The Best Time to Visit Xining: Weather and Festivals

Xining, the capital city of Qinghai province in China, is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and lakes. It is an ideal destination for those looking for nature, culture or both. Xining has a highland continental climate with cold and dry winters and cool summers. The city is an excellent place to visit at any time of year, but depending on your preferences and interests, the best time to visit Xining may vary. In this post, we will discuss the weather and festivals of Xining to help you plan your visit accordingly.

Weather in Xining

The weather in Xining is characteristic of a high altitude location, with long and cold winters lasting from November to March and cool summers from June to August. The average temperature in January is -8°C while in July it’s a comfortable 17°C. Throughout the year, the city receives a significant amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 577 mm.

So, if you don’t like the cold, it’s better to avoid visiting the city in the winter. If you can’t stand the heat, avoid the summer season. However, if you like the unique beauty of snow-covered landscapes, winter in Xining can be magical. Winter activities like skiing and ice dancing add to the excitement of visiting the city during the season. The hot and long summer in Xining is an excellent time for hiking, trekking, and other outdoor activities.

If you are planning to travel to Xining in spring or autumn, it is best to bring warm clothes as the temperature drops significantly during the night. In these seasons, you can experience both the best of winter in Xining and the stunning beauty of fall foliage.

Festivals in Xining

Xining has many festivals and events throughout the year, which provide a unique insight into the city’s culture and offer numerous opportunities to explore its vibrant traditions. Here are some of Xining’s most famous festivals:

The Xining Nanchan Temple Fair in January

The Nanchan Temple Fair is held in January every year and is one of the major events in Xining, attracting plenty of visitors. The festival offers a cultural exhibition that includes exhibitions of traditional handicrafts, artwork, and local foods. You can enjoy performances of dragon and lion dances, operas, and other traditional folk shows.

The Qinghai Lake International Road Cycling Race in July

The Qinghai Lake International Road Cycling Race is a must-see event for those who love adventure and sports activities. The race usually takes place in July and attracts professional cyclists from all over the world. Tourists can witness this spectacular bike race and appreciate the beauty of Qinghai Lake as the cyclists ride along its shore.

The Xining Yak Butter Sculpture Festival in August

The famous Yak Butter Sculpture Festival is a unique annual festival held in August in Xining. The festival presents a display of handmade butter sculptures of Buddhist icons, animals, and other designs. Apart from the sculptures, you can witness an array of cultural performances and Tibetan dances.

The Xining International Carpet Exhibition in September

This exhibition is known to be the world’s largest international carpet exhibition, offering a platform for carpet producers from all over the world to showcase their work. Visitors can enjoy stunning displays of carpets with unique designs and colors, interact with producers, and attend workshops.

Conclusion

Xining is an excellent destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts, with a diversity of activities to suit every preference. To have the most enjoyable experience, choose the best time to visit Xining based on your interests and preferences. You can witness the natural beauty of the city’s mountainous and lake landscapes throughout the year, but the best time to visit Xining is during the festivals and events when the city is bustling with excitement.

An Insider’s Guide to Xining: Uncovering the Hidden Gems and Cultural Delights

Xining, the capital of Qinghai Province, is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of China’s remote northwest. With a unique blend of Tibetan, Muslim, and Han Chinese culture, Xining offers a captivating and unforgettable travel experience. But when is the best time to visit? Let’s explore the weather and festivals to help plan your visit.

Local Attractions: Discovering the Hidden Gems

While Xining has plenty of well-known tourist attractions, such as Kumbum Monastery and Dongguan Mosque, there are also plenty of hidden gems that only locals know about. For example, The Xining Museum of Fine Arts offers a beautiful display of traditional Tibetan and contemporary art. The local Taoist temple, Baiyuan Temple, is a tranquil oasis in the hustle and bustle of the city. And for an adrenaline rush, the Qinghai Lake Scenic Area offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping and ziplining.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Local Cuisine

Xining is also known for its unique cuisine, which is a fusion of Chinese, Tibetan, and Muslim flavors. The most famous local dish is the ‘Qinghai Plateau’ yak meat, served in a variety of ways such as in hotpot or skewered and grilled. Another local delicacy is ‘Hulutou,’ a type of fried dough served with sweet and sour sauce. Don’t miss out on the local snacks either, such as ‘Mian Pi,’ a cold noodle dish with sesame sauce. You can find these dishes and more at the popular Grand Bazaar or venture off the beaten path to the Xi Da Jie Food Street.

Cultural Experiences: Exploring the Traditions and Festivals

Xining is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, and visitors can experience them firsthand through various festivals or activities. The most famous festival is the ‘Tibetan Plateau Shepherd’s Festival’ held each summer, featuring horse racing, wrestling, and other traditional Tibetan activities. The ‘Qinghai Lake International Cycling Competition’ also draws crowds of cycling enthusiasts from all over the world. If music is more your style, the Xining International Folk Dance Festival is a spectacular showcase of colorful costumes and dance performances from different countries.

Local History: Unearthing the Fascinating Stories

Xining has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. One fascinating story is about the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which took over 20 years to complete due to the harsh terrain and weather conditions. The railway enabled transportation of Tibet’s natural resources and goods across the country, which helped to fuel China’s economic development. The ancient Ta’er Monastery also has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Ming Dynasty in the 14th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Unforgettable Memories

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, try visiting the ‘Menyuan Rape Flower Fields’ in late May to early June. The vast fields of brilliant yellow flowering crops create a breathtaking scene that’s not to be missed. Another unique experience is ‘Fanchuan Chongqing Hotpot,’ where you can enjoy the spicy hotpot dish while floating down the Huangshui River on a traditional Chinese-style boat. Or, for a more spiritual experience, you can trek through the Tibetan Plateau in search of hidden monasteries and Buddhist retreats.

As you can see, Xining is a fascinating and diverse city that’s worth visiting any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, culinary delights, or outdoor adventure, Xining has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for a one-of-a-kind journey to this hidden gem in the northwest of China.