[2025 Golmud Attraction] Travel Guide for Chaerhan Salt Lake (Updated Jul)

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!

✨📸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.

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

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)

Green｜Chaerhan Salt Lake Green, as a color, is located in the middle of the spectrum, with a wavelength range of 517-570 nanometers. In nature, green is widely present, such as in leaves, grasslands, oases, etc. In human culture, green is usually associated with concepts like life, health, vitality, nature, peace, etc. Chaerhan Salt Lake is located in Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China. It is the largest salt lake in China and the second largest in the world. The area of Chaerhan Salt Lake is about 5856 square kilometers, and its altitude is about 2670 meters. Chaerhan Salt Lake is an inland lake, with its water mainly coming from the melting snow of the surrounding mountains and groundwater. The salt content of the lake water is extremely high, reaching 32%, making Chaerhan Salt Lake one of the most important salt chemical bases in China. The green of Chaerhan Salt Lake may be related to the microorganisms, minerals, and light in the lake water. Under sunlight, the microorganisms and minerals in the lake water may appear green. In addition, the green of Chaerhan Salt Lake may also be affected by the surrounding ecological environment, such as grasslands, oases, etc.

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.

[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.

It's very much worth visiting, the scenery is beautiful. The ticket plus shuttle bus costs 100 yuan in total, which is great value. It's even more beautiful than Chaka Salt Lake. You can carpool from Golmud city area, or take a bus from Golmud Bus Station. There are two trips daily, one at 9 AM and one at 1 PM. Whether by bus or carpool, it's 25 yuan. However, it seems difficult to find a carpool at the bus station; you might need to go to Hexi District to find one. The emerald green lake water is clear and transparent, like a Sky Mirror. The altitude is 2680 meters, and the climate is cool and pleasant. Take a shuttle bus from the park entrance for about 20 minutes to the main scenic area. Qarhan Salt Lake is dozens of times larger than Chaka Salt Lake and hasn't been overdeveloped. It's recommended to carpool, charter a car, or drive yourself. Once you reach the main scenic area, there's another shuttle bus for 20 yuan, but I don't recommend taking it. To truly experience Qarhan Salt Lake, you should take in every beautiful detail, not just rush through it. If you're staying in Golmud city area, you can carpool back to Golmud city area after your visit, still for 25 yuan. All in all, this trip was very pleasant.

We chose a day with good weather to visit Chaka Salt Lake. We arrived at the scenic area at 8:20 AM, then took the scenic area shuttle bus (about 20 minutes). After that, we transferred to an electric cart to reach the main station (about 10 minutes). At that time, there weren’t too many tourists, and the lighting was just perfect—ideal for taking photos. If you have time, you can explore while walking back from the main station. There are many spots along the way for photo opportunities, and you can even hire a professional to help with drone photography.

Back from the 7-day Gansu Grand Loop tour, tearfully writing this pitfall avoidance guide...😭 course, it must be recordedBecause it was really too! tiring! Departing at 8 a.m. every day, at least 7 hours on the road, with distances of 500 to 600 kilometers between attractions, it’s like sitting in a car until you question your life🚐 🌊【Lakes】 ➊ Qinghai Lake: A weather-dependent attraction! Just give up on cloudy days☁️ ➋ Chaka Salt Lake: It’s really beautiful on sunny days✨ but just choose either Chaka or Chaerhan Salt Lake! It takes 7 hours to drive from Chaka to Chaerhan, plus a 20-minute shuttle after arrival, the frustration level is off the charts💥 ps. Chaerhan + Emerald Lake is the best combo! 🌈【Danxia Landform】 Among the four viewing platforms of the colorful Danxia, No. 4 is the boss! The sunset is breathtaking🌄 (The guide said one looks like a scallop and another like pork belly... certified foodie?🤣) 🛣️【Road Check-in】 U-shaped road📸 Filming tip: climbing the dirt slope is safest! Don’t risk it on the road, big trucks roar by🚛 💨【Wind Protection Reminder】 At Water Yadan and the U-shaped road, you can experience "eating dust": sunglasses + mask are a life-saving combo!😎 🏜️【Must-Do in Dunhuang】 ➊ Mogao Caves: Regular tickets are forever awesome! Includes 2 extra movies + 4 caves (book 30 days in advance) ➋ Mingsha Mountain: Camel ride recommended, but climbing the sand dune takes half an hour😅 Remember it’s still bright at 9 p.m.! ➌ Night Market & Cultural Creations: Cheap and beautiful, buy a lot!💰 🍲【Food Recommendations】 ➊ Kangguo Lamb is forever awesome! ➋ Sweet fermented milk tea is amazing ➌ Yak yogurt is a must-try Friendly reminder: portions are huge! For 3 people, ordering 2 servings is enough👌 🏕️【Accommodation Tips】 Desert camping with sand motorcycles is super thrilling! But... don’t stay in tents⛺ The wind and sand at night make you question life, better to sleep in a hotel. Summary: The Northwest is truly stunning! Lakes, snow mountains, deserts, grasslands all in one✔️ But be sure to plan well or join a reliable small group~

The beauty of the Great Northwest is truly breathtaking! And the fatigue from the journey is equally real! Each day felt like an intense hiking drill, more exhausting than military training... Waking up at 7 AM daily and returning to the hotel by 9 PM, covering 500-600 kilometers with 6-8 hours of driving each day. If you're tired of the daily grind, a trip to the Great Northwest might make you miss your routine. By the later stages of the trip, it was hard to muster the energy to appreciate the scenery, resorting to quick check-ins before moving on. Yet, every attraction had its unique charm, showcasing the diverse landscapes of our country and the cultural history of the Hexi Corridor. My personal favorites: 🏅 **Zhangye Danxia Landform** – Truly deserving of its National Geographic recommendation, magnificently breathtaking and grand! 🥈 **Chaka Salt Lake, Qarhan Salt Lake & Emerald Lake** – Like God spilled a palette of green apples🍏 and Tiffany blue. Unfortunately, Chaka Salt Lake was hit by a storm, so we missed the "Mirror of the Sky" effect, but Qarhan and Emerald Lake more than made up for it. 🥉 **Yardang National Geological Park & Crescent Moon Spring** – The large-scale water-eroded Yardang landforms are a must-see, while the oasis of Crescent Moon Spring in the desert offers a profound experience of solitude under the vast sky, desert sunsets, and lively nighttime gatherings. A pre-trip concern was the dreaded dry toilets, but luckily, we didn’t encounter any. Rest stops and scenic area restrooms were generally clean and adequate. In emergencies, our driver took us to gas station toilets🚾. Overall, it’s worth the trip—photos turn out amazing—but be mentally prepared! **Recommended Itinerary: 8-Day Qinghai-Gansu Tour** D1. Xining airport/train pickup (overnight) D2. Xining - Riyue Mountain (drive-by) - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka/Delingha (overnight) D3. Chaka/Delingha - Qarhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan (overnight) D4. Dachaidan - U-shaped Highway - Dongtaijinaier Lake (pass by) - Yardang National Geological Park - Nanbaxian Yardang - Dachaidan (overnight) D5. Dachaidan - Emerald Lake - Oil Town - Dunhuang (overnight) D6. Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Crescent Moon Spring - Dunhuang (overnight) D7. Dunhuang - Guazhou - Jiayuguan Pass - Zhangye Danxia Landform - Zhangye (overnight) D8. Zhangye - Biandukou - Qilian Mountain Grasslands - Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view) - Menyuan (pass by rapeseed flower fields, blooming July-August) - Xining. *Text and images sourced online; please contact for removal if infringing.*

