[2024 Xining Attraction] Travel Guide for Kumbum Monastery (Updated Nov)
No.2 of Best Things to Do in Qinghai
Temples
Historical Architectures
Address:
No. 56 Jinta Road, Huangzhong County, Xining City
Opening times:
Open today at 07:30-18:30(Tickets available until 17:30; admission ends at 17:30)Opening Soon
Recommended sightseeing time:
2-4 hours
Phone:
0971-2210188
Xining, a place worth visiting again and again
😜 Dear friends, your travel enthusiast is here again! I went to Xining in August, and it was simply amazing😎!
📍Location Overview:
Xining is the capital of Qinghai Province, located in the northeastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau🤗. It is a city with unique charm🎯.
🚗Transportation Guide:
✈ You can fly to Xining Caojiabao Airport, which is very convenient😃!
🚄 By train, you can go to Xining Station or Xining West Station🚀.
🚩3-Day Itinerary Plan:
Day 1: Visit Ta'er Monastery in the morning to experience the profound Buddhist culture🎆. In the afternoon, go to Dongguan Mosque to admire the exquisite architecture.
Day 2: First, visit Qinghai Lake to enjoy the vast blue canvas🌊. Then, go to Chaka Salt Lake to experience the magical mirror of the sky.
Day 3: Head to Kanbula National Forest Park to appreciate the beautiful natural scenery⛰.
🎯9 Must-Visit Attractions:
1. Ta'er Monastery🌟: A sacred place of Tibetan Buddhism with magnificent architecture.
2. Dongguan Mosque🎉: You can see exquisite Islamic architecture.
3. Qinghai Lake🌊: The largest inland lake in China, breathtakingly beautiful.
4. Chaka Salt Lake🧂: The mirror of the sky, perfect for dreamy photos.
5. Kanbula National Forest Park🌳: A mix of mountains and water, with excellent scenery.
6. Riyue Mountain🌄: Known for its beautiful legends and charming scenery.
7. Dangaer Ancient City🏯: Feel the ancient cultural atmosphere.
8. Nanfo Mountain🏞: A quiet and beautiful place.
9. Puning Pearl🗼: A great place to overlook Xining city.
💃Specific Ways to Enjoy These 9 Attractions:
Be quiet and respectful at Ta'er Monastery. Pay attention to your attire at Dongguan Mosque. You can cycle or take a boat at Qinghai Lake. Choose the right time to visit Chaka Salt Lake for better photos. You can hike to enjoy the scenery at Kanbula National Forest Park.
😋Local Food Recommendations:
1. Hand-grabbed mutton🐑: Tender and delicious, very fragrant😍!
2. Liangpi🥘: Smooth and chewy, tastes great.
3. Sweet fermented rice🍶: Sweet and refreshing.
4. Highland barley cake🌮: Full of wheat aroma.
5. Ga Mian Pian🥟: Unique texture, very tasty.
6. Dog urine cake🌯: Special name, good taste.
🏨Accommodation Guide:
You can choose to stay in the city center for convenience and nearby food🎈. Or stay in homestays near attractions to be closer to nature😃.
💡Tips:
1. Be aware of altitude sickness🌞, and prepare in advance.
2. Bring warm clothes, as the temperature difference between morning and evening is large😱.
3. Respect local religions and customs🙏.
4. Pay attention to sun protection, as the UV rays are strong😉.
5. Be mindful of food hygiene to avoid stomach discomfort😕.
In short, Xining is a super beautiful place🎉! I love it here so much, the scenery is beautiful, the food is great💖, and I highly recommend everyone to visit. You will definitely fall in love with it🥰!
_Julie_24
Shocked! You definitely can't miss these attractions in Qinghai
Baozis👫, listen to me👂, Qinghai is a super awesome👍 place! Spending four days and three nights here is simply exhilarating😎!
🌏Qinghai is located in the vast northwest of our great China👈, where it boasts a unique geographical location and breathtaking natural scenery🌅.
🎯The travel itinerary is clear and straightforward👇👇👇:
Day1️⃣: Arrive in Qinghai - Rest a bit😴 - Head to the local food street for a feast😋
Day2️⃣: The sacred atmosphere of Ta'er Monastery🛕 calms you down🙏, the azure of Qinghai Lake🌊 is unbelievably beautiful🌊, Baozis👫, believe me😎, these two places are definitely worth it👍.
Day3️⃣: The 'Mirror of the Sky' at Chaka Salt Lake✨ lives up to its name✨, the emerald green clarity of Emerald Lake💧 is intoxicating💧, both spots are perfect for taking photos📷.
Day4️⃣: The majestic beauty of Mount Zhuoer🏔 will make you linger😍, savor the charm of nature once more before heading back🏞.
8 must-visit attractions, each with its own charm👇👇👇:
👉Ta'er Monastery, experience the profound Buddhist culture🙏, and it's free of charge😜, Baozis rush over🎉!
👉Qinghai Lake, its deep blue seems to cleanse the soul🌊, immersing you in its beauty😍.
👉Chaka Salt Lake, the 'Mirror of the Sky' is not an overstatement✨, every photo looks amazing📷, remember to wear a pretty dress👗.
👉Emerald Lake, the water is as clear as jade💧, breathtakingly beautiful👀!
👉Mount Zhuoer, the mountain range is majestic and picturesque🏔, like a painting🖼.
👉Qilian Mountains, the undulating mountain range is a marvel of nature😌.
👉Menyuan rapeseed flower sea🌼, a vast expanse of yellow, as if in a golden ocean🌻.
👉Riyue Mountain, witness the historical vicissitudes🧐.
How exactly do you enjoy these attractions🤔? Let me explain slowly🧐:
At Ta'er Monastery, you can calm your mind and visit the temple buildings👀, savor the charm of Buddhist culture📚; at Qinghai Lake, stroll along the lakeside🚶♀️, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery🌅, feel the pleasant breeze😌; at Chaka Salt Lake, put on your most beautiful clothes and take as many photos as you want📷, leaving the most beautiful memories👗; Emerald Lake is perfect for boat tours🚣♀️, the clear water will cheer you up💖; Mount Zhuoer is great for hiking🧗♀️, challenge yourself while enjoying the beautiful scenery🏞.
Personal travel experience tips🤓:
🎈Baozis👫, be sure to bring sunscreen👝, the sun here🌞 is very enthusiastic😜!
🎈The temperature difference between day and night is quite large🥶, remember to keep warm🧥.
🎈There's a lot of delicious food😍, don't miss out👄!
The food streets of Qinghai are also quite distinctive😍! Here are 5 local food streets to recommend👇👇👇:
👉Mo Jie Street: A variety of snacks available😋, Baozis can enjoy to their heart's content👄.
👉Shuijing Alley: A dazzling array of delicacies🤩, there's always something to satisfy your taste buds😜.
