During the 2025–2026 winter–spring tourism season, set out on five carefully curated winter routes in Qinghai. Admire Qinghai's grandeur across icy landscapes, explore the desert's wonders, experience snow-and-ice charm, encounter local folk culture, witness spectacular sunrises, relax in ecological hot springs, stroll through snow-clad forests, and indulge in winter delights.

Classic route: Desert wonders exploration tour

Main stops: Xining — Gonghe — Ulan — Delingha — Da Qaidam (Dachaidan) — Lenghu

Points of interest en route: Caka(Chaka) Salt Lake, Feicui(Emerald) Lake, Water(Wusute) Yadan, Heidu Mountain

Highlights: Dreamlike scenes of snow‑capped mountains mirrored in lakes; the twin spectacles of "Martian terrain" and the "galactic feast" across the Qaidam Basin; the extraordinary sight of frozen Yadan wilderness; an immersive experience of Mars‑like survival landscapes; and the awe of nature's craftsmanship.

Featured route 1: A joyful ice and snow tour along the Hehuang Ancient Route 

Main stops: Xining — Ledu — Huzhu — Datong — Menyuan

Points of interest en route: Ganhe Country Park, Beichuan Ice and Snow World, Qutan International Ski Resort, Rainbow Tribe Ski Resort, Kangle Ski Resort, Gangshka Snow Peak

Highlights: Challenge yourself with plateau winter sports; climb your first snow peak; admire the striking spectacle of snow‑clad pines; and experience the Qilian Mountains draped in white.

Featured route 2: Hehuang Folk Culture discovery & experience tour

Main stops: Xining — Huzhu — Ping'an — Ledu — Hualong — Tongren

Points of interest en route: Butter Sculpture and Lantern Festival at Kumbum Monastery (Ta'er Temple), Qianhuying High Platform in Huangzhong, Shehuo Festival in Weiyuan Town, Ping'an Post · Hehuang Folk Culture Experience Site, Hehuang Culture Museum, Nine‑Bend Yellow River Lantern Festival, Gaomiao Shehuo Festival, Regong Historical and Cultural City

Highlights: Explore the profound history of Hehuang culture and experience enchanting intangible cultural heritage; shop for Chinese New Year goods, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in diverse folk customs.

Featured route 3: Sunrise scenery & chasing the light tour

Main stops: Xining — Huangyuan — Haiyan — Qinghai Lake

Points of interest en route: Tongbao Mountain, Qinghai Lake, Heima River

Highlights: Witness breathtaking scenery—snow‑capped mountains, a sea of clouds, and sunrise—capture dreamlike light and shadow, and enjoy the winter tranquility.

Featured route 4: Hot spring soothing & wellness leisure tour

Main stops: Xining — Huangyuan — Haiyan — Gonghe — Guide

Points of interest en route: Xiadu Bohui Hot Spring Water Park, Danga'er Ancient City, Dayu Hot Spring Hotel, Mani Motai Hot Spring Resort, Zhacang Hot Spring, Ashigong Colorful Danxia Peak Cluster, Clear Yellow River

Highlights: Relax body and mind, alleviate fatigue; hike and stargaze; experience Tibetan folk customs; and immerse in a deep blend of natural wonder, cultural immersion, and spiritual renewal.

Featured route 5: Qilian Mountains · Lenglong Ridge hiking route

Main stops: Gangshika Visitor Service Center — Baishui River Bridge — Colorful Waterfall — Viewing Platform — Dabanzhang Pass — Ebao Valley — Keshucha Intersection — Railway Tunnel Portal — Liuhuanggou Checkpoint — G227

Highlights: This route covers Lenglong Ridge's most iconic landscapes—glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, meadows, snow‑capped peaks, and Danxia landforms—over a 49‑kilometer hike with one campsite and one rescue/service station. Recommended for hikers with outdoor experience seeking an in‑depth natural adventure; join activities organized by qualified outdoor clubs.