Qarhan Salt Lake, located in Golmud City, Qinghai Province, is the world's second-largest salt lake, covering a total area of 5,856 square kilometers. Its unique "salt flower" phenomenon intertwined with emerald-colored lakes has earned it the title of "the ultimate version of the Sky Mirror." Below is a practical guide for visiting: Transportation Options 1. Self-driving/Chartered Car: Depart from Golmud city center, drive along G215 National Highway for about 60 kilometers (1-hour drive), and navigate to "Qarhan Salt Lake Scenic Area." 2. Scenic Area Shuttle: Some hotels in Golmud city offer round-trip shuttle services, which require advance booking. Note: Visitors need to transfer to the scenic area's sightseeing bus to access the core area of the salt lake (approximately 30 minutes). Best Visiting Time • June to September: The weather is pleasant, salt lake crystallization is abundant, and the colors are most vibrant. • Sunrise/Sunset: The soft lighting turns the salt flats into shades of pink and purple, making it perfect for photography. Must-Experience Attractions 1. Salt Bridge: A road running through the salt lake, flanked by snow-like salt crystals, ideal for aerial photography. 2. Salt Flower Phenomenon: A group of sculptures formed by salt crystallization, resembling coral and castles. 3. Emerald Lake Section: The lake's edges display a striking green color due to mineral concentration differences, contrasting sharply with the white salt flats. Important Notes 1. The salt lake is highly corrosive; avoid walking barefoot and consider wearing waterproof shoe covers (available for rent at the scenic area). 2. At an altitude of approximately 2,670 meters, ensure sun protection (UV index is extremely high) and stay hydrated. 3. Strictly avoid entering the core production area of the salt lake and respect local ecological protection regulations.

🏃🏃 Itinerary Day 1: Hanting Hotel (Tianshui Normal University Branch) → Fangha·Sweet Fermented Rice Milk Tea Creator (Sunny Bay Store) Day 2: Qinghai Lake Pastoral Song·View Hotel → Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area → Qinghai Lake·Heima River → Chaka Salt Lake → Lao Yan Roast Mutton Flagship Store Day 3: Starway Hotel (Delhi Railway Station Branch) → Xiao Qaidam Lake → Dingding Niu Specialty Dry Pot Yak Meat → Qinghai Local Hot Pot (Jianshe West Road Store) Day 4: Lavande Hotel (Golmud Bayi Road Underground Shopping Street Kunlun Park Branch) → Zhenhua Hand-Grabbed Lamb King → Qarhan Salt Lake → Ustyunt Watery Yadan Geological Park Day 5: Jiuzi Ginir Grand Hotel → Lenghu Petroleum Base Ruins → Hei Dushan (Black Lonely Mountain) → Shazhou Night Market → Changluohou·Sand Onion Beef Pie Day 6: Dunhuang Museum → Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring → Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring Starry Sky Concert → Kangji Grilled Lamb Ribs Flagship Store (Dunhuang Main Store) Day 7: Dunhuang Yuntian International Hotel (Shazhou Night Market Branch) → Daji Donkey Meat Yellow Noodle Restaurant → Mogao Caves → "See Dunhuang Again" Performance → Jingyuan Galiu Delicious Lamb → Fuqiang Market → No.8 Noodle Restaurant (Fuqiang Branch) Day 8: Vienna Hotel (Jiayuguan Chengxin Plaza Grand Theater Branch) → Gunji Huhuo Flagship Store (Shengli Middle Road Branch) → Jiayuguan Pass → Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park Day 9: Orange Hotel (Zhangye West Station Branch) → Qilian Grassland → Daban Mountain Viewing Platform → Lanshan Park Day 10: Vienna Hotel (Lanzhou Xiaoxihu Park Cancer Hospital Branch) → First Bridge of Yellow River Monument → Baoji Starry Sky H Hotel (Baoji South Station Wuyue Plaza Branch) 📍 Must-Visit Attractions: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park Chaka Salt Lake Mogao Caves Jiayuguan Pass

Qarhan Salt Lake Travel Guide Overview Qarhan Salt Lake, located in Qarhan Town, Golmud City, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, is China's largest salt lake, covering a total area of 5,856 square kilometers with salt reserves exceeding 60 billion tons. The lake surface displays gradient colors like emerald green, sky blue, and goose yellow due to variations in salinity and mineral content, earning it the nickname "Mirror of the Sky." The naturally formed "Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge" (a section of National Highway G315) is a rare salt-crusted road globally, capable of supporting vehicle traffic. Best Time to Visit May-October: Temperatures range from 10-25°C, with ample sunlight, showcasing the lake's most vibrant colors and spectacular salt crystal formations. Peak season (July-August): Crowded; recommended to enter before 9 AM or after 6 PM to avoid crowds. May-June/September-October: Fewer tourists, ideal for photography; bring windproof jackets. Winter (November-April): The lake freezes, offering solitude for snowscape photography enthusiasts, though some areas may be closed. Transportation Guide Self-drive: 60 km from Golmud city via Liuge Expressway, about 1 hour. No gas stations en route; fill up before departure. Chartered/shared cars: Chartered cars cost 300-500 RMB/day (including driver); shared cars 100-150 RMB/person. Recommended to contact local Golmud travel agencies (e.g., Kunlun Travel Company). Public transport: Golmud Zhufeng Building commuter bus: 20-30 RMB/person, departs when full; check schedules in advance. Take a taxi from Golmud Railway Station, approximately 150-200 RMB. Tickets & Activities Tickets: Adult ticket + shuttle bus: 98 RMB/person Zhejiang residents ticket + shuttle bus: 60 RMB/person Senior ticket + shuttle bus: 60 RMB/person Child/student ticket + shuttle bus: 80 RMB/person Free for children under 6, disabled persons, and active military personnel. Shuttle bus: One-way 15 RMB, round-trip 30 RMB; recommended to save energy. Boat tour: 100-200 RMB/person, ideal for close-up views of salt fields. Must-Visit Attractions Emerald Lake: Jade-green lake surface with pristine white salt flats, perfect for reflection shots and drone photography. Best shooting times: 1 hour after sunrise or 2 hours before sunset. Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge: 32 km salt-crusted road; walk or drive (ensure anti-slip measures). Photo spot: "Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge" stone tablet on G315 Highway. Salt Crystal Wonderland: Salt formations resembling coral and mushrooms; macro lenses recommended for details. Touching crystals is prohibited; fines up to 500 RMB. Sunset Viewing Platform: Lake turns orange-red at dusk; capture reflections of salt sculptures and twilight. Food Recommendations Golmud City: Hand-grabbed mutton: Mazhong Restaurant (Kunlun Road), served with salt and pepper dip. Pan-fried lamb ribs: Lao Yan Roast Lamb (night market), paired with potatoes and onions. Yak yogurt: Old Yogurt Shop (Bayi Middle Road), best with honey. Near the Scenic Area: Qarhan Salt Lake Fish Restaurant: Steamed rainbow trout (cold-water fish), ~80 RMB/person. Mongolian Boiled Mutton: Cooked with coarse salt from the lake, tender and flavorful. Precautions Sun protection: UV index reaches 12+; bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing. Wear hats and avoid prolonged midday exposure. Altitude sickness: Elevation 2,670 meters; may cause headaches or shortness of breath. Take Rhodiola supplements 3 days prior, avoid strenuous activity, and carry oxygen (available onsite). Environment: Picking salt crystals or littering is prohibited; fines up to 2,000 RMB. Trash bins provided; practice waste sorting. Safety: Stay within open areas; watch for salt holes. Children must be supervised at all times. Itinerary Suggestions Day trip: 8:00 AM Depart Golmud, arrive at the lake by 9:00 AM. 9:30 AM-12:00 PM Explore Emerald Lake and salt crystal areas. 12:30 PM Lunch at scenic restaurant (recommend pan-fried lamb). 1:30-3:30 PM Visit Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge and boat tour. 4:00 PM Return, arrive in Golmud by 5:00 PM. Photography route: Enter at 6:30 AM for sunrise shots. Bring tripods and ND filters for long-exposure reflections. Capture salt mountain silhouettes at dusk. Nearby Attractions Chaka Salt Lake: 300 km away, 4-hour drive; suitable for 2-day trips. Qinghai Lake: 500 km, 6-hour drive; ideal for loop tours. Accommodation Golmud City: Golmud Hotel: 4-star, standard room 400 RMB/night, breakfast included. Salt Lake Hotel: 3-star, standard room 280 RMB/night, close to the lake. Near the Scenic Area: Qarhan Resort: Yurt-style lodging, 200 RMB/night; book in advance.