👉Xin Qian International Plaza: The food here is rich and varied👍, making you eat non-stop🤤.
👉Tangdao 637: Enjoy the food👄 while experiencing the unique local cultural atmosphere🤓.
Each food street has its own mouthwatering specialties😍, such as:
👉Hand-grabbed lamb🐑, the tender taste😋, melts in your mouth🤤, simply amazing👍.
👉Qinghai old yogurt🧃, sweet and sour🤩, with a rich taste👍.
👉Niàngpí🥘, cool and refreshing😜, the best choice for summer👏.
👉Sweet fermented rice🍯, fragrant and delicious😝, endlessly memorable🤤.
Baozis👫, Qinghai is really a place that makes you want to return again and again👍! With beautiful scenery😍, delicious food😋, it's simply a vacation paradise🤩! Pack your bags🎒, and embark on a trip on a whim🚶♀️! 💖Qinghai awaits you💖! Qinghai
EmmaBakke
Do you think these check-in photos at Kumbum Monastery are good?
Walking in the Kumbum Monastery with more than 600 years of history, touching the scattered temples on the Lotus Mountain, appreciating the art of ancient architecture, and feeling the peace in the strong light and shadow. The lifelike butter flowers, vivid murals and colorful embroidery make up the 'Three Wonders of Kumbum Monastery Art', which are amazing and stoppable.
Kumbum Monastery has a history of more than 600 years and covers an area of more than 600 acres. The temple buildings are distributed on the slopes of Lotus Mountain, with the temples scattered high and low, reflecting each other. The Dajinwa Temple in the center of the temple, with green walls and golden tiles, is brilliant and is the main building of the temple. The Buddha statues in the temple are vivid and beautiful, and they are sacred. The lifelike butter flowers, colorful murals and colorful embroidery are known as the 'Three Wonders of Kumbum Monastery Art'. The temple also contains many Buddhist scriptures and academic classics in history, literature, philosophy, medicine, and legislation.
Travel tips:
1. Kumbum Monastery is located in Xining, you can take bus 306 directly, open from 08:00-17:30.
2. Pay attention to dress requirements, you must wear long gowns and long skirts to enter.
3. There are many places in the temple where photography is prohibited, pay attention to the warning signs.
4. Try not to take pictures of local people or monks who are prostrating or turning scriptures.
Recommended check-in locations:
1. The city gate at the ticket check-in.
2. The 'Kumbum Monastery' sign in front of the right hand side of the white tower when you come in, as well as the turning cylinder and three towers further down the slope.
3. There are many pigeons here, you need to compose the picture in advance and wait for the pigeons to fly over, which really requires some luck and patience.
4. After entering along the main road, there are many red walls, white walls and stacked ancient buildings, which are very photogenic under the light and shadow.
aurora_ser
Xining Kumbum Temple
Kumbum Monastery is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is the activity center of Tibetan Buddhism in the northwest region. The central governments of all dynasties have highly praised the religious status of Kumbum Monastery.
Kumbum Monastery is also a paid attraction for tourists. Because of its religious status and reputation, it has almost become a must-visit place when traveling to Xining. If it is a holiday, there will be a lot of tourists here.
In the Ming Dynasty, the upper-level religious figures in the temple were granted many titles. Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty awarded the plaque "Jingshang Jinliang", Emperor Qianlong granted the title "Fanzong Temple", and the Dajinwa Temple was awarded the "Sanskrit Dharma Pillar" plaque.
Butter flowers, murals and embroidery are known as the "Three Wonders of Kumbum Temple Art". In addition, the temple also collects many Buddhist classics and academic monographs on history, literature, philosophy, medicine, legislation and other aspects. The annual Buddhist activities "Four Dharma Assemblies" are even more lively. #Buddhism #Architecture #Temple #ChinaTravel #Qinghai #西宁 #西宁 #TibetanBuddhism #Gelugpa
玩转星球-Kevin
Kumbum Temple
Chin rating (5 stars is the highest)
Recommended: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Highlight recommendation🤤
- Tar Temple is located in Lushaer Town, Huangzhong County, 25 kilometers southwest of Xining City, Qinghai Province, China
- Built in the 39th year of Jiajing in the Ming Dynasty (1560), it is a Tibetan Buddhist temple. It is very special. You can come and take pictures
#doublechinlife #doublechinlife #chin #travel to the mainland
#OverseasTravel
雙下巴生活
Kumbum Monastery
The monastery in Xining is swarming with worshipping monks, amongst beautiful temples, full of colour and life! The surrounding town is quiet and peaceful, and the entry into the monastery is quick and easy. You can spend hours wondering around this beautiful site, it really feels like you're in another country.
I would always highly recommend visiting this amazing place, to see a direct contrast between Chinese ans Tibetan inspired architecture. Arrive early to ensure a quiet experience.
You can see the gold guilded temple, colourful flags, amongst countless statues of religious figures. It really is a remarkable place.
#culturalattractions
sliceoflife
Xining Raiders Attractions Punch / Food Introduction / Accommodation Recommended
accommodation suggestions: Xining City Central District near the area is more convenient accommodation, some attractions are close to Xining City, can return to Xining City accommodation. Tourist accommodation is generally concentrated in the Great Cross, Mojia Street, eating and drinking and buying and buying is very convenient
travel advice:
1: self-driving, to Xining after the car rental, all the schedule to arrange their own, whatever they want / Hh/2: chartered, professional driver takes you to play, saves the fatigue of driving
3: local group, registration day trip
play days: recommended to play 2-3 days
/ Hh/
attraction 1: Ta'er Temple (Fig. 2.3)
Address: No. 56, Jinta Road, Yuzhong County, Xining City, Qinghai Province, China/Hh/ Time: 07
Makiyu.
Xining super-strong tourism strategy is enough to see this
Xining is an important fortress on the Silk Road, and also a major city into Tibet, not only a tourist city, but also a historical city, around Xining A lot of places worth visiting.
Recommended spots
: One of the most famous spots in Qinghai, Lushar Town, 25 km away from Xining City, with public transportation.
Geometry Bookstore: The largest independent bookstore in China, the bookstore with the highest value in Xining, has a strong design atmosphere.
: China's second half-mountain-hanging buildings
In addition to the gameplay around Xining, more people will take Xining as a starting point and play a circle around the two provinces of Qinghai and Gansu.
route recommendation
Qinghai Dunhuang 7-day big ring line: Xining Tar Temple Riyue Mountain Qinghai Lake Heima River Rubber Mountain Chaka Salt Lake Delingha Dachaidan Dunhuang Guazhou Jiayuguan Zhangye Qilian Menyuan Xining
7: Xining Qinghai Lake Dachaidan Dunhuang Jiayuguan Zhangye Qilian Xining
Qinghai Zhangye 4 days small ring line: Xining Qinghai Lake Qilian Zhangye Menyuan Xining
food recommended
feel hand grab lamb: raw materials are very simple, but the taste is indeed the most pure The smell of mutton is not at all.
