2025 Ulan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

A six-day travel guide from Xining, Qinghai to Dunhuang Mogao Caves is here! Essential routes and must-see attractions, all in one place. Save it now! 🚗Itinerary: D1: Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake The first stop is Erlangjian Scenic Area, Qinghai Lake, to experience the magnificent scenery of the plateau lake. D2: Chaka Salt Lake -> Dachaidan Emerald Lake Travel through the "Mirror of the Sky" at Chaka Salt Lake, then head to Dachaidan Emerald Lake to experience the magical colors of nature. D3: Ussute Water Yadan Geopark -> Dongtai Jinel Lake -> Nanbaxian Devil City Explore the unique landforms of Water Yadan, swim in the clear waters of Dongtai Jinel Lake, and finally visit Nanbaxian Devil City to experience the mystery and magnificence of the desert. D4: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Spring -> Mogao Caves Conquer Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Moon Spring, and then visit the Mogao Caves to appreciate the splendor of thousands of years of Buddhist art. D5: Son of the Earth -> Beyond Limits -> Might of Emperor Wu of Han -> Jiayuguan Pass Immerse yourself in the deep affection of the Son of the Earth, experience the artistic innovation of Beyond Limits, follow the historical footsteps of the Might of Emperor Wu of Han, and finally ascend Jiayuguan Pass to look back at the glory of the ancient Silk Road. D6: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park At Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, admire the colorful Danxia landforms and conclude an unforgettable trip to Northwest China. 🌈 Travel tips: - Specialty prices: Xining's dried beef is mellow and delicious, about 80 yuan/500g, suitable for gifts or personal consumption 🥩. - Local customs: Dunhuang Mogao Caves is a Buddhist holy site. Please be quiet and respectful during your visit 🙏. - February climate: The temperature in Dunhuang in February is moderate, but there is a large temperature difference between day and night. Remember to bring a down jacket to stay warm 🧣. 🎉Hope you have a wonderful and memorable trip to Xining, Qinghai and Dunhuang Mogao Caves!

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🌄

Traveling during the Lunar New Year? This 5-day itinerary to Dunhuang, Qinghai Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake will let you experience the beauty and mystery of Northwest China. Don't miss out! -- 🚗 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xining Check into your hotel and get ready for an exciting journey! Day 2: Riyue Mountain - Erlangjian Scenic Area - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake Cross Riyue Mountain, explore Erlangjian, enjoy Qinghai Lake, and finally, get lost in the mirror-like Chaka Salt Lake. Day 3: Dachaidan Emerald Lake Scenic Area - Dangjin Mountain Experience the unique charm of Emerald Lake, then head to Dangjin Mountain to enjoy the beauty of nature. Day 4: Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - Mingsha Mountain - Mogao Caves Ride a camel across Mingsha Mountain, listen to the legend of Crescent Spring, and visit the thousand-year-old art treasures of the Mogao Caves. Day 5: Leave Dunhuang and end your journey Return home with fond memories and look forward to seeing you again! 👋 -- Must-see attractions: - 🏜️ Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring: A miracle in the desert! Climb the sand dunes, overlook Crescent Spring, and marvel at the wonders of nature. - 🌊 Chaka Salt Lake: The salt here is whiter than snow, and the lake reflects the blue sky like a mirror. Wear bright clothes and take stunning photos! - 🎭 Mogao Caves: More than just murals and Buddha statues, the dome theater will take you back in time to experience the rich Buddhist culture. -- Travel essentials: 🧳 👕 Clothing: Bring a thick coat and long pants to keep warm and protect against the wind, as well as stylish and comfortable clothes like hoodies and denim jackets. 👟 Shoes: Boots are suitable for sandy areas and the Yadan landform, sneakers for everyday wear, and sandals for Mingsha Mountain. 🎩 Accessories: Hats and sunglasses are a must to protect against the sun and look stylish. Bring an umbrella to protect against the high-altitude UV rays. 💳 Documents and money: ID card, cash, and bank card are essential. Don't forget them! 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, painkillers, sunscreen, and altitude sickness medicine are also recommended, just in case. 📱 Electronics: Phone, charger, and camera to record your wonderful journey! 🍞 Food and water: Bring some snacks and water to replenish your energy during the trip. It's important! -- 🚗 The beauty of Dunhuang, the tranquility of Qinghai Lake, and the magic of Chaka Salt Lake are waiting for you to explore. We hope your trip to Northwest China is full of surprises!

