Top 50 Best Things to Do near Xining
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Top 50 Best Things to Do near Xining

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  • Tu Nationality Hometown Park Scenic Area In Huzhu County of Qinghai
    󰺂5.4
    12.46
    Huzhu28.1 km from Xining
    󱨠132 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    zhqxjzhqxj

    I had low expectations for this attraction based on reviews, saying it was mostly group tours. But when we arrived, the first thing we felt was the warm service. From selling tickets, borrowing wheelchairs, to getting a tour guide, every staff member we interacted with was truly heartwarming. The tour guide was especially enthusiastic throughout the entire experience, as was the Tu ethnic brother who promoted Tu ethnic customs. We enjoyed authentic barley flour mooncakes and heartwarming milk tea. Finally, the brother gave me a self-study textbook for the Tu ethnic language, giving me the opportunity to learn my own language while living in a foreign land. Thank you! I hope the Tu Ethnic Culture Park can reflect on its strengths and weaknesses and continue to improve!

  • Laji Mountain
    󰺂5.6
    Guide38.6 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    󱓊Breathtaking mountain views & wildflowers
    4524m separates Loess & Tibetan Plateau
    󱨠29% positive reviews
    4.7/5
    不太在乎不太在乎

    It's beautiful, refreshing, and amazing. A mountain pass you'll return to again, a place you'll never forget, a place destined to empty yourself and then recharge. A hike up Laji Mountain is a surefire way to escape the hustle and bustle of the mountains. You won't be fooled, and you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and grandeur.

  • Qinghai Guide National Geopark
    󰺂5.8
    20.41
    Guide55.9 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    󱨜Scenic trail & colorful peaks
    󱓊Colorful Danxia: breathtaking landscapes
    󱨠366 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    SDDSDDSDDSDD

    The Ashigong Colorful Peaks within the park boast a diverse and vibrant landscape. Over millions of years, wind erosion has sculpted the red rocks into various unique shapes, including castles and animals, as well as rare geological relics such as the seven-colored soil. The scenic area features seven viewing platforms, each offering a different view. Among them, the "Kunlun Sacred Mountain" view from viewing platform number 7 presents a breathtaking scene, with the red peaks reflected in the Yellow River, resembling a beautiful oil painting.

  • Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area
    󰺂7.9
    8.6
    GongheMore than 100 km from Xining
    󱨠3316 positive reviews
    4.3/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    [A Perfect Trip That Far Exceeded Expectations! The Driver Made the Entire Trip Shine] Just finished a day trip to Qinghai Lake from Xining, and the experience was absolutely fantastic! I have to give it a super five-star review! Our route today was the classic one: Ta'er Monastery - Riyue Mountain - Lajishan Mountain - Erlangjian Scenic Area of ​​Qinghai Lake. We had an evening flight, so the entire experience was top-notch! This is largely thanks to our driver, Mr. Han! Mr. Han was incredibly kind and patient throughout the trip. We could easily communicate with him about any needs, making us feel very comfortable. He wasn't just a driver; he was more like a knowledgeable guide. The itinerary wasn't just a mechanical rush. While ensuring safety, he would stop at particularly scenic spots to let us get out and enjoy the views and take photos. This flexibility made the trip full of surprises. We were incredibly lucky today! We saw adorable foxes and playful pikas by the roadside, and the driver even slowed down so we could observe them – it was so interesting! I also want to praise the vehicle: it was spacious and clean, completely free of smoke, and he proactively adjusted the air conditioning temperature and reminded us to put on extra layers for protection from the wind. The car was very comfortable. The driver even proactively told us about local precautions and lightning safety tips, which was very thoughtful. In short, it was a perfect day trip! Everything we wanted to see and do was fully satisfied, making the entire trip relaxing and enjoyable. If you're visiting Qinghai Lake, I highly recommend choosing this driver's team; it will definitely enhance your trip! Thank you again to Mr. Han for his excellent service, and I wish him booming business!

  • Qilian Mountains·Gangshks Snowy Peak
    󰺂5.9
    MenyuanMore than 100 km from Xining
    󱨠27% positive reviews
    4.3/5
    118***49118***49

    It is known as the first snow peak in life, because it is the closest snow peak to the city more than 5 kilometers. Traffic is a big advantage. From Xining, it is very convenient to take the Zhangwen Expressway or the 227 provincial road. The good thing is that the attractions are free and only need a shuttle bus for 25 yuan. The fly in the ointment is that there is only a small amount of snow at the end of the arrival, which is a little disappointing. I heard that if you want to climb the snowy mountain, you must issue a specific inspection report and a professional mountaineering certificate.

  • Tiantishan Grottoes
    󰺂6.6
    WuweiMore than 100 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    󱨜Blue dragon & elephant & deer
    󱨜Overlook Qilian Mountains & Ladder Lake
    󱨠212 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    chendi1973chendi1973

    If you are on your way, you can come here. It is a bit tiring to come here specially. The road to the scenic area is under construction. If the car has a low chassis, it is easy to bump into it. You need to drive or charter a car. The bus is not convenient. The ticket price is 30. The scenery of the reservoir is good. The mountains and water meet. There is only one grotto, which is also newly renovated at the back.

