Qinghai Province, China - Places to visit & Best time to go

Geographical position and Climate of Qinghai

Qinghai Province, located in the northeastern part of the Tibetan Plateau, is a landlocked area in the northwest of China. It is bordered by Gansu to the northeast, Sichuan to the southeast, and Xinjiang to the northwest, sharing a border with the Tibet Autonomous Region to the south. Elevation varies from about 2000 to 5000 meters above sea level, with some peaks surpassing that range.

Qinghai has a cold semi-arid to continental climate, characterized by:

High Altitude: Due to its elevation on the Tibetan Plateau, the region experiences thin air and intense sunlight.
Temperature Variations: The temperature can vary widely between daytime and nighttime.
Rainfall: Most of Qinghai’s limited rainfall occurs during the summer months.
Seasons:
- Spring: Often short with rapid transition from cold to warm weather.
- Summer: Relatively mild but with most of the annual precipitation.
- Autumn: Generally brief, with temperatures dropping quickly.
- Winter: Long and cold, with minimal snowfall due to the dry climate.

The geographical position and high altitude significantly influence the province’s climate, making it one of the most pristine environments in China.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Qinghai Province is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is relatively mild and the landscape is at its most vibrant, with blooming flowers and lush grasslands. Here’s a monthly breakdown:

June: The start of the tourist season with pleasant temperatures and the beginning of the rainy season, which brings out the greenery.
July and August: These are the warmest months, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region’s natural beauty. It’s also the time for various local festivals.
September: The end of the rainy season and the onset of autumn make this month particularly beautiful with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Visiting during these months allows you to experience Qinghai’s cultural events, enjoy its natural parks, and explore attractions like Qinghai Lake and the Chaka Salt Lake without the harsh cold that characterizes other times of the year.

Travel to Qinghai

Getting to Qinghai Province is relatively straightforward, with several options available depending on your starting point and preferences:

By Air:

Xining Caojiabao Airport (XNN): The primary airport in Qinghai, located near the provincial capital of Xining. It offers flights to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an, as well as some international destinations.

With Train:

Qinghai-Tibet Railway: This remarkable feat of engineering connects Xining to Lhasa and offers an unforgettable journey across the plateau with stunning scenery.
High-Speed Rail: High-speed trains connect Xining with other major cities in China, such as Lanzhou, Xi’an, and further afield.

By Road:

Long-Distance Buses: There are long-distance bus services from neighboring provinces like Gansu, Sichuan, and others.
Self-Drive: Adventurous travelers might choose to drive themselves. The roads are generally in good condition, but be prepared for high altitudes and long distances between service areas.

By Bus or Taxi within Qinghai:

Once in Qinghai, you can use local buses or taxis to get around urban areas or hire a car with a driver for more remote destinations.

It’s important to plan your trip carefully, especially if you intend to visit remote areas or travel during peak tourist seasons. Always check the latest travel advisories and transportation schedules.

Places to visit in Qinghai

Important Information

Capital – Xining

Largest City – Xining

Territory – 720,000 km²

Population – 5,923,957

Time Zone – UTC+8 (CST)