Xining
Gateway to the Tibetan Plateau
Qinghai's capital sits at 2,275m where the plateau begins. The Ta'er (Kumbum) Monastery's yak-butter sculptures and the crowds of pilgrims make it a first taste of Tibetan Buddhism before the high country.
Don't miss
- Kumbum Monastery's butter sculptures
- Dongguan Mosque
- The plateau's doorway
Best time to visit: June–September
Visas: Australian passport holders currently enter China visa-free for up to 30 days — an arrangement scheduled to end on 31 December 2026, so confirm the rules for your travel dates.