2026 Golmud Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

🌟Who says the Water Yardang isn't suitable for family trips? This is the world's only water Yardang landform, especially the Yardang Eye—it's truly breathtaking to see with your kids! 🌟Many parents wonder how to get to the Yardang Eye—don’t be scared off by the 600 yuan off-road vehicle! Follow this guide, and you can hike there for free in just 15 minutes. The money saved is enough to buy souvenirs for your kids~ See route map in image 2, clear and easy to understand! 🚶‍♂️Family hiking route (time-saving and easy version) 🌟Take the park shuttle bus to the last stop, then follow the lakeside path shown in image 2. You can slightly detour around the Yardang formations. The whole walk takes about 15 minutes to reach the Yardang Eye. On the way back, you can stop at photo spots along the route, making it easy and not tiring! ❗Key tip: Don’t follow GPS or the off-road vehicle path (otherwise you’ll be exposed to the sun for 40 minutes!). The Water Yardang is at an altitude of 3,260 meters. When bringing kids, be mindful of altitude sickness. It’s recommended to prepare altitude sickness prevention supplements like squalene in advance to improve oxygen tolerance, making family hiking safer. 📷Must-take photo spots for families: 1️⃣Yardang Eye hillside: shoot kids standing on the slope from above, or by the lake with Yardang as the background (images 1/3-5) 2️⃣M-shaped lakeside: unique landforms paired with lake water, super cute shots (image 9) 3️⃣Interstellar crossing point: let kids experience a "Mars adventure" feel (image 10) 4️⃣Camel caravan and Yardang: capture kids interacting with camels and the lake (image 12) 🌟Drone shots make even better photos! Fleet Yardang aerial shots are spectacular (image 13) 📍Location: Wusute Water Yardang, Qinghai 🎫Tickets: 60 yuan for sightseeing bus + 50 yuan entrance fee (free for Zhejiang residents), off-road vehicle 600 yuan (can be saved by following this guide) 💡Family-friendly tips: 1️⃣Strictly follow the route in image 2 to avoid long hikes under the blazing sun for kids 2️⃣Prepare altitude sickness prevention items for the plateau; children with sensitive constitutions need extra care 3️⃣Summer has many mosquitoes; carry child-safe mosquito repellent spray 4️⃣Sunscreen + sun hat are essential; UV rays are strong at high altitude 5️⃣Bring enough drinking water and keep kids hydrated during the hike

～～～～～～～～～ The final stop of the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop brought us to the Qilian Mountain Grassland. What we thought would be just a brief passing view turned out to be the most surprising stop for the little ones on the entire trip. At the foot of the towering snowy mountains lies an endless expanse of lush green grassland. Herds of yaks with calves stroll leisurely. Clear streams meander through the grassland. The kids excitedly pointed to the distance and shouted, “Mom, is this a scene from a cartoon?” This is not the imagined Great Northwest; it’s clearly stepping into a fairy tale world. ～ 🍃 Practical Tips for Family Travel 📍 Navigation: Qilian Mountain Grassland (near Ebao Town) 📅 Visiting Hours: Open all day, morning visits recommended for soft lighting 🚘 Transportation: About 2.5 hours’ drive from Xining or Zhangye, with stunning scenery along the way 👶 Family Tips: The grassland is windy, remember to prepare windproof jackets and sun hats for the kids 🥣 Food & Accommodation: Ebao Town has several family inns; Tibetan yogurt and yak beef noodles are great for children ～ 📷 Family Photo Treasure Spots 1⃣️ Biandukou Secret Spot Prayer flags flutter by the river, and foals drink at the water’s edge. Kids can safely interact with small animals, capturing lively and natural photos. 2⃣️ Ebao Town Ancient Path Every road in town leads to the snowy mountains, with a pure and picturesque backdrop. Stroll with your children beside ancient ruins to feel the blend of history and nature. 3⃣️ Zhuo’er Mountain Viewing Platform The summer here resembles the fairy-tale Swiss slopes. Wooden boardwalks are stroller-friendly, making it safe for kids to jump and play. ～ 🚌 7 Days 6 Nights Family Leisure Travel Itinerary Day 1: Xining → Riyue Mountain (light hiking) → Qinghai Lake (feeding Huang fish) → Stay in Chaka Town Day 2: Keke Salt Lake (fewer crowds, beautiful scenery) → Chaerhan Salt Lake (thousand-island salt flowers) → Dachaidan Day 3: National Highway 315 (road trip scenery) → Water Yadan (geology class) → Emerald Lake sunset Day 4: Heishan Gobi (stone collecting) → Silk Road Heritage City (Hanfu experience) → Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market Day 5: Mogao Caves (family-friendly guided tour) → Mingsha Mountain (sand sliding and camel riding) → Desert camping and stargazing Day 6: Son of the Earth (sculpture study) → Rainbow Danxia (hot air balloon experience) → Zhangye Day 7: Qilian Grand Canyon (stream adventure) → Qilian Grassland (horseback riding experience) → Return to Xining

Water Yadan feels like a forgotten alien world, with a vast blue lake suddenly appearing in the middle of the endless Gobi Desert! Bringing kids here is like an adventure, every frame looks like a sci-fi blockbuster～ 📍Location: Wusute Water Yadan Geological Park, Golmud, Qinghai 🚗Transportation: Self-driving or chartered car (the route along National Highway 315 is stunning, stop anytime for photos!) 🎫Tickets: 120 RMB/person (includes sightseeing bus, free for Zhejiang residents! Discounts for students and seniors) 🌟【Must-See Highlights】 ► Yadan formations shaped by millions of years of wind erosion soak in the emerald lake, a collision of desolation and softness, kids keep exclaiming "like dinosaur skeletons!" ► Hidden gem "Eye of Yadan": deep in the park is a matcha-green lake, aerial shots look like the earth’s pupil, the naked eye view is 100 times more stunning than photos! 🚁【Family Fun Guide】 ❶ Take the sightseeing bus to the end, rent a sand dune ATV (150 RMB/vehicle) to race deep into the desert, then walk 5 minutes to find the "Eye of Yadan" (no drone needed for a high vantage point) ❷ Ride camels (100 RMB/person) across the dunes, kids get a desert caravan experience; speedboat rides (150 RMB/person) surfing to see Yadan reflections are super thrilling! ❸ Stay at the park’s RV campsite in the evening (600-1200 RMB), lie down with the kids to watch the Milky Way, the starry sky is so clear you can almost reach out and touch it～ 📸【Photo Tips】 ► Wear denim outfits + Martin boots, with the Gobi background you’ll look cool and stylish! Red/yellow clothes pop against the blue lake～ ► Use a telephoto lens to capture Yadan textures, drone aerial shots of the "Eye of Yadan" look like inlaid turquoise! 💡Tips: ► July-August is the best season, daytime around 20°C is super cool, but UV rays are strong! Be sure to apply sunscreen and sunglasses for the kids ► Bring plenty of snacks, dining options in the park are limited; weathered rock formations are unstable, hold kids’ hands tightly and avoid climbing! ► Set aside a full day, play in the sand and row boats by day, stargaze and tell stories by night, experience nature’s masterpiece～

Parents who dare to challenge Cocoxili with their kids are true warriors! In this "scientific exploration" guide, we follow the protection station rangers deep into animal habitats. The kids learned to identify species by their droppings and even earned the "Little Guardian" certificate! 📝 Trip Highlights • Professional Guidance: Retired ranger from Sonam Dargye Station provides full explanations, teaching kids to identify animals by their footprints. • Interactive Tasks: Issuance of "Scientific Exploration Handbook" to record the number of Tibetan antelopes and take photos of plant samples. • Volunteer Certificate: Complete observation tasks to receive a volunteer commemorative certificate from the protection station. 🗓️ 5-Day In-Depth Itinerary Day 1-2: Golmud Adaptation + Training • Visit the Qinghai-Tibet Line simulation sand table and learn plateau safety rules. • Simulated patrol game: Kids use toy cars to practice intercepting poachers. Day 3: Buzong Spring → Chumar River • Field tracking: Follow the frozen soil road to find wild Tibetan donkeys and learn about group defense behaviors. • Evening riverbank animal bone collection (observation only, no collection), with explanations of the food chain. Day 4: Sonam Dargye Station Practice • Assist in cleaning up the protected area’s trash (clippers and gloves provided), kids make animal ingestion warning signs by hand. • Night star observation: Compare city and plateau star visibility, discuss the impact of light pollution. Day 5: Return and Summary • Sharing session: Kids showcase their experiences through drawings, with ranger feedback and encouragement. 🎒 Pre-Trip Training • Physical: Start jogging and hiking with kids one month in advance to build lung capacity. • Knowledge: Watch the animated documentary version of "Cocoxili" and read the picture book "My Tibetan Antelope Friend." • Mental: Inform about harsh conditions (dry toilets, no signal) to cultivate an "explorer" mindset. 💡 Hardcore Preparation • Vehicle: Rent an off-road vehicle + experienced driver, equipped with recovery boards and satellite phone. • Medicine: Portable oxygen machine, ibuprofen suspension (for children’s altitude headache). • Environment: Biodegradable trash bags, leave no waste behind. This journey is not just a trip, but a life education. See you in the next Qinghai Lake guide!💛

