Chengdu to Xining Overland Tour

Chengdu is an important travel point, not only for this route but as one of the biggest and culturally richest cities in China. So it is worth to plan your time for exploring at least its main attractions and landmarks. Then the route starts on the famous northern road No. 318, leading to Xining. After Kangding, you turn right on the road to Garze, then to the extreme northwest of Sichuan Derge with Tibetan sutra wooden hand crafted printing press, Manigango etc. From there it enters Qinghai province and arriving in its first main city Yushu. From Yushu, the route goes northeast through its wildest and highest sections, then descends to Qinghai Lake, which is the largest lake in China and arrives in Xining. 

Xining (ele. 2275m) is the capital of Qinghai province and is the largest city on the Tibetan Plateau. The city has an interesting mix of Chinese, Tibetans, Mongolians, Tu, Hui and Salar people. It is easily one of the most diverse cities in China. From Xining, you can take day trips out to Kumbum Monastery, Gonlung Monastery or Qinghai Lake.