Things to do in Qinghai Lake
Discover the best attractions and experiences Qinghai Lake has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover ancient sites and historic landmarks that reveal Qinghai’s diverse cultural heritage.
Majiayao Archaeological Site
A key Neolithic site near Ledu County, notable for its distinctive painted pottery and early village life.
Ta'er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery)
A historic Tibetan Buddhist monastery near Xining, renowned for its architecture and centuries of religious art.
Museums
Learn about the region’s natural history, archaeology and ethnic cultures through its museums.
Qinghai Provincial Museum
A regional museum showcasing archaeology, natural history and Tibetan artifacts.
Xining Museum
City museum presenting Qinghai's history and diverse ethnic cultures.
Religious Monuments
Qinghai hosts a rich tapestry of Buddhist and Islamic sacred sites.
Ta'er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery)
A major Tibetan Buddhist monastery near Xining, renowned for its tiered architecture and murals.
Xining Grand Mosque
The largest mosque in northwest China, reflecting the region’s long Islamic heritage.
National & Theme Parks
Protective reserves and scenic parks showcase the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Qinghai Lake Scenic Area
Expansive lake shores and grasslands ideal for cycling, birdwatching and sunsets.
Qinghai Lake National Nature Reserve
Protection zone around the lake preserving its unique ecosystem and migratory birds.
Bird Island on Qinghai Lake
A renowned birdwatching spot on the lake’s eastern shore during migration season.
Neighborhoods
Explore neighborhoods that reveal daily life and local culture.
Xining Old Town
Historic core of Qinghai’s capital, with markets, traditional architecture and cafes.
Haidong Grassland Villages
Pastoral settlements on the plateau offering glimpses of nomadic life.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly experiences around Qinghai Lake.
Sunrise at Qinghai Lake
Watch the first light paint the lake in soft hues, a peaceful start to the day.
Bird watching along the lake shore
Seasonal migrations bring a colorful variety of waterfowl to the lake.
Stroll along the Qinghai Lake shoreline
Take a relaxed walk and enjoy expansive views.
Gastronomy
Taste Qinghai’s distinctive flavors influenced by Tibetan and Mongol cuisines.
Yak butter tea
A traditional, creamy tea common in plateau communities.
Qinghai beef hotpot
A hearty dish featuring local meats and aromatic spices.
Lamb skewers (yangrou chuan) with cumin
Smoky grilled skewers popular at night markets.
Nightlife
Evenings offer markets, music and local performances.
Night markets in Xining
Stall-lined streets offering snacks, crafts and a lively atmosphere.
Tibetan music performances in tourist hubs
Live traditional songs and dances reflecting plateau culture.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and regional arts.
Tibetan folk dance shows
Vibrant dances performed by local troupes in cultural venues.
Nomad storytelling and puppet shows
Evening arts that share legends of the plateau.
Sports
Outdoor activities take advantage of the lake's vast flats and high-altitude landscapes.
Cycling around Qinghai Lake
A panoramic circuit along the lake’s shoreline.
Horseback riding on pasture trails
Sunlit rides across grasslands with mountain views.
Hiking on plateau trails
Easy to challenging trails that reveal alpine scenery.
Off the Track
Get off the beaten path with immersive experiences.
Stay with a Tibetan nomad family
Learn daily life, herding customs and local hospitality.
Photography trek along the lake at sunrise
Capture misty reflections and wildlife along Qinghai Lake.