2 Days 1 Night Kekexili Adventure Guide (Budget 2000 RMB) Suitable for: Travelers who love the wilderness, pursue extreme landscapes, and can adapt to high altitudes Core experiences: Tibetan antelope observation, Kunlun Snow Mountain, no-man’s land highway, starry Milky Way 📅 Itinerary Overview Day 1: Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Sonam Dargye Protection Station → Buzdong Spring Day 2: Buzdong Spring → Kekexili hinterland (Tibetan antelope watching) → Return to Golmud 💰 Budget Allocation (2 people traveling together, 1000 RMB per person) Item Cost (per person) Remarks Transportation 600 RMB Chartered/shared car round trip from Golmud (including fuel) Accommodation 150 RMB Simple bed at Buzdong Spring Protection Station Meals 150 RMB Bring your own dry food + simple hot meals Others 100 RMB Oxygen cylinder, medicine, miscellaneous expenses 🚗 Day 1: Golmud → Kunlun Pass → Buzdong Spring Morning: 7:00 Depart from Golmud by charter/shared car (4WD off-road vehicle recommended, 300 RMB per person/day). 9:30 Pass by Kunlun Holy Spring (free, can fill glacier water), distant view of Yuzhu Peak. Noon: 12:00 Arrive at Kunlun Pass (altitude 4768m), take photos at the monument, simple roadside meal (self-prepared). Afternoon: 14:00 Visit Sonam Dargye Protection Station (free, learn about Tibetan antelope conservation). 16:00 Arrive at Buzdong Spring Protection Station for check-in (bed 150 RMB/person, basic but warm). Night: 20:00 Stargazing near the protection station (no light pollution, Milky Way clearly visible). 🦌 Day 2: Buzdong Spring → Kekexili Hinterland → Golmud Early morning: 6:30 Depart at sunrise, head deep into Kekexili along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, searching for Tibetan antelope and wild donkeys (higher chance in summer). Morning: 9:00 Arrive near Chumar River or Wudaoliang (frequent animal activity area), quietly wait for photos. 11:00 Return trip, possibly encounter Tibetan fox or wolves on the way (keep distance!). Afternoon: 14:00 Return to Golmud, stop to retake photos of Kunlun Snow Mountain. ⚠️ Important Tips Safety first: Travel in groups, no unauthorized entry into no-man’s land (advance registration required). Bring enough altitude sickness medicine (Rhodiola, ibuprofen), portable oxygen cylinders (30 RMB/can). Transportation advice: Shared rides are more cost-effective (hostels in Golmud can form groups), charter about 1200 RMB/day (price negotiable). Many large trucks on Qinghai-Tibet Highway, drive carefully. Minimal gear: -15℃ warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses (to prevent snow blindness), power bank (unstable power supply at protection station). 🌍 Soul experience: Touch the wilderness heartbeat of the world’s Third Pole at the lowest cost, perfect for "ascetic" travel lovers! Actual expenses may exceed budget (e.g., emergency treatment for altitude sickness or vehicle repairs).

🗓Itinerary: (Recommended self-driving) option1: Private Custom Tour: Suitable for groups of about 7-9 people, with low per capita cost (2500-3000 RMB), look for all-inclusive ticket packages, usually excluding meals, only including daily hotel breakfast. Be sure to note ⚠️⚠️ all-inclusive tickets only cover entrance fees, not separate internal transportation within scenic spots (such as shuttle buses inside the park), make sure to clarify with the travel agency ⚠️ The experience is better, no tight schedules like big groups, and some scenic spots offer free extras like free travel photography. option2: Self-driving tour: Suitable for families seeking higher quality travel, no further elaboration. Day1: Nationwide ✈️ Lanzhou Zhongchuan Airport or arrive in Xining on your own ➡️ Qinghai Lake Heimahe Scenic Area, avoid Erlangjian Scenic Area, tickets are expensive and not scenic. It is the largest inland saltwater lake in China. It is said there is a small island in the center of the lake where a group of nuns go to practice every year and return after one year 😃. If lucky, you can see flocks of seagulls. On the way out, you can buy a cup of yak milk tea to try ➡️ Next stop Chaka Salt Lake, known as the "Mirror of the Sky." Be careful not to go too late; after 5 or 6 pm, the lighting is not good. There is a small rail train 🚂 (park transportation) inside the scenic area, you can experience the feeling of the old salt mining train. If you don’t buy the train ticket, you can also walk in, but the altitude is high and the distance is long, not recommended for those with poor physical condition. Some areas allow you to wear shoe covers to enter the lake; the water is shallow, but be careful not to go too far. Undeveloped areas have natural salt caves where you could get trapped ☠️⚠️ The sea salt flavored ice cream inside the park is delicious 😋 ➡️ After playing, the sun will basically set, you can stay in Chaka Town nearby. Day2: Depart from Chaka Town ➡️ Chaerhan Salt Lake, you need to buy a shuttle bus ticket inside the park and drive 16 km further in. Actually, this salt lake is inside a salt field; the scenic area is the undeveloped salt lake part, overall light green, with many photo spots 📷. At the innermost part, there is an artificial salt tower. If you don’t mind your shoes being corroded by salt, you can climb up 🤓. It is recommended to wear shoe covers because the brine may cause skin allergies ➡️ At night, drive to Golmud city for accommodation. Recommend a cost-effective and tasty northwestern barbecue restaurant, Xinrong Barbecue City 🥩, located just below the Elong Wanguo Hotel. All skewers are safe to order, large portions and flavorful, the only worry is you might not finish it all 😭. Day3: Depart from Golmud ➡️ Wusute Water Yadan, take a small sightseeing car into the park. There are camels, boat rides, powered paragliding, and other entertainment activities, with many photo 📷 and check-in spots ➡️ On the way to the next stop, Dacaidan Emerald Lake, you will pass the classic U-shaped road photo spot on National Highway 315, but parking is not allowed ⚠️. I think Dacaidan Emerald Lake is the most beautiful among these salt lakes, mainly small lakes with different colors, including blue-green and yellow salt lakes. The water is also corrosive, do not enter the water. There is a newly built viewing tower with spectacular views overlooking the entire Emerald Lake ➡️ Stay overnight in Dacaidan. Dacaidan has a medium-sized Emerald Night Market Street, mainly featuring northwestern and Xinjiang cuisine, tastes good. Day4: Head to Heidushan ⛰️, the place on Earth that looks most like the moon 🌗. Heidushan does not require climbing, but there are some small sand dunes. The black parts on the mountain are volcanic rocks, entry is prohibited. Be careful not to cross the warning line when walking ⚠️. The best photo 📷 spot is at the deepest part; at the foot of the black mountain is a desert, very photogenic ➡️ Next stop Dunhuang, arriving around evening, just in time to stay at the desert camping site here. It is recommended to stay in a Moroccan tent with electric blankets inside; even if it’s only five or six degrees outside at night, it won’t be cold. The camp also offers sand dune motorbikes and Bombardier racing light projects, very exciting. You can go out at midnight to watch the starry sky or have the camp staff take you to shoot the starry sky ✨, very spectacular, you can see the Milky Way. Day5: Today’s driving is short, and the attractions are close to Dunhuang city. First, visit the Mogao Caves. So far, 8 caves are open for visiting, each charged separately. Visiting all 8 costs about 800 RMB. Photography is prohibited inside the caves 🚫📷. History enthusiasts can spend more time here ➡️ Return to the hotel for a rest at noon, then go to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring around 5 or 6 pm. Don’t go later than this; camels also finish work 🤓. Enter from the middle gate and exit from the middle gate. There are many camels in Mingsha Mountain, grouped in fives, walking in a line. Riding costs 130 RMB for about 40 minutes, covering a long distance, very cost-effective ➡️ After riding camels, it’s almost time for the main event at Mingsha Mountain — the ten-thousand-person concert ⚠️⚠️ Be sure to check in advance if there is a concert on the day you go; it is not held every day ⚠️. Don’t forget to get a special support light stick for the venue. Don’t underestimate this little stick; each has a unique number. During the concert, the host will draw some lucky numbers in the live broadcast room, and you can win various 🎁 prizes ➡️ After the patriotic song ends, it will be around 9 pm. For those who want to eat heartily, exit the scenic area from the middle gate and take the free bus one stop to Dunhuang Night Market. But note ⚠️ the bus stop is a fake night market; you need to navigate to the real Dunhuang Night Market on foot. The night market is very lively, with barbecue and Qinghai cuisine on both sides at the entrance, and various snack stalls further in, with excellent flavors. Day6: Today’s goal is Jiayuguan, but first take a detour to Jinta Populus Forest! After entering the park, you can scan to drive a mini sightseeing car yourself because the park route is a loop with long distances between stops. The park sightseeing car runs every ten minutes, and waiting can be long ⏰. The most beautiful scenery is at the last stop — Jinbo Lake, with deep blue water like a mirror, surrounded by poplar trees, very photogenic, with flocks of swans and wild ducks ➡️ If you arrive at Jiayuguan too late, visit the fortress city the next day. Day7: Inside the Jiayuguan Fortress 🏯, you can see the first pier of the Great Wall, climb the city wall, and feel the grandeur of "a lonely city surrounded by towering mountains" ➡️ In the afternoon, arrive at Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. You also take the park shuttle bus, which runs a loop route. The best viewing points are No. 2 and No. 4 ⚠️ The cover of the People's Education Press high school English elective book is from here. If you are observant, you can find the filming location 🤓. Day8: On the last day of the trip, on the way back to Xining, visit the Qilian Mountain Grassland. Many herders run their own guesthouses here. The one I visited had several lambs grazing at the door ☺️, not afraid of people, very cute. You can ride horses (galloping), take photos in Tibetan costumes, etc. On clear days, you can see the distant Qilian Snow Mountains 🏔️. ⚠️⚠️ Do not feed the small animals on the grassland; they are prone to virus infection 🦠 ➡️ The rapeseed flower sea in Menyuan was not in bloom when I visited, probably because the flowers were gone. The best viewing season for rapeseed flowers is July to August. Summary: The total trip length is over 3000 km, with long daily drives mainly on national highways. The roads are sometimes straight without curves and lack reference points, causing visual fatigue. Be sure to take breaks ⚠️. The diet mainly consists of beef and mutton 🥩 and Sichuan cuisine 🌶️. Note ⚠️ some halal restaurants do not allow 🚫🍺 alcohol; ask the staff in advance when dining. The Qinghai Lake to Heidushan section is on the plateau, with an altitude around 3000 meters. Be careful ⚠️ to avoid strenuous exercise, do not wash hair or bathe, and people with poor health should not drink alcohol. After Dunhuang, the altitude drops to about 1500 meters, then you cross the Qilian Mountains (altitude rises to about 3500 meters) back to Xining. This is my first time writing a travel guide; please kindly advise if there are any shortcomings 🤓 What are you waiting for? After reading, interested family members, hurry up and plan your trip!

