#Qinghai Lake Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
#1 of Best Things to Do in Haiyan
Lakes
Address:
Qinghai Lake, China
Opening times:
Open year round, 24/7Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
0.5-1 day
Phone:
0974-7553999
Biggest salt water lake in China
Qinghai Lake, nestled in China's Qinghai Province, is the largest saltwater lake in East Asia, covering approximately 4,600 square kilometers. Its beauty lies in its serene, azure waters and the surrounding Tibetan Plateau's majestic landscapes. At an elevation of 3,205 meters, the lake is a vital ecological hotspot, home to diverse avian species and unique aquatic life.
The lake holds cultural significance for Tibetans and the local Tibetan-Qiang people. It's a site for various religious ceremonies and festivals. However, environmental concerns, like shrinking water levels due to climate change and pollution, pose significant challenges to its preservation. Conservation efforts are underway to safeguard this remarkable natural treasure.
#timetotravel #China #nature
timetotravel
china
Joe0412
Turquoise Eye of Qinghai Province
Tibetan plateau AKA "Roof of the World" is the highest in the world and Qinghai lake (青海湖) is the largest saltwater lake in China. 🌊Have you noticed that we're speaking in superlatives? It's not a coincidence. Qinghai lake (青海湖) definitely deserves to be be called the sea of the West due to its size, vastness, and the fact that it resembles a sea in certain aspects. It's a saline waters boasts incredible variety of wildlife at an altitude of 3205m. "On the plateau's crest, a jewel so grand, Qinghai Lake's waters stretch across the land. Azure skies embrace its tranquil face, A mirror of nature's serene embrace." 😍
Tips and tricks: If you want to visit Qinghai lake without any tour operators or rental cars you can easily get there from the Xining bus station (西宁汽车客运中心站). Several buses go to Qinghaihu (hu = lake) every day starting from 8AM. 🚌The drop off location is called 青海湖国家重点风景名胜区. That's the closest scenic area to the Xining city. One way ticket costs 60RMB. 💸The bus will wait for the passengers at the scenic area's parking lot for around 3 hours before heading back to the Xining bus station. To make sure you have a seat you can buy round way tickets at the Xining bus station. Total cost will be 120RMB per person. 🙃
#summerbreak #SpinTheWorld #qinghailake #xining #summervacation
summerbreak
spintheworld
SpinTheWorld
Qinghai lake - the biggest in China
Only taking into consideration that it's the biggest, it's worth visiting. Yet I think Scenic area tickets are overpriced. There's not much to do in the area apart from taking pictures, riding a boat (3 types, start from 100yuan) and feeding seagulls.
Still it's worth visiting, though it feels much much better if you drive a car in Qinghai (we took a shared taxi from Xining to Qinghai lake) and overall had pretty much headache with transportation in this province.
Almost all the wild areas around are privately owned and you need to pay to enter (or, say, ride a horse, 200yuan per 3km round-trip to the lake🙄). This numerous fences and herds of tourists made it difficult for me to fully enjoy the beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes (I just ran into the mountains 😂) . Also it was pretty hard to find a hotel accommodating foreigners (beginning of August).
Only Chinese food (quite pricey)
Still it was a great trip, I'd like to come back driving a car😁
#qinghai #qinghailake
qinghai
qinghailake
Jenny_A
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
tigeryear2022
mountainview
Jimmysandwiches
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
leaveyourmark
Michaela (@uncoveringcities)
#qinghai #西宁#qinghailake
qinghailake
西宁
cosmopolitanqa
Damei Qinghai self-driving route recommended!
Qinghai--China's representative place
Qinghai is separated from Sichuan by only one mountain, and Mianyang, but one thousand kilometers. There are mountains surrounded by blue waters, Qinghai Lake, and Lingshan Holy Water Cambra.
Route 1: XiningMenyuanQilian
smeared with a piece of green, and its golden color it is an energetic and vibrant romantic declaration .
Under the deep blue sky of the plateau, the rich yellow flowers stretch for nearly 100 kilometers, like the golden sea. It shows the domineering of rapeseed flowers in the northern region under the blue sky, white clouds and snow-capped mountains...
You can follow the 227 national road to the Russian Fort and then divide the road to the west to the big road, passing the imperial city grassland and the Aru grassland. . All the way from the source of the door, all the way is full of endless grassland and cattle and sheep, and then to the back, will feel the mountain suddenly increased, at first glance, a beautiful scenery in the mountains.
A few kilometers along the mountain road is the Zall Mountain. You will see the mountains on both sides and the mountains in the distance. At this time, the eyes are not enough. The wheat fields, rape fields and Yadan landforms. The scenery of pine forests, snow mountains and grasslands surrounds you. Step by step, each angle is beautiful, and each angle is a perfect postcard.
Route 2: Guide-Lajishan-Tal Temple
took out Xining, driving south for several tens of kilometers to the foot of Lajishan. Not far from the hills, the five-color prayer flags fluttered in the wind, climbed up to take pictures, and later learned that Tibetans generally hang on the mountains, intersections, lakes or roofs to pray. It is said that the longer the connection between the warriors and the shackles, the higher the hang, the better the luck, which is why they choose the snow-capped mountains.
When you reach the foot of the mountain, the right hand side is a compelling green, and the left hand side is a dazzling Danxia landform that is not pleasing in the grass in the afternoon sun. A crisscrossed, fine layered layer.
The first time I saw the clear green green river, the trip was worth again. The statement that a basin of river water and half basin mud does not apply in Guide. If I didn't see it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that there would be such a clear and clear Yellow River water anyway.
, the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. A row of eight treasures like the tower, the size of the Jinwa Temple, is an iconic building. The Ta'er Monastery has three musts: murals, piles of embroidered, butter flowers.
Winnie_trip
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!💕💕
arduous.deeanna
Northwest Travel Itinerary Route, you can adjust according to your own time and interests:
Northwest Classic Six-Day Tour
- Day1: Xining - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Delingha
- Morning: Arrive in Xining, check in, and then you can tour around the city, such as the Qinghai Provincial Museum.
- Afternoon: Head to Qinghai Lake and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery.
- Evening: Arrive at Chaka Salt Lake and admire the night sky.
- Day2: Delingha - 315U Highway - Water Yadan - South Baxian Devil City - Jade Lake
- Morning: Depart for the 315U Highway and take photos of the road.
- Afternoon: Visit Water Yadan and South Baxian Devil City, and experience the natural wonders.
- Evening: Head to Jade Lake and stay at a nearby hotel.
- Day3: Dachaidan - Oil Town - Dunhuang Ancient City - Desert Camping
- Morning: Visit the Oil Town and learn about oil culture.
- Afternoon: Go to Dunhuang Ancient City and experience the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road.
- Evening: Camp in the desert and enjoy the beautiful starry sky.
- Day4: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - See Dunhuang Again
- Morning: Visit the Mogao Caves and appreciate the exquisite murals and statues.
- Afternoon: Go to Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, ride camels, sand slide, and enjoy the oasis in the desert.
- Evening: Watch the 'See Dunhuang Again' performance and feel the history and culture of Dunhuang.
- Day5: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye Danxia - Zhangye
- Morning: Head to Jiayuguan and visit the western starting point of the Great Wall.
- Afternoon: Tour Zhangye Danxia and admire the beautiful Danxia landform.
- Evening: Check into a hotel in Zhangye city.
