Qinghaihu National Park Travel Guide

Explore Qinghaihu National Park with our comprehensive tour guide, including places to visit, hiking routes, activities, where to stay, local culture, and more!


Introduction to Qinghaihu National Park

Qinghaihu National Park is a protected area in the Qinghai province of Northwest China. It is situated in the northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau and covers an area of over 10,000 square kilometers. The park is home to Qinghai Lake, which is the largest saltwater lake in China and a significant part of the ecosystem.

The natural beauty of the park is awe-inspiring. The rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, and vast grasslands are a treat for the eyes, and the chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city make it an outstanding destination for nature lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Qinghaihu National Park

There are many unique and beautiful places to visit in Qinghaihu National Park, from cultural attractions to natural wonders. We’ve listed some of the top spots below:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Qinghai Lake Museum is a popular destination for visitors to the park. It is an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of the region, including the various ethnic groups that live in the surrounding areas.
  • The Ta’er Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located at the foot of a mountain about 25 km from Xining. It is one of the most important and beautiful monasteries in China, with a history dating back to the 14th century.

Natural Attractions of Qinghaihu National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Qinghai Lake is the centerpiece of the park and is an essential part of the ecosystem. Visitors can take boat trips around the lake or go hiking along the shore to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Bird Island, located on Qinghai Lake, is a popular destination for bird watchers. The island is home to over 100 species of birds, including the bar-headed goose, a migratory bird that flies over the Himalayas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qinghaihu National Park

There are many beautiful hiking and biking trails in Qinghaihu National Park. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Kumbum Monastery to Qutan Monastery: This hike is about 20 km long and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It takes about 6-7 hours to complete the hike, and visitors can stop at various landmarks along the way.
  • Qinghai Lake Cycling Tour: This bike tour is one of the most popular ways to experience the lake. It is a 180 km journey around the lake that takes about three days to complete.

Best Things to Do in Qinghaihu National Park: Activities and Tours

There are many fun and exciting things to do in Qinghaihu National Park. Below are some of the best activities and tours to check out:

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is an excellent way to experience the vast grasslands of the park. There are several horseback riding tours available at the park, ranging from an hour to several days.
  • Tibetan Plateau Culture Tour: This tour takes visitors through the different ethnic groups that live in the area, including the Tibetans, the Mongolians, and the Hui.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qinghaihu National Park

If you’re looking to spend a week in Qinghaihu National Park, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Xining and the Ta’er Monastery
2 Visit Qinghai Lake and Bird Island
3 Hike to Riyue Mountain and Qinghai Lake Scenic Spot
4 Go horseback riding on the grasslands
5 Visit the Dulan International Hunting Ground
6 Take a Culture Tour of the Tibetan Plateau
7 Biking Tour around Qinghai Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Qinghaihu National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Yak Meat: Yak meat is a staple food in the region and is served in many local dishes, including hotpot and stir-fries.
  • Tibetan Butter Tea: This traditional tea is made with yak butter and is a typical drink in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Chang: Chang is a local Tibetan alcoholic beverage that is made from barley or wheat. It is a mild beer with a slightly sour taste.
  • Su You Bing: This local pastry is made with butter and flour and is a popular snack.

Where to Stay in Qinghaihu National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many different types of accommodations available in Qinghaihu National Park, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

  • InterContinental Qinghai Lake Resort: This luxury hotel is located on the shores of Qinghai Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Qinghai Lake Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is located near Qinghai Lake and is an excellent choice for travelers on a budget.
  • Shiner Guesthouse: This small guesthouse is located in the town of Shiner and is a great choice for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Qinghaihu National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Qinghaihu National Park, don’t forget to pick up some local souvenirs and products to bring home, such as:

  • Thangka Paintings: These traditional Tibetan paintings are usually created on silk or cotton and are a perfect souvenir to commemorate your visit to the region.
  • Tibetan Handicrafts: There are many unique and beautiful handicrafts available in the region, including hand-woven carpets, jewelry, and baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Qinghaihu National Park

The local culture of Qinghaihu National Park is influenced by the different ethnic groups that live in the area, including the Tibetans, Mongolians, and Hui. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people.

Best Time to Visit Qinghaihu National Park

The best time to visit Qinghaihu National Park is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry. The park is open year-round, but some attractions may be closed during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qinghaihu National Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Pack warm clothing, even during the summer months.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of local people without permission.
  • Leave trash on the trails or in the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Qinghaihu National Park

Qinghaihu National Park is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Use caution when hiking or biking on the trails.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness if traveling to high-altitude areas.

Health in Qinghaihu National Park

Visitors to Qinghaihu National Park should be mindful of the high altitude and be prepared for the following:

  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  • Take precautions to prevent altitude sickness.

Getting to Qinghaihu National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Qinghaihu National Park

  • Xining Caojiabao International Airport is the closest airport to Qinghaihu National Park, located about 80 km away.

Bus Stations Near Qinghaihu National Park

  • The Xining Bus Station is the primary bus station in the area and offers bus routes to most parts of the province.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also hire a car or a taxi to reach the park.

How to Get Around in Qinghaihu National Park

The best way to get around Qinghaihu National Park is by car, taxi, or bus. Biking and hiking are also popular methods of transportation in the park.

Where to Go Next from Qinghaihu National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many exciting destinations and excursions near Qinghaihu National Park. Some of the most popular destinations include:

  • Kumbum Monastery, located about 25 km from Xining
  • Hoh Xil Nature Reserve, located to the north of the park
  • Tongren, a small town known for its traditional Tibetan arts and crafts

Conclusion

Qinghaihu National Park is a stunning destination that offers visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of China. Whether you’re looking to hike through the grasslands, bike around the lake, or learn about local culture and customs, there’s something for everyone in Qinghaihu National Park.