Qinghai, the fourth largest province in China by area, is located in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Its population is ethnically diverse: the mountainous west is inhabited by nomads. Han Chinese make up over half of the population (54.5%), with Tibetans (20.8%), Hui (16%), Mongols, Salar, Tu, and Dongxiang comprising the remainder. The Tibetan-speaking ethnic groups refer to themselves not as Böpa (bod pa), the Tibetan term for Tibetans, but as Amdowa (a mdo pa) and Khampa (khams pa).
Qinghai is rich in natural resources and features stunning mountain and lake landscapes. The people are known for their friendliness and simplicity, and the region's culture boasts a long history. Numerous glaciers, rivers, and lakes are scattered throughout the province. Qinghai is crucial to China's water supply, earning it the nickname "Water Tower of the Chinese Nation." The Yangtze River, Yellow River, and Mekong River all originate here.
More than 50% of Qinghai's land is situated at elevations of 4,000 to 5,000 meters. This unique environment supports diverse flora and fauna, contributing to Qinghai's classification by UNESCO as one of the cleanest regions in the world.
Qinghai not only preserves Chinese culture but also serves as a bridge for cultural exchange between Central China, surrounding regions, and other countries. During the Tang Dynasty, Qinghai was a key hub in exchanges with Tibet and modern Xinjiang. It also played a significant role on the famous Silk Road, facilitating the collision and integration of diverse cultures that have shaped the Qinghai Plateau.
Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is a city over 2,100 years old situated on the Tibetan Plateau, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and numerous attractions. Since the days of the Silk Road, Xining has been an important stop, attracting a diverse population that continues to thrive in the city today. With the Lanqing and Qingzang railway lines, as well as the Qingzang Highway, Xining serves as a primary gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Located approximately 2,260 meters above sea level, Xining is surrounded by mountains, offering a picturesque setting. From Xining, visitors can easily access notable regional landmarks such as Qinghai Lake and the Tar Monastery. Other significant attractions within the city include the Princess Wencheng Temple, the Heavenly Lake in Mengda, Mount Laoye, and the Qutan Monastery.
The airport of the capital city is located about 30 kilometers from the city center. Connections are primarily to Beijing or Chengdu. In 2018, it was upgraded to an international airport.
An airport shuttle transports travelers from the airport to the city center and back.
Golmud Airport is one of the smallest in China, located approximately 12 kilometers outside the city center. Situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters, the airport underwent renovations in 2016. It offers daily flights to Chengdu, Xi’an, and Lhasa. A shuttle bus service connects the airport to downtown according to flight schedules.
