As the capital and only large city in Qinghai, Xining is considered the "gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet plateau". The transport system, by planes, trains or automobiles, is relatively convenient. Timetables or further information can be found by clicking on the title links below.

By plane: It is possible to fly directly to Xining from quite a number of major cities including Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Xi'an. The airport lies 29km from the city center, a distance that may be covered either by taking a CAAC bus (RMB8) or a taxi (RMB50). The CAAC office is at 34 Bayi xilu in the eastern quarter of town (8:30am-noon; 2pm-5:30pm; Tel: 0971-8174616). For convenience's sake, you may also find out information and book tickets at most of the main travel agencies (see below) and big hotels in the city (most charge around RMB30 for commission).