Recommended Comprehensive Travel Guide for Dongtai Jinair Lake

Dongtai Jinair Lake is located in Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, and is a salt lake within the Dachaidan Administrative Region. Known for its unique Tiffany-blue water and reputation as the "Maldives of China," it has become a popular social media hotspot. Below is a detailed travel guide: --- ### 1. Basic Information - **Location**: Dachaidan Administrative Region, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, alongside National Highway G315, about 60 km from Dachaidan Town. - **Altitude**: Approximately 2,680 meters. - **Best Travel Season**: June to October (summer offers the most vibrant water colors; winter may freeze). - **Entrance Fee**: The site may charge an entrance fee starting in 2023 (around ¥30–50). Check for updates before visiting. - **Opening Hours**: Open all day, but daytime visits are recommended for optimal lighting. --- ### 2. Transportation 1. **Self-Drive/Private Car (Recommended)**: - From Xining: Drive along G315 for about 8 hours (750 km). - From Dachaidan Town: About 1 hour (60 km). - Note: The route passes through uninhabited areas—ensure a full tank of gas and bring supplies. 2. **Public Transport**: - Take a bus from Xining or Golmud to Dachaidan Town, then hire a private car (no direct buses). --- ### 3. Highlights 1. **Dreamlike Lake**: - The Tiffany-blue hue (from copper ions) is most striking on sunny days. - The mirror-like surface creates stunning "sky mirror" reflections. 2. **White Salt Flats**: - The shoreline’s white salt crystals contrast beautifully with the blue water, perfect for photos. 3. **Hidden Gem**: - Less crowded than Chaka Salt Lake, offering a more serene experience. --- ### 4. Tips & Precautions 1. **Environmental Protection**: - Avoid stepping on salt crystal edges—stick to designated areas. - No littering to preserve the fragile ecosystem. 2. **Sun & Wind Protection**: - High-altitude UV rays are strong—wear sunglasses, hats, and high-SPF sunscreen. - Windproof jackets are advisable. 3. **Safety**: - Hidden pits exist in the lake—do not enter the water recklessly. - Limited cell service—avoid solo exploration. 4. **Altitude Sickness**: - Minimize strenuous activity; carry oxygen bottles (available in Xining or Dachaidan). --- ### 5. Nearby Attractions 1. **Utopia Yadan (Water Yadan Geological Park)**: - 30 km from Dongtai Jinair Lake, featuring unique water-eroded landforms. 2. **Xitai Jinair Lake**: - Further west on G315, where the road splits the lake into two colors (ideal for aerial shots). 3. **Dachaidan Emerald Lake**: - Near Dachaidan Town, a cluster of colorful salt lakes. --- ### 6. Food & Accommodation - **Lodging**: - Dachaidan Town: Multiple hotels (e.g., Dachaidan Glamping Tents Hotel); book early in peak season. - Water Yadan: RV camps available (higher prices). - **Dining**: - Try local specialties like lamb hotpot and yak yogurt at Dachaidan’s halal restaurants. --- ### 7. Photography Tips - **Outfits**: Solid-colored dresses (red, white, yellow) for contrast. - **Timing**: Soft light at 10 AM or after 4 PM; avoid harsh noon sun. - **Gear**: Drones yield the best shots (register in advance); smartphones also work well. --- ### 8. Sample Itinerary (3 Days) - **Day 1**: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha (overnight). - **Day 2**: Delingha → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dongtai Jinair Lake → Water Yadan (overnight). - **Day 3**: Water Yadan → Xitai Jinair Lake → Mangya or return to Dachaidan. --- Dongtai Jinair Lake is a hidden alpine gem. Check weather and road conditions (some routes close during rains) and embrace this "blue sapphire" of the plateau!