: Xining specialties, about 5 yuan a cup, very pure Qinghai flavor yogurt.
: Come to Xining, you must try the snacks, you can find
in the streets and alleys: the common home-cooked meal in Qinghai, don't miss it.
!! Best travel season: July to October
雙喜與子琛.
August domestic travel top choice - Qinghai Lake trip! First stop: 2019 latest Tarzan Raiders
Foreword:
July can be said that Qinghai is a popular tourist destination in the country! National bicycle cycling around the lake, yellow canola, beautiful weather with Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake, it can be said that the entire Ganqing big ring line is so moving! ! This trip to Qinghai really made me realize the vastness of the motherland and the evil spirits of nature! !
About the first stop Xining-Tal Temple
We flew Xining from Xi'an, because we have not been to Ta'er Temple, so we chose to stay in Xining for one night. Today, the fisherman introduces you to the Ta'er Monastery in Xining. If you have time to use the Qinghai Line, you must stay in Xining for a day, visit the Ta'er Temple, and eat local food. It is perfect.
Transportation: We live in the city of Xining. We choose to rent a car, a high-speed rail station or a lot of apps to rent a car. It is very convenient. The city is driving to the Ta'er Monastery for about one and a half hours.
tips:
1. Everyone's note: Be sure to wear long pants! ! Long skirt over the knee! You can't leak your arms in the temple.
2. Address: The first stop of Tibetan Buddhism - Ta'er Temple Address: No. 56, Jinta Road, Yuzhong County, Xining City
Level: AAAAA
Fare: 80 yuan
/ Hh/ Specific recommendation:
The religious status of the Ta'er Temple:
Tal Temple is one of the six monasteries of the Chinese Buddhist Buddhism Gelugpa. It was first built in the 39th year of Ming Jiajing. It has been more than 400 years old! It is recommended to visit the Ta'er Temple to find a guide, listen to the explanation and not explain the different feelings of the night.
The entire temple is a magnificent and magnificent architectural complex composed of a number of temples, temples, stupas and shacks. The Ta'er Monastery is the first tower, and there is a temple, hence the name Ta'er Temple. The golden domes, linden trees and exquisite murals, piles of embroidered and butter flowers of the Ta'er Monastery can be shocking. Yuzi is a traveler who likes religious culture very much. He always feels that he can learn a lot of history while watching. So, if you are a guest of Xining, then the Ta'er Temple must be a stop for study.
Maggie..
Xining is a foodie's paradise.
Don't miss out on the amazing food and shopping experiences in Xining. After arriving, head to the famous Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Wildlife Zoo to get up close and personal with the animals. Then, walk to the night market to challenge your taste buds. The snacks of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are famous for a reason. Don't miss out on the delicious Qinghai sweet fermented rice and cold noodles. For lunch, we recommend you try the roasted lamb skewers and hand-pulled lamb at Qingzang Renjia to satisfy your taste buds.
In the afternoon, you can stroll through Xining's major shopping districts, such as Xidajie and Dashi Cross, and buy some local handicrafts as souvenirs. In the evening, we recommend visiting Chaka Salt Lake and the Old City Ximen Scenic Area to enjoy the magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage. Don't forget to try the various snacks on Xining's food streets until you're satisfied. A trip to Xining is not only a physical relaxation but also a feast for the senses. We look forward to your visit to experience the unique charm of this city.
Luna Collins 789
6-Day Gansu Lanzhou-Qinghai-Zhangye Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Northwest!
Gansu Lanzhou-Qinghai-Zhangye, 6-Day Itinerary! Discover the charm of the Northwest and experience a unique journey. Let's go!
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🚗 Itinerary:
Day 1: Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake
Visit Qinghai Lake and enjoy the stunning scenery of Erlangjian Scenic Area.
Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area - Dachaidan Emerald Lake Tourist Area
Explore the salt wonders of Chaka Salt Lake, visit Sky No. 1, and immerse yourself in the emerald green of Dachaidan Emerald Lake.
Day 3: Mogao Caves
Explore the Mogao Caves and experience the charm and awe of ancient Buddhist culture.
Day 4: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - Mingsha Mountain - Son of the Earth - Sculpture Without Borders
Ride a camel through Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Spring, and explore the artistic beauty of Son of the Earth and Sculpture Without Borders.
Day 5: Jiayuguan Pass - Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park - Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest
Stroll along the ancient Great Wall of Jiayuguan, admire the colorful Zhangye Danxia, and visit the autumn scenery of Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest.
Day 6: Ta'er Monastery - Gansu Provincial Museum
Visit Ta'er Monastery and experience Tibetan Buddhist culture, then head to Gansu Provincial Museum to explore the traces of history.
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Travel Tips:
🚗 Airport Transportation: Lanzhou Airport has airport buses to the city center, which are convenient and fast. You can choose to rent a car or join a tour group to Qinghai and Zhangye.
❄️ November Climate: Lanzhou is dry and cold, Qinghai Lake is windy, and Zhangye has a large temperature difference between day and night. Remember to bring a thick coat and thermal underwear.
🎁 Specialty Prices: Compare prices when buying specialties to avoid being overcharged. Handmade crafts and dried goods are good choices.
🎉 Customs: Respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Yugur folk songs and wedding customs are intangible cultural heritage and worth seeing.
📸 Photography Tips: The Danxia landform in Zhangye and the lakes and mountains in Qinghai are great photography subjects, and the effect is better at dusk.
💡 Altitude Sickness: Some areas in Qinghai are at high altitudes and may cause altitude sickness. Prepare related medicine and rest well.
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Explore the streets of Lanzhou, cross the magnificent mountains of Qinghai, and visit the colorful Danxia in Zhangye. Beautiful scenery awaits you along the way! 🌈✨ Don't miss it!
Grace.Long@23
8-Day Tour of Lanzhou, Xining, and Qinghai Lake: Don't Miss Out on the Beautiful Scenery!
Hey guys! 8-day tour of Lanzhou, Xining, and Qinghai Lake, explore the northwest! The guide is ready, save it and start your northwest journey now!
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🚩Route Overview:
Day 1: Dongguan Mosque in Xining -> Mother of the Yellow River Statue -> Zhongshan Bridge -> Mojia Street -> Nanshan Park
Visit the mosque and experience the religious culture, then visit the Yellow River, taste the snacks on Mojia Street, and finally climb Nanshan Mountain to overlook the city.
Day 2: Leitai Park -> Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park -> "Return to Zhangye" Show
Start from Leitai Park, enjoy the magnificent Danxia landform, and watch the "Return to Zhangye" show in the evening to experience the shock of history and culture.