- Day6: Zhangye - Qilian Mountain Grassland - Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea - Xining
- Morning: Go to Qilian Mountain Grassland and feel the magnificent scenery of the grassland.
- Afternoon: Admire the rapeseed flower sea in Menyuan and take photos.
- Evening: Return to Xining and end the pleasant journey.
Notes:
1. The climate in the northwest is dry, with large temperature differences between day and night, so pay attention to keeping warm and sun protection.
2. The diet is mainly beef, mutton, and noodles, with a heavier taste, so be mentally prepared in advance.
3. Respect local religions and customs, and travel civilly.
4. Some scenic spots are at high altitudes, such as Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake, and you may experience altitude sickness, so you can take anti-altitude sickness medicine in advance.
5. When visiting the Mogao Caves, you must follow the regulations of the scenic area and not touch the murals and statues.
6. When camping in the desert, pay attention to safety and follow the guidance of the staff.
ElijahMacKay95
Journey Through the Northwest Mysteries: An 8-Day Fantasy Trip on the Qinghai-Gansu Loop
Northwest Exploration | 8-Day Qinghai-Gansu Loop In-depth Travel Guide✨
The mysterious and vast land of the Northwest is a sacred place in the heart of every traveler. Here, you can personally experience the wonders of nature's craftsmanship and feel the boundless freedom and romance.🏞️
🌟Must-visit Attractions:
1️⃣ Qinghai Lake
China's largest inland lake, with rippling blue waves and a beautiful blend of lake and mountain scenery that captivates the heart.🌊
2️⃣ Chaka Salt Lake
Known as the 'Mirror of the Sky,' the lake surface reflects the blue sky and white clouds, as if stepping into a fairy tale world.📸
3️⃣ Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
A rare sight where the desert and spring coexist, the sand and spring depend on each other, making one marvel at the magic of nature.🌄
4️⃣ Zhangye Danxia
Unique Danxia landform with a riot of colors, like a palette overturned by God.🎨
5️⃣ Mogao Caves
A World Cultural Heritage site, each mural and Buddha statue tells a story of a thousand years.📚
6️⃣ Jiayuguan
The western end of the Great Wall, a witness to history, standing atop the fort, it feels like one can hear the echoes of history.🏰
7️⃣ Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers
A sea of flowers like a tide, the golden rapeseed flower sea set against the blue sky and white clouds is overwhelmingly beautiful.🌻
🚗 Itinerary:
Day 1: Depart from Xining, visit Qinghai Lake, head to Chaka Salt Lake, and stay overnight in Chaka Town.【434km/5h】🚗
Day 2: Depart from Chaka, pass by Qarhan Salt Lake, and arrive in Golmud.【570km/6.7h】🚗
Day 3: Depart from Golmud, explore Yuzhu Peak, Kunlun Pass, cross the Hoh Xil, and arrive in Da Qaidam.【520km/6.4h】🚗
Day 4: Depart from Da Qaidam, experience the U-shaped highway, visit the water Yadan, cross the West Taijinar Lake, and arrive in Lenghu Town.【430km/5.2h】🚗
Day 5: Depart from Lenghu, visit the oil field ruins, head to Dunhuang, and stay overnight in Dunhuang.【300km/3.5h】🚗
Day 6: One-day tour in Dunhuang, Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, experience the mystery and charm of Dunhuang.【50km/1.4h】🚗
Day 7: Depart from Dunhuang, head to Jiayuguan, visit Zhangye Danxia, and arrive in Zhangye.【580km/6.8h】🚗
Day 8: Depart from Zhangye, cross the Qilian Grassland, admire the Menyuan rapeseed flowers, and return to Xining.【400km/5.8h】🚗
The beauty of the Northwest lies not only in its natural scenery but also in its unique culture and history. Every step is a view, every glance is a story. Let us embark on this journey together, to discover, feel, and record those beautiful moments that belong only to the Northwest.📸🏞️
On your journey through the Northwest, you will encounter countless surprises and emotions. Each landscape is like a stage meticulously set by nature, waiting for your arrival. Let us leave our own footprints and stories amidst these magnificent scenes.🌟🏞️
Jetsetter Food Trails
Urgent! What to do if you haven't made a travel plan for Northwest China yet?
Don't just head to Northwest China without a plan, how much do you know about it? Is it the lonely scenery beyond the Great Wall, or the dazzling and magnificent views? Maybe it's neither.
Northwest China is a place that encompasses seemingly incompatible elements like deserts, grottoes, Danxia landforms, snow-capped mountains, lakes, and salt flats. The most classic route is the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, which includes more than 20 iconic spots in Northwest China. An eight-day, seven-night trip will let you thoroughly explore the Northwest.
Itinerary:
✔D1 Various locations - Arrive in Lanzhou/Xining (24h pick-up service) - Hotel
✔D2 Lanzhou/Xining - Qilian Grassland - E'bao Ancient City - Danxia Entrance/Zhangye
✔D3 Danxia Entrance/Zhangye - Jiayuguan City Tower - Son of the Earth - Camping Base Experience - Dunhuang
✔D4 Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - Dunhuang
✔D5 Dunhuang - Oil Town - South Baxian Devil City - U-shaped Highway - Jade Lake - Dachaidan
✔D6 Dachaidan - Chaka Salt Lake Sky No.1 - Qinghai Lake - Along Qinghai Lake
✔D7 Heima River - Heima River Sunrise - Plateau Tibetan Village - Ta'er Monastery - Jinko Artillery Museum - Xining/Lanzhou New District
✔D8 Lanzhou/Xining - Drop off at the airport
Itinerary Highlights:
✔Average cost 1K+ per person, including stay + transportation + food
✔Four-star local hotels throughout the journey
✔2-12 people small group tours
✔Complimentary popular photo spots, beautiful desert tents for photography, free aerial photography, Dunhuang festival performances, sand sliding, camel riding, and many other activities.
After reading this guide, what are you still hesitating for? Why not set off together to see the magnificent scenery of Northwest China!
aurora.seraphine.morningstar
May Day trip to Qinghai, refuse the holiday crowds
May Day holiday, are you tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, longing to find a place of tranquility and beauty? Then come to Qinghai! Here you have everything you yearn for: blue sky, white clouds, green waters, green mountains, and that unique tranquility and purity.
Here are vast grasslands, clear lakes, and those ancient villages hidden deep in the mountains. Every scene is captivating.
-
✨Trip Highlights
📍Qinghai Lake
The 'Highland Sapphire,' China's largest saltwater lake, the legend of the sky realm begins here, nature has bestowed a huge treasure mirror on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
📍Chaka Salt Lake
The Chinese version of 'Mirror of the Sky,' the pure white pearl forgotten by God, 'one of the 55 places one must visit in a lifetime.'
📍Zhangye Danxia
One of 'China's most beautiful colorful Danxia,' the only complex area of Danxia landform and colorful hills in China, like the pork belly on the northwest loop.
📍Qilian Grassland
The 'Oriental Switzerland,' a must-visit place on the northwest grand loop, 'where the wind blows and the grass bends to reveal cattle and sheep,' every frame is healing.
📍Arou Temple
The pearl of the plateau hidden under the Qilian Mountains, the largest Gelug monastery within the territory of Qilian County.
📍Zhuoer Mountain
One of the most magnificent sights in Qinghai, with herders, sheep, grasslands, it's like coming to a corner of Switzerland.