Chaka Salt Lake—A Jade Palette Spilled by the Gods A Must-Visit in Your Lifetime! Chaka Salt Lake—a jade-colored palette spilled by the gods, every frame is breathtaking. Here's the ultimate guide to Chaka Salt Lake. **Park Overview**: Located in the northern part of Golmud City, Qinghai Province, Chaka Salt Lake is China's largest salt lake, covering an area of 5,856 square kilometers. Its salt reserves could supply the world's 6 billion people for 1,000 years. Known as the "King of Asian Salt Lakes" and the "Green Gem of the World," it has attracted film productions like *Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon* for its stunning scenery. **Tickets & Opening Hours** - **Ticket Info**: Peak season (May–Oct): Basic ticket + shuttle bus ≈ ¥100/person; Off-season (Nov–Apr): ≈ ¥42/person. Half-price for students and seniors aged 60–64; free for seniors over 65, military personnel, and disabled visitors. Glass boat rental: ¥30/person; drone rental: ≈ ¥200/session. - **Opening Hours**: Peak season: 8:30 AM–8:00 PM (Apr–Oct); Off-season: 8:30 AM–7:30 PM. **Must-Visit Spots** - **Wanzhang Salt Bridge**: A 32-km-long bridge made of salt crust, floating on the lake. Drive or walk to experience this marvel. - **Salt Flower Wonders**: Crystal-clear salt formations resembling coral and flowers—best captured by drone. 📸 **Top 5 Photo Spots** 1⃣ **Thousand-Island Salt Flowers** (Core Scenic Area) ▪ Emerald lake + coral-like salt crystals ▪ Drone height limit: 150m (requires registration) 2⃣ **Wanzhang Salt Bridge** (Natural Salt-Crust Road) ⚠ Note: No parking! Take the shuttle bus for photos. 3⃣ **Salt Lake Swing** (Instagrammable Spot) ▪ Bright-colored dresses photograph best ▪ Best lighting in the morning 4⃣ **Industrial-Style Dams** (With Colorful Salt Boats) ▪ Perfect for edgy, industrial-style outfits 5⃣ **Sunset Viewing Platform** 🌅 The lake turns pink-purple at dusk ⚠ **Pro Tips** 1⃣ No sandals! Salt crusts are sharp as blades. 2⃣ Bring wet wipes! Salt stains turn white when dry. 3⃣ Sit on the right side of the shuttle bus for better views. 4⃣ Skip the "salt sculptures" sold in the park—Golmud supermarkets offer them at half the price. 💎 **Hidden Experiences** ▪ **Salt Boat Adventure**: Enter the mining area with staff (tips expected). ▪ **Stargazing**: Stay overnight to photograph the Milky Way's reflection. ▪ **Salt Bath**: Soak your feet in natural salt flats outside the park. ❣️ **Reminders** ❶ Wear thick-soled shoes! The salt flats are rough and corrosive—avoid sandals or expensive footwear. ❷ Sunscreen! Sunscreen! The lake reflects intense UV rays—sunglasses, hats, and SPF 50+ are a must. ❸ Carry wet wipes! Wipe off saltwater immediately to avoid dryness and irritation. *"Here, there’s no noise—only poetry of salt and wind. Chaka’s purity is Earth’s love letter to humanity."*

Just returned from the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, and I've compiled the expenses and super practical tips for this trip. This is pure practical info sharing, so those planning to go, quickly save this! 💰Ticket Expenses We visited many super beautiful attractions along the way, and the ticket costs weren't too bad. Qinghai Lake Heimahe was 30 yuan, Chaka Salt Lake 60 yuan, Emerald Lake 50 yuan, Qarhan Salt Lake including ticket and bus was 100 yuan, Water Yadan 60 yuan, Heidu Mountain bus 60 yuan, Mingsha Mountain 110 yuan, Rainbow Mountains Danxia plus sightseeing bus 93 yuan. All in all, the tickets for one person came out to about 563 yuan. Compared to Xinjiang, it's half the price! 🚗Local Transportation Costs Some attractions are too large, so you have to take the park's internal vehicles, which also cost a fair bit. Emerald Lake was 60 yuan, for Chaka Salt Lake we bought tickets through a travel agency for 100 yuan (it's 108 yuan if you buy it yourself), Water Yadan 60 yuan. The total self-paid local transportation for one person was 220 yuan. Oh, and you must book Mogao Grottoes tickets yourself in advance! An A ticket for 238 yuan allows you to see 8 grottoes with a guide, while a B ticket is only 100 yuan but only allows 4 grottoes. I highly recommend going for the A ticket! 🍜Food, Drinks & Shopping We played for 7 days on this trip and went to night markets five or six times! Skewers, lamb offal soup, Tianpeizi... we ate until we were stuffed with all sorts of Northwestern delicacies, spending several hundred yuan on food. In Dunhuang, we also bought a bunch of cultural and creative products and souvenirs, spending over 500 yuan. But looking at these little trinkets, it feels like the memories of the trip are preserved~ 🚩Tour Group Fees We booked a small group for two people, with the group fee being 2750 yuan per person, totaling 5500 yuan for two. All in all, the transportation, tickets, and local transportation for one person came out to about 3200 yuan, or 6400 yuan for two. The round-trip airfare was 1460 yuan per person, totaling almost 2900 yuan for two. All in all, two people for a week cost less than 10,000 yuan! 💡Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1️⃣ Be careful when booking a tour group: Many travel agencies claim to include tickets, but you often have to pay extra for local transportation. Even if they say Mogao Grottoes tickets are included, it's likely the B ticket! Make sure to ask clearly in advance! 2️⃣ Be cautious when choosing travel photography: Someone in our car booked travel photography, but after visiting Mogao Grottoes, it was already two or three o'clock when we returned to Dunhuang, and we were hungry and tired. If we had rushed to do travel photography, time would have been extremely tight. The four of us in the car didn't go, and it felt quite pointless. 3️⃣ Desert activities are a great value: The tour we booked included activities at the Mingsha Mountain Back Mountain Desert Camp, such as camel riding, motorcycling, hot pot, and a bonfire party! For an extra 10 yuan, you can ride a camel for a long loop, which is much more cost-effective than inside the Mingsha Mountain scenic area! 4️⃣ Be careful with horse riding in Qilian Mountains: Qilian Mountains offered horse riding, archery, and Tibetan costume experience. Unfortunately, it rained heavily on the day we went, so we couldn't do anything. However, I heard that horse riding and archery cost 80 yuan if you pay separately, which isn't expensive if you enjoy it~ We were really lucky this time! We met a super reliable driver who let us play for a full 3 hours at each attraction and never rushed us. The owner of the desert camp was also very enthusiastic; even though we arrived late, he still quickly guided us through various activities, just so we wouldn't have any regrets. Sisters, if you're planning to go to the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop, feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions! Also welcome those who have been to share your stories~ #QingganGrandLoop #NorthwestTravelGuide #TravelExpenses #NorthwestChinaTravel #TravelPitfallGuide