The Great Northwest (Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop) is a land full of mystery and magnificence, with vast deserts, mirror-like salt lakes, majestic mountains, and ancient cultural relics. August and September are the best times to visit the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop. You must save this full guide! 1. Travel Methods You can fly to and from Xining from various places. The Great Northwest is vast, and the distances between attractions are large, with average travel times of two to three hours. If you are energetic and love freedom, self-driving is a good option to fully enjoy the scenery along the way. If you are worried about the fatigue of the journey, joining a small tour group is also great, with a driver and guide providing attentive service, making your trip worry-free and effortless. 2. Six Days and Five Nights Itinerary: - Day 1: After flying from Changsha to Xining, the first stop is Riyue Mountain to feel the weight of history. Then head to Qinghai Lake, where the blue water is as clear as a gem, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. The winding mountain roads of Rubber Mountain offer a unique driving experience. Next, visit Chaka Salt Lake, which is like a mirror of the sky, pure and dreamy. Finally, arrive at Delingha for accommodation to recharge for the next day's journey. - Day 2: Depart from Delingha and take the U-shaped road to experience the magical charm of the highway. The unique landscape of Water Yadan is awe-inspiring, showcasing the wonders of nature. Emerald Lake is as green and beautiful as scattered emeralds. Stay overnight in Dachaidan and enjoy the tranquility of the western night. - Day 3: Depart from Dachaidan to the Silk Road ruins city, as if traveling back to the ancient Silk Road. Then arrive in Dunhuang for accommodation, and stroll through the bustling night market in the evening to taste local delicacies. - Day 4: Visit the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, an art treasure trove that carries thousands of years of history and culture, mesmerizing visitors. Then head to Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring to experience the wonders of nature in the desert. Continue to stay in Dunhuang. - Day 5: Depart from Dunhuang, passing through Guazhou to experience the exotic western style. The grandeur of Jiayuguan is awe-inspiring, showcasing the strength of ancient military defense systems. Finally, arrive at Zhangye Danxia for accommodation, and be amazed by the colorful landforms. - Day 6: Depart from Zhangye, passing through Biandukou to enjoy the natural scenery along the way. The vast Qilian Grassland, with its lush green grass, is a great place to relax. Finally, return to Xining, ending an unforgettable journey. 3. Food Recommendations Qinghai yogurt, rich and creamy with a perfect balance of sweetness and sourness; hand-grabbed mutton, tender and juicy with a fragrant aroma; roasted lamb ribs, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with a mouth-watering scent; apricot peel tea, refreshing and sweet, perfect for quenching thirst. These delicacies are highly recommended. 4. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Dunhuang Mogao Caves: A hall of art with exquisite murals and solemn Buddha statues, a treasure of human civilization. 2. Jiayuguan: Majestic and grand, the western starting point of the Great Wall, witnessing the vicissitudes of history. 3. Qilian Grassland: Under the blue sky and white clouds, with lush green grass and herds of cattle and sheep, it is like a beautiful painting. 4. Chaka Salt Lake: A mirror of the sky, pure and transparent, making you feel like you are in a dream world. 5. Qinghai Lake Erlangjian: Vast and shimmering, a masterpiece of nature. 6. Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring: A miracle in the desert, with sand dunes and clear springs, stunningly beautiful. 5. Precautions 1. The temperature difference in Qinghai in August and September is significant, so autumn clothing is a must. Bring a jacket, long sleeves, short sleeves, and thermal pants, and don't forget a beautiful dress for stunning photos. It's best to prepare a detachable fleece jacket that is windproof, warm, and waterproof. 2. The ultraviolet rays in the plateau area are extremely strong, so you must bring sunscreen products, including sunglasses, hats, sunscreen masks, and sunscreen lotion. The western climate is dry, so face masks are also essential. 3. Bring some common medicines in case of physical discomfort. 4. Remember to bring a power bank to avoid missing beautiful moments due to a dead phone battery. 5. Prepare comfortable shoes for easy walking when getting off the car.

The Gansu-Qinghai Grand Loop is definitely a scenic route you cannot miss in your lifetime. 8 days and 7 nights to explore the breathtaking landscapes on Earth! 📸✨ 🌺Essential items: 🆔Documents: ID card, student ID, etc. 🧥Clothing: windbreaker, down jacket, etc. 📱Electronics: mobile phone, camera, power bank, etc. 🤧Medicines: cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, etc. 🕶Others: sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. ⚠️Special notes: 1⃣Thermos, as the water quality in the northwest is hard, drink more water 2⃣Respect the customs of minorities 3⃣Pay attention to temperature changes 👉Itinerary: 💎Day 1: Xining 💎Day 2: Riyue Mountain, Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake 📸Stunning scenery 💎Day 3: Dachaidan Emerald Lake 📷Sky reflection 💎Day 4: U-shaped road, Water Yadan 📸Spectacular views 💎Day 5: Nanbaxian Devil City, Dunhuang 🕰️Historical sites 💎Day 6: Mogao Caves, Mingsha Mountain 📷Desert landscape 💎Day 7: Guazhou, Jiayuguan, Rainbow Mountains 📸Colorful scenery 💎Day 8: Qilian Grassland 📷Vast grassland 📸Photo suggestions: landmark buildings, natural wonders