  • Bingling Cave-Temple
    󰺂6.0
    3.87
    YongjingMore than 100 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    󰀆Yellow River & canyon views
    󱓊1600-year Buddhist art caves
    󱨠109 positive reviews
    4.5/5
    137***10137***10

    Gansu's 5A-level scenic spot is overlooked by everyone. Gannan is too famous, and few people pay attention to Linxia's Bingling Temple Scenic Area. This time, I rushed back to Linxia directly from Huahu due to a cold to adjust my body. I didn't expect that I had the most fun in Linxia for three days. There were not many people, the scenery was beautiful, and there was humanistic history and culture. Bingling Temple gave me too many surprises.

  • Ganjia Grassland
    󰺂6.2
    XiaheMore than 100 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    Trek and explore the hidden realm of Bajiao Ancient City
    󰀆Participate in interactive Tibetan nomadic cultural activities
    󱨠30% positive reviews
    4.3/5
    晚霞风车晚霞风车

    Gangjia Grassland is located in Gangjia Township, Xiahe, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, 33 kilometers north of Xiahe County, and is directly accessible by road. Gangjia Grassland is a meadow grassland, vast and boundless, with an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters. It is one of the main animal husbandry bases in Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. There is a reception desk at the Muyun Tent Camp, which prepares fresh milk tea, tsampa, Tibetan buns, hand-pulled mutton and other Tibetan specialties for tourists. It also prepares grassland tourism programs such as horses, yaks, shooting bonfire parties, etc. for tourists. Visitors can fully experience the mysterious and simple Tibetan customs here.

  • Bingling Temple World Cultural Heritage Tourist Area
    󰺂5.1
    3.87
    YongjingMore than 100 km from Xining
    󱨠82% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    M28***94M28***94

    I drove there on a self-driving tour from Liujiaxia Town. It was a long way to go. Some of the statues on the grotto walls were blocked by gauze and could not be seen clearly. Some were still empty. Only the Buddha statues were magnificent. I took a long detour back to the entrance. It is suitable for scholars and scholars. I think it is okay. If you want to see the special grottoes, you need to make a separate reservation and buy a ticket, which seems to be 300 yuan.

  • Liangzhou Baita Temple
    󰺂5.6
    WuweiMore than 100 km from Xining
    Highlights:
    󱨜Witness the historical site of the Liangzhou Alliance
    Circle the Saban Stupa three times to pray for blessings
    󱨠46% positive reviews
    4.5/5
    PhoebeguPhoebegu

    The White Pagoda Temple's historical significance outweighs its tourist value. For a history enthusiast, this is a must-see, as it bears witness to Tibet's annexation to China and provides the best evidence that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times. The temple is quiet, and you can circumambulate the pagoda. The museum is also worth a visit.

Best things to do in Xining (2025)

Looking for the ultimate experiences in Xining? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Xining offers an exceptional collection of activities and attractions that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you’re here for sightseeing, adventure, or cultural exploration, these top-rated activities promise unforgettable memories.

Top-rated things to do in Xining

If you want to make the most of your trip, these activities deliver the full Xining experience. Expect popular attractions, unique local experiences, and must-see spots that capture the essence of the city.

Tu Nationality Hometown Park Scenic Area In Huzhu County of Qinghai

• Huzhu | 28.1 km from Xining

Laji Mountain

• Guide | 38.6 km from Xining

• : Breathtaking mountain views & wildflowers,4524m separates Loess & Tibetan Plateau

Qinghai Guide National Geopark

• Guide | 55.9 km from Xining

• : Scenic trail & colorful peaks,Colorful Danxia: breathtaking landscapes

Things to do for unique experiences

These activities provide memorable experiences beyond the ordinary. Enjoy cultural tours, adventure sports, guided excursions, and immersive local experiences designed for all interests.

Things to do near Xining

If you want to explore attractions just outside Xining, there are plenty of activities that combine scenic surroundings with convenient access to the city, perfect for day trips or short excursions.

Each of these activities offers a unique escape within 1–3 hours of Xining, ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with local experiences.

What makes things to do in Xining special

• Iconic landmarks: Visit must-see sights that define the city.
• Local experiences: Engage in culture, crafts, and unique activities.
• Accessible adventures: Easily reachable attractions for all travelers.
• Diverse options: From relaxing experiences to adventurous outings.

Tips for booking things to do in Xining

1. Plan ahead for popular attractions to avoid long queues.
2. Book early for guided tours or seasonal events.
3. Compare prices and packages on Trip.com for exclusive deals and bundled experiences.
4. Consider weekday visits for a quieter and more personalized experience.

Experience the best things to do in Xining

Ready to explore the best of Xining? Discover Trip.Best's curated list of things to do and experience adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.

Book your perfect activities on Trip.com today, where excitement and discovery awaits.

What are some Best Things to Do near Xining?
Some Best Things to Do near Xining include:Tu Nationality Hometown Park Scenic Area In Huzhu County of Qinghai, Laji Mountain, Qinghai Guide National Geopark, Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qilian Mountains·Gangshks Snowy Peak
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Xining?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do near Xining include:Tu Nationality Hometown Park Scenic Area In Huzhu County of Qinghai:4.3, Laji Mountain:4.7, Qinghai Guide National Geopark:4.6, Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area:4.3, Qilian Mountains·Gangshks Snowy Peak:4.3
Where are Best Things to Do near Xining located?
The Best Things to Do near Xining are mainly located in:Tu Nationality Hometown Park Scenic Area In Huzhu County of Qinghai:Huzhu, Laji Mountain:Guide, Qinghai Guide National Geopark:Guide, Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area:Gonghe, Qilian Mountains·Gangshks Snowy Peak:Menyuan
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