📍Dadongshu Mountain Pass
Selected by 'China National Geography,' one of Qinghai's 100 'most beautiful scenic photography spots.'
-
🚗Recommended Itinerary
D1: Gather all day in Xining from all over the country
D2: Xining-Biandukou-Ancient City Post Station-Zhangye Danxia-Zhangye City
D3: Zhangye-Qilian Grassland-Arou Temple-Zhuoer Mountain-Qilian County
D4: Qilian County-Ice Gully Forest Sea-Dadongshu Mountain Pass-Gangcha-West Lake Road-Chaka Salt Lake
D5: Chaka Salt Lake-Qinghai Lake Black Horse River Scenic Area-South Lake Road-Xining
-
🎒Pre-trip Preparation
💳Documents: ID card, student ID, etc.
📷Electronics: Mobile phone, charger, headphones, power bank, camera, etc.
💧Daily necessities: Toiletries, hydrating cosmetics, etc.
-
‼️tips
✔️Qinghai is a plateau area, if you feel unwell, it is recommended to arrange your itinerary reasonably, rest appropriately, and stay hydrated.
✔️Keep warm during the trip, as the temperature difference between morning and evening is large, especially in places with high altitude, be sure to prepare warm clothing.
GRACIE WHITE
You have entered the northwestern secret realm, where the scenery ahead is boundless
Welcome, dear travelers, to this meticulously crafted Qinghai travel guide. Here, you will witness the unique plateau scenery of Qinghai, experience the rich ethnic culture, taste authentic cuisine, and enjoy an extraordinary journey of transportation, granting you an unforgettable travel experience on this magical land.
Attractions:
1. Qinghai Lake - China's largest inland lake, like a sapphire embedded in the plateau, with rippling blue waves, flocks of sheep and cattle by the lake, and a golden sea of rapeseed flowers, offering a spectacular sight of thousands of birds flying together in the summer.
2. Chaka Salt Lake - Known as the 'Mirror of the Sky', its pristine surface reflects the blue sky and white clouds, as if stepping into a dreamy fairyland.
3. Ta'er Monastery - One of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism in Qinghai Province, with exquisite murals, thangka, and butter sculpture art that are breathtaking.
4. Qilian Mountain Grassland - A green carpet surrounded by snow-capped mountains, a paradise for photography enthusiasts, and an excellent place to experience the life of nomads.
Itinerary:
Arrive in Xining on the first day, rest, and then visit the Dongguan Mosque to taste the local Muslim culture. The next day, drive to Qinghai Lake, enjoy the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau scenery along the way, and camp by the lake to watch the stars. On the third day, visit Chaka Salt Lake and head to Qilian Mountain Grassland in the afternoon, spending a night in a grassland homestay.
Food Recommendations:
• Hand-grabbed lamb: Made from tender lamb, with a rich taste and aromatic flavor, it is a Qinghai specialty.
• Yogurt: Qinghai yogurt is thick and creamy, with a suitable sour and sweet taste, rich in probiotics, and is an excellent choice for quenching thirst and beating the heat.
• Tsampa: A local specialty with a rich flavor, chewy texture, thick soup, and rich in nutrients.
Transportation Tips:
You can take a flight directly to Xining Caojiabao Airport from all over the country, or choose to travel by train or long-distance bus. Within the province, chartered self-driving is the most convenient for stopping to enjoy the scenery along the way. In addition, there are tourist buses to and from Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, and other places, which are both economical and convenient.
On this vast and mysterious land, let us listen to the stories of Qinghai, explore the treasures of nature, enjoy the delicacies of the world, and embark on a journey that captivates the heart and soul!
BookLoversParadise
【Traversing Qinghai】A Journey of Beauty to the 'Sky's Boundary' —— In-depth Qinghai Lake Tourism
Have you ever imagined standing under the vast expanse of blue sky, with your feet on a lake that seems to stretch to the horizon? Qinghai, this mysterious and magnificent land, is waiting for your exploration. Named 'China's most beautiful lake' by 'Chinese National Geography', Qinghai Lake is not just a poem, but also a painting, a dream, an irresistible call.
🚗 Essential Travel Guide 🚗
As the gateway to Qinghai Lake, Xining is not only convenient in transportation but also the starting point of your journey to the northwest. From Caojiabao Airport to Xining Railway Station, there are multiple options to choose from. However, don't forget that the true beauty often lies in remote areas, and the scenic spots in the northwest are scattered and far away, making them difficult to reach by public transport. Self-driving or carpooling becomes the best choice, making your journey more free and closer to the call of your heart.
🏨 Smart Accommodation Choices 🏨
In the downtown area of Xining, Mo Street and Dongguan Mosque are gathering places for delicious food, while the New Millennium International is a great place for shopping and leisure. When you arrive at the shore of Qinghai Lake, Chaka Town is your best choice, just a few kilometers away from Chaka Salt Lake, convenient for you to start a new adventure the next day. If you crave to experience local customs, the homestays in Qilian County are your ideal choice, with snow-capped mountains and grasslands right outside your window, and the coolness of summer is incomparable.
🌟 Must-Visit Attractions Checklist 🌟
Qinghai Lake: That intoxicating blue, that splendid yellow, the rapeseed flowers bloom from June to August every year, making it a holy land in the hearts of photography enthusiasts.
Chaka Salt Lake: Walk on the 'Mirror of the Sky', take a small train deep into the heart of the lake, step barefoot on the salt lake, capture reflections, like a dream.
Qilian Grassland: One of China's six major grasslands, horse riding and archery, fully experience the vastness and freedom of the grassland.
Arou Temple: Explore Tibetan Buddhism culture, feel the devotion and tranquility of the locals.
📅 Recommended Itinerary 📅
Day1: Gather in Xining from all over the country, preparing for your journey to the northwest.
Day2: Depart from Xining, head west, pass by the Erlang Sword Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake, and then to Chaka Salt Lake, staying overnight in Chaka Town.
Day3: Get up early to enjoy the sunrise (if possible), then start the journey to the Qilian Mountain Grassland, pass by the 4120 viewing platform, reach Zhuoer Mountain, and stay overnight in Qilian.
Day4: Visit Arou Temple, experience the joy of horse riding, gaze at the Gangshika Snow Peaks, and return to Xining via Qingshizui.
🍲 Unmissable Delicacies 🍲
How can you not try the authentic hand-grabbed meat and roasted lamb chops in Qinghai? The earthy hot pot warms the stomach and relieves fatigue, the old yogurt is refreshing and delicious, and the niangpi has a unique taste, each bite is an ultimate tease to the taste buds.
📝 Important Notes Must Read 📝
Highland climate is changeable, even in summer, please have a thick coat ready just in case.
Do enough sunscreen and moisturizing work to resist the strong ultraviolet rays.
Carry common medicines and personal special drugs, ensuring a healthy and worry-free trip.
Don't forget beautiful skirts, hats, and other photo props, after all, you don't want to miss any opportunity to take great photos!
CODY PERKINS
The Pearl of the Great Northwest - A Guide to Visiting the Chaka Salt Lake!
🤩There is such a stunning salt lake in the Great Northwest - the dreamy Chaka Salt Lake! It's incredibly beautiful!
😉If you love the scenery of salt lakes, Chaka Salt Lake will definitely not disappoint you!
🌊This vast salt lake, white as snow, is comparable in size to 55 Chaka Salt Lakes, making it the second largest in the world and the largest in China without a doubt!