📍 **Chaka Salt Lake**: Located in Chaka Town, Wulan County, Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, this natural wonder is known as the 'Mirror of the Sky,' attracting countless photographers and travelers to explore. 📅 **Best Travel Time**: From June to September each year, the climate is pleasant, and the lake surface is calm, making it the best time to capture reflections. 🚶‍♂ **Tour Route**: - In the morning, wear bright clothes and stroll along the lake, experiencing the magical feeling of the mirror-like surface and capturing moments where the sky and earth merge. - At noon, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties such as Chaka lamb, which is tender and flavorful. - In the afternoon, take a small train tour around the lake, appreciating the beauty of the salt lake from different angles, and visit the salt sculpture art group to feel the perfect combination of art and nature. - In the evening, wait for the sunset and admire the magnificent sunset scenery of the salt lake, capturing the golden reflections under the setting sun. 📸 **Photography Tips**: - The best time for shooting is at sunrise and sunset when the light is soft, making it the best time to capture reflections. - Clothing suggestion: Bright clothes, such as red, can stand out against the white salt lake background. 🍽 **Food Recommendations**: - Chaka Lamb: The meat is tender and has no gamey taste, making it a local delicacy. - Paojiang Noodles: A specialty noodle dish from the northwest region, rich in flavor and unique in taste. - 'Dog Pee' Fried Cake: A well-known local staple, crispy on the outside and sticky on the inside, with a distinctive flavor. 🏨 **Accommodation Recommendations**: Choose hotels or homestays in Chaka Town for convenient travel arrangements the next day. 💡 **Precautions**: - Sun protection and hydration: Chaka Salt Lake is at a high altitude with strong UV rays, so pay attention to sun protection and hydration. - Altitude sickness: Take appropriate measures to prevent altitude sickness and maintain good health. - Environmental awareness: Protect the environment and do not litter in the scenic area. 🌟 **Summary**: Chaka Salt Lake is not only a natural wonder but also a spiritual cleansing. Here, you can slow down and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature. Come to Chaka Salt Lake and start an unforgettable journey! 💬 Are you ready for a spontaneous trip to Chaka Salt Lake? Share your expectations and plans in the comments section!

Chaka Salt Lake has an extremely high salt content in its water and is a brine lake where both solid and liquid coexist. The lake is vast and spacious, with flat terrain, and has a strong mirror-like reflective ability, forming a landscape where "the water reflects the sky, the sky meets the ground, and people walking in the lake are like swimming in a painting." It is known as the "China's Sky Mirror." ⛰【Attractions Guide】 📍Detailed address: No. 9, Yanhu Road, Chaka Town, Ulan County, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province 🚗Transportation strategy: ✈️Plane: Fly to Xining Caojiabao Airport, and then take a bus or rent a car to Chaka Salt Lake, which is about 280 kilometers away. 🚞Train: Take the train to Delingha or Golmud in Qinghai Province, and then take a bus 🚌 or taxi 🚗 to go. 🕙Opening hours: ❤️Peak season (July-August) business hours: 05:30-22:00 ❤️Business hours during shoulder season (June-September): 06:00-21:00 ❤️Off-season (April-May) business hours: 07:00-21:00 💰Ticket price: Tickets 60💰 Round trip train ticket 100💰/person Observation tower: 20💰/person Battery car ticket: one way 5💰/person ⭐Featured recommendations: Nature Journey: Skyland The lake has a strong mirror-like reflective ability and is known as the "Mirror of the Sky". A journey through history: Centennial Railway This railway track extends all the way to the depths of the salt lake and has been preserved, crossing the Chaka Salt Lake, forming a beautiful landscape with the lake surface and becoming a unique artistic landscape. 🚞Journey to the Clouds: Salt Lake Train The little train shuttles through the silver world, like a dream, as if entering a fairy tale world Art Journey: Salt Sculpture Competition The salt sculptures of Chaka Salt Lake are a perfect combination of nature and art. They shine brightly against the backdrop of blue sky, white clouds and the vast salt sea, which amazes visitors. Shocking Journey: Snow-capped Mountains and Lake Reflections The two mountains are covered with snow all year round, and the snow-capped mountains are reflected on the lake surface, forming the unique natural scenery of the magnificent Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: "the lake and the sky are the same color, and the salt lake and the snow-capped peaks are the same brilliance." Time Travel: Sunrise and Sunset The most beautiful time for the Chaka Salt Lake is around sunrise and sunset. The colorful clouds, the rising sun or the setting sun shine on the salt lake, forming a beautiful picture of the sky and water blending into one. 🎈Best time to visit: May-September, about 3 hours is enough for the visit 📌Tips: Be sure to avoid salt caves and protect your belongings from falling into the salt lake. Prepare some wet wipes before visiting Chaka Salt Lake. When your hands come into contact with the lake water, salt crystals will stick to them, which can be wiped off with wet wipes. The ultraviolet rays in Qinghai are strong, and there is also reflection from the lake surface, so it is recommended that you wear sunglasses, bring a parasol, apply sunscreen, and do a good job of sun protection. The Chaka Salt Lake area is about 3,000 meters above sea level. Do not engage in strenuous exercise to avoid altitude sickness and physical discomfort. Scarves and sunglasses look great in photos here. There is a small wooden house after leaving the scenic area, where you can get a bag of edible salt made from Chaka Salt Lake for free. (I didn’t know it at the time, I only saw it after I came back and read the guide.) It is recommended to go in the evening when it is not hot and you can watch the sunset. The altitude here is relatively high, and some people may start to experience altitude sickness, so please prepare medicine or oxygen cylinders in advance.