Golmud, also known as the Military City or Salt Lake City, is a county-level city under the Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province, located in the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, western Qinghai, and the southern edge of the Qaidam Basin. "Lone smoke rises straight over the vast desert, the setting sun hangs round above the long river." Golmud serves as a crucial base for exploring Haixi, Qinghai. After spending 3 days in Haixi, visiting Qarhan Salt Lake, Dongtai Jinair Lake, Watery Yadan, Xiao Qaidam Lake, Da Qaidam Emerald Lake, Delingha Golden Light Tower, and Heishishan Reservoir, it was absolutely worth every penny. 👇 Pre-trip Preparation Clothing Must bring thick clothing and sun/wind protection gear. The plateau is extremely sunny, very cold mornings/evenings, and may have sandstorms. (I encountered a sandstorm at Watery Yadan and super strong winds at Da Qaidam!) Altitude Sickness Essentials To prevent altitude sickness, recommend bringing some Gaoyuan'an capsules ✅️ (No need to take in advance, helps the body adapt better to high altitude. Altitude sickness is mainly due to oxygen deprivation - these improve hypoxia tolerance, essential for plateau travel) Day 1⃣ Golmud - Da Qaidam Town/Golmud As China's largest salt lake, Qarhan Salt Lake spans Golmud City with a total area of 5,856 km². Its salt reserves could feed the global population for millennia. Depart Golmud in the morning, passing Qarhan Salt Lake, Dongtai Jinair Lake, and Watery Yadan. Whether self-driving or chartering, you can return to Golmud or stay in Da Qaidam Town by afternoon - staying in Da Qaidam is more convenient. Allocate 2-2.5 hours for Qarhan and Watery Yadan, about 1 hour for Dongtai. From personal experience, this timing is completely sufficient without feeling rushed! Day 2⃣ Golmud - Da Qaidam Town If staying overnight in Da Qaidam, start from there to visit Xiao Qaidam Lake and Da Qaidam Emerald Lake - reserve a whole afternoon to leisurely explore Emerald Lake. If traveling from Golmud to Da Qaidam, pass by Xitieshan Mountain and Xiao Qaidam Lake, reaching Da Qaidam Town by noon (can visit en route), then enjoy a full afternoon at Emerald Lake! Overnight in Da Qaidam Town where accommodations and dining are convenient. Day 3⃣ Da Qaidam Town - Delingha On the third day, depart Da Qaidam without hurry - reach Delingha by noon, passing the impressive Delingha Solar Thermal Power Tower (worth a brief stop for photos/drones). Afternoon visits to Heishishan Reservoir and Cypress Mountain (about 10km from downtown) offer grassland pastures, snow mountains and the reservoir. Though just a reservoir, Heishishan's water is incredibly blue!

Dunhuang is absolutely mind-blowing!! 🤩 The "Pretend to Travel Abroad" series: Dunhuang with kids—the desert hotels here totally outshine Egypt! 🏰 This is hands down the most epic family travel destination of the year‼️ The landscapes of the Northwest are next-level amazing 8⃣️ Snow-capped mountains, grasslands 🌿, salt lakes, Danxia landforms 🏜️, Gobi deserts, glaciers... One trip feels like traveling around the world ✈️ The kids went wild playing in the sand—couldn’t drag them away! 🤣 🏨 Luxury desert hotels are unbeatable Dongyi Dunhuang Hotel A "Monument Valley" in the desert—absolutely stunning! Every room faces the Mingsha Sand Dunes 💫 Watch sunrise and sunset right from your bed 🌄 Every photo you take is Insta-worthy 📸 Biyue Hotel The first SLH member in the Northwest 🏆 Backed by the Mingsha Sand Dunes ⛰️ and facing endless vineyards 🍇 Try grape-picking, clay tablet painting... Their afternoon tea is also a must-try ☕️ ✨ Must-do Activities ✨ ✔ Check out the Dunhuang 1990 Café ✔ Hand-copy Dunhuang murals ✔ Adventure through Yumen Pass ✔ Desert ATV thrill ride ✔ Frontier-style afternoon tea ✔ Starlit dinner—absolutely magical 🚗 Best Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Dunhuang—desert dinner Day 2: Mogao Caves + Bookstore + "See You in Dunhuang" show Day 3: Yangguan Pass/Yumen Pass + off-road in Yadan Day 4: Museum + Mingsha Sand Dunes & Crescent Moon Spring Day 5: Free time—departure 💡 Pro tips: ▫️ Outfits: Red/white maxi dress + camel shawl = Desert princess 👸 ▫️ Sun protection: Sunglasses and face coverings are a must! UV rays are intense ☀️

🌟 Must-visit attractions 1. Core Area of Water Yardang ⏰️ Best photography time: 9-11 AM and 4-6 PM Special landscape: Yardang landforms reflecting in lake water Hidden tip: Drone photography requires advance registration 2. West Taiji Nair Lake Dual-colored lake with a road passing through Tip: Bring a polarizing filter for better viewing 🌸 Best season: June-September when colors are most distinct 3. Eye of Yardang Heart-shaped salt lake hideaway ⏰️ Approximately 30-minute walk to reach Most beautiful at sunset 4. Stargazing Campsite One of the best stargazing spots in Northwest China Best time for Milky Way photography: beginning and end of lunar month Prepare warm clothing for cold night temperatures 🍽️ Food recommendations nearby 1. Scenic Area Restaurants Offers simple meals and local specialties Recommended: Highland yak noodles Average cost: about 💰40 yuan per person 2. Dachaidan Town Food 🍝 Recommended restaurant: Yibula Special Kang Pot Must-try: Lamb Kang Pot with naan bread About 2 hours' drive from the scenic area 3. Bring your own food Pack high-calorie snacks Bring plenty of drinking water 🥤 Self-heating meals recommended 🏨 Accommodation Guide 1. RV Campsite in Scenic Area Special feature: Direct view of Yardang landscape Facilities: Public bathrooms and showers 💰 Price: 800-1200 yuan per night 2. Hotels at Scenic Area Entrance 🏠 Recommended: Water Yardang Grand Hotel Relatively complete facilities 💰 Price: 600-900 yuan per night 3. Dachaidan Town Accommodation More affordable options Recommended: Pai Hotel Far from scenic area, plan ahead 🌸 🚗 Transportation Tips 1. Self-driving Routes From Xining via Delingha: about 8 hours ⏰️ From Golmud: about 3 hours Few gas stations along the way, fill up in advance 2. Car Charter Services 🚗 Recommended departure from Xining or Golmud Price: about 1000-1500 yuan per day Includes driver and guide for convenience 3. 🚗 Public Transportation Buses from Xining to Dachaidan Then charter a car from Dachaidan Time-consuming, not recommended ⚠️ Important Notes ✅️1. Climate Reminder Large temperature difference between day and night, bring layers Strong UV radiation, use sun protection Windy and sandy, face masks recommended ✅️2. Safety Information Don't venture alone into undeveloped areas Follow designated routes in the scenic area Watch out for wildlife ✅️3. Environmental Requirements Take all trash with you Don't damage Yardang landforms Protect the fragile ecosystem

