The city is located in the east of the province, at an altitude of 2,257 m. (7,405 ft.). Encircled by the continuous mountains and traversed by the mighty Yellow River, Xining boasts its beautiful natural scenery and pleasant climate. In fact, it is a well-known summer resort, honored as the 'Summer Capital of China'.
Xining is also considered as one of the historical and cultural cities of China. It was originally named 'Huangzhong', with a history of over 2,100 years. The city had enjoyed a strategic location in the ancient historical and cultural Chinese Silk Road and Tangbo Road, and was the only way leading to the west.
The famous scenic spots that should not be missed here are Qinghai Lake , one of the most beautiful lakes of China, and Ta'er Monastery , a holy spot of Tibetan Buddhism. Other places of interest include Riyue Mountain - an important pass on the Tangbo Road, and the Dongguan Mosque - one of the four great mosques in the northwest. Here also is the Beichan Temple – the second largest temple that is suspended on the cliff. If you would like to appreciate the exotic customs of Chinese minorities, Xining is also a favorable destination. The city is mixed with Han, Hui, Tibetan, Mongolia, Manchu, Tu, Salar and other ethnic groups.
Transportation
Xining Caojiabao Airport is located about 30 km. (19 mi.) away from the city district, and has flights between Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Golmud and Lhasa and others. (Consult No.: 0971- 8133333; Ticket Booking: 0971-8124821).
Xining Railway Station is located on the northeast Qilian Road in the city, and has direct trains to Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, Xian, Golmud, Lhasa and others. (Consult No.: 0971-7192222; Ticket Booking: 0971-8121144, 7192262).
Xining Coach Station is located about 600 m. (0.4 mi.) away from the railway station, where the coaches mainly run to cities and counties within the province, Gansu Province and also Lhasa. (Tel: 0971-8149504, 8149506).
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