Zhangye Danxia Landform, a place that captivates the imagination, is hailed as one of the most beautiful outdoor filming locations in the world. The unique landform and vibrant colors resemble a natural painting. Here, you can experience the magical charm of nature and admire the magnificent Danxia landform scenery. The formation of Zhangye Danxia Landform is related to geological movements and the colors of the rocks. Due to the different colors of the rocks and the changes in the angle of sunlight, a splendid visual effect is created. Here, you can see various shapes and sizes of earthen forest stone pillars, colorful hills, and canyons, each with its unique beauty. Recommended Route: Qinghai, China; Gansu, China Xining—Qinghai Lake—Chaka Salt Lake—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dunhuang Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Zhangye Danxia Landform—Qilian Grassland Six Days Five Nights Tour Day 1: Xining—Sun and Moon Mountain—Daotang River—Qinghai Lake—Rubber Mountain—Chaka Salt Lake (Overnight) Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake—Qaidam Basin—Dachaidan Emerald Lake—Dachaidan (Overnight) Day 3: Dachaidan—South Eight Yadan of Qinghai—Petroleum Town—Dunhuang Ancient City—Dunhuang (Overnight) Day 4: Dunhuang Mogao Caves—Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring—Dunhuang (Overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang—Son of the Earth—Zhangye Danxia Landform—Zhangye (Overnight) Day 6: Zhangye—Biandukou—Qilian Grassland—Xining (End of the trip)

Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop | Nanny-Level Route Guide Sharing Used to the routine city life, why not experience the grandeur of the northwest with its 'vast desert and long river with a round sunset'? This place has all the terrains and landforms in the world: lakes, mountains, Danxia landforms, deserts, neighbors, hills, grasslands, plateaus, stone forests... A trip to the northwest is equivalent to traveling ten times. I have compiled a travel guide for everyone here! Northwest Third Pole Travel Takes You to the Northwest 💁‍♀️9 Days and 8 Nights Northwest Tour Route D1: Arrive in Xining - Free 24-hour airport/station pickup - Check-in at hotel D2: Riyue Mountain - Daotang River - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka Town (overnight) D3: Chaka - Xiaochaidan Lake - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan (overnight) D4: Dachaidan - U-shaped Road - Water Yadan - Dachaidan (overnight) D5: Emerald Lake - Heidushan - Oil Town - Dunhuang (overnight) D6: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring - (Dunhuang) D7: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park - Zhangye (overnight) D8: Zhangye - Qilian Grassland - Distant view of Gangshika Snow Peak - Menyuan Rapeseed Flower - Xining D9: Xining - Various destinations (free airport drop-off) 💞Scenic Spot Introduction 🌟Qinghai Lake: The sunrise and sunset are extremely beautiful, and there are golden rapeseed flowers by the lake in spring. 🌟Chaka Salt Lake: Be sure to take stunning reflection photos in the legendary Sky Mirror. 🌟Emerald Lake: Float on the emerald green lake in a transparent boat, aerial photography is amazing. 🌟Mogao Caves: The charm of the thousand-year-old cave murals is endless, and the guide's introduction is also very vivid. 🌟Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring: Take photos riding a camel in a red dress, absolutely stunning. 🌟Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park: The Danxia landform in the oil painting is vividly presented in front of you, super shocking. ~ 🙆🏻‍♀️Notes: ○ How to prevent and deal with altitude sickness ○ Avoid strenuous exercise when you first arrive at the plateau ○ Do not drink alcohol or smoke when you first arrive at the plateau, wait until you adapt ○ Do not go to the plateau if you have a cold, as it can easily cause pulmonary edema ○ The northwest loop is located on the plateau, with strong sunlight and ultraviolet rays, so take sun protection measures ○ The temperature difference between morning and evening in the northwest is large, so keep warm

⛅️I always remember one item in my wish list: to go to Chaka Salt Lake. This sky mirror is only blue and white, satisfying all your imaginations of beauty ⛅️Walking in the cold salt pans, looking for my own reflection, taking pictures again and again in the distance, looking back and forth at the sea and sky, not wanting to miss any scene On a sunny afternoon, it feels like time has stopped again. Can't put it down❤️ #SkyMirror

