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Summary

This 8-day journey through Qinghai Province offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. From the vast landscapes of Qinghai Lake to the remote monasteries and nomadic lifestyles, travelers will experience the untouched beauty and rich traditions of this lesser-known region of China.

Day 1: Arrival and Qinghai Lake

Arrive in Xining and travel to the south shore of Qinghai Lake. Experience the lush vegetation and meet nomadic herders.

Xining

The capital of Qinghai province, known for its rich cultural heritage and as a gateway to the Tibetan Plateau.

Tips

Be prepared for a scenic drive of about 90 minutes to Qinghai Lake.

Qinghai Lake

China's largest inland and saltwater lake, surrounded by lush vegetation and home to a thriving fish population.

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Tips

Visit the nomadic herders and learn about their traditional way of life.

Qinghai Lake Hotel

A hotel situated steps from the lake’s south shore, offering stunning views and a prime location for sun-soaking.

Tips

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team.

Day 2: Dredzong Monastery Exploration

Drive up the verdant hills surrounding Qinghai Lake to visit Dredzong Monastery, explore hermitages and meditation caves.

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Dredzong Monastery

Dredzong Monastery is a remote sanctuary nestled over 3,600 meters above sea level, offering a serene setting for spiritual reflection and exploration of ancient meditation caves and hermitages.

Tips

If you're feeling adventurous, consider embarking on a hike through the mountainside to further immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

Guesthouse

The charming guesthouses in the remote Chinese village offer a glimpse into the simple yet cozy accommodations, providing an authentic experience of local village life amidst breathtaking natural landscapes.

Tips

Rest assured that the accommodations have been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay in this remote setting.

Day 3: Exploring Maduo

Travel to Maduo, a small town at 4,350 meters. Explore the area and its plethora of prayer flags.

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Maduo

A small town located at lofty heights, known for its prayer flags that blanket the hillside.

Tips

Spend some time exploring this remote area.

Guesthouse

Charming guesthouses offering a glimpse into Chinese remote village life, with basic but cozy accommodations.

Tips

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team.

Day 4: Kyaring/Ngoring Lake

Travel to Kyaring/Ngoring Lake, spot wild donkeys and Tibetan antelopes, and hike along the hill between the two lakes.

Kyaring/Ngoring Lake

Lakes that feed the Yellow River, known for sightings of wild donkeys and Tibetan antelopes.

Tips

Have your camera ready for wildlife sightings.

Guesthouse

Charming guesthouses offering a glimpse into Chinese remote village life, with basic but cozy accommodations.

Tips

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team.

🏞️ Day 5: Amnye Machen

• Travel to the north side of Amnye Machen, meet the nomads, and stay in a simple guesthouse.

🏔️ Amnye Machen

Amnye Machen is home to the highest peak of the Amnye Machen mountain chain, known for its breathtaking snowcapped beauty and the nomadic inhabitants who dwell in the surrounding grasslands. The area is revered for its natural splendor and the warm hospitality of the local nomads.

Tips

Say hello to the nomads who inhabit the surrounding grasslands and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this remote region.

🏡 Guesthouse

The charming guesthouses in this area offer a glimpse into Chinese remote village life, providing basic yet cozy accommodations. While not luxurious, the guesthouses are comfortable and clean, allowing visitors to experience the simplicity and warmth of local hospitality.

Tips

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team, ensuring a genuine and authentic experience in the heart of the picturesque countryside.

🌄 Day 6: Qabqa Trading Town

• Travel to Qabqa, explore the trading town, visit markets, and stay in a guesthouse.

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🏘️ Qabqa

Qabqa, a trading town in Qinghai Province, is a hidden gem known for its vibrant markets and rich local culture. The town, nestled amidst rolling grasslands, offers a glimpse into the authentic rural life of China. Visitors can immerse themselves in the bustling markets, where a myriad of local goods and crafts are on display, providing a unique opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and gain insights into their traditional way of life.

Tips

While in Qabqa, take the time to wander through the markets, savoring the aromas of local delicacies and engaging in conversations with the welcoming residents. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the delectable regional cuisine, which reflects the area's diverse cultural influences.

🏡 Guesthouse

The guesthouses in Qabqa offer a serene retreat, allowing travelers to experience the charm of Chinese remote village life. Despite their simplicity, these accommodations exude a cozy and welcoming ambiance, providing a comfortable respite after a day of exploration. Nestled amidst picturesque surroundings, the guesthouses offer a glimpse into the authentic rural lifestyle, allowing guests to connect with the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the region's traditions.

Tips

Rest assured that the guesthouses have been carefully selected by the Remote Lands team, ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience. Embrace the opportunity to unwind in the tranquil setting, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere and savoring the genuine hospitality of the local hosts.

🌄 Day 7: Gui'de and Yellow River

• Travel to Gui'de, an ancient city with views of the Yellow River, and stay in a guesthouse.

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🏞️ Gui'de

Gui'de, an ancient city once part of the Ming Dynasty, is known for its incredible views of the Yellow River, often referred to as the cradle of Chinese civilization. The city exudes a sense of history and offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China.

Tips

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Yellow River, which holds immense historical and cultural significance in Chinese civilization.

🏡 Guesthouse

The charming guesthouses in Gui'de offer a unique opportunity to experience Chinese remote village life. While the accommodations are basic, they are cozy, comfortable, and clean, providing an authentic and immersive experience. The simplicity of the guesthouses adds to the allure of the journey through remote China, allowing travelers to connect with the local culture in a meaningful way.

Tips

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team, ensuring a genuine and enriching experience in the heart of Gui'de.

🌄 Day 8: Departure via Kumbum Monastery

Visit Kumbum Monastery, the birthplace of the reformer of the Gelukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism, before departing from Xining.

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🕌 Kumbum Monastery

Kumbum Monastery, also known as Ta'er Temple, is a sacred Tibetan Buddhist monastery with a history dating back to the 16th century. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate artwork, and serene surroundings, making it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural immersion.

Tips

Ensure you have enough time to explore the monastery before heading to the airport. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the daily rituals and interact with the friendly monks, who are known for their warm hospitality and willingness to share insights into their way of life.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 971 223 2357
📍   Address: China, Qinghai, Xining, Huangzhong District, 金堂巷2号 邮政编码 - 811600

🏙️ Xining

Xining, the capital of Qinghai province, is a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. As a gateway to the Tibetan Plateau, it offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region. From vibrant markets and ancient temples to picturesque natural landscapes, Xining invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment.

Tips

You will be transported to the airport in time for your onward journey. Before leaving, take a leisurely stroll through the bustling streets of Xining, savoring the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine and engaging in conversations with the welcoming locals, who are eager to share their stories and traditions.