Day 3: Son of the Earth -> Jiuquan Mirage -> Sculpture Without Borders
Explore the mystery of the Son of the Earth, experience the fantasy of the Jiuquan Mirage, and finally immerse yourself in the artistic world of Sculpture Without Borders.
Day 4: Mogao Caves -> Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring
Visit the Mogao Caves to appreciate the thousand-year-old Buddhist art, then head to Mingsha Mountain to experience the magical combination of the desert and Crescent Moon Spring.
Day 5: Dangjin Mountain -> South Eight Immortals Ghost City -> Dachaidan Emerald Lake
Cross Dangjin Mountain, explore the mystery of the South Eight Immortals Ghost City, and finally arrive at Dachaidan Emerald Lake to enjoy the tranquility of the lake and mountains.
Day 6: Chaka Salt Lake -> Qinghai Lake
Visit Chaka Salt Lake to experience the charm of the mirror of the sky, then head to Qinghai Lake to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the plateau lake.
Day 7: Ta'er Monastery
Visit Ta'er Monastery to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and experience the peaceful and solemn atmosphere.
Day 8: Xining/Lanzhou City Airport 🛫--Return Home 🏡
End the pleasant journey and return home from Xining or Lanzhou City Airport.
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Pre-trip Essentials: 🎒
👗 Clothing: Down jacket, sweater, thermal underwear, long pants, thick socks to cope with the cold weather on the plateau.
🎩 Accessories: Windproof jacket, hat, scarf, gloves, and sunglasses for sun and wind protection.
📄 Documents: ID card, student ID, etc. Don't forget cash and bank cards, just in case.
💊 Others: Common medicines such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, as well as moisturizer and lip balm to cope with the dry climate.
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🎉Don't hesitate, pack your bags and join me on a tour of Lanzhou, Xining, and Qinghai Lake to start your northwest journey!
AbigailReed_45
Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake and other places: A must-see guide for seniors.
Dear seniors, here are some classic attractions you must visit in Qinghai: Ta'er Monastery, Qinghai Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake. The itinerary is relaxing, and you will have plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don't miss it!
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Must-see attractions:
Chaka Salt Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: No. 9, Yanhu Road, Chaka Town, Wulan County, Haixi Prefecture
Opening hours: All day
Duration: 2–4 hours
The scenery is amazing! You can walk barefoot on the lake to see the reflection, admire the salt sculptures, and take a small train to explore the depths of the lake. It is very suitable for seniors to enjoy a relaxing trip.
Ta'er Monastery ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: No. 56, Jinta Road, Huangzhong District, Xining City, Qinghai Province
Opening hours: All day
Duration: 2–4 hours
The architecture of Ta'er Monastery is magnificent, and there are many treasures. You can feel the strong religious atmosphere here. Be sure to see the three wonders of Ta'er Monastery: butter sculptures, murals, and pile embroidery. You will be amazed!
Jinyintan Grassland ⭐⭐⭐
Address: National Highway 315, Haiyan County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture
Opening hours: All day
Duration: 1–2 hours
Jinyintan Grassland is beautiful, with golden and white flowers dotted around. It is also the source of inspiration for the Western King of Songs, Wang Luobin, to create "In That Distant Place"! It is very suitable for seniors to enjoy a relaxing and pleasant trip.
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Travel tips:
🍽️ Food: You must try Qinghai hot pot, hand-grabbed mutton, and yogurt. A feast for your taste buds awaits you!
🚗 Airport transportation: After arriving at Xining Caojiabao Airport, you can rent a car or charter a car to get there conveniently, accompanied by beautiful scenery all the way!
🎉 Customs: Don't miss the Qinghai Lake Sea Sacrifice Festival, where you can experience Tibetan culture and feel the power of faith!
📸 Photo spots: Erlangjian Scenic Area and Bird Island are great places to take photos. Remember to wear brightly colored clothes!
💡 Practical advice: The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so prepare warm clothes.
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🎉Don't wait any longer. Come to Erlangjian Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake and other places to start your dream trip!✨
AleksiRinne
A super detailed guide for an 8-day trip from Lanzhou to Dunhuang to Xining.
Gather with old friends and travel to the northwest together! This 8-day pure travel guide from Lanzhou to Dunhuang to Xining covers all the classic and popular attractions. The itinerary is relaxing, and even the elderly can enjoy it.
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📅 Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Lanzhou/Xining, go to the hotel, and enjoy free time after checking in. You can visit the city attractions and taste local delicacies.
Day 2: Qilian Grassland—Zhuo'er Mountain—Gangshika Snow Peak Scenic Area, explore the magnificent grasslands, mountains, and snow peaks.
Day 3: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park—Danxiakou Cultural Tourism Town—Jiayuguan Pass, admire the magnificent Danxia landform and feel the majesty of the ancient pass.
Day 4: Son of the Earth—Mogao Caves, visit the magical sculptures and appreciate the mural art of Mogao Caves.
Day 5: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area, experience the magical combination of desert and lake.
Day 6: Chaka Salt Lake—Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area—Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake, immerse yourself in the pure salt lake of Chaka and the magnificent scenery of Qinghai Lake.
Day 7: Ta'er Monastery—Mother Statue of the Yellow River—Lanzhou Waterwheel Park—Iron Bridge of Yellow River, feel the religious culture, admire the ancient irrigation tools, and stroll on the historic iron bridge.
Day 8: End the pleasant trip and go home. 🌟
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Some tips:
- Photo spots📸: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, ride a camel across the desert, and take photos in the evening for better results!
- Airport transportation🛫: The Dunhuang airport bus goes directly to the city, which is convenient and fast. Remember to check the new schedule.
- Food recommendations🍜: Lanzhou beef noodles are a must-try, Dunhuang night market offers a variety of snacks, and Xining yogurt is also not to be missed.
- Specialty prices🛍️: Compare several stores when buying specialties. The price of air-dried yak meat varies greatly, so choosing the right store is more cost-effective.
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From the prosperity of Lanzhou, through the history of Dunhuang, to the tranquility of Xining, may your northwest trip be full of surprises and memories every step of the way! 🌄✨
Isaac.Roberts^29
Xining–Qinghai Lake 8-Day Tour: A Super Detailed Guide is Here!
Xining–Qinghai Lake 8-Day Tour: Explore the Great Northwest! A super detailed guide to help you enjoy the plateau scenery without detours. Save it now!
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🚩Itinerary:
Day 1: Xining Museum
Explore the history and culture of Xining and admire the museum's collection of exhibits.
Day 2: Ta'er Monastery
Visit the sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism and feel the solemnity and profound heritage of Ta'er Monastery.
Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake > Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake
Enjoy the mirror-like Chaka Salt Lake and then head to the Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake to admire the magnificent scenery of the plateau lake.
Day 4: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park
Admire the fantastic colors of Zhangye Danxia and feel the magic of nature.
