This summer, embark on a solo trip to Qinghai for an impromptu adventure

As summer approaches, why not head to Qinghai for a magical journey through the Northwest? In just three days, you can visit these stunning attractions and experience the grandeur and romance of the region. Save this guide now! 🗓 Itinerary: **Day 1: Xining → Riyue Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake (Stay in Chaka)** [RoundNails] **Morning**: Depart from Xining and head to Riyue Mountain, a place steeped in historical legends (🎫 Ticket: ¥54). Here, you can admire vast grasslands and learn about the touching story of Princess Wencheng's journey to Tibet. At the mountain pass, prayer flags flutter in the wind, carrying people's wishes—take a moment to pray for your family and yourself. ⏳ Recommended visit time: ~1 hour. [RoundNails] **Noon**: Dine near Qinghai Lake and don’t miss the local specialty, Qinghai Lake naked carp (reservation required in advance), as well as Tibetan hot pot. The tender carp and rich broth of the hot pot will immerse your taste buds in unique local flavors. [RoundNails] **Afternoon**: Arrive at Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland saltwater lake (free entry). You can explore the Erlangjian Scenic Area (🎫 Ticket: ¥90), which offers beautiful lake views, Tibetan architecture, prayer flag sculptures, and activities like speedboats and sand motorcycles. If you skip the paid area, free viewing platforms nearby let you enjoy the lake’s vastness, go horseback riding, and more. Recommended visit time: ~3 hours. [RoundNails] **Evening**: Stay near Chaka Salt Lake and visit the town’s snack street for dishes like grilled lamb and Qinghai-style yogurt. The aromatic lamb and tangy yogurt will perfectly cap off your first day. **Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake → Emerald Lake → Dunhuang (Stay in Dunhuang)** [RoundNails] **Morning**: Visit the "Mirror of the Sky," Chaka Salt Lake (🎫 Ticket: ¥60). Take the small train (one-way: ¥50) deeper into the lake for better views. Wear bright, solid-colored clothing for stunning photos. Recommended visit time: 3–4 hours. [RoundNails] **Noon**: After lunch in Chaka, head to Dachaidan’s Emerald Lake (🎫 Ticket: ¥50, train: ¥60). The lake’s emerald-green waters shimmer under the sun like scattered jewels—breathtaking! Recommended visit time: ~2 hours. [RoundNails] **Afternoon**: Travel to Dunhuang (a long drive—bring snacks and entertainment). Upon arrival, head to Dunhuang Night Market to savor local delicacies and soak up the lively atmosphere. **Day 3: Dunhuang → Mogao Caves → Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring → Return** [RoundNails] **Morning**: Visit the Mogao Caves (book in advance; peak season ticket: ¥238, includes digital center film + transport + 8 regular caves). The exquisite murals and sculptures are treasures of Chinese art. Recommended visit time: 3–4 hours. [RoundNails] **Noon**: Lunch near Mogao Caves, then rest in the city to recharge. [RoundNails] **Afternoon**: Explore Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring (🎫 Ticket: ¥110). Try a camel ride (~¥100) to experience the desert’s vastness. The dunes and spring create a unique desert wonder. ### Food Recommendations 👉 **Xining**: Visit Xinqian Night Market for local treats like liangpi (slippery wheat noodles), sweet fermented rice, and juicy lamb skewers. Mazhong Food Hall also offers a variety of Qinghai snacks. 👉 **Qinghai Lake**: Don’t miss the naked carp and Tibetan hot pot. 👉 **Dunhuang**: Try apricot peel tea, grilled fish, and Dunhuang’s "Three Treasures" at the night market. Da Ji’s donkey meat noodles are a must—chewy noodles with tender meat and rich sauce. ### Hotel Picks [One] **Xining**: Geometry Bookstore Homestay (~¥200/person) features Tibetan tea rooms and star-gazing rooms—perfect for photos. [Two] **Chaka**: Mirror Bubble House at Sky One Scenic Area (~¥400/person, includes breakfast + salt lake ticket). Sleep under the stars in a bubble dome! [Three] **Dunhuang**: Dunhuang Resort (~¥300/person) offers comfort and convenience after a day of exploring. 📝 **Tips**: 1️⃣ **Transport**: Rent a car in Xining (~¥200/day) for flexibility. Alternatively, take an overnight train to Dunhuang. Taxis are easy to find in Dunhuang. 2️⃣ **Attire**: Pack warm layers for Qinghai’s temperature swings. Bright clothes work best for salt lake photos, and rent rain boots for walking. At the dunes, try traditional "Feitian" costumes for photos. 3️⃣ **Altitude**: Avoid strenuous activity upon arrival; stay hydrated. Bring altitude sickness meds just in case.