Caka Salt Lake, situated in Qinghai, China, is a natural wonder renowned for its ethereal beauty. Spanning over 100 square kilometers, it's one of the largest saltwater lakes in the region. What sets Caka apart is its striking pink hue during certain seasons, attributed to the presence of microorganisms and high salinity. The lake's landscape is surreal, with vast salt flats extending to the horizon, forming mesmerizing hexagonal patterns. Caka Salt Lake is also ecologically significant, providing habitat for migratory birds and supporting unique flora and fauna adapted to extreme salinity. Tourists are drawn not only to its surreal landscapes but also to the cultural richness of the Tibetan and Mongolian communities in the surrounding areas, making Caka Salt Lake a destination of natural and cultural intrigue. #timetotravel #China #instatravel

Address - You can just type the name of the hotel into the Didi or show your taxi driver the address and they will take you to the hotel. Ambiance/Facilities - I liked this hotel, it was basic...attended to all our needs and were convenient because it's in a street with lots of shops and restaurants. It's also close to Chaka Lake about a 5 minute drive. It was our first night on our Silk Road tour. I bought some tibetan silver rings with turquoise stones and a scarve. For dinner I had some BBQ skewers and the 'round' bread😋 don't know the proper name...but it's really good. The people are really friendly there and our experience here was good. Highlights - Shops and restaurants are next to the hotel. Avg. Price per Person - Between 300 - 500 yuan Depends on which room you choose. Rating - 3/5 #summervacation #silkroad #chakatown

Qinghai Lake Travel Guide 🌊 | A dreamy trip to the sacred lake on the plateau Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake, is known as the "Sapphire of the Plateau" 💎. The scenery is different in each season. In summer, there are rapeseed flowers 🌼, and in winter, there is ice ❄️. Every frame is like a painting! This guide will take you around Qinghai Lake! 🌤️ Best time to travel - June–August: Rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, the lake is blue, and the climate is comfortable, making it ideal for cycling 🚴‍♂️ and taking pictures 📸. - September–October: The autumn colors are getting stronger, there are fewer people and the scenery is beautiful, which is suitable for in-depth tours. - December–March: The frozen lake surface and snow scene ❄️ are super stunning (but it is cold, so keep warm 🧣). 🚗 Transportation - Departure from Xining (recommended!): - Self-driving/chartered car 🚙 (2.5 hours to Qinghai Lake, free and flexible) - Bus 🚌 (Xining Bus Station → Erlangjian Scenic Area of Qinghai Lake) - Cycling 🚴‍♂️ (360 km around the lake, challenge yourself!) 🏞️ Must-see attractions 1. Erlangjian Scenic Area (main scenic area) 🌊 - You can take a boat trip on the lake 🛥️ to experience the clear lake water up close. - 📸 Photo spots: Lakeside prayer flags, rapeseed flower fields (super beautiful in July!) 2. Heimahe Sunrise 🌅 - The most beautiful sunrise viewing spot in Qinghai Lake! The morning light shines on the lake, which is absolutely beautiful! 3. Chaka Salt Lake (Mirror of the Sky) ☁️ - It is a 2-hour drive from Qinghai Lake. When the weather is clear, the lake surface is like a mirror, and the reflection is super dreamy! 4. Bird Island (best in April–June) 🐦 - Hundreds of thousands of migratory birds inhabit here, which is a paradise for bird watching enthusiasts! 5. Huanhu West Road 🚴‍♂️ - It is a favorite for cycling enthusiasts. You can have a panoramic view of the grasslands, cattle and sheep 🐑, and lakes along the way. 🍜 Must-eat delicacies - Hand-grabbed mutton 🍖 (the most authentic one is from the herdsmen's homes around Qinghai Lake!) - Yak yogurt 🥛 (thick, sour and sweet, a must-try!) - Highland barley cake 🍪 (Tibetan specialty, more fragrant with butter tea ☕) 🏨 Accommodation recommendations - Heimahe: It is convenient to watch the sunrise, but the conditions are relatively simple (it is recommended to stay in a lake-view room 🌊). - Erlangjian/Jiangxigou: The facilities are more complete, which is suitable for family trips 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦. - Chaka Town: If you go to Chaka Salt Lake, you can stay here, and there are more choices. ⚠️ Precautions 1. Altitude sickness: Qinghai Lake is 3,200m above sea level, so avoid strenuous exercise and prepare Rhodiola rosea pills 💊. 2. Sun protection ☀️: The ultraviolet rays are super strong! Sunglasses 🕶️, hats 🧢, and sunscreen are essential! 3. Large temperature difference: Even in summer, it is very cold in the morning and evening, so bring a coat 🧥. 4. Environmental protection 🚯: The ecology of Qinghai Lake is fragile, so don't litter! 📌 Classic itinerary recommendation (3 days and 2 nights) Day 1: Xining → Erlangjian, Qinghai Lake → Heimahe (stay) Day 2: Heimahe Sunrise → Chaka Salt Lake → Huanhu West Road → Gangcha (stay) Day 3: Gangcha → Bird Island (seasonal opening) → Xining Qinghai Lake is a place you must visit once in your life! 💙 When are you going to set off? ✈️🎒