📍It is located in Chaka Town, Golmud City, Qinghai Province. The opening hours are 8:00-20:00, and the ticket price is 100 yuan per person.
🎈The best time to visit is from June to October every year🤗, when the climate is pleasant, the sun is abundant, and the beautiful scenery is in full view. Especially in autumn, the dried-up lake bed forms a red salt layer, which is spectacular!
🚗For transportation, first get to Xining, then drive or charter a car to Chaka Salt Lake (there is no public transportation). Why not take a trip around the Qinghai-Gansu loop, with plateaus, snow-capped mountains, lakes, yardangs, grasslands, deserts... a colorful landscape like a palette overturned by God!
👀Main attractions include:
🛣The Salt Bridge: A naturally formed salt road, 32km long and 15-18 meters thick, is an excellent place to view the salt lake.
🤩Dream Island: A small island in the center of the lake with pianos, swings, and beautiful salt flowers. The starry sky rooms on the island are a major highlight, where you can enjoy the starry sky and the lake light at night.
👉The Ship of Salt: A symbolic landscape, the boat-shaped salt crystals are like a giant wheel sailing on the salt lake.
📋Notes:
☀The sunlight reflection on the salt lake is strong, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun and your eyes.
🚫Do not step on or damage the salt layer at will, and protect the natural wonder.
🤒Located in a high-altitude area, you may experience altitude sickness, so be sure to rest and hydrate appropriately.
🎊Recommended itinerary:
D1: Xining → Qilian Grassland → Zhuoer Mountain → Qilian County
D2: Qilian → Sui-Qi Highway → Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park → Jiayuguan City
D3: Jiayuguan → Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring → Dunhuang
D4: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dachaidan Town
D5: Dachaidan → Water Yardang → U-shaped Highway → Golmud City
D6: Golmud City → Chaka Salt Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Chaka Town
D7: Chaka Town → Nanshan Panorama → Qinghai Lake → Xining
GAGE BENSON
Traveling the Qinghai-Tibet Loop during the off-season, you can avoid 80% of the pitfalls by 8 PM
September to November is the off-season in Qinghai and Gansu, with fewer people around. During this time, you can spend 8 days and 7 nights entering the Qinghai-Gansu region to deeply explore its natural beauty.
Although Qinghai and Gansu are beautiful, it's still necessary to do your homework before going. Remember these 20 points to avoid 80% of the pitfalls on the Qinghai-Gansu loop:
1. The northwest region is vast, located on the plateau, and many places are still undeveloped with inconvenient transportation. It is recommended to carpool or charter a car.
2. Look for businesses with proper qualifications, be discerning, and beware of price traps.
3. The signal is not good, download maps in advance.
4. The temperature drops quickly, so it's advised to wear thick clothes.
5. When you first arrive in Qinghai, don't run or jump, and avoid extreme emotions, which can exacerbate altitude sickness.
6. Sunglasses are a must, not just for show, as the sun can be blinding.
7. The water in scenic lakes is clear but should not be consumed directly, as untreated, it contains elements harmful to the body.
8. The journey will pass through uninhabited areas, so prepare some food in advance (ham, compressed biscuits, coarse grain rice balls).
9. Hotel conditions along the way are limited, those with high accommodation standards can prepare some disposable items.
10. Normally, there won't be severe altitude sickness, but individual physical conditions vary, so it's wise to have some medicine on hand in case of emergencies.
11. Prepare strong hydrating skincare products, neglecting protection could lead to skin peeling.
12. Don't drive in unfamiliar terrain! It's really easy to get lost.
13. Don't wash your hair too often, be careful of catching a cold and triggering altitude sickness.
14. Don't stop to take photos on the roadside, as you may be charged.
15. Make sure to use the restroom, because you don't know when you'll have the next opportunity.
16. Don't trust navigation too much, ask locals for directions.
17. Sunscreen essentials: sunglasses, sunscreen spray (SPF 30 or higher), parasol, sunscreen, sun hat, etc.
18. Clothing to bring: jacket, sweater, thermal underwear, raincoat, jeans.
19. ID card, bank card, a small amount of cash, support for Alipay payments.
20. Don't take photos in the middle of the highway, don't climb mountains, don't trust strangers, safety first.
Qinghai-Gansu 8-Day Loop Itinerary
The best choice is a comfortable business car that allows you to stretch your legs, and you can bring luggage at will.
The 8-day journey is about 2700 kilometers, so comfort is very important.
D1. Xining airport/train station pick-up
D2. Xining—Qinghai Lake—Chaka—Delingha
D3. Delingha—Chaka Salt Lake—Dachaidan (overnight stay)
D4. Dachaidan—U-shaped Internet-famous road—Water Yadan—Xitaijiner Lake—Dachaidan (overnight stay)
D5. Dachaidan—Emerald Lake—Boluo Transfer Well (petroleum town)—Dunhuang
D6. Dunhuang—Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Shazhou Night Market—Dunhuang (overnight in Dunhuang)
D7. Dunhuang—Guazhou—Jiayuguan Fort—Zhangye Danxia—Zhangye Danxia (overnight stay)
D8. Zhangye—Biandukou—Qilian Grassland—Menyuan Rapeseed Flower—Daban Mountain—Heiquan Reservoir—Xining
STANLEY ROWE
Qinghai Travel Guide: 5 Days 4 Nights, take you on a whirlwind tour of Qinghai!
Qinghai Five-Day Tour Guide🎈is here
The scenery is really too beautiful!!
Day1️⃣
Arrive in Xining—Mo Street/Xin Qian Night Market
Day2️⃣
Riyue Mountain (🎫Ticket 40💰) 8:00-17:00—Qinghai Lake (Erlang Sword Scenic Area🎫Ticket 90💰) 8:00-18:00
Day3️⃣
Chaka Salt Lake (🎫Ticket 60💰) 7:00-19:00—Zhuoer Mountain 7:00-20:00 (🎫Ticket 60💰)
Day4️⃣
Qilian Mountain Grassland—Zhangye Danxia National Geopark (🎫Ticket 75💰) 6:30-18:00
Day5️⃣
Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers
📌Important Notes:
1. Qinghai is at a high altitude, you may experience mild altitude sickness upon arrival, avoid strenuous exercise
2. Take sun protection measures, the ultraviolet rays are strong
3. There is a big temperature difference between morning and evening, remember to bring warm clothes
4. Make sure to book hotels and homestays in advance during peak season
🤩Qinghai is really too beautiful, girls let's go!
Lucy.Moore.29
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
maeva_4860
The Qinghai Lake we saw without buying a ticket is also very beautiful
We played all the way from Yunnan to Lhasa on the Yunnan-Tibet line, and then played back to Guangdong on the Qinghai-Tibet line. We played a lot of paid and free attractions along the way, but we were pitted by the paid attractions. The scenery along the way is really not worse than the paid attractions, so we simply didn't go to the attractions at Qinghai Lake, we played while driving around the lake. Although the lake is basically fenced up, there are still a few places where you can go down to the lake, or you can take beautiful lake views by parking by the side. You can drive slowly around the lake, and you can go and see where you see people going down or parking. The roadside shots are also very good, but pay attention to safety, do not stand in the middle of the road.
Small tips:
1, Qinghai Lake is also very dependent on the weather, still that point, pick a sunny day to go, under the sun really comes with a filter
2, The wind on the side of Qinghai Lake is super strong, it's super cold when it rains, and it's very sunny at noon when it doesn't rain, so remember to bring sunglasses, apply sunscreen, and the clothes this season are best to be able to replace autumn and winter, take off autumn and put on winter is the best.