Day 5: Mati Temple Scenic Area > Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves
Explore the natural beauty of Mati Temple Scenic Area and then visit Mati Temple Thousand Buddha Caves to admire the charm of Buddhist art.
Day 6: Jiayuguan Pass
Climb Jiayuguan Pass to feel the magnificence of the ancient frontier and the weight of history.
Day 7: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring > Mogao Caves
Ride a camel across Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Moon Spring, and then head to Mogao Caves to explore the treasures of millennia-old Buddhist art.
Day 8: Dunhuang Museum
Visit Dunhuang Museum to admire the historical and cultural relics and art treasures of Dunhuang and end your pleasant journey.
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🎒 Travel Essentials: Xining–Qinghai Lake Packing List
👕 Clothing: Thick coat, long-sleeved clothes, and long johns to keep warm and stylish. Sunscreen clothing, sun hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
📿 Accessories: Charger and power bank to keep your phone fully charged. Thermos to enjoy hot water. U-shaped pillow for a good sleep on the road.
🆔 Documents: ID card, student ID, and driver's license are essential for travel. Cash and bank cards for emergencies.
💊 Medicine: Motion sickness medicine and cold medicine for emergencies. Lip balm and hand cream to combat the dry climate.
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Want to explore Xining and Qinghai Lake? Like and save this guide to start your dream trip! 🚗✨
LANDEN MANN
Kumbum Monastery: A Journey to Inner Peace and Cultural Richness
🌸 The birthplace of Tsongkhapa, Kumbum Monastery is a sacred place for the soul. It is not only the ancestral temple of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, but also a treasure of world cultural heritage. A 30-minute drive will take you to this place, where every brick and tile tells a story of a thousand years.
💡 Travel Tips
👉 Tickets: CNY 70 per person in peak season, available online or on-site.
👉 Guide: We highly recommend the official guide, CNY 160 per group (up to 5 people). Professional and friendly, they will take you to every corner and tell you the stories behind them.
👉 Main attractions: Eight Pagodas of Auspiciousness, Grand Golden Tiled Hall, Bodhi Tree... Each one is worth savoring.
🌟 Longevity Hall: A Baptism of the Soul. Surrounded by lush greenery and incense smoke, this is the best place to find inner peace.
📌 Tips
● Dress appropriately and do not take photos inside the temple.
● Find a guide to make your trip more meaningful.
● Light a lamp voluntarily and respect local customs.
🎁 Souvenir Recommendation
On the second floor, you can find a wide variety of consecrated bracelets to complete your journey.
Come to Kumbum Monastery and embark on a journey of spiritual practice! 🌈
Kumbum Monastery
Qu@ntum_D@nc3r
8 days of fun at Qinghai Lake and other places, so beautiful you won't want to go home.
My dear friends! Here's a super detailed guide for an 8-day tour of Qinghai Lake and other places! Save it now and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Northwest!
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🚩Itinerary:
D1: Gansu Provincial Museum🏛️
Explore the history and culture of Gansu and see the ancient artifacts.
D2: Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake🌊
Enjoy the magnificent scenery of Qinghai Lake and feel the tranquility and cleansing of nature.
D3: Chaka Salt Lake - Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area💚
Walk on the mirror of the sky in Chaka and explore the emerald oasis of Dachaidan.
D4: Mogao Caves🎨
Travel through time and enjoy the thousand-year-old beauty of the murals and statues in the Mogao Caves.
D5: Crescent Lake, Mingsha Mountain - Mingsha Mountain - Son of the Earth - Sculpture Without Borders🏜️
Ride a camel through Mingsha Mountain, visit the miracle of Crescent Lake, and enjoy the artistic charm of the sculptures.
D6: Jiayuguan Pass - Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park - Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest🌅
Climb Jiayuguan Pass and overlook the Great Wall; the colorful Zhangye Danxia and the golden Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest are mesmerizing.
D7: Ta'er Monastery🙏
Visit the sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism and experience the profound religious culture.
D8: Depart from Lanzhou🛫
End the pleasant journey with fond memories and look forward to the next meeting!
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Tips for your trip:
🚗Airport transportation: Choose a taxi for a quick and easy ride, avoid rush hours and transfers, and go straight to the airport without missing your flight.
📸Photo spots: Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, and Erlangjian Scenic Area are must-sees, with beautiful scenery all around.
❄️November weather: The temperature is moderate, but the temperature difference between day and night is large, so remember to bring a down jacket and sunscreen.
💊Altitude sickness: Prepare medicine in advance, take proper rest, and adapt to the plateau environment slowly.
🍽️Local food: Don't miss the authentic Qinghai cuisine and let your taste buds enjoy the fun of traveling.
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Come to Qinghai Lake and experience the unique plateau style! Take action now and book your trip to start your dream journey!
LOLA STEVENS
How to explore Qinghai Lake
Qinghai Lake is the largest inland lake in China and a landmark attraction in Qinghai Province, famous for its azure waters and rich natural scenery. Here are some recommended travel tips for Qinghai Lake:
1. Itinerary planning:
Qinghai Lake is about 360 km around, suitable for self-driving or cycling. You can choose to start from Xining, pass through Ta'er Monastery and Laji Mountain, and reach Qinghai Lake to experience the natural scenery and cultural activities by the lake. If you have enough time, you can continue to Chaka Salt Lake, Qilian Mountain Grassland, and other places.
2. Recommended attractions:
Erlangjian Scenic Area: A 5A scenic area operated by the government, deep into the lake, offering a variety of recreational activities.
Chaka Salt Lake: Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," the lake has a high salt content and naturally crystallizes into a white lake surface, making it a great place for photography.
Huanhu West Road: Beautiful scenery, suitable for watching the sunrise and experiencing the tranquil lake and mountain scenery.
Heimahe Township: A great place to watch the sunrise over Qinghai Lake.
3. Experience activities:
✅Must-try:
Cycling: Qinghai Lake is very suitable for cycling. You can choose to cycle on the essence sections of Huanhu East Road, Huanhu West Road, and Huanhu North Road.
Horseback riding: Ride a horse by Qinghai Lake and enjoy the pleasure of being close to the lake.
Hand-painted Thangka: Experience the unique painting art of Tibetan culture.
4. Accommodation suggestions:
Accommodation is tight and expensive during the peak season (June to August), so it is recommended to book in advance. You can choose to stay by Qinghai Lake, Chaka Town, or Gangcha County to enjoy the sunrise and experience local life.
5. Notes:
Sun protection: The ultraviolet rays in Qinghai Lake are strong, so prepare high SPF sunscreen and a sun hat.
Altitude sickness: Qinghai Lake is about 3,200 meters above sea level, so be aware of altitude sickness, rest appropriately, and maintain physical strength.
Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Qinghai Lake is large, so prepare enough warm clothes.
