Xining is the capital of Qinghai province in central China, by the Tibetan Plateau. It's known for the Xining Dongguan Grand Mosque, blending Chinese and Islamic styles, and the Tulou Temple, built into mountainside caves. To the north, the Tibetan Medicine and Culture Museum displays traditional artifacts. Nearby are the sprawling Ta’er Monastery (Kumbum Monastery) and the vast Qinghai Lake, rich in birdlife.

Top Attractions:

1. Kumbum Monastery (Ta'er Temple): Visit Kumbum Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore its ancient halls, temples, and stupas, and admire its exquisite Tibetan architecture and artwork.
2. Qinghai Lake: Explore Qinghai Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy scenic drives along the lake shore, visit bird-watching sites, and admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and grasslands.
3. Dongguan Mosque: Visit Dongguan Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Northwest China. Admire its traditional Chinese architectural style with Islamic influences, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Muslim quarter.
4. Tibetan Plateau Wildlife Zoo: Explore the Tibetan Plateau Wildlife Zoo, home to a variety of wildlife species native to the Tibetan Plateau region. See animals such as Tibetan antelope, yaks, snow leopards, and Tibetan mastiffs in their natural habitats.
5. Nanchan Temple (Southern Temple): Visit Nanchan Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple located in the southern suburbs of Xining. Explore its historic halls, pagodas, and courtyards, and admire its beautiful Tibetan and Han Chinese architectural features.
6. Menyuan Rape Flower Field: Visit Menyuan County during the blooming season (late spring to early summer) to witness the spectacular sea of yellow rapeseed flowers covering the countryside. Take scenic drives or hikes through the flower fields and capture stunning photographs.
7. Dabuchai Waterfall: Hike to Dabuchai Waterfall, located in the Dongxiang Autonomous County near Xining. Enjoy the picturesque scenery along the hiking trail, and relax by the cascading waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation.

Things to Do:

1. Tibetan Culture Experience: Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture by participating in traditional activities such as making Tibetan butter sculptures, learning Tibetan calligraphy, and attending Tibetan dance and music performances.
2. Taste Qinghai Cuisine: Sample local Qinghai cuisine, which features hearty dishes made from yak meat, barley, and dairy products. Try specialties such as yak meat hotpot, hand-pulled noodles, and Tibetan-style momos (dumplings).
3. Visit the Tibetan Medicine Museum: Explore the Tibetan Medicine Museum in Xining to learn about the history and practice of Tibetan medicine. Discover medicinal herbs, traditional remedies, and healing practices used by Tibetan doctors for centuries.
4. Hike or Horse Trek in the Mountains: Explore the scenic mountains and grasslands surrounding Xining by hiking or horse trekking. Discover hidden trails, alpine lakes, and panoramic viewpoints, and experience the natural beauty of the Tibetan Plateau.
5. Attend a Tibetan Festival: Experience the vibrant culture of Tibet by attending a local festival or celebration. Witness traditional ceremonies, dances, and rituals, and join in the festivities with local Tibetans.
6. Visit Tibetan Villages: Take day trips to nearby Tibetan villages such as Qinghai Tibetan Cultural Village or Hezuo Tibetan Village to experience traditional Tibetan lifestyle and hospitality. Explore ancient monasteries, interact with local residents, and learn about their customs and traditions.
7. Photography Tours: Capture the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Xining and its surrounding areas through photography. Explore scenic viewpoints, ancient temples, and traditional villages, and capture the beauty of the Tibetan Plateau in your photographs.