Among all the wonders in Golmud, this pearl of the plateau, Chaerhan Salt Lake left me utterly amazed. As China's largest salt lake, it's like nature's spilled palette 🎨 📍Chaerhan Salt Lake Guide ✅Must-visit spots: - Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge: A rare 32km-long marvel completely paved with salt - driving across is an unforgettable experience - Salt Blossom Wonders: Crystalline formations creating a magical frozen-like kingdom - Emerald Lake: Dreamy Tiffany-blue waters with stunning color gradation - every shot is postcard-perfect 📸Photo Tips: 👉9-11am offers softest lighting 👉Must bring a drone! Aerial views are breathtaking 👉Wear bright colors (red works best) for pop 🚗Transport: Self-drive: ~1hr from Golmud city Charter: Many local agencies offer day tours Ticket: ¥100/person (includes shuttle) ⚠️Notes: 1. High-altitude sun protection (SPF50+) 2. Sunglasses essential - intense reflection 3. Never walk barefoot - salt burns skin 4. Bring snacks - limited dining options 🏨Hotels: Recommended chain hotels in Golmud (like Jinjiang Inn, Hanting) for lower altitude comfort 🍴Local Eats: Don't miss Golmud specialties: - Hand-grabbed lamb (try Old Ma's Lamb Restaurant) - Yak hotpot (Plateau Yak House) - Authentic yogurt (street vendors)

🌊 Must-visit Salt Lakes and Landforms: 1. Dachaidan - Amber Lake: Brown-red salt lake like mysterious amber. Hike 3km or take an off-road vehicle for 200 to get there directly. In the off-season, when there are no people, it's amazing for photos of the 'Earth's Veins'. 2. Dachaidan - Emerald Lake: Don't stop at the entrance, go deeper. The lake water is as green as emerald, and the light and shadows change with time. 3. Qarhan Salt Lake: Asia's largest salt lake. The blue-green lake surface is like God's overturned palette, and aerial shots look like gems embedded in the earth. 4. Mangya - Aiken Spring: The 'Eye of the Devil' spring is at the center of the pupil. It's remote, an 8-hour drive one way, but the circular patterns from a drone's perspective are incredibly stunning. 5. Water Yadan: The world's only water Yadan landform, where wind-eroded landforms collide with lake water. Visit before it disappears. 📸 Niche Photo Spots: - Blood of the Earth: Free photo spot by the roadside. Red gullies like the earth's blood vessels, every casual shot has a cinematic feel. - Lenghu Oil Town: Full of a sense of ruin, with Heidu Mountain as the backdrop. Wear vintage clothes and instantly transform into a pioneer. - Lenghu No Man's Land: RV and starry sky in the same frame at night, car lights cutting through the darkness, full of magical feeling. 🚐 RV Tips: - Flexible Accommodation: Park at the scenic spot entrance, open the door and enter the no man's land. Take photos in the early morning during the off-season without tourist interference. - Essentials: Mosquito repellent (Water Yadan has a lot of mosquitoes), thick jacket (temperature difference of 15℃+ between morning and evening), high-SPF sunscreen (UV rays are strong enough to peel skin). - Car Rental Recommendation: Use a 'RV Lifestyles' 4WD RV. You can stop and rest anytime in the no man's land and also solve the toilet problem (some areas have no toilets!).

🌊 7-Day Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop · Second Stop Guide: Chaka Town → Chaerhan Salt Lake → Xiao Qaidam Lake → Da Qaidam 🌊 🚗 Itinerary Overview Route: Chaka Town → Chaerhan Salt Lake (~400km, 5h) → Xiao Qaidam Lake (~50km, 40min) → Overnight in Da Qaidam Recommended departure time: 7:00 AM from Chaka Town (leave early to avoid strong sunlight and allow ample sightseeing time) 📍 First Stop: Chaka Town → Chaerhan Salt Lake 📌 Key Info - Ticket: ¥100/person (includes shuttle bus), half-price for students. - Transport: Private car/self-drive via G3011 Liuge Expressway, good road conditions. - Suggested duration: 2-3 hours 🌟 Must-Do Experiences - Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge: A natural salt-crust highway, perfect for aerial shots (drones allowed, mind wind speed). - Salt Flower Wonders: Natural crystalline patterns on the lake surface, glittering like diamonds under sunlight. - Swing/Glass Boat: Instagrammable spots (fee: ¥20-30). ⚠️ Notes - Strong reflection from the salt lake—wear sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen (SPF50+). - Shuttle bus is mandatory (20km from entrance to core area), last bus at 18:00. 📍 Second Stop: Chaerhan Salt Lake → Xiao Qaidam Lake 📌 Key Info - Ticket: Free wild attraction, parking fee ¥10. - Transport: 50km from Chaerhan Salt Lake, en route. - Suggested duration: 1 hour 🌟 Must-Do Experiences - Lakeside Walk: Azure waters with snowy mountains in the background, less crowded for great photos. - Wildlife Spotting: Chance encounters with wild ducks and waterbirds (approach quietly). ⚠️ Notes - No commercial facilities—bring snacks and water. - Windy with large temperature swings—pack a windbreaker. 📍 Third Stop: Xiao Qaidam Lake → Da Qaidam Town 📌 Key Info - Accommodation: Da Qaidam Town (book 3 days ahead in peak season!). - Transport: ~30km from Xiao Qaidam Lake, 30-minute drive. 🏨 Stay Recommendations - Budget: Homestays/hostels (¥100-150/person). - Comfort: Da Qaidam Snow Mountain Hot Spring Hotel (¥300-500/night, includes hot spring). 🍜 Food Recs - Grilled Lamb Ribs (highly rated at "Yibula Specialty Grill"), yak meat soup noodles. 💡 Pro Tips - Da Qaidam’s elevation is ~3200m—avoid strenuous activity. - Stock up on supplies (no shops near Da Qaidam’s Emerald Lake). 💰 Estimated Cost (per person) - Transport: ~¥150 for carpool from Chaka to Chaerhan. - Tickets: ¥100 for Chaerhan Salt Lake. - Lodging: ~¥120 for shared room in Da Qaidam. Total: ¥370 (excluding meals & extras). 📸 Photo Outfit Tips - Chaerhan Salt Lake: Bright-colored dresses (red/orange) + scarves (windproof yet flowy). - Xiao Qaidam Lake: Denim/utility style with combat boots (suits the wild vibe). ✨ Tomorrow’s Preview: Third Stop Da Qaidam → Emerald Lake → U-shaped Water Yadan → Devil City! #QinghaiGansuGrandLoop #SaltLakeWonders

