Qinghai
· CN

Qinghai

Qinghai, China

Journey to the Roof of the World: Explore the Untamed Beauty of Qinghai Escape the ordinary and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Qinghai, China's "province of the blue lake". Nestled on the Tibetan Plateau, Qingha…

#Plateau#Tibetan culture#Qinghai Lake#Yushu#Qinghai-Tibet Railway
1/12
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Qinghai.

Top Hotels in Qinghai

Top Flights to Qinghai

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Qinghai.

Tours

Visit Qinghai Lake

Experience the largest saltwater lake in China, known for its stunning natural beauty and bird watching opportunities.

Shopping

Shopping at Xining Grand Bazaar

Discover local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Qinghai souvenirs at this bustling market.

Outdoor

Trekking Adventures in Amne Machin

Challenging treks around the Amne Machin mountain range, offering stunning views and cultural insights.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Qinghai.

Currency
¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan Renminbi
Population
6.1 million
Languages
Tibetan, Chinese, Salar, Mongolian

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Qinghai.

What people love

Qinghai, located in northwest China, is a picturesque region known for its stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural heritage. Here are some pros of traveling to Qinghai:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Qinghai is home to the stunning Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands. The landscapes in Qinghai are diverse, ranging from lush meadows to desolate deserts, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

  2. Tibetan Culture: Qinghai is home to a significant Tibetan population, and visitors can explore Tibetan monasteries, temples, and experience the rich Tibetan culture and traditions. The region offers a unique opportunity to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and witness colorful festivals and ceremonies.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Qinghai is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as trekking, hiking, horseback riding, and camping. The region's rugged terrain and pristine environment make it an ideal destination for adventure seekers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

  4. Wildlife Viewing: Qinghai is home to diverse wildlife, including rare species such as Tibetan antelope, wild yaks, and snow leopards. Visitors can embark on wildlife safaris or birdwatching tours to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

  5. Cuisine: Qinghai cuisine is a delightful blend of Han and Tibetan culinary influences, offering unique dishes such as yak meat dishes, butter tea, and tsampa (roasted barley flour). Foodies can indulge in local delicacies and savor the flavors of Qinghai's traditional cuisine.

  6. Cultural Heritage: Qinghai boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient relics, historical sites, and traditional architecture scattered throughout the region. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, Tibetan stupas, and museums to learn about Qinghai's fascinating history and heritage.

Overall, traveling to Qinghai offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, culture, and adventure, making it a memorable destination for travelers seeking an authentic Chinese experience.

What to know

When considering travel to Qinghai, China, it's important to weigh both the pros and cons. Here are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

  1. Altitude: Qinghai is situated on the Tibetan Plateau, with high altitudes that can cause altitude sickness for visitors not acclimated to such elevations. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and nausea.

  2. Weather Conditions: The weather in Qinghai can be harsh and unpredictable, with cold temperatures, especially in winter. The region can also experience strong winds and sudden weather changes.

  3. Remoteness and Accessibility: Qinghai is a remote area with limited transportation options. Traveling within the province can be challenging, with long distances between attractions and limited public transportation.

  4. Infrastructure: While infrastructure is improving, some areas of Qinghai may still lack modern amenities and facilities, which can affect comfort and convenience during travel.

  5. Language Barrier: Mandarin is the official language, but in rural areas, local dialects and Tibetan are commonly spoken. This can pose communication challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.

  6. Limited Tourist Services: The region is less developed in terms of tourism compared to other parts of China, which means fewer accommodation options, restaurants, and English-speaking guides or services.

  7. Cultural Sensitivity: Qinghai has a diverse population, including Tibetan and Muslim communities. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, which may be unfamiliar to those from different cultural backgrounds.

  8. Health and Safety Concerns: Access to medical facilities can be limited in remote areas, which is a consideration for travelers with health issues. Additionally, while generally safe, travelers should always exercise standard precautions regarding personal safety and health.

These factors can affect the travel experience, so it's important to prepare accordingly if planning a trip to Qinghai.

Qinghai, located in the northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau in China, has a rich and complex history that spans several millennia. The following is a detailed history of Qinghai, highlighting significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Ancient and Early History

  • Prehistoric Times: Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in Qinghai dating back to the Paleolithic era. Various Neolithic cultures developed in the region, such as the Majiayao culture, which is known for its painted pottery.

  • Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE): During the Han Dynasty, the area was part of the Xihai Jun (Western Sea Commandery). The Han expanded into the region to counteract the Xiongnu nomads.

Middle Ages

  • Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE): The region played a strategic role during the Tang Dynasty. The Tang established the Anxi Protectorate to manage territories in the western regions, including parts of present-day Qinghai.

  • Tibetan Empire: From the 7th to the 9th century, the Tibetan Empire controlled much of the region, leading to significant Tibetan cultural and religious influences that continue to this day.

Yuan and Ming Dynasties

  • Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368): Under the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty, Qinghai was incorporated into the empire. The area became an important corridor for trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road.

  • Ming Dynasty (1368–1644): During the Ming period, Qinghai remained a frontier region, with limited direct control from the central government. The Ming established various military garrisons to maintain influence over the region.

Qing Dynasty (1644–1912)

  • Consolidation and Control: The Qing Dynasty worked to consolidate control over Qinghai. In the 18th century, the Dzungar Mongols were defeated, and the region saw increased Han Chinese migration and influence.

  • Religious and Cultural Development: Qinghai became an important center for Tibetan Buddhism. The Kumbum Monastery, founded in 1583, is one of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the region.

20th Century

  • Republic of China (1912–1949): During the early 20th century, Qinghai was under the control of local warlords, most notably Ma Bufang, who governed the region with relative autonomy.

  • People's Republic of China (1949–present): After the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Qinghai was incorporated as a province. The government undertook various development projects, including infrastructure and modernization efforts.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Ma Bufang: A prominent Chinese Muslim warlord who controlled Qinghai during the early 20th century. He played a significant role in the politics of northwest China.

  • Tsongkhapa (1357–1419): A Tibetan Buddhist scholar and founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. He was born in the area that is now part of Qinghai.

Important Landmarks

  • Kumbum Monastery (Ta'er Monastery): Located near Xining, the capital of Qinghai, this monastery is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism and a key pilgrimage site.

  • Qinghai Lake: The largest saltwater lake in China, Qinghai Lake is a significant ecological and cultural landmark in the region.

  • Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: Often referred to as the "Roof of the World," the plateau is a defining geographical feature of the region, with significant ecological and cultural importance.

Modern Developments

In recent decades, Qinghai has seen significant economic development, driven by natural resource extraction, infrastructure projects, and tourism. The province remains a crucial area for China's ecological conservation efforts, particularly concerning the Tibetan Plateau's unique environment.

Qinghai's diverse cultural heritage, natural beauty, and strategic location continue to play an important role in its development and significance within China.