6. 🍽Food recommendations:
Qinghai Lake is mainly based on beef and mutton, so you can try local specialties such as hand-grabbed mutton, baked lamb chops, and beef noodles.
7. Travel time: Qinghai Lake is suitable for all seasons, but the best travel time is from June to October. The scenery is also very good now, and the rapeseed flowers are in full bloom by the lake, and the climate is pleasant.
Depending on your time and interests, you can choose the right route and activities to experience the beauty and tranquility of Qinghai Lake.
RefreshedAdventures
Enjoy the gifts of nature, and you won't want to leave!
Qinghai is a place where natural and cultural landscapes complement each other, with many breathtaking scenic spots.
Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring, Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Ta'er Monastery, Dachaidan Emerald Lake, and more. The natural beauty along the way is truly amazing.
Qinghai's unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage attract many tourists, and the simple folk customs make people feel warm and friendly.
Charlotte Turner~52
Kumbum Monastery: A tranquil Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
👍️Recommended: The birthplace of Tsongkhapa, teacher of the Panchen Lama and Dalai Lama. A tranquil and solemn Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The butter sculptures, barbola, and murals are worth seeing.
📅Travel tips: The ticket includes a map. If you want to learn more, you can hire a guide for CNY 160 for 1–5 people. If you want to explore freely, you can do so. Respect local customs, lift your feet when entering the hall, and don't step on the threshold. Walk quietly in the halls and don't take photos.🙅🤳
🏨Accommodation tips: If you arrive in the evening, you can stay at a hotel near the monastery for easy access the next day. If you arrive in the morning and want to visit the city, you can stay near the train station. If you're driving, just follow the navigation. Bus 909 runs from the train station to Kumbum Monastery. Get off and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the monastery.
💗Other tips: Whether walking or climbing stairs, remember to take it slow. After all, it's the plateau. You can't enter the monastery in Tibetan clothing.
ezra_silverwood_89
Kumbum Monastery.
Kumbum Monastery is a famous Tibetan Buddhist holy site in northwest China. It is located in Lushaer Town, Huangzhong County, Xining City, Qinghai Province. It is one of the important monasteries of the Gelug Sect (Yellow Sect) of Tibetan Buddhism and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Yellow Sect. The history of Kumbum Monastery can be traced back to 1379. It was initially built to commemorate the birth of Tsongkhapa and was called "Lianju Tower". It gradually developed into a large-scale Buddhist holy site.
The buildings of Kumbum Monastery are located on the mountainside and are distributed on the two slopes of a gully on Lotus Mountain. They include the Great Golden Tile Temple, the Great Sutra Hall, the Maitreya Hall, the Nine-Room Hall, the Flower Temple, the Small Golden Tile Temple, Jubazang, Dingkezang, Manbazang, Dalarang, the Great Kitchen, the Ruyi Pagoda, and other 9,300+ rooms (seats), forming a huge complex of Tibetan and Han buildings covering an area of 450,000 square meters. The architectural style of the temple is a combination of Han and Tibetan styles. It ingeniously integrates the Han-style three-eave Xieshan-style with the Tibetan-style eave and the whip wall, the middle inlaid with the Vajra Sanskrit mantra and copper mirror, and the bottom inlaid with bricks, forming a harmonious and perfect combination of Han and Tibetan architectural styles.
Kumbum Monastery has a rich collection of cultural relics, including Buddhist scriptures and academic monographs on history, literature, philosophy, medicine, and legislation. The temple also has the famous "Three Wonders of Art" - butter flowers, murals, and pile embroidery. These artworks are famous for their exquisite craftsmanship and profound religious connotations. Every year, Kumbum Monastery also holds grand Buddhist events "Four Great Dharma Assemblies", attracting many believers and tourists to participate.
Kumbum Monastery is not only a holy place for Lamaism in China, but also one of the higher education institutions that have cultivated a large number of Tibetan intellectuals. There are four colleges in the temple: Xianzong, Mizong, Astronomy, and Medicine. In addition, Kumbum Monastery also has requirements for clothing. Tourists must wear long gowns and long skirts for sightseeing. There are clear regulations on behavior and manners. If the clothing is too exposed, you will not be able to visit.
The ticket price of Kumbum Monastery is CNY 70 per ticket. The opening hours are 08:00-17:00. It covers an area of more than 600 acres. The best season for playing is from June to August. The recommended playing time is 4-5 hours.
_TI***lv
Kumbum Monastery in autumn.
🔶🔹Kumbum Monastery is a center of Tibetan Buddhism in northwest China and is famous in China and Southeast Asia. It was first built in the 39th year of the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty (1560) to commemorate Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It was originally a large silver pagoda and was later expanded into a monastery.
🔹Architectural features: Kumbum Monastery has a unique architectural style that combines Han and Tibetan architectural art. It was built according to the mountain terrain and forms a large architectural complex.
🔸Three artistic masterpieces: Butter sculptures, murals, and thangkas are known as the three artistic masterpieces of Kumbum Monastery and have high artistic value.
🔹Religious activities: Kumbum Monastery holds four major Dharma assemblies each year, attracting many believers and tourists to come and worship.
🔸Cultural value: Kumbum Monastery is one of the important monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and is of great significance for the study of Tibetan Buddhist culture, history, and art.
After visiting the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Songzanlin Monastery in Shangri-La, and Labrang Monastery in Gannan, the butter sculptures of Kumbum Monastery in Qinghai are still the most shocking.
Sophia Johnson7 Peace
Xining | Ta'er Monastery | Tibetan and secular, a place of faith.
| Tibetan and secular, a place of faith. Ta'er Monastery sees the world, sees all beings, and sees oneself.
Sakyamuni said to all beings: 🙏 To be free from the shackles of reincarnation, one must practice nirvana with an iron heart.
The soul must reincarnate, it may be confused and pitiful.
Location: Lushaer Town, Huangzhong County, Xining City, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: 30 minutes by car from the city
🎫⏰️ Off-season 40/person 8:00-16:30
Peak season 70/person 7:30-18:30
Tour route: Gate check ➡️ Dharma Hall ➡️ Pray for Longevity Hall ➡️ Wheel of Time City ➡️ Great Scripture Hall ➡️ Great Golden Tile Hall ➡️ Maitreya Buddha Hall ➡️ Nine Halls ➡️ Wheel of Time Scripture College ➡️ Butter Flower Hall ➡️ Tibetan Scripture Building ➡️ Esoteric Scripture College ➡️ Mother Hall ➡️ Vajra City ➡️ Auspicious Palace ➡️ Tathagata Eight Pagoda Temple
💡tips:
🔺 Dress appropriately, avoid short skirts and shorts, no smoking or drinking
🔺 Prayer wheels and prayer wheels must be turned clockwise and not counterclockwise
🔺 Do not cross over the Dharma vessel or the fire basin
🔺 It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of monks and believers, but you can take pictures outside the temple.