✨ Chaka Salt Lake | A complete guide to the Sky Mirror, strolling in the clouds and encountering a pure white fantasy ✨ Blank content does not need to be translated. 💖 Chaka Salt Lake, the Chinese version of "Bolivia Sky Mirror"! The white salt and the blue sky are intertwined, and the reflections dance with the clouds. This is one of the "55 Places You Must Visit in Your Lifetime" rated by National Geographic, and it is also the ultimate palace of photography and romance! Blank content does not need to be translated. Blank content does not need to be translated. 【Transportation Guide】 Big traffic Blank content does not need to be translated. ✈️ Aircraft: Blank content does not need to be translated. - Fly to Xining Caojiabao Airport and take a bus/chartered car to Chaka Town (about 4 hours drive, 150 yuan/person for shared car). 😉 🚄 High Speed ​​Rail: - Xining Station → Chaka Station: There is one tourist train every day (about 4 hours, hard seat 62.5 yuan). It takes 10 minutes by taxi from the station to the scenic spot. 🚉 Blank content does not need to be translated. 🚗 Self-driving: Blank content does not need to be translated. - Xining → Chaka Salt Lake: Beijing-Tibet Expressway → National Highway 109, the entire journey is 300km (about 4 hours), passing Qinghai Lake along the way, which can be combined with the tour. 🚗 🚌 Direct bus to scenic spot: Blank content does not need to be translated. - Take the "Xining - Chaka" bus from Xining Xinning Road Bus Station (about 5 hours, 80 yuan). There are more buses during the peak season. 🚌 Blank content does not need to be translated 【Itinerary planning】 1-Day Tour Highlights - Early morning: depart from Chaka Town → Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area (opens at 8:00 to avoid crowds)🌅 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Morning: Take a small train (50 yuan one way) to the center of the lake → take photos at the Sky Mirror Square → visit the salt sculptures 🚂 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Afternoon: Walk barefoot on the lake (prepare waterproof shoe covers) → Railway check-in point → Sky Joy Observation Deck overlooking the panoramic view 👣 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Evening: Waiting for the sunset (around 20:00 in summer), the salt lake turns pink and gold🌇 - Evening: Stay in Chaka Town. If the weather is clear, you can take photos of the starry sky (the scenic spot is not open at night)🌃 Blank content does not need to be translated. 2 days and 1 night in-depth tour - Day 1: Chaka Salt Lake + Sunset → Stay in Chaka Town🌅 - Day 2: Qinghai Lake West Ring Road (30 minutes’ drive) → Sunrise at Heima River → Xiangjiao Mountain Pass → Return 🌄 Blank content does not need to be translated. 【Must-see attractions】 🌟 Sky Mirror Core Area: Before 10:00 on sunny days/after 16:00, the reflection is clearest when there is no wind, and it is more photogenic in a red skirt! 📸 🌟 Salt Lake Train: The retro rails extend to the sky, a perfect background for Japanese-style photos. 🚂 🌟 Thousand-faced Salt Sculptures: Giant salt sculptures of Genghis Khan, Queen Mother of the West, etc., as shocking as white pyramids. 🧐 🌟 Night Sky Mirror (Summer Only): The Milky Way is reflected in the salt lake, requiring professional equipment + tripod. 🌌 🌟 Chaka Salt Culture Museum: Learn about the thousand-year history of salt mining and experience the handmade production of salt flowers. 📚 [Empty string, no translation required] 【Accommodation Recommendation】 Blank content does not need to be translated. 🏨 Chaka Town (about 2km walk to the scenic area): Blank content does not need to be translated. - High-end: Qingyan Hotel (in the scenic area, you can see the salt lake through the window, 1000+ yuan/night in peak season) 😉 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Value for money: Ulan Chaka Xingchen Inn (clean and comfortable, 300-500 yuan/night)😁 Blank content does not need to be translated. ⛺ Starry Sky Camp (Summer Only): Blank content does not need to be translated. - Sky Mirror Campsite: Transparent Bubble House + Salt Lake Night View, 800 - 1200 yuan/night (booking in advance is required). 🌃 Blank content does not need to be translated. Blank content does not need to be translated. 【Food Guide】 🍲 Kangguo lamb chops: crispy lamb with potato noodles, recommended "Chaka Salt Lake Farmhouse Restaurant". 🍖 🥛 Yak yogurt: golden milk skin on the surface, rich sweet and sour taste (better with white sugar). 😋 🍜 Qinghai stuffed skin: thick sliced ​​stuffed skin + spicy oil and vinegar, the first choice for locals' breakfast. 🍜 🍵 Salty milk tea: brick tea + salt + fresh milk, it tastes weird at first but the more you drink it the more addictive it becomes. ☕ ⚠️ Tips: There are few and expensive restaurants in the scenic area, so bring your own dry food + mineral water! 😉 Blank content does not need to be translated. 【Practical Tips】 1️⃣ Ticket information: - 60 yuan in peak season (May - October), 30 yuan in off-season; 50 yuan for a one-way train, 10 yuan for an electric car, 20 yuan/pair for shoe cover rental (50 yuan deposit). 🎫 2️⃣ Best season: - June to August: more sunny days, best mirror effect; ☀️ Blank content does not need to be translated. - September to October: Few people, the autumn colors of the salt lake are particularly beautiful; 🍁 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Avoid the rainy season (showers in July and August), when the sky is cloudy and grey! ☔ 3️⃣ Photography tips: - Choose bright-colored shoe covers (the scenic spot provides pink/blue) to avoid wearing red clothes; 🎀 Blank content does not need to be translated. - Shoot from a low position (put the phone close to the water surface) and wear a flowing long skirt to look more dynamic; 👗 Blank content does not need to be translated. - The height limit for drones is 120 meters, and the no-fly zone is along the scenic train line. 🛫 4️⃣ Lightning avoidance guide: - Most of the "Salt Crystal Souvenirs" in the scenic area are from Yiwu, so be careful when buying; 🙅‍♀️ - Do not trust illegal taxis that take passengers to "Wild Salt Lake" as their safety is not guaranteed. 🚫 5️⃣ Environmental tips: - Do not step into the black cave area of ​​the salt layer (prone to collapse) to protect the fragile salt crust; 🚶‍♂️ Blank content does not need to be translated. - Take your trash with you, salt water areas are very corrosive! 🗑️ Blank content does not need to be translated. 🌈 Chaka Salt Lake is half a pure white fantasy and half a reflection of the sky, waiting for you to embark on a dream of boundless heaven and earth! 😉