Haixi, this mysterious land in Qinghai, is a hidden gem of nature. Here, you'll find salt lakes as dreamy as fairylands, majestic Yardang landforms, and vast Gobi deserts—each landscape tells an ancient story of the Earth. If you crave an escape from the hustle and bustle to embrace nature, Haixi is the perfect choice. Pack your bags and follow this guide to embark on a soul-stirring adventure in the Northwest! ### I. Preparations 1. **Documents**: Bring your ID card and driver’s license (essential for self-driving). Some attractions may require online ticket reservations in advance, so keep your purchase receipts handy. 2. **Clothing**: Haixi has significant temperature differences between day and night. In summer, wear light clothing during the day but pack a thick jacket for mornings and evenings. Also, bring sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses—UV radiation is strong on the plateau, so sun protection is crucial. 3. **Essentials**: Prepare a power bank, water bottle, and common medications (cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, etc.). For self-driving trips, check your vehicle in advance and carry a spare tire, jack, and other tools. 4. **Miscellaneous**: Download offline maps ahead of time, as some areas have poor signal. Carry some cash for emergencies. ### II. Transportation Guide 1. **External Transport**: First, arrive in Xining, a major transportation hub with numerous flights and train options. From Xining, you can reach Haixi by train (budget-friendly), long-distance bus (frequent departures), or carpool/chartered car (more flexible and convenient). 2. **Internal Transport**: Haixi is vast with scattered attractions, so self-driving is the best way to explore freely. If you prefer not to drive, some attractions have shuttle buses, but schedules are limited—plan ahead. ### III. Popular Attractions 1. **Chaka Salt Lake**: One of the world’s largest natural salt lakes, dubbed "China’s Mirror of the Sky." The crystalline salt grains and mirror-like lake surface reflect the sky, while the salt flower formations showcase nature’s artistry. Walk across the "Ten-Thousand-Zhang Salt Bridge" for a surreal experience. Wear bright, solid-colored dresses for stunning photos. Ticket: ~¥100. 2. **Dachaidan Emerald Lake**: The multicolored lake resembles scattered gemstones, with its mesmerizing Tiffany blue hues. Take a sightseeing train to enjoy different views at each stop. Free entry; parking fee: ¥10–20. 3. **Water Yardang**: The world’s only Yardang landform submerged in water. The wind-eroded formations stand tall in the lake, glowing golden at sunset for a dreamlike spectacle. Ticket + shuttle: ~¥120. 4. **Aiken Spring (Devil’s Eye)**: The sulfur-scented spring resembles an eye gazing at the sky from above—mysterious and awe-inspiring. Currently free, but the rough road requires an SUV. 5. **U-Shaped Highway**: A viral stretch of National Highway 315, winding like a path to the horizon. Perfect for roadside photography (stay safe and avoid traffic). Free. 6. **Black Lonely Mountain**: Known as "the most moon-like place on Earth," its black rocks and gray gravel create a uniquely desolate landscape, a paradise for photographers. Free. ### IV. Itinerary Suggestions 4-Day Trip - **Day 1**: Xining → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha - Morning: Depart Xining for Chaka Salt Lake; afternoon: stroll the "Mirror of the Sky." - Evening: Arrive in Delingha; walk along Bayin River to enjoy the town’s nightscape. - **Day 2**: Delingha → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dachaidan Town - Morning: Explore Dachaidan Emerald Lake and take photos. - Evening: Return to Dachaidan Town for local cuisine. - **Day 3**: Dachaidan Town → Water Yardang → Xitai Jinair Lake → Mangya - Morning: Visit Water Yardang; noon: experience the two-toned Xitai Jinair Lake. - Evening: Rest in Mangya. - **Day 4**: Mangya → Aiken Spring → Lenghu Town (optional: watch sunrise at Aiken Spring before returning). - Early morning: Sunrise at Aiken Spring; then head to Lenghu Town, admiring Gobi scenery en route. 6-Day Trip - **Day 1**: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Chaka Town - Morning: Qinghai Lake; afternoon: sunset at Chaka Salt Lake. - Stay overnight in Chaka Town. - **Day 2**: Chaka Town → Delingha → Keluke Lake → Tuosu Lake → Delingha - Morning: Travel to Delingha, stopping at Keluke and Tuosu Lakes. - Evening: Explore Delingha. - **Day 3**: Delingha → Dachaidan Emerald Lake → Dachaidan Town - Full day at Dachaidan Emerald Lake. - Evening: Local food in Dachaidan Town. - **Day 4**: Dachaidan Town → Water Yardang → Dongtai Jinair Lake → Xitai Jinair Lake → Mangya - Morning: Water Yardang; then visit Dongtai and Xitai Jinair Lakes. - Evening: Arrive in Mangya. - **Day 5**: Mangya → Aiken Spring → Huatugou Town - Morning: Aiken Spring; afternoon: rest in Huatugou Town. - **Day 6**: Huatugou Town → Lenghu Town → Mars Camp → Eboliang Yardang → Return - Morning: Lenghu Town and Mars Camp. - Afternoon: Eboliang Yardang; depart based on return plans. ### V. Food Guide 1. **Kang Yang Pai (Grilled Lamb Ribs)**: Crispy outside, tender inside, served with potatoes and carrots—irresistibly aromatic. 2. **Hand-Torn Lamb**: Lightly salted and slow-cooked, tender and non-gamey. Dip in chili or garlic sauce for extra flavor. 3. **Qinghai Yogurt**: Thick, slightly sour with a cheesy aroma—perfect chilled for summer. 4. **Niang Pi (Cold Noodles)**: Chewy handmade noodles tossed in chili oil and vinegar—refreshingly spicy and tangy. 5. **Sweet Fermented Rice**: Made from barley or oats, soft and mildly sweet with a rice wine fragrance—chilled for a refreshing finish. ### VI. Accommodation Tips 1. **Delingha**: Stay downtown for convenience. Hotels and guesthouses range from ¥200–500. 2. **Dachaidan Town**: Opt for lodgings near Emerald Lake (¥200–800). 3. **Mangya**: Multiple hotel options (¥300–600). Book early during peak seasons. ### VII. Important Notes 1. **Altitude Sickness**: Some areas are high-altitude; avoid strenuous activity, stay hydrated, and consider anti-altitude meds. 2. **Weather**: Large temperature swings and strong UV—carry rain gear, warm layers, and sun protection. 3. **Driving Safety**: Some roads are challenging; drive slowly, especially in Gobi/sandstorm-prone areas. 4. **Eco-Consciousness**: Preserve the environment—no littering! Let’s protect this pristine land together.

