https://in.trip.com/moments/qinghai-lake-281
2024 Qinghai Lake Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)
Today's Weather
Overcast -6-11℃
Experience the freedom and joy of a road trip around Qinghai Lake.
🏞️Qinghai Lake, the largest saltwater lake in China, attracts countless visitors with its magnificent scenery and unique ecological environment.
🏍️Embark on a road trip and drive slowly along the lakeside road, where you can admire the emerald green waters and the blue sky reflecting each other. 🍃Along the way, you can see herds of cattle and sheep leisurely grazing on the grasslands, feeling the tranquility and harmony of nature.
🏡By the shores of Qinghai Lake, you can also experience the local customs, taste delicious Tibetan cuisine, and feel the warmth and hospitality of the Tibetan people.
The Great Lakes of Qinghai
Getting There - getting to the Great Lakes is as easy as getting on a bus, quite literally. buses run from the Qining bus station, located next to the train station to the lakes at 40 rmb. The journey to the lakes will take you through breathtaking scenery, snow capped mountains, quaint rural villages and other incredible vistas. Upon arriving at the lakes, you can walk or either get a boat on the lake to enjoy this wonderland.
For food, there are several options outside the lake. There is a small village which offers delicious Qinghai food. The clay pot chicken is highly recommended, though bring a friend! it’s enough to feed a whole family.
#tigeryear2022 ##staycation #mountainview #lake #travel #backpackers
Qinghai’s Huge Lake
We couldn’t believe our eyes when we first saw Qinghai Lake. We were cycling down from the main road, through fields of grass and bright yellow rapeseed flowers when we first caught a glimpse of the blue water. For a split second, we forgot where we were and thought we had somehow made it to the sea!⠀
⠀
Located on the northeast of the Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai Lake is incredibly vast - said to be three times the size of Greater London - and is a sacred lake for Buddhist pilgrims. ⠀
If you love being active, definitely try to hop on a rental bike to cycle around as much of the lake as possible! you won’t regret it.
⠀
📍Qinghai Lake, Qinghai Province, China
#momentsmission
Michaela (@uncoveringcities) I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw Qinghai Lake. I was cycling down from the main road, through fields of grass and bright yellow rapeseed flowers when I first caught a glimpse of the blue water. For a split second, I forgot where I was and thought I had somehow made it to the sea!⠀
⠀
Located on the northeast of the Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai Lake is incredibly vast - said to be three times the size of Greater London - and is a sacred lake for Buddhist pilgrims. ⠀
⠀
📍Qinghai Lake, Qinghai Province, China
#leaveyourmark
Michaela (@uncoveringcities) Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour Guide
Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour Guide and Tips:
1. Xining had just experienced a heavy rainstorm when we went. We were lucky that it was sunny at Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake. Chaka Salt Lake is quite beautiful on sunny days. However, it was quite cold that day, so we needed to wear a windbreaker with a liner or a down jacket liner.
2. It's very sunny, so you need to bring sunscreen. Sunscreen, masks, hats and sunglasses. It's best to have a hat with a string, because the wind is really strong. Our hat didn't have a string, so it blew away.
3. It's very dry there, so bring lip balm, face cream, face mask and hand cream. Your nose will also feel very dry and uncomfortable, so it's a good idea to bring a nasal spray. As for body lotion, I brought it but didn't use it. The hotels we stayed in in Qinghai all had humidifiers, so it felt fine.
4. Prepare medicine: cold medicine, motion sickness medicine, digestive tablets and stomach medicine. These are the most useful, and I used them all.
5. The Qinghai-Gansu Loop Tour is far away, so it's recommended to join a tour group if you have a small group. We joined a small group, so we spent a lot of time in the car each day. If there's no one to take turns driving, it's very tiring. I felt so tired from sitting in the car. If it's convenient, you can bring a U-shaped pillow.
6. If you're worried about altitude sickness, you can prepare some chocolate in advance. We didn't have any reactions. You can also drink some Sprite or Coke.
Qinghai Knight Spirit Small Group In-depth Tour
🌎Small group in-depth tour, easy to play through Qinghai Lake + Chaka Salt Lake🏞
🚴Cycling + horse riding🐴+ hiking + rafting + camel riding
🐪 Temper the child's character, a memorable and meaningful study tour for the whole family📸🔥
Qinghai Lake | A beautiful and mysterious dream lake.
Qinghai, located in northwestern China, is a mysterious and beautiful land. With its rich natural landscapes and deep ethnic culture, it is an ideal place for tourism, adventure, and experiencing exotic cultures. Here is a detailed Qinghai travel guide, including transportation, accommodation, tickets, food, attractions, and travel tips.
🚥 Transportation
✈️ Xining Caojiabao Airport is the main airport in Qinghai, with flights connecting major cities in China.
🚄 Xining Railway Station has trains to all parts of China.
🚌 Long-distance buses are an important means of transportation connecting Qinghai with other provinces.
🚗 Qinghai has a well-developed road network, and self-driving is a popular way to travel in Qinghai.
🏠 Accommodation
Xining: As the capital of Qinghai Province, Xining has a variety of star-rated and budget hotels to choose from.
Near Qinghai Lake: There are guesthouses and hotels, some of which offer lakeside accommodation experiences.
🎫 Ticket Prices
Qinghai Lake: Prices vary depending on the attraction, usually around 100 yuan.
Ta'er Monastery: Tickets are about 70 yuan.
🥘 Food Recommendations
💗 Hand-pulled mutton: Qinghai mutton is delicious, and hand-pulled mutton is a local traditional dish.
💗 Liangpi: A cold salad made from flour, with a unique taste.
💗 Yogurt: Qinghai yogurt has a pure taste and is a must-try.
💗 Yak beef: Delicious and nutritious.
💗 Sweet barley: A sweet dessert made from barley, with a wine aroma.
⛰️ Main Attractions
🌈 Qinghai Lake: China's largest inland lake, with stunning lake and mountain views.
🌈 Ta'er Monastery: An important Gelugpa monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, with a rich culture and history.
🌈 Mengyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea: Every summer, the rapeseed flowers in Mengyuan bloom, forming a golden ocean.
⚠️ Precautions
1. Altitude sickness: Qinghai is located at a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness and rest and hydrate properly.
2. Sun protection: Qinghai has strong ultraviolet rays, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.
3. Respect local culture: When visiting temples and other religious sites, respect local customs and beliefs.
4. Protect the environment: Do not litter and protect Qinghai's natural environment.
Qinghai is a charming place, and both its natural and cultural landscapes are worth exploring and experiencing. I hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Qinghai better.
Not Xinjiang, not Sichuan, but Qinghai with its 22°C weather.
Qinghai Province, located in northwest China, is famous for its magnificent natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. It boasts vast grasslands, mysterious deserts, clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Qinghai is from May to October, especially July and August, when you can admire the rapeseed flowers and experience Tibetan festivals.
Transportation guide
Plane: Xining Caojiabao Airport, offering multiple routes.
Train: Xining Railway Station, with direct trains.
Self-driving: Qinghai has a well-developed road network, suitable for self-driving tours.
Accommodation recommendations
There are various accommodation options around Qinghai Lake, including hotels, guesthouses, and tent camping.