3, Self-driving partners whether or not you bought a ticket, if you have time, it is recommended to go around the lake, you don't have to finish all of it, it is also very healing to watch the lake for a while
4, In addition to the scenic area and the wild roadside, there are also some places on the roadside where you can go down to the lake for a walk, take pictures and feed seagulls, but you have to pay a parking fee, twenty yuan (it is said that those who can cross the fence to the lake on the wild roadside will be driven away if the police see it, so if you want to play more safely, you can go to such places, you can see it not long after you drive in, about 10 minutes drive)
I will sort out the strategies for the other two salt lakes in Qinghai (Chaerhan and Dachaidan) later, if you are in a hurry, you can also compare and choose
ROLAND FARMER
Qinghai-Gansu Tourism|Fresh 7-day travel guide for Qinghai-Gansu loop
Day1: Depart from Xi'an——Xining——Qinghai Lake——Chaka Town (stay)
Depart by early flight, rent a car online in advance, choose airport pick-up, have lunch, then buy snacks, water and fruits for the road
First stop at Qinghai Lake, we did not choose to go to Qinghai Lake Scenic Area
Navigate to Heima Town, then go 15km ahead where there is no charge, there is a camping site, you can camp there to watch the sunrise
Day2: Chaka——Xiaochaidan Lake (pass by)——Chaerhan Salt Lake——Xiaochaidan Lake (pass by)——Dachaidan (stay)
Chaerhan Salt Lake, we went to Chaerhan Salt Lake, if time permits, you can go to Emerald Lake, it is not recommended to go to Chaka Salt Lake
The Xiaochaidan Lake we passed by on the road is really super beautiful, (you can bring some bread to feed the seagulls)
You must bring sunglasses otherwise you can't see anything, it's too dazzling
You must do sun protection, it's best to bring a hat or an umbrella, take photos and then take it
Go to Dachaidan town to eat their hand-grabbed mutton and kang pot beef, it's very delicious and has no mutton smell
Day3: Dachaidan——Liuge Expressway (small U-shaped road)——Dangjin Mountain——Petroleum Town (filming location of Nine-layer Demon Tower)——Aksai——Dunhuang (Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring)——Shazhou Night Market——Dunhuang City Area (stay)
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, the ticket can be used for 3 days, bought a round-trip sightseeing car, bought sand sliding, you must find a ladder to climb when you enter the desert, otherwise it's really tiring, the sand is really soft, it is recommended to wear sandals, there will be a star concert at eight thirty, the whole audience sings.
Day4: Dunhuang——Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring (photo shoot)——Dunhuang Qili Town (stargazing)——Dunhuang City Area (stay)
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, we were tired from playing the day before, slept late the next morning, went out for lunch, went to the entrance of Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area to do makeup and then took photos, after taking photos, you can ride a camel with makeup
Qili Town stargazing, a few minutes drive out of the city, stars all over the sky, and faintly saw the Milky Way, the moon was like a lamp that night
Day5: Dunhuang Museum——Guazhou——Son of the Earth——Jiuquan (stay)
Dunhuang Museum, we didn't get Mogao Grottoes, if you want to go to Mogao Grottoes, remember to buy tickets in advance, otherwise you can't book, you can only see four grottoes with the ticket
Guazhou Son of the Earth, there are several sculptures on the way from Dunhuang to Jiuquan "Son of the Earth" "Han Wu Xiong Feng" "No Bound" "Gobi Ark"
Day6: Jiuquan——Qicai Danxia——Zhangye (stay)
Qicai Danxia, you need to take a bus to each viewing platform, the last one, Hongxia viewing platform has the best view
Day7: Zhangye——Biandukou——Qilian Mountain Grassland——Xining——Xi'an
Qilian Mountain Grassland, the three of us rode horses and played for an afternoon, it was very good.
WAYNE GOODMAN
Don't be a special soldier for travel, Qinggan Ring Line 4 days and 3 nights route guide
🌟 **Selected four-day itinerary in the northwest** 🏜️
🗺️ **Day1:**
🏔️ **Xining** → 🏞️ **Mingshan** → 🌊 **Qinghai Lake** → ✨ **Chaka Salt Lake** → 🌙 **Chaka**
🏡 Enjoy a night of tranquility and starry sky in beautiful Chaka, feel the charm of nature.
🌄 **Day2:**
🏔️ **Chaka** → 🛣️ **West Lake Road** → ❄️ **Ice Gully Forest Sea** → ⛰️ **Qizuoer Mountain** → 🌆 **Qilian County**
Enjoy a night in Qilian County, ready to welcome the exciting journey ahead!
🏜️ **Day3:**
🌅 **Qilian County** → 🕌 **Arou Temple** → 🌈 **Zhangye Rainbow Danxia**
Stay in Zhangye, prepare for tomorrow's adventure!
🌞 **Day4:**
🌄 **Zhangye** → 🏞️ **Biandukou** → 🌾 **Qilian Prairie** → 🏔 **Gangshika Snow Peak** → 🌼 **Menyuan Rapeseed Flower** → 🏔 **Xining**
End the wonderful journey, leaving full memories and photos!
🏔 **Unlimited scenery, all in the northwest!** 🏜️
🌤️ **Climate dressing suggestions:**
1. Prepare a thick coat in Qinghai to deal with possible snowfall;
2. In Dunhuang, Zhangye and other regions, the temperature is relatively warm, you can prepare spring and autumn equipment;
3. Sunglasses, scarves and other warm accessories are also indispensable.
📸 **Travel tips:**
✅ Play in the off-season, avoid peak crowds, and enjoy the scenery;
✅ Some scenic spots are free or half price, saving money and time;
✅ Remember to bring a camera and capture every beautiful moment!
👉👉👉 **Northwest trip, waiting for you to explore!** 🌟
LunariaVeridian567}
Is the 'Plateau Sapphire' Qinghai Lake, which is frozen, beautiful?
In the midwinter, the largest inland saltwater lake in our country, known as the 'Plateau Sapphire', Qinghai Lake is frozen and dressed in silver, becoming a unique landscape of Qinghai Lake in winter. Every year from mid-November, the temperature in the Qinghai Lake area drops below 0°C, and the temperature is the lowest in January of the following year, forming a stable ice cap on the entire lake. The average annual ice sealing period is 108-116 days, the shortest is 76 days, and the longest is 138 days. The ice thickness is generally 40 cm, and the maximum ice thickness is 90 cm. Due to the violent gale, cracks and gullies will appear on the lake surface, and the lake surface will also form a unique texture effect under the action of the wind. Looking down from the air, it is like a masterpiece of nature's earth art.
JAYSON KNIGHT
Qinghai C City Haibei, a niche travel destination
Recently, my friends and I discovered a niche but surprising city - it is Qinghai's C City Haibei, hidden in the mysterious Qinghai Province. There are many beautiful sceneries and delicious food, which make you linger! Come and see how to check in!
~
Transportation strategy:
If you come from Xining, you can choose to take a train or a plane, but you can also choose to rent a car and drive by yourself.
~
🔥Recommended attractions
✅Zhuoer Mountain
Known as the "Eastern Switzerland", when you climb Zhuoer Mountain⛰, you can overlook the entire C City Haibei, you can see the prairie🌿 snow mountain🏔 pasture🐄 rapeseed field, the mountains are green, and the beauty is overwhelming.
