D1: Ta’er Monastery – Riyue Mountain – Qinghai Lake
Your private guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Xining in the morning and begin your 2-day Qinghai Lake tour.
Your first stop is Ta’er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery), one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Qinghai Province. It is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is also known as Kumbum, derived from the Tibetan name “Gönpa,” and is associated with the meaning of “one hundred thousand Buddha images.” Take time to explore its impressive halls, courtyards, murals, sculptures, and other examples of Tibetan Buddhist art.
After visiting the monastery, drive toward Riyue Mountain (Sun and Moon Mountain), a historic mountain pass located along the ancient route connecting the agricultural areas of central China with the Tibetan Plateau. Stop at the Sun Pavilion and Moon Pavilion to enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and learn about the historical and cultural significance of this important route.
Continue your journey to Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake. Surrounded by grasslands and snow-capped mountains, the lake is known for its vast blue waters and spectacular plateau scenery. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel near Qinghai Lake and enjoy the peaceful landscape.
Overnight near Qinghai Lake.
D2: Bird Island – Qinghai Lake – Xining (L)
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day excursion around Qinghai Lake, taking in its spectacular combination of blue water, grasslands, mountains, and open plateau landscapes.
If traveling during the appropriate season, visit Bird Island, located on the western side of Qinghai Lake. The area is an important habitat and breeding ground for migratory and resident birds, making it particularly attractive to bird-watchers and nature lovers. In spring and early summer, you may have the opportunity to see a variety of birds, including swans, wild geese, gulls, herons, and other migratory species.
Take some time to enjoy the natural scenery around the lake and experience the unique landscape of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. After the sightseeing, have lunch and begin the drive back to Xining.
Upon arrival in Xining, your guide and driver will drop you off at your hotel or another location in the city.
End of your 2-day Ta’er Monastery and Qinghai Lake tour.