Folks, Qarhan Salt Lake is absolutely INCREDIBLE for photography! As China's largest and the world's second-largest salt lake, it's like a giant gemstone left on earth by nature—every shot you take will amaze your social media circle. Below I'm sharing my exclusive Qarhan Salt Lake travel tips—don't forget to like and save this post! 🚗 Transportation Guide 1. By Air: Fly to Golmud Airport first, then charter a car from the airport (about 1-hour drive). Shared rides cost 50-80 RMB per person. 2. By Train: Arrive at Golmud Railway Station, then find shared ride drivers at the station square (about 25 RMB/person direct to the lake). You can also book chartered cars online in advance. 3. Self-drive: From Golmud downtown, take Liuge Expressway and transfer to the Salt Lake Special Line (about 60km total). Set navigation to "Qarhan Salt Lake Visitor Center". 🎫 Ticket Info Ticket + Sightseeing Bus: Peak season (May-Oct) 100 RMB/person, Off-season (Nov-Apr) 42 RMB/person. Zhejiang residents get free admission with ID, students get 50% off with student ID. 📸 Must-Visit Spots 1. Wanzhang Salt Bridge: A 32km-long road entirely paved with salt—no bridge piers yet incredibly sturdy. Stand on the bridge with emerald water on one side and white salt flats on the other for epic photos. Best shooting spot is the middle section for infinite salt road perspective. 2. Salt Flower Wonders: Various salt crystal formations resembling corals and flowers. Best visited 4-6pm when slanting sunlight makes them translucent—telephoto close-ups work magic. Aerial shots reveal a white floral sea. 3. Lakeside Art Installations: Water piano, deadwood swing—these lonely yet romantic installations against the salt lake backdrop create cinematic shots. Wear solid-color long dresses (red/white/green work best). 4. Salt Lake Museum: Learn about the lake's formation and mining history. Don't miss the "Salt Lake Marvel" sculpture and treasure hunt map for giant salt flowers and bridge monuments. 🌟 New Attractions 1. Ferris Wheel: The "Northwest's Tallest" 136.9m observation wheel (opening summer 2025) will offer 360° panoramic views—a new photography landmark. 2. Stargazing Camp: Container rooms 680 RMB/night, tents from 199 RMB/night. Perfect for Milky Way photography with laser pointer rentals available. 📅 Itinerary Suggestions 1. Day Trip: Morning departure from Golmud → Salt Lake Museum → Sightseeing bus to Wanzhang Salt Bridge → Afternoon salt flower area aerial shots → Lakeside installations for portraits. 2. In-depth Tour: Day1 Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Chaka Town; Day2 Chaka → Qarhan Salt Lake → Dachaidan Emerald Lake; Day3 Dachaidan → Watery Yadan → Dunhuang. 🍜 Food Recommendations 1. Golmud City: ◦ Lao Yan Roast Lamb: Wood-fired tender lamb with local barley wine (~80 RMB/person). ◦ Salar Restaurant: Specialty grilled lamb ribs (~70 RMB/person). ◦ Old Yogurt Shop: Must-try thick local yogurt with honey/jam (8 RMB/bowl). 2. Scenic Area: Only instant noodles/salt-flavored ice cream available—bring snacks. 🏠 Accommodation Tips 1. Golmud City: ◦ Kempinski Hotel: Oxygen-equipped rooms with free airport transfer (~400 RMB/night). ◦ Urba Hotel (Salt Lake Square Branch): Convenient location (~200-400 RMB/night). 2. Scenic Area: Try stargazing camps (bring warm clothes)—electricity starts at 9PM. ❗ Important Notes 1. Safety & Environment: Saltwater is corrosive—wear rental shoe covers (10 RMB/pair). Don't step on unfortified salt crusts or carve on salt formations. Pack out trash. 2. Altitude & Weather: ~2670m elevation—avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness (take rhodiola in advance). Huge temperature swings (40°C day/20°C night)—bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and down jackets. 3. Gear & Outfits: Wide-angle for panoramas, tripod for long exposures. Register drones at visitor center (150m height limit). Flowy red/yellow dresses photograph beautifully—bring windproof outerwear. 4. Others: Spotty signal—download offline maps. Zhejiang residents must bring original IDs for verification. Qarhan Salt Lake is truly a once-in-a-lifetime destination that won't disappoint with its natural wonders and unique experiences. Grab this guide and start your adventure!

Qinghai-Gansu routes are a hot destination during summer, often packed with tourists. But with smart planning, you can still enjoy stunning views without the crowds! Mix lesser-known spots with popular attractions and travel during off-peak hours. While others are stuck in crowds, you’ll have the beauty all to yourself—totally worth it! 🤑 📦 Pre-Trip Preparation: Be Ready for a Spontaneous Adventure ✅ Documents: Don’t forget your ID card! Bring discount cards like student IDs or military IDs for potential savings. ✅ Clothing: Even in summer, pack a warm jacket! Qinghai and Gansu have big temperature differences between day and night—short sleeves for daytime, a padded jacket for nighttime. ✅ Sun Protection: Sunglasses 🕶️, hats 🧢, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves! The UV rays are intense, so come prepared if you don’t want to get sunburned. ✅ Medications: Bring cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills just in case. Feeling good physically ensures a fun trip! 😜 🗺️ Itinerary: Crowd-Free Route to Bookmark DAY 1: Xining — Riyue Mountain — Qinghai Lake (Heimahe Scenic Area) — Chaka Salt Lake — Chaka Town (Overnight) DAY 2: Chaka Town — Qarhan Salt Lake — Golmud (Overnight) DAY 3: Golmud — National Highway 315 (U-shaped Road) — Water Yadan — Dachaidan Town (Overnight) DAY 4: Dachaidan Town — Dachaidan Emerald Lake — Black Mountain — Aksay Oil Town — Silk Road Heritage City — Dunhuang (Overnight) DAY 5: Dunhuang — Mogao Caves (Book tickets for around 9 AM) — Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake — Shazhou Night Market — Dunhuang (Overnight) DAY 6: Dunhuang — (Passing by) Jiayuguan Fortress — Zhangye Rainbow Mountains — Zhangye (Overnight) DAY 7: Zhangye — Biandukou — Qilian Grassland — Gangshika Snow Peak (Distant View) — Xining (End of Trip) 🌟 Sightseeing Tips: Capture Stunning Photos Without Waiting ✔️ Choose Heimahe Scenic Area at Qinghai Lake for fewer crowds and breathtaking photo opportunities 📸. ✔️ Visit Chaka Salt Lake early to avoid the crowds and easily capture stunning “Sky Mirror” shots. ✔️ Book Mogao Caves tickets for 9 AM to enjoy a quieter experience and immerse yourself in the thousand-year-old cultural heritage. 🍜 Food Recommendations: A Taste of Qinghai and Gansu 🍛 Hand-Grasped Lamb: Juicy and tender, dip it in sauce for an unforgettable bite! 🍜 Lanzhou Noodles: Known for its “one clear, two white, three red, four green, five yellow,” slurping a bowl is pure bliss! 🥟 Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles: A Dunhuang specialty with fragrant donkey meat and chewy yellow noodles—a must-try! ⚠️ Travel Tips: Avoid Common Pitfalls ❗ Respect local customs—don’t say or photograph anything inappropriate. ❗ Avoid strenuous activities in high-altitude areas; adapt slowly to ensure your health 💪. ❗ Check weather and road conditions in advance and plan your itinerary carefully. Even spontaneous trips need preparation!