Hey, besties! Want to experience the vastness and freedom of the grasslands? Come to Haixi, where there are amazing grassland activities waiting for you to explore! Four days of in-depth travel, full of useful information. Don't miss out! -------- 🎉Itinerary: D1: 🚂Chaka Salt Lake Visit the "Mirror of the Sky", experience the tranquility and magnificence of the salt lake, and enjoy the natural wonders. D2: 🌲Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area -> 💧Charhan Salt Lake Travel to the emerald-like lake and enjoy the unique salt lake scenery; then explore Charhan and experience a different kind of salt lake tour. D3: 🛶Ussut Water Yadan Geological Park -> 🌊East Taijinar Lake Visit the Water Yadan and experience the wonders of nature; then head to East Taijinar Lake to enjoy the clear and beautiful lake water. D4: 🏞️Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area -> 💧Qinghai Dao Tang River Scenic Area -> ⛰️Riyue Mountain Tour Erlangjian around the lake and admire the magnificent scenery of Qinghai Lake; then visit the Dao Tang River and experience the magic of the upstream flow; finally, climb Riyue Mountain and overlook the plateau scenery. 🎈Grassland activities: During the trip, we will arrange special grassland activities for you to experience the vastness and freedom of the grasslands, and enjoy horse riding, archery, and other fun activities!🐎🏹 🔚End your pleasant journey and go home with wonderful memories!🌟 -------- Must-see attractions: Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Dachaidan Town, Dachaidan Administrative District, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture Opening hours: 09:00–18:00 Suggested duration: 1–2 hrs The lake is clear and blue, and the scenery is even better than Chaka Salt Lake. The upgraded Emerald Lake is even more worth visiting! Chaka Salt Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 9 Yanhu Road, Chaka Town, Ulan County, Haixi Opening hours: 08:15–19:00 (Mar 1 to Sep 29) Suggested duration: 2–4 hrs The salt is as white as snow, reflecting the sky. This is a good place for you to experience pure beauty. Ussut Water Yadan Geological Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 2 Xitai, Dachaidan Administrative Committee, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (National Highway 315) Opening hours: 08:30–18:00 Suggested duration: 1 d The unique landscape of Water Yadan, with its dreamlike sunrise and sunset, will take you to experience the mysterious and magical beauty of nature. Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: No. 109 National Road, Lake Scenic Area, Gonghe County, Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province Opening hours: 08:30–18:00 Suggested duration: 2–4 hrs The dagger-shaped peninsula extends deep into Qinghai Lake. The unique scenery makes it a good place to take photos. -------- Travel essentials:🎒 👗 Clothing: Pack a few sets of hiking jackets, sunglasses, sun hats, long skirts, and shorts to look your best in photos. 🎩 Accessories: Windproof rope hats, disposable wet wipes, and don't forget masks for sun and wind protection. 💳 Documents: Bring your ID card and driver's license. Don't forget your student ID for special discounts at scenic spots. 🧴 Toiletries: High-SPF sunscreen is a must, along with moisturizing facial masks and a portable toiletry kit for easy and worry-free travel. -------- 🎉A Haixi group tour will leave you with wonderful memories. We look forward to seeing you again next time to explore more scenery!

Hey there! Get ready for an 8-day adventure through Lanzhou (Gansu), Qinghai, and Zhangye, exploring the wonders of Northwest China! This is the ultimate guide, so save it and start planning your expedition! -------- 🚩Itinerary: D1: Gansu Provincial Museum 📖 Explore the history and culture of Gansu, and immerse yourself in the museum's rich collection. D2: Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake 🌊 Marvel at the magnificence of Qinghai Lake, and experience the tranquility and power of nature. D3: Chaka Salt Lake -> Dachaidan Emerald Lake 🌅 Visit the "Mirror of the Sky" at Chaka Salt Lake, then head to Dachaidan Emerald Lake to admire the emerald-like beauty of the lake. D4: Ussut Water Yadan Geopark -> Dongtai Jinel Lake -> Nanbaxian Devil City 🏞️ Explore the unique landforms of Water Yadan, enjoy the splendor of Dongtai Jinel Lake, and experience the mystery of Nanbaxian Devil City. D5: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring -> Mogao Caves 🐫 Visit Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Moon Spring, and then visit the Mogao Caves to appreciate the charm of millennial Buddhist art. D6: Earth Son -> Beyond Limits Sculpture Park -> Han Wu Majestic Style -> Jiayuguan Pass 🎨 Admire stunning sculptures and experience the historical vicissitudes of Jiayuguan. D7: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park 🌈 Stroll through the colorful Danxia landforms and marvel at nature's breathtaking artistry. D8: Return to Lanzhou, concluding this pleasant journey 🛫 Depart from Lanzhou, marking the end of this unforgettable Northwest adventure. Until next time! -------- Must-See Attractions: 🏜️ Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring: A miracle in the desert! Climb Mingsha Mountain, listen to the roar of the sand, and watch Crescent Moon Spring shimmer amidst the dunes. It's truly magnificent! 🌈 Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: Nature's palette! The colorful Danxia landforms and hills complement each other, creating an unbelievably beautiful scene, especially at sunset. A must-see for stunning photos! 🌌 Chaka Salt Lake: The pure Chaka Salt Lake is like a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. Walking on the salt lake is like stepping into a fairyland. Be sure to wear a brightly colored dress for photos! -------- Packing List: 🧳 👗 Clothing: Down jacket, windbreaker, long-sleeved sun protection clothing, long skirts or pants, thermal underwear, and sports shoes. 🎩 Accessories: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen mask, gloves, and scarf. 📋 Documents: ID card, student ID, driver's license, cash, and bank cards. 🔋 Electronics: Mobile phone, charger, power bank, and camera. 🧴 Skincare and Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen, moisturizing mask, lip balm, and moisturizing lotion. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, Rhodiola, and band-aids. 🎒 Other: Water bottle, snacks, U-shaped pillow, eye mask, and umbrella. Remember to adjust according to weather changes and personal needs! 🌞🌧️ -------- Explore Lanzhou, Qinghai, and Zhangye, and take in all the beautiful scenery. Don't forget to leave your footprints and memories! 🌟

Winter vacation is coming. Are you planning to visit Chaerhan Salt Lake? This 6-day travel guide will take you on a journey through the Northwest Great Ring Road! -------- 🚗Route suggestions: DAY 1: Departure 🛫——Xining 🏙️ Start your Qinghai journey and arrive in Xining to rest and adjust, ready to explore the plateau scenery. DAY 2: Riyue Mountain 🏔️——Chaka Salt Lake 🌊 Conquer the majestic Riyue Mountain, then visit the mirror-like Chaka Salt Lake and experience the charm of the "Sky Mirror." DAY 3: China's Route 66 🛣️——Dongtai Jinel Lake 💧——Usute Water Yadan Geopark 🏞️——Yadan landforms Drive on China's Route 66, enjoy the beauty of Dongtai Jinel Lake, then visit the Water Yadan and experience the wonders of nature. DAY 4: Dachaidan Emerald Lake 🌲——Chaerhan Salt Lake 🌊 Stroll along the Dachaidan Emerald Lake, admire the emerald-like lake water, then head to the spectacular Chaerhan Salt Lake to experience the unique landscape of the salt lake. DAY 5: Qinghai Lake 🌊——Jinyintan Grassland 🌾 Tour around Qinghai Lake, appreciate the magnificence of the plateau lake, then head to Jinyintan Grassland to experience the vastness of the grassland and the harmony of nature. DAY 6: Xining 🛬——Departure 🏠 End your Qinghai journey, filled with memories, depart from Xining, and return to your sweet home. -------- Travel essentials: 🎒 👕 **Clothing**: It's warm during the day in February at the salt lake, but the temperature difference between day and night is significant. It is recommended to bring a jacket, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Sunscreen clothing is also essential! 🎩 **Accessories**: Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen to protect your eyes and skin; selfie sticks to capture beautiful moments; and power banks to ensure your electronic devices don't run out of battery. 🆔 **Documents**: Don't forget to bring your ID card, student ID, and other discount certificates to save money. Also, bring cash in case the signal is poor. -------- Chaerhan Salt Lake tour, experience the charm of nature, leave unforgettable memories, and come back next time to explore more wonders of the salt lake!

