Xining

Xining is a beautiful city located in the northwest of China, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. Here is an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Xining:

Day 1:

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Ta'er Monastery, which is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China. You can explore the beautiful temples, watch the monks chanting, and learn about the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Qinghai Lake, which is the largest saltwater lake in China. You can take a boat ride on the lake, enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and visit the Bird Island, which is a natural reserve for many species of birds.
• Evening: In the evening, you can explore the Xining Night Market, which is a bustling street market that offers a wide variety of local food, snacks, and souvenirs. You can try some of the famous local dishes, such as lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and yogurt.

Day 2:

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Dongguan Mosque, which is one of the largest and oldest mosques in China. You can admire the beautiful Islamic architecture, learn about the history of Islam in China, and observe the daily prayers of the local Muslims.
• Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Kumbum Monastery, which is another important Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Xining. You can explore the stunning temples, visit the museum, and learn about the life of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Evening: In the evening, you can relax at the Xining People's Park, which is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city. You can stroll around the lake, enjoy the colorful flowers and trees, and watch the locals practicing tai chi and other traditional exercises.

Day 3:

• Morning: Start your day by visiting the Qinghai Provincial Museum, which is a modern museum that showcases the history, culture, and natural resources of Qinghai Province. You can see the exhibits of ancient artifacts, ethnic costumes, and wildlife specimens.
• Afternoon: After lunch, head to the Riyue Mountain, which is a scenic spot that offers panoramic views of Xining and the surrounding mountains. You can take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain, hike along the trails, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
• Evening: In the evening, you can enjoy a hot pot dinner, which is a popular local cuisine that consists of a simmering pot of broth, meat, vegetables, and spices. You can choose your own ingredients and cook them at the table, while chatting with your friends and family.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Xining and enjoy all the wonderful things this city has to offer!