesque with photo props like crystal bubble chairs, a crystal boat, the famous swing, heart-shaped decorations, a moon-shaped frame, and the red piano sculpture "Chaka’s Melody".
• For spectacular shots of thesunrise or sunset over Chaka Salt Lake, head to the salt sculpture area or Chaka Xia Station for beautiful views.

After exploring Chaka Lake, you’ll have return to Xining, covering about 300km over 3.5 to 4 hours. You will accommodate in the downtown area of Xining for the night.

After breakfast, you will have great time exploring Xining city’s top attractions. The first stop is to Kumbum Monastery, also known as Ta’er Monastery (塔尔寺), located about 30km from the downtown are (about 40 minutes’ drive). As one of the six grand monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, it holds immense significance as the most important Buddhist center in Qinghai. Established in 1577, Ta'er Monastery is built around the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the revered founder of the Gelugpa sect. The monastery is renowned for its three artistic wonders: exquisite butter sculptures, vibrant murals, and intricate appliqué Thangka, all showcasing the unique artistry of Tibetan Buddhism.

During your visit, you'll be impressed by the blend of Tibetan and traditional Chinese architectural styles. You'll admire magnificent Buddha stupas, wall paintings, and prayer wheels, while exploring its stunning halls one by one. These include the Eight-Treasure Auspicious Pagoda, Small Golden-Roofed Hall, Longevity Hall, Kalachakra Pagoda, Great Scripture Hall, Great Golden-Roofed Hall, Maitreya Buddha Hall, Nine-Room Hall, Kalachakra Scripture College, Butter Sculpture Hall, and the Scripture Library - each offering a glimpse into the monastery's spiritual depth and artistic heritage.

After that, get back to Xining downtown for a visit to Museum of China Tibetan Medicine Culture. The Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum offers a deep dive into Tibetan history and culture. Here, you can find a 618-meter-long Tangka painting, considered an encyclopedia of Tibetan culture. This massive scroll covers a wide range of topics, including history, religion, medicine, art, astronomy, geography, and daily customs. Led by Master Laje, over 400 talented artists from Qinghai, Tibet, Gansu, Sichuan, and Yunnan provinces collaborated for 27 years to create this masterpiece. Its most famous exhibit is a massive 618-meter Tangka painting that depicts various aspects of Tibetan life. Another highlight is the exhibition showcasing the Silk Road's influence on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, featuring a vast collection of artifacts. Visitors can also explore Tibetan art, architecture, and daily life.

Next, you’ll be escorted to Dongguan Mosque, one of the largest mosques in China. Built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty, this historic mosque has been a spiritual center for the Muslim Hui community for over 600 years. Its striking architecture, featuring green-tiled domes, and towering minarets, beautifully complements Xining’s skyline. The blend of Islamic calligraphy with traditional Chinese motifs creates a serene atmosphere. Inside, you'll gain insight into the life and traditions of the Hui and witness locals reciting their prayers.

After the tour, it is time to end your unforgettable 4-day Qinghai tour. Your guide and driver will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport or train station for your departure.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in China and other destinations in Asia. Have a safe journey home!