Attraction recommendations
1. Qinghai Lake
📍 Location: Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: Self-driving or tour group
👍️ Must-visit: China's largest inland lake, ideal for cycling or driving around the lake
🎟️ Ticket information: Erlangjian Scenic Area, 100 yuan
2. Chaka Salt Lake
📍 Location: Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: Self-driving or tourist bus
👍️ Must-visit: Known as the "Sky Mirror", a perfect spot for taking reflection photos
🎟️ Ticket information: 70 yuan
3. Ta'er Monastery
📍 Location: Xining City, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: Bus or taxi
👍️ Must-visit: One of the six major Gelugpa monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism, experience Tibetan Buddhist culture
🎟️ Ticket information: 80 yuan
4. Qilian Mountains
📍 Location: Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: Self-driving or chartered car
👍️ Must-visit: Admire the magnificent scenery of the Qilian Mountains, experience grassland culture
🎟️ Ticket information: Free
5. Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea
📍 Location: Menyuan Hui Autonomous County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province
🚗 Transportation: Self-driving or tourist bus
👍️ Must-visit: Every year from July to August, the rapeseed flowers bloom, forming a golden sea of flowers
🎟️ Ticket information: Free
Food recommendations
Qinghai's cuisine is mainly Tibetan and Hui, with recommendations such as hand-pulled mutton, yogurt, and barley wine.
Shopping guide
Qinghai's specialties include Tibetan carpets, thangkas, and yak beef jerky, which can be purchased at specialty stores in Xining.
Precautions
High altitude sickness: Qinghai has a high altitude, so be aware of high altitude sickness.
Variable climate: Qinghai's weather is unpredictable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes.
Travel tips
Clothing: Choose appropriate clothing according to the season, sun protection in summer and warm clothing in winter.
Language: Mandarin is widely spoken in Qinghai, so communication is not a problem.
Photography: Bring a camera to record Qinghai's natural beauty and cultural characteristics.
Qinghai is a place full of mystery and charm. Whether you're exploring its natural scenery or experiencing its ethnic culture, it will provide you with an unforgettable travel experience. I hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Qinghai and make it even more perfect.
Qinghai Lake Travel Guide
【Introduction】: Qinghai Lake is located in Gonghe County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. It is one of the must-visit spots on the Qinghai-Gansu loop and is praised by National Geographic as the "most beautiful lake" and one of the "55 places to visit in a lifetime." In Tibetan, it is called "Tso Ngonpo," meaning "blue sea." The average altitude is 3196 meters, and it is said to be the "Jade Pool" of the Queen Mother of the West.
⛺【Must-visit Spots】:
Qinghai Lake Fishery: The rapeseed flowers bloom here, creating a sea of flowers that merges with the lake. You can ride horses or yaks (note the season for these activities).
Erlangjian: Requires a ticket of 90r. You can take a boat (140r or 180r). You can walk along the boardwalk to the lakeside or take a boat/speedboat. The facilities are well-developed.
Luohou Yakou (Nanshan) Viewing Platform: A ten-minute drive from Erlangjian, offering a panoramic view of Qinghai Lake.
Fairy Bay Scenic Area: Ticket is 60r, located on the north shore of Qinghai Lake. It is best to visit in July and August when the grass is green. It features alpine meadows and wetlands.
Heimahe: Ideal for watching the sunrise. There is a shuttle bus for 20r. Accommodation is available, and you can go down to the lakeside.
Huanhu West Road: Close to the lake, with high terrain, suitable for cycling around the lake to watch the sunrise.
Cliff: Sightseeing bus for 20r. You can get close to the lake, feed fish, take photos, ride horses, and hold sheep. The scenery is spectacular, suitable for tourists with ample time.
Jinsha Bay Scenic Area: Features desert areas where you can see the coexistence of sand dunes and the lake. It is an excellent spot for watching the sunset and sand sliding.
🛬【Travel Tips】:
Best time to visit: May to June is the season for bird watching; July to September is the best season for viewing, with blooming rapeseed flowers and the migration of Huang fish.
Duration: You can plan your visit according to the entire Qinghai-Gansu loop itinerary. It is recommended to spend 2-3 hours at Qinghai Lake or adjust according to personal preference.
Travel order and itinerary: Start from Riyue Mountain and drive west for 1 hour to reach. Enter Erlangjian Scenic Area, you can walk or take a shuttle bus to the lakeside, check in at the statue of the Queen Mother of the West, and take a boat to enjoy lake entertainment activities and feed seagulls in the lake center.
🏨【Accommodation Tips】: There are homestays near the Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake, offering a distant view of the lake.
🧡【Tips】:
Transportation: You can take a bus from the bus station next to Xining Railway Station or drive by yourself.
Clothing suggestions: Sky blue, white, or ethnic clothing with shawls are photogenic.
Some scenic spots have different suitable visiting conditions due to seasons or other reasons, such as Fairy Bay, which is not recommended to visit in September when the grass turns yellow.
Cycling Around Qinghai Lake | Cool and In-Depth.
Cool and In-Depth. 🚴🏻♀ Cycling around Qinghai Lake is both cool and in-depth.
🚴🏻♀ The best way to travel around Qinghai Lake
📹 Support vehicle accompanies throughout the journey · Professional equipment · Cycling and aerial photography
🐤 Optimized route - starting from the beautiful Erlangjian, with gradually increasing difficulty
💕 2 nights of lakeside accommodation · Enjoy sunrise and sunset by the lake at your leisure
August 7th/9th fully booked, August 5th/11th/13th still available
Qinghai Lake | The Sapphire Embedded in the 3196-Meter Plateau
Qinghai Lake, this jade on the plateau, has become a holy land in the hearts of countless travelers with its vast and boundless lake surface and refreshing scenery. Here is a carefully planned route around Qinghai Lake for you, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Qinghai Lake without stepping into paid scenic areas.
🚗 **Recommended Route Around Qinghai Lake**:
1. **Depart from Xining**: Start from Haihu New District, drive about 1 hour and 45 minutes, 132 kilometers, and embark on your exploration journey of Qinghai Lake.
2. **Rapeseed Flower Sea**: July is the best season for rapeseed flowers to bloom. Drive for 1 hour and 15 minutes, 74 kilometers, and immerse yourself in the golden sea of flowers.
3. **Heimahe Town**: The town is full of restaurants, making it a good place for lunch, or you can choose to prepare a simple meal in Xining and enjoy the fun of a roadside picnic.
4. **West Road Around the Lake**: Drive for 20 minutes, 17 kilometers, along this coastal road, you will be healed by the blue of Qinghai Lake and the grasslands full of cattle and sheep.
5. **Garila Monastery**: Drive for 1 hour and 10 minutes, 83 kilometers, visit this Tibetan Buddhist monastery, overlook the vast grasslands from a high place, and feel the shock of the soul.
6. **Compassionate Eye Gratitude Tower**: Drive for 25 minutes, 26 kilometers, to see the charm of this iconic building.
7. **Hargai Town**: Drive for 2 hours and 30 minutes, 152 kilometers, this Tibetan town will add a touch of authenticity to your journey.
8. **Return to Xining**: After finishing the day's journey, don't forget to arrive at the car return point half an hour in advance to ensure a smooth return.
⏰ **Time Planning**:
The whole journey takes about 8 hours by car. Including sightseeing and rest time, it is recommended to reserve 11-12 hours to fully enjoy every moment of the trip.
🔍 **Travel Tips**:
- **Travel Mode**: Choose to rent a car or cycle according to your itinerary. If time permits, cycling allows you to experience the scenery along the way more deeply.
- **Weather Changes**: Plateau weather is changeable, please pay attention to the weather forecast before traveling and make corresponding preparations.
- **Warm Measures**: Even in summer, the nights on the plateau can be cold. Bring a warm coat just in case.