The romance of Northwest China lies in the azure of Qinghai Lake, the mirror-like reflection of Chaka Salt Lake, the sunset camel bells of Mingsha Mountain, and the colorful hues of Zhangye Danxia. This "Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop" connects Qinghai and Gansu, allowing you to unlock all these wonders in one trip. Packing List: ▪ Documents: ID card + student ID (Half-price tickets save money for milk tea!) 📚 ▪ Clothing: T-shirts + windbreaker (big temperature difference between day and night!) 🧥 Bright scarves/skirts for stunning photos 📸 ▪ Sun protection trio: SPF50+ sunscreen + 🕶 sunglasses + wide-brimmed hat (strong UV rays!) ▪ High-altitude essentials: Glucose oral solution + motion sickness patches 💊 (some bumpy road sections) 🚗【Transportation Guide】 Major transportation: ✈ Flying to Xining Caojiabao Airport is the most convenient. If transiting through Lanzhou, it takes 3 hours by high-speed train or bus 🚂. If you have time, you can opt for a train ride, which offers scenic views but takes longer. Local transportation: Highly recommend renting a car! 💰 Drivers are familiar with the routes and can take you to lesser-known spots. Beginners should avoid self-driving as some sections are bumpy, and long-distance driving can be exhausting. Public transportation has limited schedules, so avoid it if you're in a hurry. Qinghai Lake-Dunhuang-Zhangye-Water Yadan-Chaka Salt Lake Seven-Day Grand Loop: Day 1: Xining---Sun and Moon Mountain---Qinghai Lake (Heimahe)---Chaka Salt Lake (overnight) Day 2: Chaka---Chaka Salt Lake---Golmud (overnight) Day 3: Golmud---U-shaped Highway---Water Yadan---Dachaidan Emerald Lake (overnight) Day 4: Dachaidan---Black Mountain---Oil Town---Dunhuang City (overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang---Mogao Caves (best to book tickets for around 9 AM)---Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring---Dunhuang City (overnight) Day 6: Dunhuang City---via Jiayuguan---Zhangye Rainbow Mountains---Zhangye (overnight) Day 7: Zhangye---Qilian Mountain Grassland---Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view)---Xining (end) 🌟【Must-Visit Attractions】 Qinghai Lake: The largest saltwater lake in China, surrounded by rapeseed flowers in July and August! Chaka Salt Lake: Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," perfect for portrait photography! Wear light-colored dresses and go barefoot (shoe covers available for rent at the site). The best lighting is around 10 AM. Please protect the environment and avoid littering. Dunhuang Mogao Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site! Book A-class tickets in advance on the official website (includes 8 caves + digital movie). Listen to the guides tell the stories behind the murals—it's truly awe-inspiring! Zhangye Danxia: Colors are most vibrant after rain! Watch the sunset from Observation Deck 4. The colorful hills resemble a spilled paint palette, and drone photography captures stunning shots! 💡【Useful Tips】 🌷 The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop covers long distances, and toilets are scarce along the way. Drink less water and prepare in advance. 🌷 Some areas have high altitudes. Avoid strenuous activities and immediate bathing upon arrival to prevent altitude sickness. If symptoms occur, oxygen can help alleviate them. 🌷 When taking photos on the U-shaped Highway, ensure safety and avoid standing in the middle of the road. Vehicles pass by quickly, posing a risk. 🌷 Drone photography at Water Yadan better showcases its unique "fleet on the sea" landforms. 🌷 Qinghai Lake and Chaka Salt Lake are at high altitudes with low temperatures. Even in summer, it's recommended to bring warm clothing. 🌷 Respect local religious beliefs and customs. Dress appropriately when entering temples and avoid taking random photos. Northwest Travel Tips: 1⃣ Arrive in Xining one day early to acclimate to the high-altitude climate. 2⃣ Watching the sunrise at Qinghai Lake requires an early start. The lakeside is windy, so bring a jacket. 3⃣ Wear sandals at Chaka Salt Lake; shoe covers are available for rent inside the scenic area. 4⃣ Mogao Caves tickets need to be booked 15 days in advance (A-class tickets include 8 caves). 5⃣ Desert areas have large temperature differences between day and night, so a light down jacket is essential.

🔥 The Northwest is truly vast and stunning, spanning across Gansu and Qinghai provinces (7-day loop). Along the journey, you'll traverse lakes 🏖️, grasslands 🖼️, salt lakes 🌊, deserts 🏜️, explore the mysteries of grottoes, marvel at the grandeur of the Great Wall, admire the spectacular Danxia landforms, gaze at the snow-capped mountains 🏔️, stroll through flower fields 🌸, cross desolate wilderness 🍺, Gobi deserts, and unique Yardang landforms 🍓. Only by visiting the Northwest can you truly experience the breathtaking vastness of its landscapes. This is undoubtedly a soul-stirring journey 💗💗. ———————————————— 🤔 Travel Essentials: 🌟 Documents: ID card, student ID, driver's license 🌟 Electronics: charging cables, power bank ⚡, headphones 🎧, selfie stick, charger 🌟 Skincare: lip balm, hand cream, sunscreen, moisturizer, face masks ---------- Qinghai Lake-Dunhuang-Zhangye-Salt Lake-Yardang Seven-Day Grand Loop: Day 1: Xining --- Riyue Mountain --- Qinghai Lake (Heimahe) --- Chaka Salt Lake (overnight) Day 2: Chaka --- Qarhan Salt Lake --- Golmud (overnight) Day 3: Golmud --- U-shaped Highway --- Water Yardang --- Dachaidan Emerald Lake (overnight) Day 4: Dachaidan --- Heidushan --- Oil Town --- Dunhuang City (overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang --- Mogao Caves (best to book tickets for around 9 AM) --- Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake --- Dunhuang City (overnight) Day 6: Dunhuang City --- via Jiayuguan --- Zhangye Rainbow Danxia --- Zhangye (overnight) Day 7: Zhangye --- Qilian Mountain Grasslands --- Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view) --- Xining (end) -------------------- 🥣 Food Recommendations: 😋 Hand-grabbed lamb: tender and juicy, not greasy 🥰 😋 Old yogurt: a local specialty, available everywhere in Qinghai 🥰 😋 Donkey meat yellow noodles: a specialty of Dunhuang, served separately 🥰 😋 "Dog Pee": thin pancakes fried with rapeseed oil, sprinkled with sugar for better taste 🥰 😋 Qinghai Three Stews: made with potatoes, lamb tendons, and meatballs 🥰 --- ‼️💥 Notes: During the trip, please keep the following in mind: The temperature difference between morning and evening is significant, so it's recommended to switch to a down jacket. Despite the temperature variations, the scenery is breathtaking! 🔴 --- 【Outfit Suggestions】↘️↘️↘️ 🔸 Choose a hat with a wide brim that can be secured! 🧢 🔸 Ensure that your sun-protective sleeves fully cover your fingers! 🧤 🔸 Use disposable masks 😷 to avoid smudging makeup or causing inconvenience due to sweat. 🔸 When wearing sandals 👟, make sure to wear socks to protect against sunburn and retain moisture! 🔸 Upon arriving at high-altitude areas, avoid strenuous activities and walk slowly. 🔸 Due to the dry climate, remember to drink water frequently in small amounts. 🔸 The UV rays in high-altitude areas are strong 🕶️, so take proper protective measures. 🔸 Additionally, the weather in high-altitude areas is unpredictable, so keep warm and bring necessary cold-weather clothing 🧥. 🔸 If possible, bring a camera 📷, as many scenic spots offer stunning photo opportunities 💗💗. --- 🌟 Tips for Qinghai-Gansu Travel: ❌ Avoid low-cost tours; they often lead to pitfalls. ❌ Mogao Caves ticket booking! Only buy Class A tickets! Class B tickets (emergency tickets) only allow access to 4 caves and do not offer time selection. ❌ Prioritize physical sun protection over chemical sun protection; a sun hat + cooling sleeves are a must 😭. ❌ Respect local customs! When visiting Ta'er Monastery or mosques, avoid exposing shoulders or legs, and do not touch Tibetan children's heads. At Hui restaurants, refer to "pork" as "big meat." ❌ Book accommodations in advance! Last-minute bookings can cost 50% more.