⚠Enter the scenic area, you can take the scenic area shuttle bus first, then hike to the mountain when you reach halfway up the mountain, there is a beacon tower at the top of the mountain, where you can overlook the whole view.
✅Gangshika Snow Peak
Must check in in winter, ❄The top of the peak is covered with snow all year round, the silver light is shining, like a jade dragon, the waterfall here forms an ice waterfall after freezing, and the photo is also very spectacular!
⚠The road to the top of the mountain is all mountain roads, friends who drive by themselves should pay attention
✅Qinghai Lake
Must check in, it is the largest inland lake in our country, 💦As a mirror given to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau by nature, it has a variety of extreme colors, and will present different beauty in different seasons, locations, and angles. A sense of deja vu in a big movie📸
~
Recommended food
✔Highland roast whole lamb✔Qingke wine✔Oil splash noodles✔Yogurt, you must try these foods!
Small tips
✅Haibei has distinct seasons, and each season has its unique scenery. The summer is fresh and pleasant, ❄The winter snow scene is picturesque, decide the best travel time according to personal preference.
✅Haibei is located in the plateau area, pay attention to the problem of high anti. Adapt in advance, drink more water, carrying an oxygen bottle is a good choice.
Niche cities always hide the most unique surprises, hurry up and pack your bags, let's explore Qinghai C City Haibei together!
avellia_2639
Scenic spots are everywhere in the northwest, here is a 5-day and 4-night tour guide for Qinghai and Gansu
Fly from Shanghai to Xining, rest for a night, and start the tour to Qinghai Lake the next morning.
Day1, Qinghai Lake ➡️ Chaka Salt Lake
The driver picked us up at 8 a.m., the first stop was Qinghai Lake. The lake is very beautiful from a distance, like a blue silk ribbon, and it is a layered blue with different depths. Heima River Scenic Area can reach the lakeside, personally think that it is more moving from a distance. Arrived at Chaka Salt Lake in the afternoon, it was drizzling when we just entered the scenic area, and then it cleared up. The mirror of the sky is indeed well-deserved, and the mountains and clouds in the distance can see very clear reflections.
Day2, Chaerhan Salt Lake, Water Yadan, 315U-shaped highway
Today's itinerary is quite a lot, and we set off at 6 a.m. Chaerhan Salt Lake, the water is very green without adding a filter, like flowing green jelly. Water Yadan is very beautiful, but unfortunately the weather is average, and its beauty is not photographed. U-shaped highway, I don't understand why it has become a tourist attraction. Many people sit in the middle of the road to take pictures. The truck is honking from a distance. It's so dangerous. On the way back, we passed by Xiaochaidan, the water is very clear and there are many seagulls.
Day3, Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring
Originally, there was a trip to Jade Lake today, but the master said that there is no need to go to Jade Lake after going to Chaerhan Salt Lake. It's very small, just a few water pits, so we cancelled this point and went directly to Mingsha Mountain. This is the first time I have seen a desert, and I am still very excited! With the help of the ladder, Mingsha Mountain is easy to climb, but the highest sand dune does not have a ladder, and you can either climb or ride an off-road vehicle. Watched a sunset at 8 o'clock on the mountain, and there were staff playing music with speakers at night, everyone was singing with flashlights, it was very atmospheric, and it was one of the top 3 of my trip. ps: The ticket for Mingsha Mountain can be used for three days.
Day4, Mogao Grottoes, Rainbow Danxia
I bought the earliest emergency ticket for Mogao Grottoes in advance, and watched four grottoes, a bit unfinished. Unfortunately, there is not enough time. If there is a chance, I can come to Dunhuang for a deep tour and feel the thousand-year history of Mogao Grottoes. After watching the grottoes, drove 600 kilometers to Rainbow Danxia, and encountered a small tornado on the way. There are 4 stations in the Danxia Scenic Area. There is no need to get off at the first station. The scenery of 2, 3, and 4 is good, especially the 4th station, there are many people, and there are hot air balloons.
Day5, Qilian Prairie, Menyuan Rapeseed Flower
This season is not the most beautiful time of the prairie, but I experienced horse riding! Fun. The rapeseed flowers have basically withered, and the tour of Qinghai and Gansu is basically over. Later, I stayed in Xining for two more days to rest, visited the Tibetan Culture Museum, and then returned home! In summary, the body is suffering, the eyes are enjoying, it's worth the trip!
DERRICK BULLOCK
Can I still come to Qinghai for tourism in autumn? Qinghai-Gansu grand loop tour
Recently, there are more friends asking about the scenery and temperature of Qinghai tourism. Today, I will focus on the following points:
1. It's not cold in Qinghai in autumn. You can wear autumn clothes during the day and a thick coat in the morning and evening. You can rush to it recently;
2. In terms of scenery, except for the grass changing color, there is basically no impact. And the autumn scenery is also very good;
3. The route is still the Qinghai-Gansu grand loop, which crosses many scenic spots and has a rich itinerary;
4. By the way, Gansu is now in the cool autumn, and the temperature is very comfortable;
What about the temperature and clothing preparation for traveling to Qinghai and Gansu in September or National Day?
1. In Qinghai in September, the temperature is cool in the morning and evening, and there may even be occasional snow, so a winter coat is necessary. But the daytime temperature is over 10 degrees, and autumn clothes can also be worn;
2. The scenic spots in Gansu, such as Dunhuang and Zhangye, have a very comfortable temperature. Autumn clothes are mainly worn, and summer clothes can also be worn during the day;
Which places in the northwest are worth going in autumn?