- **Public Hygiene**: Public toilets along the way are relatively convenient, but it is recommended to follow the principle of "entering the toilet when you see it" to avoid inconvenience during the journey.
- **Scenic Spot Selection**: Some scenic spots around Qinghai Lake may charge fees. If you prefer natural exploration, you can choose to avoid these places.
The beauty of Qinghai Lake does not lie in the tickets of the scenic spots, but in the vast world and the free heart. Follow this route, and you will discover the most authentic and moving side of Qinghai Lake, making its magnificent scenery an eternal memory in your heart.
Let's go see the deep blue lake
1. Bring some small snacks with you, preferably individually packaged!
2. If you like fruits, you can buy melons, they are very sweet and delicious, only available in Guazhou!
3. Always carry an umbrella and two bottles of mineral water every day, sunscreen or spray, and wet wipes!
4. Disposable toilet seat covers, disposable socks and underwear, bring as many as the number of days you are staying!
5. If you are afraid of the cold, bring one thick coat, if not, bring 1-2 thin coats, and the rest should be short sleeves. Two pairs of pants, one hat, and two pairs of shoes (one of which can be slippers).
6. If you want to wash your hair, do it quickly, basically no problem, girls should preferably wash every two days!
7. Buy a nasal wash and use it to clean your nose.
Qinghai Lake Must-See Guide
🌟Overview of Qinghai Lake
Imagine a place so close to the sky, where a lake lies quietly; this is Qinghai Lake. As China's largest inland and freshwater lake, Qinghai Lake sits at an altitude of 3200 meters, with a circumference of about 360 kilometers.
🏞️Introduction to Scenic Spots Along the Way
1⃣️ Erlangjian Scenic Area: About 150 kilometers from Xining, a 2-hour drive. This is the essence of the southern shore of Qinghai Lake.
2⃣️ Heimahe: Free admission adds points! The sightseeing bus costs only 20 yuan for a round trip. If you want to experience the tranquility and grandeur of nature, this is definitely a great place for photography.
3⃣️ Dongge'er Viewing Platform: Located on the west bank, about 240 kilometers away. Rarely visited, with clear waters and dancing seagulls, it's a great place to calm your mind.
4⃣️ Bird Island: From April to June every year, tens of thousands of migratory birds gather here, a natural wonder.
5⃣️ Sand Island Scenic Area: The desert scenery on the northeast shore, ride camels, play with sand, and experience a different kind of lakeside fun.
6⃣️ Fairy Bay: Wetland scenery on the north shore, home to swans, the beauty of nature is mesmerizing.
7⃣️ Cliff: A popular spot for social media, perfect for taking stunning photos, not to be missed.
🚴Outdoor Activity Recommendations
Cycling Adventure: At the Qinghai Lake Cycling Base, choose your favorite mountain bike, ride 5 kilometers, and enjoy the whispers of wind and water, accompanied by herds of cattle and sheep.
English-Style Horseback Riding: Under the guidance of professional coaches, gallop on horseback and experience a different lakeside scenery.
Riverside Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea by the rippling Qinghai Lake, giving your soul a brief escape.
📋Travel Tips
1) Clothing Guide: Qinghai's temperature is unpredictable, especially in May, June, September, and October. Be sure to bring a fleece jacket or a light down jacket.
2) Sun Protection Essentials: The UV rays are strong, so in addition to sunscreen, physical sun protection is also important.
3) High Altitude Moisturizing: Drink plenty of water, bring body lotion and high-moisturizing skincare products, as Qinghai is really dry.
4) Sunglasses Are a Must: Protect your eyes from strong sunlight and glare.
🌈Travel Summary
Every visit to Qinghai Lake is a spiritual cleansing. Choose the scenic spots that suit you, prepare adequate equipment, and let's leave unforgettable memories on this highland pearl together!
Northwest China Travel|This itinerary guide is enough for sisters who want to go on a 4-day small loop tour in the Northwest
✈️Because we only had 5 days to play, we did a lot of homework before departure and found that the Northwest is really vast and confusing, not knowing how to play. 👧 Later, we simply joined a private tour with my sister for 4 days because both of us are relatively lazy and dare not drive, and we don't like to share a car with strangers. The private tour can help us handle everything 💯.
.
🗓Itinerary:
🕐DAY 1: Xining - Riyue Mountain - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka
✔8:00 The driver-guide picked us up at the hotel, passed by Riyue Mountain and played for about 1 hour, the ticket was 50. We saw the statue of Princess Wencheng, Sun Pavilion, Moon Pavilion, Huiwang Stone, Princess Temple, etc. The green grass was lush, cattle and sheep leisurely grazing, and prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Wearing our bright clothes and being in it, it was very photogenic, and there were particularly cute little lambs.
✔The right side of the road is Qinghai Lake. You will see many flower beds on the roadside, forming a beautiful picture with the azure blue of Qinghai Lake. You can also find a flower bed you like to take photos in, costing about 40 yuan.
✔Enter the Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake to visit Qinghai Lake up close, the ticket is 90 yuan. There are white yak rides for photos at the lakeside, costing 20-30 yuan per person, possibly higher in peak season. We didn't take photos.
✔In the afternoon, go to Chaka Salt Lake, passing by Heima River for a check-in. It is said that the sunset and sunrise of Heima River are particularly beautiful. We plan to come back to Qinghai Lake for cycling and enjoy the early morning scenery.
✔Chaka ticket is 60 yuan, sightseeing car one-way 5 yuan, small train one-way 50 yuan/person. There are places where you can go down to the lake, be sure to wear shoe covers. The small train can go all the way inside, the further you go, the more beautiful the scenery, and there are fewer people. Pay attention to sun protection. Taking photos at the salt lake really depends on the weather. The weather was average when we went, but it was still very beautiful.
🕐DAY 2: Chaka - Huanhu West Road - Datongshu Pass - Qilian Zhuoer Mountain - Qilian
✔Go to Qilian County via Huanhu West Road. There are deserts and grasslands along the way, passing through Gangcha County. Originally, we could stop at Datongshu Pass, but we couldn't go because the road was under construction, a bit regrettable.
✔Zhuoer Mountain Danxia landform, composed of red sandstone and gravel. Standing on Zhuoer Mountain, the view is extremely wide, with no obstructions around, beautiful scenery everywhere, making people feel relaxed and happy.
🕐DAY 3: Qilian - Heihe Grand Canyon - Rainbow Danxia - Zhangye
✔Heihe Grand Canyon, near the Heihe River, has dense spruces, distant snow-capped mountains, and white clouds, with its own fun.
✔Rainbow Danxia ticket: 93 (ticket + sightseeing car + insurance). There are 4 viewing platforms in the Danxia Geological Park, and there are also hot air balloons (200 yuan/person). After viewing the 4th platform, the return shuttle bus will take you back to the park entrance, very convenient.
🕐DAY 4: Zhangye - Qilian Grassland - Menyuan - Daban Mountain Viewing Platform - Xining
✔Qilian Grassland is free of charge. The Qilian Mountains connected to the grassland are still covered in snow. There are many horses, cattle, and sheep on the grassland. Parking on the roadside, the grassland is a large area. The rapeseed flower season in Menyuan starts in early July, but the green scenery is also very beautiful.
✔Daban Mountain Viewing Platform, seeing Gangshika Snow Mountain from afar, and taking a photo with the snow mountain.
✔Returned to the city around 6 pm.