Super comprehensive travel guide for Qarhan Salt Lake, hit the road after reading! Qarhan Salt Lake, China's largest salt lake, covers a vast area of 5800 square kilometers, 56 times the size of Chaka Salt Lake. It's beautiful with few people, as stunning as a dreamlike fairyland! Here, you can see unique landscapes like salt flowers, salt bridges, and salt sculptures. The lake water is an emerald green like apple soda, and any casual shot turns into a masterpiece. I. Transportation Guide 1. Self-driving: Starting from Golmud, take the G3011 Liuge Expressway, and you can arrive in about 1.5 hours. The road condition is good, and you can also enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Gobi highway along the way, with any casual shot becoming a highway masterpiece. Self-driving cars can only be parked outside the scenic area, and you need to transfer to the scenic area bus to enter. The seats on the right side inside the bus offer better views. 2. Public Transportation: ◦ At Zhufeng Building on the east side of Kunlun Square in Golmud city, there are factory commuter buses going there, about one every hour, with a fare of 15 - 20 yuan. ◦ Taking a taxi round trip from Golmud city costs about 150 yuan and can take you directly to the Salt Lake Museum. ◦ There is a train from Golmud to Qarhan at 9:00 every day, with a ticket price of 8.5 yuan, but it is still some distance from the scenic area after getting off the train. II. Consumption Guide 1. Ticket Price: Peak season (May - October) 100 yuan/person, off-season (November - April) prices are slightly lower. The ticket includes the scenic area bus fee. 2. Discount Policy: Children under 1.2 meters, seniors over 70 years old, soldiers, people with disabilities, etc., are exempt from tickets; students and minors aged 6 - 18 enjoy half-price tickets; tourists from Zhejiang province are exempt from tickets with their ID card, only needing to purchase the bus/sightseeing vehicle ticket. 3. Other Costs: Round trip sightseeing vehicle 30 yuan; glass boat photo 30 yuan/person; drone rental price depends on the model; there are also some local snacks and souvenirs sold in the scenic area, the prices are reasonable and not too outrageous. III. Play Guide 1. Best Time to Visit: June - October is the golden season, July - September the climate is pleasant and the lake water color is most vibrant. It is recommended to visit after 3 PM daily, when the light is soft and you can capture the most beautiful reflection effects; there are fewer people in the morning and it is quieter, but the temperature is lower. Note that when the sun is directly overhead at noon, the lake surface reflects strongly, making it easy to overexpose portraits, so remember to bring sunglasses. 2. Must-visit Attractions: ◦ Ten Thousand Zhang Salt Bridge: A road 32 kilometers long, completely paved with salt, with a hardness comparable to asphalt roads. When the road surface is damaged, pouring some brine can automatically repair it. Standing on the bridge, there is an endless salt lake on both sides, and on a sunny day, the sky is reflected in it, which is breathtakingly beautiful. ◦ Salt Flower Spectacle: Salt crystals formed by the evaporation of lake water, with strange and varied shapes, some like coral, some like pavilions and towers, and some like birds and beasts. The best viewing spot is near the Salt Lake Museum, which also houses precious "Salt Lake Oddity" crystal specimens. ◦ Lakeside Swing: White swings are set up by the lush green lake, swaying gently in the wind, creating a perfect photo atmosphere! It is recommended to wear brightly colored dresses, but remember to bring a jacket, as the wind is strong and the temperature is low by the lake. ◦ Reef Cluster: Salt reef clusters of various shapes, as if in a fantasy landscape of an alien planet, with excellent aerial photography effects, capable of capturing a spectacular scene like "Thousand Island Lake". ◦ Salt Lake Museum: Free to enter, here you can learn about the history of the salt lake's formation and the mining process. The salt flower crystals displayed in the museum are beautiful, and the "Salt Lake Oddity" at the entrance is a popular photo spot. 3. Tour Route: Take the scenic shuttle bus for 30 minutes to enter the scenic area (sit on the right side when entering). After getting off, you can choose to walk or take the sightseeing vehicle to tour the salt lake, the round trip is 4 kilometers. The sightseeing vehicle is 15 yuan/person for a single trip. It is recommended to take the vehicle there and walk back, as the scenery is better later on, and there are fewer people, making it better for photos. IV. Accommodation Guide There are almost no accommodation facilities around Qarhan Salt Lake. Most tourists choose to stay in Golmud city, where there are many cost-effective accommodation options: 1. Chain hotels like Hanting/Home Inn: Clean and hygienic, affordable prices, generally 200 - 300 yuan per night. 2. Local B&Bs: You can experience more authentic Qinghai life, and the prices are also relatively affordable, you can find decent conditions for around 200 yuan. Remember to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from July to September. Choose hotels close to Kunlun Square for convenient access to the early commuter bus.

Just returned from Chaka Salt Lake in Haixi during May Day—absolutely breathtaking! 😭 The lake looks like a spilled palette, transforming into a natural sky mirror on sunny days—every shot is postcard-worthy! 🚗【Hassle-Free Transport】 1-hour direct ride from Golmu by chartered car or rental (carpooling is budget-friendly). Shuttle buses also available. Arrive before 9 AM for soft light and fewer crowds! 🎫【Ticket Tips】 Peak season: ¥100/person (students get 50% off with ID). Must-pack: sunglasses + sunscreen—the glare is intense! 👀 👗【Outfits & Route】 Wear bright long dresses! Red/yellow against the salt lake = perfection. 👉🏻 Recommended route: 1⃣ Head straight to Sky Mirror viewpoint (capture reflections early). 2⃣ Take the mini-train to see salt flower wonders (lake center is awe-inspiring!). 3⃣ Sunset at the salt sculpture area—magical golden hour! ⚠ Pro tips: Salt crystals hurt bare feet! Buy waterproof shoe covers (or rain boots) in advance. Pack wet wipes—saltwater can itch!