🔺 It is recommended to hire a tour guide to better understand the history and cultural connotation of Ta'er Monastery.
In short, Ta'er Monastery is a place full of charm and historical heritage, and it is well worth a visit‼️
Here, you can feel the strong religious atmosphere and appreciate the exquisite architecture and art treasures
Come for a spiritual baptism‼️
EmilyTurner
Xining | Ta'er Monastery | Tibetan and secular, a place of faith.
| Tibetan and secular, a place of faith. Ta'er Monastery sees the world, sees all beings, and sees oneself.
Sakyamuni said to all beings: 🙏 To be free from the shackles of reincarnation, one must practice nirvana with an iron heart.
The soul must reincarnate, it may be confused and pitiful.
Location: Lushaer Town, Huangzhong County, Xining City, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: 30 minutes by car from the city
🎫⏰️ Off-season 40/person 8:00-16:30
Peak season 70/person 7:30-18:30
Tour route: Gate check ➡️ Dharma Hall ➡️ Pray for Longevity Hall ➡️ Wheel of Time City ➡️ Great Scripture Hall ➡️ Great Golden Tile Hall ➡️ Maitreya Buddha Hall ➡️ Nine Halls ➡️ Wheel of Time Scripture College ➡️ Butter Flower Hall ➡️ Tibetan Scripture Building ➡️ Esoteric Scripture College ➡️ Mother Hall ➡️ Vajra City ➡️ Auspicious Palace ➡️ Tathagata Eight Pagoda Temple
💡tips:
🔺 Dress appropriately, avoid short skirts and shorts, no smoking or drinking
🔺 Prayer wheels and prayer wheels must be turned clockwise and not counterclockwise
🔺 Do not cross over the Dharma vessel or the fire basin
🔺 It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of monks and believers, but you can take pictures outside the temple.
🔺 It is recommended to hire a tour guide to better understand the history and cultural connotation of Ta'er Monastery.
In short, Ta'er Monastery is a place full of charm and historical heritage, and it is well worth a visit‼️
Here, you can feel the strong religious atmosphere and appreciate the exquisite architecture and art treasures
Come for a spiritual baptism‼️
AFA. Jan 3696
Xining is not short of oxygen, and Ta'er Monastery is not short of faith.
Coming to Ta'er Monastery without wearing Tibetan clothes, you can go deep into the temple, which is more worthwhile than the "Zhuoma Experience Card".
Ta'er Monastery is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug Sect. The pagoda was built before the temple, so it was named "Ta'er". Although the temple is small in size, the founder of the Gelug Sect, Tsongkhapa, was born here, so it has a very high status. Now in the Golden Tile Hall, you can see the golden pagoda with 860 kilograms of gold and 3,600 gems. Inside is a Bodhi tree, which is symbiotic with the Bodhi tree outside the hall.
It rained for a night and a day in Xining, and people who came here were still in an endless stream. Under the eaves, devout believers are prostrating. There is no lack of oxygen here, and there is no lack of faith.
📸Photo location summary
🔴Ta'er Monastery viewing platform. Route➡️Walk for about 20 minutes, go up from "Linxiu Road"
🔴The small park opposite the Buddha Light Hotel. Tibetan costume photos are taken here.
🔴Inside Ta'er Monastery. Route➡️ Babao Ruyi Pagoda, a Dharma Temple, a Pray for Longevity Hall, a Great Scripture Hall, a Golden Tile Hall, a Nine-Room Hall—Bianzhi Hall—Jiashi Lunjing, a Butter Flower Hall—Tibetan Scripture Building
📷Camera: The most important thing for travel photography is "portability", so I chose Canon EOS R8, the body is only 461 grams. It has the same sensor and focusing system as R6II, and the picture quality and user experience are great. The only drawback is the battery life, you need to prepare more 🔋
🎫Ticket price: The ticket price is 70 yuan in the peak season and 40 yuan in the off-season; the explanation is 160 yuan (1-5 people)
⌚️Opening hours: The opening hours are 07:30-18:30, and the ticket sales stop at 17:30
⚠️You cannot expose your clothes when entering the temple, and you cannot wear ethnic clothes
Bell_54 Sophia
A different perspective on the morning of Kumbum Monastery.
In the morning drizzle, holding a small umbrella, follow the steps of the believers attending the morning class to listen to the morning of Kumbum Monastery.
Slow down your steps, you can sink your heart to see the beauty of details, feel the different customs and customs, maybe you can also hear the sound of your heart beating...
On the hill opposite the main gate of Kumbum Monastery, there is a prayer flag, which is a viewing platform overlooking Kumbum Monastery. The Buddha Bathing Festival is held on the Buddha Bathing Platform next to it every April.
There are many guesthouses, shops and restaurants near Kumbum Monastery. The pink soup and mutton buns in the Tibetan restaurant are delicious, and the halal snacks (such as rose cake) are very suitable as dry food. There is a supermarket at the entrance of the commercial street, which has many plateau specialties, healthy and affordable, you can buy it as a souvenir to take home.
Kumbum Monastery belongs to Huangzhong District, Xining City. There are direct buses from the city, with a ticket price of 7 yuan. Of course, driving yourself is more convenient!
nataliehurricane
"The Beauty of Tibetan Architecture at Kumbum Monastery: A Visual Feast for the Soul"
When you set your eyes on the Tibetan architecture of Kumbum Monastery, a visual feast for the soul begins.
The Tibetan buildings are like temples that have descended from the mysterious sky, exuding an extraordinary beauty. They are set against the blue sky, white clouds, green mountains, and clear waters, forming a picturesque and beautiful picture.
The outline of the building is simple and powerful, and the thick walls give people an unparalleled sense of stability, as if telling the depth and heaviness of the years. The unique trapezoidal windows are like a pair of deep eyes, peering at the vicissitudes of the world.
On the roof, the golden Dharma wheel and auspicious deer shine under the touch of the sun, showing the sacredness and solemnity of religion. The fluttering prayer flags are colorful and dancing in the wind, as if conveying the gospel from heaven.
Walking into the interior of the building, the exquisite murals are dazzling. The delicate lines and bright colors depict the stories and legends of Buddhism, making people feel as if they are in a magical religious world. The gorgeous Thangka paintings show the profoundness of Tibetan Buddhism with their exquisite craftsmanship and rich colors.
The wooden beams and columns are carved with exquisite patterns, and every detail is full of the hard work and wisdom of the craftsmen. Those complicated and orderly patterns are like mysterious codes, waiting for someone to decipher.
The Tibetan architecture of Kumbum Monastery is not only a masterpiece of art, but also a place for the soul. They carry the faith and hope of the Tibetan people and witness the changes of history and the inheritance of culture.