❤Recommendation: Summer is the most beautiful season at Qinghai Lake, when the rapeseed flowers bloom. Take gorgeous photos in Tibetan costumes here. Where are the best photo spots at Qinghai Lake? Check out the guide below! ▽▽▽▽▽▽ ✅Where are the best photo spots? 🌟Lakeside rapeseed fields: The golden flower sea creates a striking visual contrast with the blue lake water. Recommend choosing private fields owned by herdsmen (10-20 yuan entrance fee), where colorful elements of Tibetan costumes (red, blue, gold) create a beautiful color contrast with the flower fields. —————————— 🌟Erlang Sword Scenic Area and surroundings: Man-made attractions like prayer flags and lake pavilions complement Tibetan costumes perfectly, ideal for traditional cultural-style photos. —————————— 🌟Nanshan mountaintop: Take the small path next to the scenic area to climb up for a panoramic view of Qinghai Lake. The image of Tibetan costumes and prayer flags fluttering in the wind is truly breathtaking. —————————— 🧳Nearby attractions: 1. Heima River sunrise: Summer sunrise is around 6:00 AM. Arrive at the lakeside 30 minutes early and choose Panchen Laze Scenic Area or the nomadic tent area to capture silhouettes. 2. Chaka Salt Lake: Visit before 9 AM or after 5 PM when the light is soft. Wear Tibetan costume and stand in shallow water for low-angle symmetrical reflection shots. A red shawl is recommended to enhance visual depth. —————————— 👍Tibetan costume rental locations: 1. Riyue Mountain Scenic Area: Offers traditional Tibetan robes, headdresses (like "Bazhu"), belts, etc. Rental fee is about 50-100 yuan/set, including simple accessories. 2. Around Erlang Sword Scenic Area: Herders' stalls or Trip Moments shops rent modified Tibetan costumes (with sequins and embroidery) and offer photography services, priced at 100-200 yuan/day. —————————— ❤Costume matching suggestions: Choose vibrant pulu robes (mainly red, blue, green), paired with silver "Ga'u box" necklaces, coral earrings, fox fur hats or colorful silk headdresses. —————————— ❤Recommendation: Follow my profile for practical travel guides to various destinations.