Hey guys! Here's an 8-day itinerary for a trip from Xining to Jiayuguan via Qinghai Lake! Save it now and get ready to explore the northwest! . 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive at Xining/Lanzhou Airport🛬️, enjoy 24-hour airport transfer service, check in to a local hotel, and explore the city at your leisure. Day 2: Head to Qinghai Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery🌊->Stroll around Erlangjian Scenic Area and enjoy the beauty of nature->Visit Chaka Salt Lake and marvel at the mirror-like lake. Day 3: Drive along the spectacular U-shaped road->Cross the Qaidam Basin and explore the wonders of nature->Arrive at Wusute Water Yadan Geological Park and marvel at the unique landscape. Day 4: Visit Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area and enjoy the emerald-like lake->Visit Aksay Boluo Zhuangjing Film Base and experience the charm of film shooting. Day 5: Visit Mogao Caves and admire the thousand-year-old Buddhist art treasures->Head to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring, ride a camel through the desert, and admire the wonders of Crescent Spring. Day 6: Climb Jiayuguan Pass and look back at the vicissitudes of history->Head to Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park and admire the colorful Danxia landform. Day 7: Stroll around Qilian Grassland and enjoy the vastness and freedom of the grassland->Visit Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Field and enjoy the golden sea of flowers🌼. Day 8: Leave Xining/Lanzhou, enjoy 24-hour transfer service🚄/🛫, return home with beautiful memories. . Packing List: 👚 **Clothing**: Down jacket, thermal underwear, long pants, and thick socks to keep warm in January. 🕶 **Accessories**: Sunglasses, windbreaker, and sun hat to protect you from the sun and wind. 💳 **Documents**: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. These are essential for travel and special discounts. 🔋 **Electronics**: Mobile phone, power bank, and charging cable to capture beautiful moments. 💊 **Medicine**: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, and rhodiola to prevent altitude sickness. 🎒 **Other Items**: Moisturizing mask and lip balm to combat the dry climate. 🧢 **Final Reminder**: Don't forget to bring a good mood and enjoy the journey! . Xining, Qinghai Lake, and Jiayuguan: Enjoy the northwest scenery and make your trip a dream come true🌄

💙 "Wow! Dongtai Jinaier Lake is stunning!" 💙 Hey guys! 😜 Today, I'm going to introduce you to a super beautiful place - Dongtai Jinaier Lake! 💥 It's like a dazzling gem embedded in the Qaidam Basin of Qinghai Province! ✨ It's even known as the "Maldives on the Plateau." Can you believe it? 😲 The lake surface is like a mirror, reflecting the purity and vastness of the sky. The scenery is absolutely stunning! 👏 The lake water comes from the Hetuobangri Snow Mountain and Bukadaban Snow Mountain in the Kunlun Mountains, nourishing a robin egg blue water area. It's truly breathtaking! 😻 There are so many fun things to do here! 👀 Take a walk along the lakeside, feel the breeze on your face, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the lake changing with the light. It's amazing! 😜 Don't miss the sunrise or sunset on the lake. The interplay of light and shadow at that moment will leave you in awe and create unforgettable memories! 😫 Also, get a close look at the salt crystals on the lakeside to learn about the formation and ecology of salt lakes. 😍 It's located in Golmud City, Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, along National Highway 315, in the Qaidam Basin. 📍 As for transportation 🚗, you can start from Golmud and drive west along National Highway 315 for about 200 km to reach the lake. Self-driving is the most convenient way, and the scenery along the way is breathtaking! 🤔 If you prefer public transportation, you can first go to Golmud, then hire a car or join a tour group. 😃 The local food is also great! 😋 You must try the barley wine, a Tibetan-style wine made from barley. There's also the local highland mushroom soup, which is sweet and delicious! 😝 There are also great attractions nearby, such as the Water Yadan, not far from here. The spectacular landforms of the Wusute (Water) Yadan Geological Park are worth a visit. There's also the Chaka Salt Lake, the largest salt lake in China, where you can experience the unique charm of salt lakes. 😎 There are plenty of accommodation options, with various hotels in Golmud City. The Yadan Saishang Hotel is near the service station of Dongtai Jinaier Lake, making it convenient for early morning sunrise photography. 😁 But be careful! 😯 Don't litter by the lake, and protect this pure land. The ultraviolet rays on the plateau are strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses and a sun hat. The temperature difference between day and night is significant, so bring warm clothing. Also, learn about and respect the local ethnic culture and customs, and be polite and humble! 👏

✨📸Chaerhan Salt Lake, an emerald wonderland, is waiting for you to take stunning photos!✨ Hey guys, today I'm going to take you to a breathtakingly beautiful photo spot - Chaerhan Salt Lake! 👇Get your camera ready, put on your most fairy-like dress, and let's go! 🚀 🌈 **First sight of the salt lake, stunningly beautiful** As soon as you step into this magical land, you will be deeply attracted by the apple green gradient lake, which is like the most proud palette of nature! 🎨The lake water gradually changes from white to green, which is so beautiful that it makes people's hearts beat. Remember, don't rush to take photos at the entrance, the most beautiful secret garden is inside! 🌸 🚌 **Traffic tips** Self-driving or chartered car is the best choice. It only takes 1 hour to drive from Golmud City, which is easy and convenient! 🚗Of course, if you are short of time, it is also a good choice to fly directly to Golmud! The plane lands and the beautiful scenery is right there! ✈️ 🎟️ **Tickets & Admission** The ticket plus the round-trip bus in the scenic area is a total of 0 yuan, which is super cost-effective! 🎫The opening hours are from 8 am to 6:30 pm, remember to arrange your time reasonably! As soon as you enter the door, take the bus, and you will reach the core scenic spot in half an hour, which is time-saving and labor-saving! 🚌 📸 **Photo spots** 1. **Jade Terrace**: The green lotus under the drone's perspective is breathtakingly beautiful! 🌸This is a must-visit internet celebrity spot, remember to bring your drone and take photos from a different perspective! 2. **Lake Island**: The endless salt lake and the blue sky and white clouds complement each other. Reed mushroom umbrellas, swings, piano shapes... all kinds of photo props are available, and you can take beautiful photos no matter how you shoot! 🎹 3. **Roadside**: You must take photos of the road when you are shooting, one side is yellow and the other side is green, the color contrast is super strong, your photos will definitely stand out in the circle of friends! 🛣️ 👗 **Dress suggestions** Put on a fairy-like dress, white or bright colors are the best choice, forming a sharp contrast with the salt lake background, you are the most beautiful scenery! 👗 🌞 **Sun protection tips** The ultraviolet rays of the salt lake are very strong, remember to bring a straw hat, sunglasses and sunscreen, protect your skin, and then you can take beautiful photos! 🕶️

🎀《Chaerhan Salt Lake, breathtakingly beautiful!》🎀 Folks😜, who knows! Chaerhan Salt Lake is really amazing👏👏👏! Under the sunlight, the lake water is particularly clear, like God spilled apple juice🍏, it's simply too pleasing to the eye! The photos are amazing🤩 💁‍♀️Let's talk about transportation🚗. Take the Northwest Ring Road, stay in Golmud, 1 hour from Chaerhan Salt Lake. It is recommended to drive by yourself, of course, there are also car rentals and buses🚌. Let's talk about the scenic area😃, after entering the gate, you need to take a bus🚌, about half an hour. After getting off the bus, there is a sightseeing car in the direction of the left hand, take it to the last stop and get off, and then play from the inside out! About taking pictures📷, there are swings, white pianos, starry sky houses inside, wow😍! But the glass boat is charged... Here comes the dressing advice👗, a more fairy skirt will look better in the photo! Note⚠️items👇🏻 1. Chaerhan Salt Lake is all green apple green, no red, yellow. 2. No need to wear shoe covers, you can go in with your own shoes. 3. Be sure to go on a sunny day, the color of the water is beautiful when the sun shines. Dizzy😵, pay attention to sun protection, strong ultraviolet rays, prepare straw hats and sunglasses.