Back from the Great Northwest: A Summary for Everyone
One month has passed since I returned from the Great Northwest! I hope these insights will be helpful to everyone. The Great Northwest Loop can be daunting for those who haven't done their homework. This article outlines the most worthwhile attractions on the Qinghai-Gansu Loop and what to steer clear of. My return from the Great Northwest has truly expanded my horizons, and I was surprised by how much I learned from a single trip! Below, I'll share my experiences as a novice in finding a tour group, for your reference!
1. Opt for Xining as your starting point rather than Lanzhou to reduce driving distance (approximately 300-400 kilometers less for Lanzhou departures).
2. Visit Hoh Xil instead of Erlangjian for Qinghai Lake. Erlangjian Scenic Area is costly and crowded, requires a ferry, and offers average scenery.
3. Avoid the Teahouse Salt Lake on bad weather days; it's just a pond of water. If possible, visit the Sky Mirror instead of Sky No. 1.
4. Highly recommend Dongtai Jiner Lake for a unique romantic experience, with beauty even on bad weather days.
5. Skip the ferry at Dacai Dan Emerald Lake; you can walk there in about 10 minutes. The fewer people, the better.
6. Take photos of the 315U-type Highway from the roadside, but never stop in the middle of the road. It may look dangerous, but it's not safe due to the high number of trucks.
7. Avoid ATVs or camels at the Water Yardan; it's expansive, worried you'll miss the time and not enjoy yourself. There are many mosquitoes in the evening.
8. Not recommended to visit Jiayuguan; take photos from a distance instead, as it's not cost-effective. You can capture the Son of the Earth and Boundless in the same shot.
9. The Mogao Caves tickets include the B ticket, but some do not. To see four more caves, use the Mogao Caves on WeChat Mini Program, enter your information, make an appointment in advance, and present a student ID.
10. Visit Mingsha Shan in the afternoon and go barefoot; it's comfortable. Always carry plenty of water; it's very dry. Don't miss the sunset at the Crescent Spring.
11. Choose between hotel and camping; adults often want both! Do activities first, then check into the hotel. The campsite offers a car to return to the hotel (camping tents only have public toilets, no bathing facilities, and importantly, your phone can't be charged).
12. Eat less on the road and maintain a sense of hunger; it helps with weight loss. Don't ask me why; there are many dry toilets (this is one that merges with nature) on the road. This trip was very enjoyable; the leader was humorous, and we had six people in the car, chatting and laughing all the way. The journey was long, but we didn't feel tired. When traveling, you still need to meet people on the same frequency, and I was very lucky this time. The Northwest is great, and I want to go again next time!
Traveling in the Great Northwest
One month has passed since my return from the Great Northwest! I hope these details can help everyone. The Great Northwest Loop can be daunting for those who aren't prepared. This article will guide you on which attractions on the Qinghai-Gansu Loop are worth your time and which to skip. My trip to the northwest has been incredibly enriching, and I've gained so much from a single journey!
1. Start your journey in Xining instead of Lanzhou to reduce travel distance (approximately 300-400 kilometers less for Lanzhou departures).
2. Opt for Hoh Xil over Erlangjian for Qinghai Lake. Erlangjian is costly and crowded, and you'll also need to take a ferry, adding extra expense. The scenery is merely average.
3. Avoid visiting Teahouse Salt Lake on days with poor weather; you'll likely see only a pond. If possible, visit the "Heavenly Mirror" instead of "Sky No. 1." Don't forget to bring shoe covers.
4. Highly recommend Dongtaiji Nair Lake for a touch of Difeng Blue and a unique romantic experience. It's stunning even on bad weather days.
5. Skip the scenic area shuttle bus at Dacai Dan Emerald Lake. You can walk there in about ten minutes, and the fewer people, the better.
6. but never stop in the middle of the road. It may look dangerous, but it's not safe due to large trucks. Take photos from the roadside instead.
7. Avoid ATVs or camels at the Water Desert. It's expansive, and the guide will rush you back, worried you'll forget the time and miss out on the fun. There are many mosquitoes in the evening.
8. Not recommended to visit Jiayuguan; just take photos from a distance. It's not cost-effective. You can capture photos at the "Son of the Earth" and "Boundless" instead.
9. The Mogao Caves tickets include the B ticket, but some do not. To see four more caves, follow the Mogao Caves on WeChat Mini Program, enter your information, and make an advance reservation. A student ID is helpful.
10. Visit Mingsha Shan in the afternoon and go barefoot. It's very comfortable. Always carry plenty of water. Don't miss the sunset at the Crescent Spring.
11. Choose between hotel and camping. Adults often want both! Do activities first, then check into the hotel. The campsite has a bus to take you back. (Camping tents have public toilets, no bathing facilities, and importantly, your phone can't be charged.)
12. Eat less on the road and keep a sense of hunger. It might help you lose weight. Don't ask me why; there are many dry toilets (integrated with nature) on the road. This trip was very enjoyable, especially the team leader, who was very caring and humorous. Our group of six had a great time chatting and laughing, and the journey was long, but we didn't feel tired at all. When traveling, you still need to meet people on the same frequency. I was very lucky this time. The northwest is very beautiful. I want to go again next time!
Summer Family Vacation Guide: The Ultimate Itinerary!
Summer is here, and we've got the ultimate family vacation guide for you!
**Ningxia**: Not only is it budget-friendly, but it offers endless fun with activities like sliding down sand dunes, riding go-karts, camel riding, and exploring the Xixia culture.
**Qinghai Lake**: A perfect summer retreat from the heat, Qinghai Lake is a masterpiece of nature and a sacred place in every traveler's heart. As the largest lake in China, it's vast like the sea, with lush grass along the shore and herds of cattle and sheep, creating a fairy-tale world.
**Dunhuang**: The end of the Silk Road, Dunhuang is both part of the Silk Road and carries its own rich history and culture. It's highly recommended for those interested in history and the northwest's scenery.
**Shunan Bamboo Sea**: A year-round summer resort, this natural oxygen bar lets you unwind in the sea of bamboo. It's the only resort in China that combines bamboo scenery, mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and ancient temples.
**Inner Mongolia**: Experience the vast sky and earth, walk on the grasslands, and watch herds of running horses and white yurts. It's a wonderful way to travel.
**Xishuangbanna**: If you're looking for the best place to take kids in Yunnan, Xishuangbanna is it. With its spring-like climate year-round, it's a treasure trove of exotic charm, tropical rainforests, and a paradise for plants and animals.
**Gannan**: Its beauty has a simple, infectious charm and unexpected wonders. Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, forests, canyons, great rivers, lakes, wetlands, grasslands, pastures, villages, numerous Tibetan Buddhist temples, and colorful ethnic cultures...
**Guizhou**: An uncommercialized, beautiful destination with diverse landscapes. In this beautiful city where navigation has lost its "soul," if you go to the right places, heaven is just around the corner...
**Xinjiang**: North Xinjiang for scenery, South Xinjiang for culture. Vast grasslands, majestic mountains, azure skies, and clear lakes, with every scene leaving you in awe.
**Chengdu**: A city you don't want to leave once you arrive, Chengdu is one of China's historic cities with abundant tourism resources. It's a must-visit for giant pandas, food, trendy streets, and dinosaurs.
**Luoyang**: One of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization and the eastern starting point of the Silk Road. Historically, 13 dynasties have established their capitals here, making it the city with the earliest founding, longest history, and most dynasties in China. Highly recommended for those interested in history and culture.
