Only in Qinghai do you realize that the scenery can truly leave you speechless

🏔️ Qinghai Lake Loop Guide! Ride horses and herd sheep in the place closest to heaven 🐎 ✨ A glance that lasts a lifetime! The plateau sapphire is breathtakingly beautiful June to August is the most beautiful season at Qinghai Lake, where golden flower fields meet azure waters—a fairyland on earth 🚗 Transportation Tips 📍 Address: Gonghe County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province ▪️ Charter a car or drive from Xining (about 2.5 hours) ▪️ Recommended 2-3 days for the loop tour (clockwise direction) 🌼 Must-Visit Spots 1️⃣ Erlangjian Scenic Area The official entrance to Qinghai Lake! Take a boat tour (¥120/person) 📸 Pro Tip: At the end of the scenic boardwalk is a prayer flag square—colorful flags against the lake make for stunning photos 2️⃣ Heima River Sunrise The best spot for sunrise! The lake at dawn looks like a spilled palette 💡 Arrive at the viewing platform by 5 AM to secure a spot 3️⃣ West Loop Road The most picturesque stretch of Qinghai Lake! Rapeseed fields + herder tents = wallpaper-worthy shots 🐎 Try horseback riding (around ¥50/ride) 🥘 Food Recommendations ▪️ Yak yogurt: Thick and tangy with a golden milk skin ▪️ Hand-grabbed lamb: Freshly slaughtered lamb with no gamey taste ▪️ Tsampa: Barley flour + butter tea, a must-have highland staple ⚠️ Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. Bargain at private lakeside photo spots (usually ¥5-10) 2. Sunscreen! The high altitude means intense UV rays (I used half a bottle of Anessa in one day) 3. Book July peak-season accommodations at least two weeks in advance