Don’t just go to Chaka Salt Lake when you go to Northwest China The apple green beauty of the Chaerhan Salt Lake is so beautiful that it makes me cry😭 It is said that this is the largest salt lake in Asia. It's like God spilled apple juice. The apple green lake is so beautiful that it seems unreal - 🎫Tickets: 100 (scenic spot ticket 40 + round-trip bus 60) 🚗Self-driving: Locate the Qarhan Salt Lake 🚞Train: Take a bus to Golmud Railway Station, then share a car to Qarhan Salt Lake, a round trip of 2 hours - Things to note when playing‼ ️ ✅There are battery cars to the core of the scenic area, one way 15 round trip 30, it is recommended not to do it, you can walk and take pictures ✅The scenic area is full of white salt, and it is very dazzling under the sunlight. Prepare a pair of sunglasses in advance ✅If it is cloudy, don't go in, you won't be able to take pictures of that beautiful feeling, it's better to take pictures on a sunny day ✅You must buy a round-trip bus to the scenic area. It takes about half an hour to take the bus from the entrance to the core area of ​​the scenic area ✅If you have a drone, take it in to take pictures. The aerial view of the salt lake is the best. ✅The ultraviolet rays in the northwest are very strong, so be prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun-proof clothing, and be sure to do a good job of sun protection ✅There are many good places to take photos in the scenic area, such as the circular salt lake that looks like a white blooming flower, swings, piano... - Recommended tour routes for the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop‼ ️ Day 1️⃣: Xining → Sun Moon Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Chaka Town (stay) Day 2️⃣: Chaka Town → Xiaochaidan Lake → Chaerhan Salt Lake → Dachaidan (stay overnight) Day 3️⃣: Daxiadan → 315U Highway → Dongtaijinaier Lake → Water Yadan → Devil City → Daxiadan (stay) Day4️⃣: Da Qaidam → Da Qaidam Emerald Lake → Oil Town → Dunhuang Silk Road Heritage City → Dunhuang (stay) Day 5️⃣: Dunhuang → Mogao Grottoes → Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake → Dunhuang Night Market → Dunhuang (stay) Day6️⃣: Dunhuang → Son of the Earth → Jiayuguan → Zhangye Colorful Danxia → Zhangye (stay) Day7️⃣: Zhangye → Qilian Mountain Grand Canyon/Grassland → Gangshika Snow Peak → Menyuan Ten Thousand Miles Rapeseed Flowers → Daban Mountain → Xining (end)

The beauty of the Chaerhan Salt Lake touches the heart The dream lake, Chaerhan Salt Lake ▲Ticket + bus is 100 yuan/person, the bus will take you to the center of the scenic area, and then you can take a small sightseeing bus to the core of the scenic area. The round trip is 30 yuan/person. The scenery is better if you sit on the right side of the driver. ▲"Qarhan Salt Lake" is the most worthwhile attraction in Qinghai. The endless apple green lake water and the sparkling white salt beach are full of shock and happiness. As the second largest salt lake in the world and the largest in Asia, the Qarhan Salt Lake covers an area of ​​5,856 square kilometers, which is 55 times larger than the Chaka Salt Lake. ps. Although the salt lake is beautiful, the salt beach has a strong reflective effect. The temperature was 23 degrees that day, but the perceived temperature was over 38 degrees. I saw the young ladies in beautiful dresses taking pictures, and their backs became several degrees darker while taking pictures. The faces of the children walking on the road turned from white to red and then to black. Well, you still have to pay attention to sun protection.

I visited Qinghai in 2017 and 2020 At that time, the scenery of Qinghai already amazed me On May Day this year, I set foot on Qinghai for the third time. I didn’t expect that this land would shock me even more! This time I finally visited the gorgeous colors of Qinghai! Self-driving route DayShanghai Dunhuang-Lenghu Town Day Lenghu - Heidu Mountain - Oil Town - Oboliang Day Oboliang - Shuiyadan - Dongtai Jinair Lake Day Shuiyadan - U-shaped highway - Blood of the Earth - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan Day Dachaidan Emerald Lake-Jinguang Pagoda-Delingha Shanghai This route is part of the Qinghai-Gansu Great Ring Road. It starts from Dunhuang to Delingha and spans the entire Qaidam Basin. On the way, it passes colorful salt lakes, various Yadan, and the ink paintings of Heidu Mountain, which is fascinating. Feel the miraculous craftsmanship of nature! Recommended attractions A must-see at Dachaidan Emerald Lake Located in Dachaidan Town, there are colorful salt lakes in the scenic area, which are particularly stunning on sunny days and the aerial photography is very photogenic. If you are pressed for time, Qarhan Salt Lake can be abandoned in Golmud City. It takes about an hour and a half to get there from Dachaidan. After arriving, you need to take a scenic bus for half an hour to enter, which takes a long time. It is characterized by the green apple-colored salt lake, which is easy to produce aerial photography~ Dongtai Jinair Lake is a must-see for free The salt lake located on the edge of Yadan on the water is called the Maldives of Qinghai. A sightseeing drive has now been built to reach the lake. The color is great, don’t miss it! Recommended by Shuiyadan The only Yadan Group on the water in the world is a rare spectacle, and it may dry up one day in the future. However, the accommodation conditions in the scenic area are average. Oboliang If you are short of time, you can give up. A must-go for starry sky lovers The Yadan Group, located deep in the Gobi Desert, looks like the surface of Mars. It is far away from human settlements, making it a holy place for starry sky photography. However, the road conditions are poor and the distance is long, and tickets to scenic spots are relatively expensive. If you are pressed for time, you may choose to give up. Heidu Mountain is free and a must-go The most popular attraction in Lenghu Town in recent years, drive to the parking lot and enter on foot. The black and gray mountain structure creates a stunning ink painting. The U-shaped road is free and a must-go A section of National Highway 315, you can just park on the side of the road, it’s very cinematic Blood of the Earth can be photographed aerially while passing by National Highway 315 is not so bright to the naked eye and requires aerial photography to see the complete picture. Aerial photography enthusiasts can take a photo when passing by. Free recommendations for oil towns The ruins of an oil town near Lenghu Town. You can stop by after leaving Heidu Mountain. Delingha Golden Light Tower Recommendation A solar power generation device located next to downtown Delingha has a very sci-fi feel!

D1: Xining - Laji Mountain - Riyue Mountain - Qinghai Lake - Delingha (Stay) D2: Delingha - Chaka Salt Lake - Dachaidan Emerald Lake - Dachaidan (Stay) D3: Dachaidan - 315U-shaped Highway - Heidu Mountain - Dunhuang Night Market - Dunhuang (Stay) D4: Dunhuang Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - Dunhuang (Stay) D5: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan (optional) - Zhangye Danxia Landform - Zhangye (Stay) D6: Zhangye - Qilian Grassland - Xining (Return)

Chaluhan Salt Lake must be the emerald left by God in the world. In fact, the salt lake is a dead sea. Formation of Salt Lakes: The earth's crust rose, the sea water retreated, and an inland basin with no visible boundaries appeared, which developed into a salt lake. Chaluhan Salt Lake, a white otherworldly world created by salt. It is the second largest salt lake in the world, second only to Uyuni Salt Lake and 56 times the size of Chaka Salt Lake. The salt here is enough for the whole world to eat for two thousand years. It has surprisingly rich salt mine resources. Due to long-term exposure to wind and sun, high-concentration brine has formed in the lake, which has gradually crystallized into salt grains. For thousands of years, we have coexisted with the Kunlun Snow Mountain and the vast Gobi Desert. When you step on the salt marsh, the white clouds, lake water and snow-capped mountains complement each other, and the world becomes as transparent as a mirror. These lakes are like emerald and jade, crystal clear, and are stunning even when photographed without filters. $Tickets: 80 (tickets + round-trip bus) divided into off-season and peak season Driving: Currently, you cannot drive to the Salt Lake by car. You need to stop at the distribution center, buy a ticket, and take a bus to the lake. The journey takes about 20 minutes. Tips: 1. The amazing salt lake scenery, the aerial photography effect is absolutely beautiful, it's worth the five hours I spent there.... 2. The scenic spot is in the industrial zone, and you need to buy tickets and bus tickets to enter, the price is 100 RMB; 3. After arriving at the scenic spot, you can walk around (5km round trip), or spend 15 yuan to take a battery car to the end point and then go back; 4. The place where you walk on the lake salt bridge is at the entrance, you can check in at the end; 5. It is very sunny and there is no shade, so be sure to take good sun protection. There is a restroom at the starting point and the end point; 6. The view will be compromised without a drone, so make sure to go when the weather is good. 7. Chaerhan has no food and accommodation, so you can only choose to stay in Golmud, which is 50km away! 8. Don’t touch water with your bare feet, as it is corrosive and can cause damage to your skin.