What does summer look like at Qinghai Lake
Qinghai Lake, named during the Qing dynasty, has been commonly known as Qinghai Lake since 1949. Qinghai Lake is China's largest inland saltwater lake and the largest inland lake in China, hailed as the 'Plateau Sapphire'.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Xining
Day 2: Xining to Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka Town
Day 3: Chaka Town - Yilagou Valley Trekking - Gangcha - Qilian Mountain Grassland
- 4120 - Zhuoer Mountain - Qilian
Day 4: Qilian - Arou Temple - Horse Riding Experience - Gangshika Snow Peak -
Qingshizui - Xining
Qinghai Lake Travel Guide
🌊Qinghai Lake, known in Tibetan as "Cuowenbu" meaning "blue sea", is crystal clear and stretches as far as the eye can see. Some say Qinghai Lake is a "sapphire" 💎 left by nature in the inland, and it is also the "Jade Pool" mentioned in legends, associated with the Queen Mother of the West, or "Wangmu Niangniang". The average altitude is 3196 meters⛰️
🌊Qinghai Lake is the largest inland saltwater lake in China, also known as Xianhai or Freshwater Sea. After the Northern Wei Dynasty, it was called Qinghai, characterized by low temperatures, large diurnal temperature variation, scarce and concentrated rainfall, long sunshine hours, and strong solar radiation. Winters are harsh and long, while summers are cool and brief🌞
📍Detailed address: Qinghai Lake Scenic Area, Gonghe County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai
🔶Preparation for the trip:
🪪Documents: ID card, student ID (discount for tickets)
🧴Hygiene: Skincare products, cosmetics, high SPF sunscreen
🧥Clothing: Summer clothes + light jacket + windbreaker (check the weather three days before departure)
⚡️Electronics: Charger, power bank, selfie stick🤳
💊Medicine: Rhodiola, cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine
👌Others: Umbrella🌂, sunglasses🕶️, hat🧢, some cash💵
🗓Itinerary:
🎈Day 1: Arrive in Xining and check into a hotel🏨
🎈Day 2: Xining➡️Riyue Mountain➡️Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake➡️Chaka Salt Lake➡️Chaka Town
🎈Day 3: Chaka Town➡️Cross the Qaidam Basin (Gobi style)➡️Emerald Lake➡️Dachaidan
🍲Recommended food:
Yogurt🧈Kang Pot🥘Yak Milk🥛Local Hotpot🫕Stuffed Pancake🥠Boiled Yak Meat🥩
📝Tips:
🌈Bring some dry food🍞 and water💦 for the long journey to replenish energy💪🏻
🌈Wear polarized sunglasses🕶️The sunlight☀️ reflected on the salt lake is very strong and can cause damage to the eyes⚠️
🌈Be sure to take photos with the lambs🐑, 5 yuan per person💰
🌈Wear sky blue, white, or ethnic shawls to match the blue sky, white clouds, and lake, and you'll get amazing photos in minutes!📸
🌄While you're young, be sure to visit the great Northwest
See the roughest romance💕
Deserts, Gobi, grottoes, Danxia landforms, snow-capped mountains🏔️, grasslands🌿, lakes🌊 everything is just right‼️
How to travel in Qinghai from March to May?
You must visit Qinghai and feel the breeze of Qinghai Lake. This is written for every sister who has no experience traveling to Qinghai.
Must-visit attractions
Qinghai Lake
Known as the "dreamlike lake," it has high ecological and tourism value.
U-shaped Highway
It feels like being on Mars in the Gobi Desert, perfect for photography!
Water Yadan
The world's unique water Yadan landform, where you can experience camels and yachts.
Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
Famous for its unique landscape of sand mountains and clear springs, showcasing the wonder of "mountains and springs coexisting, sand and water coexisting."
Rainbow Mountains
Rich in color layers, like a palette of the earth, a fantastic place for photography.
Dunhuang Mogao Caves
A cultural treasure of the world, its spectacular grotto art, rich murals, and exquisite sculptures are known as one of China's four major grottoes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Xining or Lanzhou (24-hour airport pickup), free activities, recommended to visit Qinghai Tibetan Culture Museum and Mogao Street Pedestrian Street.
Day 2: Lanzhou/Xining - Qinghai Lake (Tibetan "Tso Ngonpo") - Chaka Salt Lake (Mirror of the Sky) - Chaka/Delingha
Day 3: Chaka/Delingha - 315 U-shaped Highway (Internet-famous road) - Dongtai Jinel Lake - Water Yadan (Water Fleet) - Dachaidan
Day 4: Dachaidan - Emerald Lake (Water Fleet) - Silk Road Heritage City - Dunhuang
Day 5: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring - Dunhuang
Day 6: Dunhuang - Guazhou (Son of the Earth) - Jiayuguan - Rainbow Mountains (Nature's Palette) - Danxiakou
Day 7: Danxiakou - Beautiful 227 National Road (scenic views along the way, see villages below the mountains) - Qilian Grassland (horse riding) - Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea (seasonal flower sea) - Xining/Lanzhou
Warm Tips:
1. The weather in Xinjiang is changeable, with large temperature differences between morning and evening, so keep warm.
2. The ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang are strong, so bring sunscreen items.
3. Bring some gastrointestinal medicine, cold medicine, and motion sickness medicine as a precaution.
4. The journey in Xinjiang is long, so you can prepare a pair of slippers.
China is very beautiful, with seventy percent of its beauty in the northwest.
The widely circulated saying "China is very beautiful, with seventy percent of its beauty in the northwest" raises the question: where does the renowned beauty of Qinghai lie?
Its beauty lies in the grandeur of its mountains and rivers, the elegance of its landscapes, the harmony of its culture,
the purity of its blue skies and white clouds, the vastness of its snow-capped mountains and grasslands, the pristine lakes and rivers,
the desolation of its Gobi deserts, the magnificence of its Danxia landforms, the uniqueness of its glaciers and permafrost.
Its beauty lies in its long-standing historical, ethnic, red, and ecological cultures,
its beauty lies in the Sanjiangyuan National Park, Qilian Mountain National Park, and the Great Wall Long March National Cultural Park, where new chapters are written and brilliance is displayed.
From mountains and rivers to lakes, from the Gobi to deserts, from plateaus to grasslands, it is both lonely and prosperous, desolate yet full of vitality. This is the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop.
🛬【Itinerary】:
Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop Seven-Day Tour (Chaka Salt Lake + Water Yadan)
Day 1: Depart from Xining → Sun and Moon Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake (overnight)
Day 2: Chaka Town → Keluke Lake → Cross the Qaidam Basin → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dachaidan (overnight)
Day 3: Dachaidan → Chaka Salt Lake → 315 U-shaped Road → Water Yadan → Nanhaixian Ghost City → Dachaidan (overnight)
Day 4: Dachaidan → Oil Town → Yangguan → Dunhuang (overnight/camping in the desert optional)
Day 5: Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring → Shazhou Night Market → Dunhuang (overnight)
Day 6: Dunhuang → Guazhou → Jiayuguan Fortress → Zhangye Danxia Landform → Qicai Town (overnight)
Day 7: Zhangye → Biandukou → Qilian Mountain Grassland → Gangshika Snow Peak → Menyuan Rapeseed Flower → Xining (overnight)
⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】:
"Chaka Salt Lake" Chaka Salt Lake is similar to Chaka Salt Lake, but Chaka Salt Lake is particularly dependent on the weather. When the weather is bad, it doesn't look very good, just a vast expanse of white. When the weather is good, there are blue skies and white clouds above, and windmills and snow-capped mountains in the background, which is one of the reasons it became famous. However, compared to Chaka Salt Lake, the weather has less impact on Chaka Salt Lake. Chaka Salt Lake is a salt lake nurtured by nature for billions of years. Walking by the lake, you can feel the crystal-clear, ever-changing magical salt flowers. There is a 32-kilometer-long salt bridge on the salt lake. Although it is just an ordinary road, it is made entirely of salt, so it is also known as the "Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge".