1. Qinghai Lake & Chaka Salt Lake
2. Emerald Lake
3. Zhangye Danxia
4. Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain + Mogao Grottoes
5. Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest
About the route:
Qing, Tea, Qi, Zhang 5 days and 4 nights tour
D1. Xining Airport/Train Station Pick-up
D2. Xining - Riyueshan (car view) - Daotang River (passing by) - Qinghai Lake - Chaka
D3. Chaka - Chaka Salt Lake - Gangcha Grassland - Dadongshu Mountain Pass - Binggou Forest Sea - Zhuoer Mountain - Qilian County
D4. Qilian - Qilian Grassland - Biandukou - The most beautiful 227 National Road - Zhangye Danxia
D5. Zhangye - Menyuan Rapeseed Sea (car view) - Daban Mountain - Heiquan Reservoir - Xining
Explore Qinghai · Maldives 6 days and 5 nights
D1. Xining--Qinghai Lake--Chaka Salt Lake--Delingha
D2. Delingha-U-shaped net red road-Dongtaijinnai Lake (passing by)-Water Yadan-West Taijinnai Lake-South Baxian Yadan-Dachaidan
D3. Dachaidan-Emerald Lake--Petroleum Town-Dunhuang
D4. Dunhuang-Mogao Grottoes-Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring-Dunhuang
D5. Dunhuang-Guazhou Tasting Melon-Jiayuguan-Zhangye Danxia-Zhangye
D6. Zhangye--Biandukou-Qilian Mountain Grassland-Gangshika Snow Peak (view from a distance)-Menyuan Hundred Acres of Rapeseed Sea (passing by)-Xining
Explore Qinghai · Water Yadan 7 days and 6 nights
D1. Xining Airport/Train Station Pick-up
D2. Xining--Qinghai Lake--Chaka Salt Lake--Delingha
D3. Delingha-U-shaped net red road-Dongtaijinnai Lake-West Taijinnai Lake-Water Yadan-South Baxian Yadan-Dachaidan
D4. Dachaidan-Emerald Lake--Petroleum Town-Dunhuang
D5. Dunhuang-Mogao Grottoes-Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring-Dunhuang
D6. Dunhuang-Guazhou Tasting Melon-Jiayuguan-Zhangye Danxia-Zhangye
D7. Zhangye--Biandukou-Qilian Mountain Grassland-Gangshika Snow Peak (view from a distance)-Menyuan Hundred Acres of Rapeseed Sea (passing by)-Xining
Explore Qinghai · Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest 8 days and 7 nights
D1. All over the country—Xining
D2. Xining-Riyueshan (car view)-Qinghai Lake-Chaka
D3. Chaka-Chaka Salt Lake-Golmud
D4. Golmud-Chaerhan Salt Lake-U-shaped net red road-Water Yadan-Dachaidan
D5. Dachaidan-Dachaidan Emerald Lake-Borozhuanjing (Petroleum Town)-Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring-Dunhuang
D6. Dunhuang-Mogao Grottoes-Jiayuguan
D7. Jiayuguan-Jinta Populus Euphratica Forest-Zhangye Danxia
D8. Zhangye-Biandukou-Qilian Grassland-Daban Mountain-Heiquan Reservoir-Xining
Explore Qinghai · Chaerhan Salt Lake 8 days and 7 nights
D1 Xining Airport/Train Station Pick-up
D2. Xining—Qinghai Lake—Chaka—Delingha
D3. Delingha—Chaerhan Salt Lake—Dachaidan
D4. Dachaidan—U-shaped net red road—Water Yadan—West Taijinnai Lake—Dachaidan
D5. Dachaidan—Emerald Lake—Borozhuanjing (Petroleum Town)—Dunhuang
D6. Dunhuang—Mogao Grottoes—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Shazhou Night Market—Dunhuang
D7. Dunhuang—Guazhou—Jiayuguan City—Zhangye Danxia—Zhangye Danxia
D8. Zhangye—Biandukou—Qilian Grassland—Menyuan Rapeseed—Daban Mountain—Heiquan Reservoir—Xining
M1r@g3_Wh1rlw1nd
8 days and 7 nights self-driving tour guide for Qinghai-Tibet Ring Road! The scenery is on the road
D1, arrive in Xining, stay in Xining.
Accommodation: Recommend near the West Station or Haihu Wanda Plaza.
Dining: Recommend Mojia Street, Daxing Street Night Market.
Ta'er Monastery, Tibetan Culture Museum, if you have time, you can go.
D2, visit Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, stay in Chaka Town
Qinghai Lake: Navigate to Erlang Sword Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake.
Chaka Salt Lake: We went to Sky No.1 Scenic Area. It is recommended to prepare salt lake boots in advance (it should take a long time to rent boots during summer vacation and National Day).
D3, visit Jade Lake, stay in Dachaidan
Jade Lake: Navigate to Dachaidan Jade Lake Scenic Area. The drone shot is very good from the last spot of the small train
Accommodation: Recommend Jade Pedestrian Street.
D4, visit Xiaochaidan Lake, U-shaped road, Chaerhan Salt Lake, Water Yadan, stay in Dachaidan or Lenghu Town
Xiaochaidan Lake: Navigate to the U-shaped road, you will pass Xiaochaidan Lake.
U-shaped road: Don't shoot against the light! The car can drive into the desert next to it.
If you have time, you can go to Chaerhan Salt Lake, Water Yadan, if you want to go to the oil town, you can stay in Lenghu Town at night.
D5, visit Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring, stay in Dunhuang
The scenery on the way to Dunhuang by self-driving is also very beautiful.
Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring: Ride a camel to Crescent Spring at the entrance. There is a singing event at 20 o'clock in the evening.
Accommodation: Recommend near Dunhuang Night Market.
Food: The night market opens at 17 o'clock in the afternoon, in Shazhou Night Market.
D6, visit Mogao Grottoes, stay in Qicai Danxia
Mogao Grottoes: Be sure to book a normal ticket in advance! Protect cultural relics, please do not take pictures inside!
Navigate to Qicai Danxia: The journey is far, there are many big cars, pay attention to safety!
D7, visit Qicai Danxia, Qilian Grassland, stay in Xining.
Qicai Danxia: If you have time in the afternoon, you can go directly to Qicai Danxia. The Qicai Danxia before 10 o'clock in the morning and after 17 o'clock in the afternoon is the most beautiful, and the 4th spot (the last spot) is the most beautiful!
Qilian Grassland: Navigate to Xining, add waypoints Minle (the most beautiful grassland road), Qilian Grassland, it has started to snow on September 23.
D8, go home. Have a pleasant journey!
Precautions:
①Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, etc. are very dependent on the weather, please check the weather forecast in advance!
②Rent a car: Choose a regular company for more peace of mind, and buy insurance (to avoid trouble in case of problems).
③Strongly recommend bringing a drone!
④Scenic spot tickets: It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially the tickets for Mogao Grottoes, you must buy them in advance! If you don't get a normal ticket, you probably only have to buy an emergency ticket. The emergency ticket is four separate caves.
⑤Replenish some fruits, water, oxygen bottles, fire-reducing and cold medicine, etc. in Xining.
⑥Do a good job of sun protection! Including sunscreen lotion, spray, sunglasses, ice sleeves, face towels, hats, etc.
NoahO Donnell36
Waiting for the sea, and also for the lake~
This year, I made my second trip to the northwest and had a deep tour of Qinghai, with the first stop at Qinghai Lake. The name contains both 'lake' and 'sea', possessing the elegance of a lake and the breadth of a sea, the scenery in the northwest is always so unique.
📝Note tips:
1, It's already September, and there are still many people visiting Qinghai Lake. It's said that it's even more crowded during the summer vacation, so it's necessary to plan your route to avoid the crowd.
2, Bright clothes are always very photogenic in the northwest, it is recommended to bring more warm-colored clothes.
3, The altitude of Qinghai Lake is acceptable, but there is still a little reaction when you first arrive in Xining, it is recommended not to be too excited, and rest well.
leonis_4759
Qinggan Loop Line | Three-day tour guide of Qinghai Lake in the northwest
Resign and travel to 100 places!
The place to go today is - Qinghai Lake
You must go to the northwest once in your life!
The first stop of Qinggan Loop Line - "Qinghai Lake"
It's beautiful when the weather is good~
Self-driving tour: Xining - Qinghai Lake (213km takes 3 hours)
The scenery along the way is beautiful, and it's beautiful no matter how you shoot it through the grassland
The temperature difference between morning and evening is large! Prepare a storm jacket or thick coat, you can take it off when taking pictures
The plateau ultraviolet rays are very strong, pay attention to sun protection
Qinghai Lake has been fenced, mainly divided into three viewing areas:
1. Erlang Sword Scenic Area
It's said to be expensive and not fun, the lake is not good-looking with railings, and you have to take a sightseeing train, we decisively pass!