In front of these beautiful Tibetan buildings, I feel that my soul is deeply touched. Their beauty is like a clear spring, flowing deep in my heart, giving me a deeper understanding and awe of the culture and spirit of this land.
MichaelLivingston
Qinghai Lake | A beautiful and mysterious dream lake.
Qinghai, located in northwestern China, is a mysterious and beautiful land. With its rich natural landscapes and deep ethnic culture, it is an ideal place for tourism, adventure, and experiencing exotic cultures. Here is a detailed Qinghai travel guide, including transportation, accommodation, tickets, food, attractions, and travel tips.
🚥 Transportation
✈️ Xining Caojiabao Airport is the main airport in Qinghai, with flights connecting major cities in China.
🚄 Xining Railway Station has trains to all parts of China.
🚌 Long-distance buses are an important means of transportation connecting Qinghai with other provinces.
🚗 Qinghai has a well-developed road network, and self-driving is a popular way to travel in Qinghai.
🏠 Accommodation
Xining: As the capital of Qinghai Province, Xining has a variety of star-rated and budget hotels to choose from.
Near Qinghai Lake: There are guesthouses and hotels, some of which offer lakeside accommodation experiences.
🎫 Ticket Prices
Qinghai Lake: Prices vary depending on the attraction, usually around 100 yuan.
Ta'er Monastery: Tickets are about 70 yuan.
🥘 Food Recommendations
💗 Hand-pulled mutton: Qinghai mutton is delicious, and hand-pulled mutton is a local traditional dish.
💗 Liangpi: A cold salad made from flour, with a unique taste.
💗 Yogurt: Qinghai yogurt has a pure taste and is a must-try.
💗 Yak beef: Delicious and nutritious.
💗 Sweet barley: A sweet dessert made from barley, with a wine aroma.
⛰️ Main Attractions
🌈 Qinghai Lake: China's largest inland lake, with stunning lake and mountain views.
🌈 Ta'er Monastery: An important Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, with a rich culture and history.
🌈 Mengyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea: Every summer, the rapeseed flowers in Mengyuan bloom, forming a golden ocean.
⚠️ Precautions
1. Altitude sickness: Qinghai is located at a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness and rest and hydrate properly.
2. Sun protection: Qinghai has strong ultraviolet rays, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.
3. Respect local culture: When visiting temples and other religious sites, respect local customs and beliefs.
4. Protect the environment: Do not litter and protect Qinghai's natural environment.
Qinghai is a charming place, and both its natural and cultural landscapes are worth exploring and experiencing. I hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Qinghai better.
MysticRiver424242
Kumbum Monastery
Reaching this place was one of the most complicated information to find, but we made it 💪
From Xining, find a stop where you can grab the bus 909. The ride is around an hour and a half and costs 4rmb. Be sure to have the exact amount for both ways because they are not giving you back any change, and you are not given tickets that you might be able to use for the way back. Indeed, we got tricked as we thought the little invoice that you can grab would help us show that we already paid a return ticket as we had no change, and it was a hard task to convince the driver to let us through. Ride the bus until the end of the line, and then walk around 10 minutes to reach the temple. Once there, cross the plaza and look at the buildings on your left to buy tickets (it's not clearly indicated so follow the people with tickets to see where they come from). One ticjet costs 70rmb per person. Once inside, we got offered to do a private tour with a tibetan man (unofficial guide) and we decided to get on with him to get more insight and understanding. Well, let me tell you that we did not regret it.
Our guide explained to us a lot about the history of the temple, built by Tsongkhapa's mother, an influential Tibetan Buddhist monk who lived 700 years ago. He is the founder of the Tibetan Buddhism yellow hat school (or Gelug). He also the teacher of the first Dalaï Lama.
Apparently, the first temple was built by Tsongkhapa's mother because she was missing her son. She built the temple around a Buddha tree who is said to be alive in the pagoda, and on its leaves there are faces of the Buddha.
He is now seen as the second Buddha in the yellow hat tradition (the first one being Sakyamuni, also known as Siddhartha Gautama).
The place is home to hundreds of monks and 14 living Buddhas.
There's also a beautiful pagoda named the pagoda of peace that was built during WWII.
The most impressive room in the temples was the one of the Yak butter sculpture. It's very recent (2013) but is magnificent. The carving and painting inside the building are mesmerizing, and the sculptures made by monks are so detailed, one may wonder how it can possible to do that. The sculptures are kept behind windows, inside a refrigerated space as it would melt otherwise. We have been informed that every year, the designs change.
We also had the pleasure to admire well made embroideries and painting on several buildings, some having never been restored since they had been made (which is truly impressive as you can still see well).
Having a guide for this place was definitely a must, as Buddhism can be hard to understand, especially with the many different branches that exist.
It's a short trip, even though it's a been tedious to get there, it's definitely worth it if you have the time.
💰Average Price per Person: 70rmb/person
💞Reasons to Recommend: spiritual, important Tibetan temple
🚌How to Get There: from Xining, take the bus 909 🕰️Business Hours: 7.30 am - 6pm
⏱️How Long to Visit: 2 hours
bebou around the world
Experience the profound Zen meaning of "one flower, one world" at Kumbum Monastery.
Kumbum Monastery
📿Kumbum Monastery, also known as Ta'er Monastery, is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism in China. The founder of the Gelug sect, Tsongkhapa, was born in Huangzhong, Qinghai, and later went to Tibet to study and establish the Gelug sect. His mother, missing her son, built a pagoda, the "Julieta", at his birthplace in 1379 under the guidance of Tsongkhapa. This is the earliest building of Kumbum Monastery.
🌟The artistic treasures of Kumbum Monastery are mainly reflected in butter sculptures, murals, and embroidery, known as the "three unique arts of Kumbum Monastery":
1️⃣Butter sculptures are lifelike and colorful, and are important exhibits in the annual Buddhist activities of Kumbum Monastery. Each work is breathtaking and shocking!
2️⃣Most of the murals are painted on curtains, and some are directly painted on walls and beams. The content is mostly derived from Buddhist stories and religious life, with bright colors that do not change over time. 3️⃣Embroidery is one of the unique Tibetan arts created by Kumbum Monastery. Various brightly colored silks are cut into various images of Buddhas, characters, flowers, birds, and beasts, and then filled with wool or cotton, embroidered on curtains, with clear layers and lifelike.
🪷Kumbum Monastery is also the highest institution of the Qinghai Provincial Buddhist Academy, with four major colleges: Xianzong, Mizong, Astronomy, and Medicine, which have made important contributions to the training of Tibetan intellectuals and religious talents.
As one of the important monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Kumbum Monastery not only witnessed the development of Tibetan Buddhism in Qinghai, but also carried a wealth of historical and cultural heritage and the footprints of religious leaders. These historical events together constitute the unique cultural charm and historical value of Kumbum Monastery.