🍩【Must-Try Foods】:
Hand-Grasped Lamb; Hand-Grasped Lamb is a traditional food loved by the Mongolian, Tibetan, Hui, and Uighur ethnic groups in Northwest China. It is said to have a history of nearly a thousand years and got its name because it was originally eaten by hand. As the name suggests, it needs to be eaten by hand, tearing, or cutting with a Tibetan knife. Although this unique way of eating lamb is no longer necessary with the development of the times, the name has been passed down to this day. The meat is red and white, fatty but not greasy, oily and tender, and very delicious. The meat is so tasty that even those who don't usually like lamb can give it a try, as it doesn't have a strong lamb smell.
🏨【Accommodation Tips】:
"Desert Camping" When you arrive in Dunhuang, you must experience desert camping. Activities include sand sliding, watching the sunset in the desert, desert motorcycling, singing and talent performances to set the mood, large bonfire parties, fireworks, iron flower performances, and unlimited hot pot, beer, and drinks. At night, you can also go to the heart of the desert to watch the starry sky and the Milky Way. Nowadays, everyone lives in cities and hasn't seen a sky full of stars for a long time, so experiencing desert camping will be an unforgettable night.
🚌【Transportation Tips】:
In the northwest, the distances between attractions are too far for city buses. There are route buses, but taking them is very troublesome and inconvenient as they don't go directly to the destinations. Therefore, the main ways to travel the northwest grand loop are self-driving, joining a tour group, or chartering a car. Personally, I recommend joining a tour group or chartering a car because, with self-driving, you are unfamiliar with the road conditions, and the long distances on the plateau can easily cause fatigue. Nowadays, there are many pure-play small groups, especially recommended for 1-2 people traveling. Since it is a pure-play small group, there are at most 8 people in a car, not too many, but the atmosphere will be very lively. Another option is to charter a car, which offers high flexibility, allowing you to plan your itinerary according to your preferences. You can play along the way, with professional drivers who are familiar with the routes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip, avoiding many detours and pitfalls.
🧡【Tips】:
1. It is recommended to take Rhodiola, Highland Red, or other medications to prevent altitude sickness one or two weeks in advance.
2. Drink plenty of water when you first arrive at the plateau, avoid strenuous exercise and emotional excitement, do not overeat, and go to bed early to stay energetic for the trip.
3. Make sure you are in good health before traveling to the plateau. Although most areas are around 3,000 meters above sea level and most people have no reaction, it is still called a plateau, so respect it... hahaha (Safety is always the top priority when traveling).
4. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is an area with a high concentration of ethnic minorities, so please respect local customs.
5. When engaging in free activities in scenic areas, pay attention to safety, follow the rules of the scenic area, and travel civilly.
Qinghai Lake Wedding Photography
Qinghai Lake Wedding Photography Qinghai Lake is a source of inspiration for artists. At first sight, many people are captivated by Qinghai Lake, with its blue waters, azure skies, golden rapeseed flowers, and leisurely cattle and sheep dotting the grasslands. It is a dreamlike paradise where heaven, earth, and humanity are united. It is a place where your soul and spirit can be purified and elevated. It is a place so beautiful it brings heartache. Capture a set of stunning wedding photos here and let the magnificent Qinghai witness your love. Are you tempted?
Qinghai Lake - A Pearl on the Plateau.
【Introduction】: Qinghai Lake Scenic Area in Qinghai Province is located in the northeastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, northwest of Xining City, and south of Gangcha County. It is 136 kilometers away from Xining City. Erlangjian Scenic Area is located on the south bank of Qinghai Lake. With its unique geographical location in Qinghai Lake, and its ecological natural resources mainly consisting of grasslands, beaches, and animals, Erlangjian has become a pearl of the Qinghai Lake tourist area.
🕘【Opening Hours】: Open all year round, 24 hours a day
💴【Ticket Prices】: Prices are adjusted according to peak and off-peak seasons
⛺【Activities】: Bird Island, Erlangjian, Fairy Bay, Golden Sand Bay, watching Huangyu fish migration at the fishery
🚌【Transportation Guide】: Charter a car or drive by yourself
👉【Itinerary】: Visit Chaka Salt Lake nearby, stay overnight in Chaka Town or Heimahe Town
🧡【Preparation】: Prepare for sun protection and stay hydrated
Today's beautiful shots of Qinghai Lake
Thank you for watching.
Today's beautiful shots of Qinghai Lake. Thank you for watching.
Northwest China Travel | Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Big Loop 6 Days 5 Nights Tour Guide
When you think of the Northwest, what comes to mind❓ Gobi deserts or the Loess Plateau? Then you must come and see ✨ Here, there are high mountain lakes, desert sunsets, forests and flowers, snowy mountains and salt lakes, and in addition to the beautiful scenery, there is the millennium heritage of the Silk Road Dunhuang. This classic 6⃣️-day big loop will take you through clear mountains and wide waters, feeling the vastness and romance of the great Northwest~
.
🚘Itinerary at a glance
D①Xining-Qinghai Lake-Chaka Salt Lake-Chaka Town
D②Chaka-Qaidam Basin-Emerald Lake-Dachaidan
D③Dachaidan-Qinghai Yadan-Gobi Highway-Petroleum Town-Dunhuang
D④Dunhuang-Mogao Caves-Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring-Dunhuang
D⑤Dunhuang Guazhou-Jiayuguan-Zhangye Danxia-Zhangye
D⑥Zhangye-Qilian Grassland-Menyuan-Daban Mountain Viewing Platform-Xining
.
🌈Attraction Guide
⛳Qinghai Lake: A highland lake as clear as a sapphire
Tips: Walking along the lake, you can see the statue of the Western Queen Mother in the middle of the lake, and going forward to the heart of the lake, you can take a large cruise ship and enjoy some water activities🛳️
.
⛳Chaka Salt Lake: A natural crystalline salt lake, a pure light-colored lake
Tips: The Mirror of the Sky is a natural landscape where you can check in at the salt lake and play in the water, while Sky No.1 is a man-made attraction where you can experience many amusement projects✔️ Both scenic areas require a ride from the visitor center to the entrance, then choose one to play
.
⛳Chaerhan Salt Lake: A vast salt lake as green as jade
Tips: The straw umbrellas, swings, road signs, and shallow shores in the scenic area are all popular photo spots📷 Aerial photography on the white road can capture different colors of lake water on both sides
.
⛳Dachaidan Emerald Lake: A salt lake scenic area composed of small lakes of different sizes and colors
Tips: Lake No.1 is crowded, with food carts nearby, Lake No.4 is heart-shaped and requires aerial photography to see the shape, Lake No.5 has salt paths in the water where you can walk and take photos
.
⛳Mogao Caves: A palace of art with splendidly painted murals
Tips: Cave No.17 with the Sutra Preservation Tower is a signature check-in spot, Cave No.96 is the nine-story Buddha, and the emergency visit includes Caves No.96, 148, 130, 100🔅
.
🍀Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring: A crescent-shaped spring surrounded by desert
Tips: The desert is very hot during the day, usually entering the park after 17:00, you can climb the sand dunes from the artificial wooden walkway, and prepare shoe covers before going to the scenic area (or wear slippers)
.
