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Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is located in northeastern Qinghai Province, bordering Gansu Province. In ancient times, it was home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including the Xirong, Qiang, and Tuyuhun. Today, in addition to the Han Chinese, Haibei is also home to Tibetans, Hui, Mongolians, Tu, and Salar. Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is rich in natural resources, including the beautiful Qinghai Lake, the "Atomic City," sand islands, a vast sea of flowers, and China's most beautiful grasslands, the Qilian Mountains.
The seasons are suitable, and rapeseed flowers in Menyuan are in full bloom in mid-July.
Qilian Mountains
The Hexi Corridor, running in front of the Qilian Mountains, has long served as a natural passage connecting the inland mainland to the northwest, boasting numerous cultural relics and scenic spots. During the Han and Tang dynasties, the renowned Silk Road passed through this corridor, leaving behind numerous historical sites, checkpoints, and towns that exemplify cultural exchange between China and the West. These include Jiayuguan, the Heishui Kingdom Han Tombs, the Mati Temple Grottoes, the Western Xia Stele, and the Bingling Temple Grottoes.
Menyuan rapeseed flower sea
Menyuan rapeseed flowers are found in Menyuan County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. Known as the birthplace of rapeseed in northern China, it boasts the largest rapeseed cultivation area in China, and perhaps even the world, covering 500,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares). Stretching for dozens of kilometers, the area stretches from Qingshizui on the Haomen River in the west to Yulongtan on the Datong River in the east, from Lenglongling on the border with Gansu Province in the north to the towering Daban Mountain in the south.
Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is a culturally rich region in Qinghai, historically inhabited by Tibetan communities. It is significant for its Tibetan heritage, pastoral traditions, natural landscapes, and as a gateway to Qinghai's high-altitude ecosystems and Tibetan Buddhism sites.
Located in northeastern Qinghai Province, China. The main access points are via buses or taxis from Xining, the provincial capital. Private cars or guided tours are recommended for easier travel within the prefecture due to limited public transportation.
The region is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when weather conditions are mild and grasslands are lush.
Most natural areas and villages are free to visit. Some scenic spots or cultural sites may charge a small entrance fee, payable on-site.
Booking is generally not required except for guided tours, accommodations, or special events. Advance reservation of 1–2 weeks is recommended for these.
3–5 days are recommended to explore the main grasslands, villages, and scenic areas comfortably.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some English-speaking guides in popular tourist areas. Audio guides are limited.
Grasslands during sunrise or sunset, mountain ridges, Qinghai Lake viewpoints, and village landscapes are ideal for photography.
Start from Xining, visit Haibei’s main towns, explore grasslands and villages, include Qinghai Lake outskirts, and return via scenic routes to capture landscapes and cultural sites.
Night visits are generally limited due to the rural setting. Local festivals may include cultural performances during specific periods.
The prefecture is sparsely populated, with peak tourist crowds during July and August. Weekdays outside peak season are the least crowded.
Basic facilities are available in towns and larger villages. Visitors should bring water, snacks, and other essentials for remote areas.
Most towns and scenic spots are accessible, but high-altitude areas and uneven grasslands may be challenging for the elderly or disabled. Children can explore with supervision.
Cash is preferred in remote areas. Mobile payments are widely accepted in towns and tourist centers.
Local Tibetan and Chinese restaurants are available in towns and villages. Small cafés may exist in larger towns.
Halal food is commonly available due to the Muslim population in Qinghai. Vegetarian dishes are also offered in Tibetan and Chinese eateries.
Guesthouses, small hotels, and some boutique accommodations are available in towns and near scenic areas.
Souvenir shops in towns sell Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, yak wool products, and local artwork.
Private cars, taxis, and tour buses are recommended to reach other attractions in Qinghai or return to Xining.