We found a one-day tour to Hoh Xil on Ctrip. The driver started picking people up at 8am, and after everyone was together we set off for the final destination, the Hoh Xil Conservation Station. It was so beautiful passing by Kunlun Pass along the way. The driver drove very steadily and had a sharp eye, but he was a little dull and didn't talk much. Later he succumbed to our handsome offensive. The vastness of Hoh Xil is apparent. It was all thanks to the sharp eyes of our guide and fellow tour members that we spotted many wild animals (all were far from the road, so a telephoto lens was needed). Hoh Xil is truly beautiful, a pure land for wild animals. We pay tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect this pure land! (I watched the documentary about Kekexili and it was so tragic…) On the way back, I saw a group of wild donkeys crossing the road. It was so thrilling! ! We both screamed when we were almost hit by a car. When we were still an hour away from the city, there was a large traffic jam. The driver said there was a car accident, which is very normal in the peak season, so before departure, they would ask if we needed to catch the train after the trip. They didn’t dare to take us if we were in a hurry because there was only one main road that was blocked and there was no way to deal with it. After about half an hour of traffic jam, the driver took us on an off-road route (fortunately, he was a local driver and very familiar with it. For the same price, we also experienced the off-road project, which was very bumpy). In the end, we returned to the city only an hour later than the itinerary, and the large trucks on the road were stuck for dozens of kilometers...

Tanggula Pass is located in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. It is a high mountain pass with an altitude of over 5,000 meters. The scenery of Tanggula Pass is unique. The top of the mountain is covered with snow all year round, it is surrounded by towering peaks, and there are streams in the valley. Tanggula Pass is an important wildlife reserve where many rare animals live, such as Tibetan antelopes, Tibetan wild donkeys, Tibetan birds, golden eagles, etc. In this peaceful land, people can feel the power of nature and the pulse of life. It is known as the "forbidden zone of life" on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. #Mainland China Attractions

[Qalhan Salt Lake in Qinghai] Zarhan Salt Lake is the largest salt lake in China and one of the most famous salt lakes in the world. The picture taken in my picture is the Wanzhang Salt Bridge, which is a road made of salt and extends into the lake. Its hardness is comparable to that of the asphalt road. We can see from the sky that there are white crystals on both sides of the salt bridge. The lake is transparent and green. The scenery here is picturesque. The sunny Chaerhan Salt Lake has also become a good place for photography. Note: Sun protection measures should be prepared. It is recommended to bring a hat and sunglasses. You can drive in by yourself. In principle, only visiting documents are allowed to enter. You need to communicate in advance.

🌊 A must-see "magical scene" 1. Water Fleet Spectacle The Yadan landforms are soaked in emerald-colored lake water, with mounds lined up like a fleet of warships. The wind whistles through the rock crevices like thousands of horses and soldiers roaring ⚓ When the noon sun shines directly, the lake water is dazzlingly blue, and the shadows of the mounds are cast into the water, blurring the line between reality and illusion～ 2. Sunset Melting Gold Moment A must-watch at dusk! The setting sun dyes the Yadan rust red, the lake surface turns into molten gold, and the distant wind-eroded pillars become silhouettes. Every shot looks like a "scene from another world" 📸 If you're lucky, you might see migratory birds skimming the water, their wings stirring ripples that shatter the golden lake light～ 3. Starry Sky Overhead Impact The night sky is so dense with stars it’s scary! The Milky Way stretches like a glowing river overhead, the shadows of the Yadan on the ground look fierce, and the sound of the wind mixes with the lake waves crashing on the shore, as if you’ve stepped into an alien planet in a sci-fi movie 🌌 🚙 Hardcore Practical Guide - Address: Water Yadan Scenic Area, Dachaidan Administrative District, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province - Ticket: 60 RMB (includes sightseeing bus, a must-buy! The scenic area is huge, walking will wear you out) - Transportation: Self-driving recommended (about 240 km from Dachaidan Town, 3 hours by car, the route passes through uninhabited areas, fill up your tank!) - Important Reminders: ✅ Wear wind and sandproof jackets! The wind is strong enough to blow off hats, and sand hitting your face feels like tiny stones 😱 ✅ Extreme sun protection! Sunglasses, face masks, and sunscreen are all necessary; the UV rays can cause peeling ✅ Don’t wander alone! The Yadan formations are like a maze, cell signal is spotty, follow the sightseeing bus route～ 🍜 Food & Drink (Limited Options) - The scenic area restaurant only offers simple meals (beef noodles, fried rice). It’s recommended to bring self-heating hot pot and bread, paired with a bottle of chilled Qinghai old yogurt to cut the richness 🥛 - Stay at the scenic area RV campsite (about 600 RMB/night) to enjoy the starry sky; or return to Dachaidan Town for more accommodation options～