⛳Zhangye Danxia: A Danxia landform with interlacing colors and hilly appearance
Tips: The scenic tour goes from Viewing Platform No.1 to No.4, pay attention to the visiting order of each gate⭕
.
🍀Considerate Tips
1⃣️Normal tickets for the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang need to be booked one month in advance, and it may not be possible to book during peak season, so you can choose an emergency visit ticket (4 caves + scenic shuttle)
2⃣️Desert camping is in ordinary small tents, and washing facilities are not very convenient, you can choose to stay in a hotel in Dunhuang
How can a life journey be complete without a visit to Qinghai Lake|Super value
|Super value. "The Great Northwest Loop of Qinghai and Gansu - A Must-Visit Series in a Lifetime"🔥
Because one trip around the loop is equivalent to traveling 10 times👍👍👍
💧Qinghai Lake
Qinghai Lake is particularly large, 🚗the driver even specially stopped us at a place that does not charge an entrance fee, there are many white yaks by the lake for photos, 20 yuan per person, 🐮the yaks stand in the lake, very photogenic👍👍
💧Chaka Salt Lake:
After taking a small train in, there were a lot of people, 👣we walked in, took a small path with no one around, 📸taking photos was also very convenient, and the brine was very clear, not too far to walk.🎐
💧Emerald Lake:
Due to the presence of chemical residues, it appears green🌊similar to Chaka Salt Lake, there is also salt on the lakeside, you can also capture reflections, the sunset is particularly beautiful🏜
💧Water Yadan:
Yadan is a type of landform, ⛰️hills left by crustal movements, Water Yadan means there are Yadan landforms in the water, ✨like camels hidden in the water, only the humps are exposed.🎏
❤D1 | Arrival in Xining from various places—Overnight in Xining🛕
🧡D2 | Xining-Colorful Danxia-Overnight in Zhangye⛪
💛D3 | Zhangye-Jiayuguan-Overnight in Dunhuang🕍
💚D4 | Dunhuang-Mogao Caves-Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring-Overnight in Dunhuang🏭
💙D5 | Dunhuang-Dachaidan-Emerald Lake-Overnight in Dachaidan🏫
💜D6 | Dachaidan-315 U-shaped Highway-Water Yadan-Overnight in Delingha🏠
🤎D7 | Delingha-Chaka Salt Lake-Qinghai Lake-Overnight in Xining🏛
D8 | Free day in Xining, must-visit food street🥘
🛎🛎Friends departing from Xining must buy all the food they need for the trip in Xining🥙, including water, because the prices of the shops along the way will get higher and higher, and the choices will be more limited, especially for fruits🍎, this is all advice from our guide😁😁
A Two-Day Dreamy Journey to Qinghai Lake: Encounter the Mirror of the Sky, Touch the Pure Land of the Soul!
In this remote plateau of the Northwest, there lies a dreamy expanse of azure, nestled quietly in the embrace of mountains, tempting every soul that yearns for the distance with its boundless vastness and pure hues. Qinghai Lake, the plateau lake known as 'a tear on the Earth,' awaits you and me to unveil its mysterious and enchanting veil.
Scenic Area Introduction
Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake, with its vast waters, magnificent sunrises and sunsets, rich ecological resources, and unique ethnic culture, has become a sacred destination in the hearts of countless travelers. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with grassy shores and herds of cattle and sheep, it is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and an excellent place for those seeking peace of mind.
🚉Travel Tips
- **How to get there**: Departing from Xining, you can choose to drive yourself, hire a car, or take a long-distance bus to Qinghai Lake. Self-driving is the most flexible option, and the scenery along the way is also a great enjoyment. The distance from Xining to Qinghai Lake is about 150 kilometers, with a driving time of about 2.5 hours.
- **Public Transportation**: There are several buses from Xining Railway Station to towns around Qinghai Lake (such as Gonghe County), after which you can transfer to local transport or take a taxi to the lakeside.
🎫Ticket Price and Opening Hours
- **Erlang Sword Scenic Area**: The adult ticket is about 100 yuan, and the opening hours are usually from 7:00 to 18:30 in summer, with adjustments in winter.
- **Bird Island**: Open seasonally, with spring being the best time to visit, and the ticket price is about 60 yuan.
- **Opening Hours**: The opening hours of each scenic spot vary with the season, so it is recommended to check the latest information before traveling.
Travel Route Planning
- **Day 1**: Depart from Xining → Ta'er Monastery (experience Tibetan Buddhism culture) → Qinghai Lake Erlang Sword Scenic Area (lakeside stroll, experience the plateau lake scenery) → Heima River (overnight stay, prepare for sunrise viewing the next day).
- **Day 2**: Sunrise at Heima River → Chaka Salt Lake (Mirror of the Sky, photography paradise) → Jinyintan (grassland cycling, experience the life of herders) → Return to Xining.
- **Highlights**: The magnificent sunrise at Heima River, the mirror world of Chaka Salt Lake, and the lake and mountain views of Erlang Sword, each spot is a must-see scenery.
📸Essential Photo Spots
1. **Sunrise at Heima River**: The east side of Heima River is the best spot for photographing the sunrise over Qinghai Lake.
2. **Mirror of the Sky at Chaka Salt Lake**: The central area, in the early morning or evening, when the water surface is calm like a mirror.
3. **Lakeside of Erlang Sword**: The lakeside boardwalk, capturing the perfect combination of the lake surface and distant mountains.
Must-Visit Attractions
- **Erlang Sword Scenic Area**: Penetrating into the peninsula in the lake, you can get close to the lake water.
- **Chaka Salt Lake**: Known as the 'Mirror of the Sky', wear bright clothes to capture your reflection.
- **Bird Island**: An excellent spot for bird watching in spring, with thousands of migratory birds nesting and breeding here.
📝Tips:
- **Prevention of altitude sickness**: Qinghai Lake is about 3200 meters above sea level, be aware of altitude sickness prevention, slow down your movements, and drink water moderately.
- **Sun protection and warmth**: The plateau has strong ultraviolet rays and a large temperature difference between day and night, so be sure to bring enough sunscreen and warm clothing.
- **Environmental awareness**: Do not litter, protect the fragile plateau ecological environment.
- **Respect for customs**: When visiting religious places such as Ta'er Monastery, respect local religious and cultural customs and dress appropriately.
The journey to Qinghai Lake is not only a visual feast but also a purification of the soul. As the sun sets and the lake surface ripples with golden waves, you will find that this place is more than just a lake; it is a poem interwoven with nature and culture, a haven for the soul to rest. Qinghai Lake is waiting for you to come and write your own highland story.
Lake Qinghai, your eyes must be an unknown sea
Lake Qinghai, you really know how to have fun!
I have finally arrived at the other side of the Anywhere Door, Lake Qinghai🌊
The highland sapphire, the dreamy Lake Qinghai.
🌊
Qinghai is a fusion of Xinjiang and Tibet, known as the 'Roof of the World'. Within its territory, there is the sea-like charm of Lake Qinghai as well as the grandeur of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the vastness of the Hehuang culture.
And Lake Qinghai is serene. When the sky is clear and the sun is bright, Lake Qinghai is as calm as a mirror. Standing by the lake, my reflection is clearly visible in the water.