2. Heima River
Navigate to "Heima River Qinghai Lake", free admission! Take a small train to see the beautiful Qinghai Lake! There are not many tourists, and there are no railings here, my photos are taken here~
Take pictures with yaks, free parking
3. Dawa Ranch Internet Celebrity Sunrise Viewing Platform
After going to Heima River, navigate to "Dawa Ranch", only 16km and you will arrive in a few minutes. You will see a free viewing platform when you arrive! Go forward and turn a corner, there is a herdsman's home on the left, the photos of Qinghai Lake on the hillside are taken here~
Today's destination is - "Chaka Salt Lake" in the Sky, it's beautiful when the weather is good, and the blue sky and white clouds are reflected on the lake~
Accommodation needs to be booked in advance, it's expensive to book on the same day, it's cold at night and you will sleep on the street!
Self-driving tour: Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake (250km 3.5h)
The plateau ultraviolet rays are very strong, pay attention to sun protection
Chaka Salt Lake outfit, it is recommended to use a color system for better photos, the sun is dazzling and the eyes can't be opened.
Photo tips
1. If you want to take a picture with no one in the background like me! You must arrive at Chaka Salt Lake around seven or eight in the morning (there are quite a lot of people at the entrance of the scenic spot at this time), and there will be more and more people coming in one after another, and there will be a crowd of people when you come out at 12 noon
2. If you want to rent shoe covers to go down to the lake, you have to rent them early, or you will have to queue up!
3. You can take the small train directly to the terminal station, there are more internet celebrity check-in points in the innermost part, play in this order from the last station, you can avoid the crowd
The third stop of Qinggan Loop Line - "Emerald Lake", the palette that God lost in the world is the location of Yi Yangqianxi's Little Red Flower movie! It's beautiful when the weather is good~
Self-driving tour: Chaka Salt Lake - Emerald Lake (410km takes 4.5 hours)
There are mountains and Gobi along this section of the road, prepare dry food, but the roads are all asphalt roads, very good to drive~
The temperature difference between morning and evening is large! Bring a good storm jacket or thick coat, you can take it off when taking pictures
The plateau ultraviolet rays are very strong, pay attention to sun protection
Photo tips
1. Admission ticket + small train (free for Zhejiang people)
The small train goes directly to the last station to get off, the lake inside is blue and green, the lake you see when you first enter is not good-looking
2. There will be no one's angle to take pictures after getting off the car and walking in a bit, the lake near the road is crowded with people, and the background is all people
3. I went in the afternoon, and the sky was a bit cloudy. It is recommended to go in the morning
4. The wind is very strong, pay attention to the items not to be blown away
JacksonByrne94
National Day self-driving on the road | Qinghai-Gansu big loop line full strategy
Holiday! The super long holiday of National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival is coming, why not pack up and set off!
Many friends have consulted me about the Qinghai-Gansu big loop line, and I have organized some content about the Qinghai-Gansu big loop line self-driving that you must know, hurry up and like and collect it!
🔍About the Qinghai-Gansu loop line:
The so-called big loop line is a self-driving route from Xining, Qinghai, all the way west to Dunhuang, then west to return to Gansu, along the Hexi Corridor and finally back to Xining.
There are many scenic spots along the way, and the mainstream 5-day and 8-day routes on the Internet cannot perfectly cover all the scenic spots along the way.
So in the choice of route, it depends on whether you focus on the scenery or culture.
🗓️Main scenic spot strategy:
It's impossible to be meticulous, but there can be a focus. Combined with my own experience and online information, I have summarized a version of the recommended key scenic spots (with recommended reasons)
✔️Xining Ta'er Monastery: Gelugpa monastery, the master Tsongkhapa walked out from here, the red wall is very photogenic.
✔️Qinghai Lake: It is said that Tsangyang Gyatso died here, one of the highest lakes in the world.
✔️Chaka Salt Lake: The mirror of the sky, is one of the "55 places a person must go in his lifetime" selected by National Geographic magazine.
✔️Dachaidan Emerald Lake: Compared to the fame of Chaka Salt Lake, this place is relatively niche, especially suitable for aerial photography!!!
✔️Wuwei Leitai: The location of ancient Liangzhou, Gansu Wuwei, the famous horse stepping on the flying swallow is from the Leitai Han tomb here.
✔️Qilian Mountain: The part where Qinghai and Gansu meet, the Qilian Mountains have many birds and animals and beautiful scenery.
✔️Zhangye Colorful Danxia: God spilled the palette here, a typical representative of the Danxia landform.
✔️Jiayuguan: "The first strong pass in the world", many frontier poems are related to him, remember to take a photo with the popular Guanchang.
✔️Mingsha Mountain: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring is a must-visit attraction in Dunhuang, climb the sand dunes to overlook the Crescent Spring, wait for the moon to come out, super artistic conception.
✔️Mogao Grottoes: The most famous grottoes, the cultural value is immeasurable.
⚠️Don't drive alone!!! Coming out of Xining, the Ta'er Temple to Dachaidan section will have mild altitude sickness, rest appropriately, eat something, there is no need to buy oxygen.
🚗About self-driving:
The whole journey is either a highway or a national road. As long as you don't want to challenge those sections that have not been repaired, a general car is fine. There are many people traveling during the small long holiday, and there will be traffic jams, which cannot be avoided.
📸Photography suggestions:
1️⃣There are different features all the way, it is recommended to bring a few more lenses, 16-35, 70-200 are the minimum.
2️⃣Drones are banned in Jiayuguan, Mogao Grottoes, Ta'er Temple and other places, be sure to understand in advance.
I am Gala, an amateur photographer who likes to go on a whim, but doesn't know how to press the shutter~
🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻🛻
🚙Transportation: Many routes are gathered from Xining, there are chartered tours, and there are travel groups. If you are self-driving, I suggest you can start from Lanzhou, stay for one more day, Lanzhou city is always easily overlooked.
Like and follow to not get lost❤️
cambereddeeanna
The place on earth that most resembles the surface of the moon - Heidu Mountain in Qinghai!
If you are like me, willing to find peace in solitude, and empty yourself in the wilderness, then I suggest you must come here! This is not a place where there is no grass, the place that most resembles the surface of the moon "Heidu Mountain in Qinghai" It is the most unique scenery in the vast mountains of the northwest, the pure black and white create its appearance like the surface of the moon. It also gives it a unique feature of alternating black and white mountain colors, full of the charm of Chinese classical ink painting. It's as if, a peak walked out of an ink painting. Until now, I found a place called "Heidu Mountain", it is desolate, lonely, and cold, this desolate and tragic landscape will shock you. This ink-like scenery makes loneliness even more lonely. If your heart is strong enough, you must go once.
Recommended itinerary:
Explore Qinghai · Chaka Salt Lake · Aiken Spring 8 days and 7 nights (private group)
D1. All over the country—Xining
D2. Xining—Riyue Mountain—Daotang River—Qinghai Lake—Chaka Salt Lake—Delingha
D3. Delingha—Chaka Salt Lake—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dachaidan
D4. Dachaidan—Beautiful Highway G315 National Road—Dongtaijinaer Lake (passing by)—Water Yadan—Xitaijinaer Lake—Mangya
D5. Mangya-Aiken Spring (Devil's Eye)—Mars No. 1 Highway—Boluo Transfer Well (Oil Town)—Dunhuang
D6. Dunhuang—Mogao Grottoes—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Shazhou Night Market—Dunhuang City
D7. Dunhuang—-Son of the Earth—Mirage—Guazhou Taste Melon—Jiayuguan—Zhangye Danxia—Zhangye
D8. Zhangye—Biandukou—Qilian Mountain Grassland—Gangshika Snow Peak—Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea—End of Xining