Kunlun Mountains: The Myth and Reality Stretching Across the Horizon Amid swirling clouds and mist, a silver dragon lies across the sky, dividing the golden Tarim Basin from the vast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This is the Ancestor of All Mountains, the source of myth, and the most magnificent geographical barrier in western China. At dawn, I stood at the Kunlun Mountain pass at an altitude of 4,768 meters, the cold wind cutting like a knife. Before me stretched endless snow-capped peaks, glowing golden under the rising sun. In the distance, Kongur Mountain, standing proudly at 7,649 meters, is the highest point of the Kunlun range and one of the highest on the Pamir Plateau. The Kunlun Mountains start from the Pamir Plateau in the west and extend eastward into Qinghai Province, spanning about 2,500 kilometers. Like a natural barrier, they separate the Tarim Basin from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, forming the most majestic geographical boundary in western China. Source of Myth: The Core of Chinese Creation Legends Before arriving at the Kunlun Mountains, my understanding mostly came from ancient texts. The Classic of Mountains and Seas records: "The void of Kunlun within the seas lies in the northwest, beneath the emperor’s capital." In Chinese mythology, Kunlun is regarded as the "Ancestor of All Mountains" and the "Ancestor of the Chinese Dragon Vein," the birthplace of many myths and legends. It is said that Kunlun was the earthly capital of the Heavenly Emperor, and the Queen Mother of the West resided here. The Mu Tianzi Biography records that King Mu of Zhou once rode the eight steeds to tour Kunlun in the west and met the Queen Mother of the West at the Jade Pool. This legend not only reflects the ancient Central Plains dynasty’s longing for the mysterious western regions but also became an early imagination of cultural exchange between the Central Plains and the Western Regions. Multiple Symbolic Meanings of Kunlun in Chinese Mythology Center of the Universe · Seen as the axis connecting heaven, earth, and humanity · A sacred place where gods reside and ascend to heaven in mythology Origin of Creation · Many creation myths are linked to Kunlun · Considered one of the spiritual birthplaces of the Chinese nation Abode of Deities · The immortal residence of the Queen Mother of the West · A cultivation site in many Taoist immortal legends Symbol of Immortality · The legendary location of the "Tree of Immortality" and "Elixir of Immortality" · A place where emperors sought eternal life In Taoist culture, Kunlun is revered as a sacred place for cultivation. Taoist Ge Hong of the Eastern Jin Dynasty recorded in Baopuzi: "On Kunlun Mountain, there are golden terraces and jade towers, shining like flowing essence, jade halls, rooms of exquisite beauty, purple-green and red chambers, brocade clouds illuminating the sun, and ninefold red glow of vermilion clouds." These descriptions portray Kunlun as an ideal realm beyond the mundane world. Geographical Marvel: Asia’s Backbone and Water Source Treasure The geological structure of the Kunlun Mountains is extremely complex, located at the forefront of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates. About 50 million years ago, the Indian plate drifted northward and collided with the Eurasian plate, causing the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and shaping the Kunlun Mountains as they appear today. This process continues today, with Kunlun rising by several millimeters annually. Kunlun hosts the largest glacier group in the world’s mid-to-low latitudes. Statistics show that Kunlun’s glaciers cover over 12,000 square kilometers, equivalent to 200 West Lakes. These glaciers are the source or important supply for many major rivers, most notably the Yellow River, Yangtze River, Lancang River, and Tarim River. I followed a scientific expedition to the glacier tongue at the northern slope of Kunlun, where a glacier cross-section dozens of meters thick revealed a dreamy blue color. Glaciologist Professor Zhang told me, "Kunlun glaciers are the 'solid water reservoir' of the arid northwest, with an annual meltwater runoff of about 15 billion cubic meters, nourishing tens of millions of people and vast oases downstream." Due to high altitude and cold climate, Kunlun’s ecosystem is unique. It is home to first-class national protected animals such as Tibetan antelope, snow leopards, and wild yaks. In the valleys, hardy alpine plants like cushion-shaped saxaul and Kunlun wormwood grow, forming one of the world’s highest desert ecosystems. Cultural Fusion: The Intersection of Myth and History Kunlun is not just a natural mountain range but a crossroads of diverse cultures. Historically, it was an important route on the southern Silk Road, connecting the Central Plains with the Western Regions, Central Asia, and beyond. At the Kunlun pass at 3,800 meters, I saw the legendary "Kunlun Heavenly Pillar" ruins. It is said to have been an ancient sacred site for observing celestial phenomena and formulating calendars. Archaeologists discovered a sacrificial site dating back about 3,000 years here, unearthing numerous jade ritual artifacts, confirming the record in the Zhou Rituals: "Using blue jade discs to worship heaven, and yellow jade cong to worship earth." Jade is an important symbol of Kunlun culture. The Records of the Grand Historian states: "Kunlun is over 2,500 li high, where the sun and moon avoid, creating brightness. On it are sweet springs and jade pools." The Thousand Character Classic also says, "Gold is born in Lishui, jade comes from Kungang." Since ancient times, Hetian jade from Kunlun’s northern slope has been transported to the Central Plains via the Silk Road, becoming a vital part of Chinese jade culture. After Buddhism entered China, Kunlun was incorporated into Buddhist geography. The Eastern Jin monk Faxian recorded in the Buddhist Kingdoms: "Before the Congling Mountains, the plants and fruits are all different, only bamboo, pomegranate, and sugarcane are the same as in Han lands." He linked Kunlun with Mount Sumeru from Buddhist legends, enriching Kunlun’s cultural connotations. Modern Kunlun: Resource Treasure and Ecological Barrier Today, Kunlun is not only a sacred place of myth but also an important resource treasure and ecological barrier in China. The Kunlun region is rich in mineral resources, including proven reserves of oil, natural gas, iron, copper, and jade. The Tarim Basin oilfield is one of China’s largest, and Hetian jade from Kunlun’s northern slope is world-renowned. With the construction of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway and numerous highways, Kunlun is no longer an impassable natural barrier. I drove along National Highway 219, known as the "Tianshan Corridor," which runs through Kunlun’s northern foothills, connecting Xinjiang and Tibet. Along the way, one can see snow mountains, grasslands, deserts, and various landforms, a true "geography textbook." Kunlun’s ecological environment is extremely fragile. Global warming has accelerated glacier melting, with glacier area shrinking about 15% over the past 50 years. Overgrazing and mineral exploitation also pressure the local ecosystem. At a 4,200-meter alpine meadow, I met Tibetan herder Zhaxi. He told me, "Our family used to have 300 sheep, now reduced to 100. The government encourages us to reduce livestock to protect the grasslands." Through measures like returning grazing land and ecological compensation, Kunlun’s environment is gradually recovering. Kunlun Spirit: The Spiritual Symbol of the Chinese Nation Standing at the Kunlun pass, gazing at the endless snow peaks, I pondered the mountain range’s significance to the Chinese nation. Kunlun has long transcended a mere geographical concept to become a spiritual symbol of the Chinese people. In Chinese literature and art, Kunlun is an eternal theme. Qu Yuan wrote in Li Sao: "Setting out at dawn from Cangwu, by evening I reach the garden; wishing to linger a little in this fairyland, the day fades swiftly toward dusk," expressing longing for Kunlun’s fairyland. Mao Zedong wrote in Nian Nu Jiao: Kunlun, "Soaring across the sky, wild Kunlun, surveying all the spring scenery of the world," combining Kunlun’s grandeur with revolutionary spirit. In modern China, Kunlun embodies the spirit of "unyielding and standing tall." This spirit is reflected in border guards, mountaineers challenging limits, and herders silently protecting the land. On the way down, I met a climbing team preparing to challenge Muztagh Ata at 7,509 meters. The captain told me, "Climbing Kunlun is not only a physical challenge but a spiritual baptism. Standing atop the snow mountain, you feel your insignificance and the grandeur of being connected to heaven and earth." The Eternal Mountain Range Leaving Kunlun, the sunset dyed the snow peaks golden. Looking back, the silver dragon still lay across the horizon, silent and solemn. Kunlun is where myth and reality intertwine, a space where nature and culture resonate. It has witnessed the earth’s vicissitudes, carries the collective memory of the Chinese nation, and will continue to guard this land’s present and future. In this rapidly changing era, Kunlun reminds us: some things are eternal. Though mountains slowly change with geological movements, their majestic presence and cultural significance have deeply merged into the Chinese nation’s bloodline, becoming our shared spiritual home. When we look up at Kunlun, we are not just looking at a mountain range but at a height, a spirit, an eternal force connecting past and future, nature and civilization.

I found this lost sapphire of Northwest China💎! 🚗【Stunning Wonder】 Wusute Water Yadan looks like an alien base suddenly landed here👽! The Yadan landforms originally standing in the Gobi Desert were suddenly submerged in blue water due to a whimsical diversion of the Lenggele River in 2007🌊, creating this magical scene of water and land intertwined! Standing on the viewing platform, I was truly speechless at nature’s masterpiece😭 ⚠️But! This miracle is disappearing! Experts say that in a few decades, wind and water erosion will completely erase it... So hurry up, sisters!! 📸【Photo Guide】 ▫️Drone users: Fly freely! The god’s-eye view is amazing ▫️Phone photographers: Climb to the high point (recommended near Yadan Eye), open wide-angle and instantly get magazine-level shots ▫️Outfit tips: Red dress/white dress + denim hat, full exotic vibe! 🎯【Nanny-level Guide】 📍Address: Next to National Highway 315, Dachaidan, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai ⏰Time: 9:00-18:30 (last entry at 17:30) 💰Cost: Ticket 60 + sightseeing bus 60 = 120 RMB (worth every penny!) 🚍Sightseeing bus route: 1️⃣Wanghai Platform👉Seagull feeding + yacht experience 💡Tip: Don’t stay long! Immediately head👉towards the camel team! 2️⃣Yadan Eye👉30 min walk (follow the camel footprints❗️) 3️⃣West Sea Fleet👉Million-year wind-eroded "warship formation" 4️⃣Golden Sand Beach👉The widest water surface ❤️【Secret Tips】 - Bring plenty of bottled water! It’s expensive inside the park - Light is softest after 4 PM - Wear non-slip shoes! Climbing up and down requires stamina - Bring bread! Seagulls will chase you Here you get the wildness of the Northwest and the vitality of the water world, every shot feels like a scene from Interstellar🪐 Sisters’ Northwest loop, don’t miss this hidden gem of the sea‼️ Black Diamond Release

🌊The secret realm of Golmud Salt Lake! Uninhabited Yadan + Golden Sandy Beach, shoot Mars-like blockbusters! 🔥The place on Earth that looks most like Mars! Water Yadan + West Sea Fleet, every shot is full of sci-fi vibes! It was formed in 2007 when a flash flood on the Kunlun Mountains' Nalegle River changed the river's course, flooding the original Yadan group and creating the world's rare water Yadan landform. 📍Address: No. 2 Xitai, Dachaidan Administrative Committee, Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (National Highway 315), about a 2-hour drive from Dachaidan 🕰️Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM) 🎫Tickets: 60 RMB, sightseeing bus 60 RMB 🚗Sightseeing bus route plan: 1️⃣Wanghai Platform: Direct access by sightseeing bus, the first panoramic stop! Drone takeoff spot, capturing the full view of the Yadan formations, and the boat dock is also here. Reach "Eye of Yadan" by motorcycle or off-road vehicle, 150 RMB per person. 2️⃣Penglai Fairy Island: Walk deep into the salt lake, where huge rocks in the lake look like floating fairy islands. 3️⃣West Sea Fleet: A must-visit! Weathered rock pillars resemble an ancient fleet of warships. 4️⃣Golden Sandy Beach: The best spot for sunset! Stunning light and shadow at 6 PM. If short on time, just visit Wanghai Platform, the most essential part of the scenic area. 📸Must-shoot spots: ▫️Water Highway: The U-shaped road of National Highway 315, with an amazing salt lake backdrop. ▫️Lonely Reef: A protruding Yadan rock formation in the lake, perfect for silhouette shots. 🌅Sunset tips: ▪️Bring a light jacket! Big temperature difference after sunset. ▪️Use a telephoto lens to compress the depth of field. 💡Avoid pitfalls: ⚠️The salt lake is highly corrosive! Don’t touch the lake water barefoot. ⚠️The wind is super strong! Wear sunglasses and a face scarf.