📸📸Lake Qinghai, that is a mesmerizing sea of azure!🌊🌊
😍😍Here, there are blue skies and white clouds, clear water and green grass, and herds of cattle and sheep, a sight too beautiful for words!👒👒
🚶🚶You can stroll along the lake, feel the breeze on your face, and enjoy the clarity and tranquility of the water.🌾🌾
🐎🐎You can also ride horses, experiencing the vastness and freedom of the grassland.🛣🛣
🌅🌅The evening sunset is even more spectacular, intoxicating one in the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains.😍😍
For the May Day holiday, come to Lake Qinghai and experience the charm of nature!💕💕
Qinghai self-guided tour has checked in for you
1️⃣
📍: Hoh Xil
🚘: Driving route: Golmud - Kunlun Holy Spring - Yuzhu Peak - Kunlun Mountain Pass - Sonandajie Conservation Station, return.
🏞️: High-altitude uninhabited area, pristine nature reserve, World Natural Heritage site. Here you can find towering snow-capped mountains, majestic glaciers, tranquil lakes; it's a paradise for wildlife, with Tibetan antelopes, black-necked cranes, vultures, wild yaks, Tibetan wild donkeys, etc.
Also known as: The Forbidden Zone of Life.
🐳: Poor road conditions (requires vehicle passability and power), no supplies (bring your own food), poor signal (download offline maps), high altitude with lack of oxygen and high UV radiation (prepare for cold, sun protection, and altitude sickness), unpredictable weather, respect the dangers! Littering is strictly prohibited!
2️⃣
Devil's Eye
📍: Mangya City, Haixi Prefecture
🚘: Navigate to the Devil's Eye to reach.
🏞️: In the desolate western end of the Qaidam Basin, the never-ending spring water gushes out from the earth, the spring water is a bright yellow-red color, shaped like an eye, as if embedded in the desolate land like the eye of a devil. The tumbling spring water spreads to the surrounding land, accumulating over time, etching the surrounding land into another appearance, indescribably magnificent and colorful, it will always gaze quietly into the deep sky.
🐳: Average road conditions (requires vehicle passability and power), essential to have a drone (no effect without aerial photography)!
3️⃣
Devil's City
📍: Lenghu Town, Mangya City, Haixi Prefecture
🚘: Navigate to the Yadan Landform Group in the Ejin Banner Scenic Area, first to the Mars Camp, and then 500 yuan per vehicle for entry to the scenic area.
🏞️: Ejin Banner, a Yadan landform group, where you can see thousands of miles of rolling yellow sand and fierce westerly winds, a sense of loneliness and insignificance that has nowhere to be placed. The sunset is gorgeous, the night sky is clear, and the Milky Way is brilliant, striking the soul with desolation and grandeur!
Mars Camp, this is the place on Earth that least resembles Earth. Space capsules, spacesuits, as if you are on Mars.
🐳: Poor road conditions (requires vehicle power and passability), long-focus photography, aerial photography can have an effect!
4️⃣
📍: 1. Mangya City, Haixi Prefecture
2. Da Qaidam, Haixi Prefecture
🚘: 1. Navigate to Mangya Emerald Lake, beside the 315 road in Huatugou Town;
2. Navigate to Da Qaidam Town Emerald Lake
🏞️: Both are called Emerald Lakes, although they are hundreds of kilometers apart, each has its own unique beauty, you can choose one or both to see. Comparatively speaking, Mangya Emerald Lake is a bit greener, Da Qaidam Emerald Lake is bluer, and Mangya Emerald Lake is larger overall. The large and small lakes are like gems lost by the fairy world to the human world, dazzling and captivating, making it hard to contain oneself.
🐳: Pay attention to wind and sun protection, aerial photography is recommended if possible.
Summary: Qinghai has unique natural landscapes, with Xining and Golmud as the two base cities to expand outward, there are endless beautiful views, you can plan your route according to time.
Qinghai Lake · Lake Tour Guide
Qinghai Lake, praised by 'China National Geographic' as 'China's most beautiful lake', is also rated as 'one of the 55 places one must visit in a lifetime'.
✅Qinghai Lake tour: The lake tour is about 360 kilometers
🌟In July-August, the rapeseed flowers bloom, very beautiful (Picture 2-Picture 6)
🌟In May-June, it's the bird migration season, a paradise for birds (Picture 7-Picture 9)
🌟I've been there twice, recommend July (the experience in May was not so good)
✅Qinghai Lake Fishery: From entering Qinghai Lake to Erlang Sword, I personally feel it is the most beautiful place in Qinghai Lake
🌟You can pay 10-20 yuan to the Tibetans, walk to the lake through the local path, the rapeseed flowers, lake, yaks, horses along the way, taking pictures is very spectacular
🌟Highlights: lake water, rapeseed flowers, horse riding, yak riding, sheep and cattle
✅Erlang Sword Scenic Area: The scenic area is well-equipped, you can walk to the lake along the plank road, or take a cruise / speedboat
🌟Personally, I think if you don't take a boat or experience the project, there is no need to buy a ticket to enter the scenic area (you can enter the lake through the Tibetan path on the lake tour)
🌟Highlights: horse-drawn carriage, horse riding, plateau camel, Buddhist pagoda prayer flags, water bike, hot air balloon, cruise
🌟The scenic area ticket is 90 yuan/person, speedboat 100 yuan/person, cruise 140 yuan/person, luxury cruise 180 yuan/person, photo props about 20 yuan)
🌟Nanshan Guanhaiting, located on the opposite Nanshan in the scenic area, you can overlook Qinghai Lake, and also appreciate the 'true face' of Erlang Sword
🌟There are many accommodation options near the Erlang Sword Scenic Area, the conditions are better but the price is also more expensive
✅Heimahe Township: The starting point of the western lake tour, the section to Bird Island about 70 kilometers is also known as the most beautiful section of Qinghai Lake
🌟The best place to watch the sunrise of the holy lake, usually at 6 o'clock in the morning, you can take a sightseeing car to the sunrise point-Ban Chanzha Re (the section car costs 20, you can also choose to walk)
🌟There are many accommodation options in the town, and you can also experience the lakeside tent
✅Bird Island Scenic Area: Named for the hundreds of thousands of migratory birds that inhabit it
🌟If you don't enter the scenic area, you can also enjoy many different bird groups on both sides of the Buha River Highway
🌟The best time to watch birds is from the end of April to the beginning of June each year; the best time to watch swans is from the end of November to the beginning of March each year
🌟Admission: 120 yuan/person
✅Gangcha: About 40 kilometers from Bird Island
🌟From Haergai to Gangcha, passing a rapeseed flower viewing platform, very beautiful~
🌟Attractions: Huang Fish Home, Cangyang Gyatso Cultural Square, Fan Yin Wind and Rain Forest Card, Five Major Prayer Flags
✅Fairy Bay Scenic Area: A lakeside wetland about 10 kilometers from Gangcha, enjoy the lake view along the plank road
🌟Highlights: Architectural landmark 'San Sheng La Ze', wooden plank road, prayer wheel, Lover's Cliff, National Harmony Tower, understanding the 'San Sheng La Ze' taboo sea culture
🌟The cliff scenic area has a section car to take, the cost is 20 yuan
🌟Admission: 60 yuan
✅Sand Island: Large sand dune landscape, there is an international sand sculpture art festival every July
🌟Admission: 70 yuan/person (temporarily closed)
✅Jinsha Bay Scenic Area: A desert area, an excellent place to enjoy the sand dune landscape and watch the sunset
🌟Highlights: desert motorcycle, sand sliding, camel riding
🌟Admission: free
✅Haixin Mountain (not open to the public)
🌟Haixin Mountain Temple (Lotus Temple), 30 meters high Lotus Born Great Master golden statue
Recommended Attractions at Popular Destinations
Popular Restaurants in Qinghai Lake