Qinghai Travel Guide If you want to travel to Northwest China without planning your own itinerary, don't miss this comprehensive 6-day travel guide. Important Tips for Northwest China Travel: - There are significant temperature differences between morning and evening in Northwest China. Be sure to bring warm clothing such as thick jackets, scarves, gloves, hats, and snow boots. - Northwest China is quite dry, so bring moisturizers to prevent skin from cracking. - UV rays are strong in Northwest China, so prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and umbrellas. - Tourist attractions are spread out with long distances between them. Self-driving is not recommended; consider hiring a car or joining a tour group. - The local diet is mainly meat and noodles. To boost immunity and prevent digestive issues, consume more fruits and vegetables, and eat smaller meals more frequently. 6-Day Northwest China Itinerary: Day 1: Xining - Yueshan Mountain - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka Town [Overnight] Day 2: Chaka Town - 315 U-shaped Highway - East Taiji Nai'er Lake - Water Yardang - South Baxian Yardang Landform - Dachaidan [Overnight] Day 3: Dachaidan - Jade Lake - Oil Town - Silk Road Heritage City - Desert or Dunhuang [Overnight] Day 4: Dunhuang - Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring - Shazhou Night Market (free time) - Dunhuang [Overnight] Day 5: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Zhangye Danxia Landform - Zhangye City [Overnight] Day 6: Zhangye - Biandoukou - Qilian Grassland - View of Gangshika Snow Mountain - Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers Accommodation Recommendations: Xining: Choose areas near Xiadu Street in the East District or Mojia Street in the Central District. Both are commercial areas with convenient transportation, dining, and shopping. Chaka Salt Lake: Stay in Chaka Town, which has a hotel street. The new village has many guesthouses, homestays, and family inns.

🔥🔥Northwest Travel Guide|||Beautiful Scenery During the Journey 📸Must-read Qinghai travel guide before departure‼ 📸Save it for later use💕It slipped away accidentally~ ✅Luggage preparation ‼ Documents: ID card, household registration booklet for children without ID card, air ticket, train ticket ‼ Medicines: antidiarrhea medicine, cold granules, gastrointestinal medicine, antipyretic medicine, cough medicine ‼ Discounts: Student ID, current/retired NCO ID, journalist ID, retired cadre ID ‼ Daily use: high-factor sunscreen, moisturizer, shampoo/shower gel/toothpaste/toothbrush ‼ Others: scarves, sunglasses, umbrellas, sun hats, thermos cups, etc. ✅ Qinghai-Gansu six-day boutique loop 🚩Day 1: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha (stay overnight) 🚩Day 2: Delingha → National Highway 315 (U-shaped highway) → Water Yadan → Qinghai Yadan → Dachaidan (stay overnight) 🚩Day 3: Da Qaidam → Emerald Lake → Oil Town Film and Television Base → Dunhuang Ancient City → Dunhuang City (stay) 🚩Day 4: Dunhuang → Mogao Grottoes → Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake → Dunhuang City (overnight) 🚩Day 5: Dunhuang City → Jiayuguan (or Son of the Earth) → Zhangye Colorful Danxia Geopark → Zhangye (overnight) 🚩Day 6: Zhangye → Biandukou → Qilian Mountains, Qilian Grassland → Gangshika Snow Peak (viewing from a distance) → Xining (end) ✅Transportation within Qinghai 🚦 Public transportation: The attractions are far apart, inconvenient, not recommended 🚦Group tour: cheap and hassle-free, no need to prepare a strategy 🚦Chartered car: It is recommended to share a car with a small group of people, and to charter a car with a large group for a flexible itinerary 🚦Self-driving: The journey is relatively long, and it is not recommended for novice drivers from other places 🌈 🌈 Outfit: 🚺Clothing: long skirts, large blocks of color, large shawls, and ethnic style, to help you take photos of Northwest style! 🚺Be careful not to use too many or too complex colors, and use large blocks of color as the main At the same time, the temperature difference between morning and evening is large in the northwest plateau area, so bring a jacket or a light down jacket 🚺Try to wear comfortable flat shoes to avoid rubbing your feet

✨【Part 1: What Makes Qinghai-Gansu So Amazing?】 🏜️ Reason 1: Take reflection photos at Chaka Salt Lake and become the "Sky Mirror" yourself! 🏜️ Reason 2: Ride camels across Mingsha Sand Dunes - the desert version of a "rocking ride" experience maxed out~ 🏜️ Reason 3: The murals of Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes transport you through a thousand years of Silk Road history - my cultural DNA is activated! 🏜️ Reason 4: The colorful Danxia landforms look like nature's spilled eyeshadow palette - 999+ photogenic spots! 👉🏻 The Qinghai-Gansu route combines lakes, deserts, yardang landforms, and grasslands - it's like your geography textbook in 3D real life! 🚙【Part 2: Why Choose a Group Tour? Personally Tested, No Pitfalls!】 💡 2-8 person small group + SUV: No crowded buses, stop and shoot photos whenever you want! 💡 Airport pickup + comfort kit: Eye mask, earplugs, neck pillow - instant "laid-back travel" from arrival. 💡 Trip Moments + 9 professionally edited photos: Desert natural makeup + Dunhuang costumes, guaranteed to win your social media photo contest! 📱 Click below to unlock my "nanny-level itinerary checklist"! 👉🏻 🎒【Part 4: Hidden Gems to Fully Experience Qinghai-Gansu】 🔸 Ride transparent boats on Jade Lake - same camera angle as Yi Yangqianxi's movie (film fans will be thrilled)! 🔸 Take epic road trip photos on the 315 U-shaped highway - wear denim + Martin boots for criminally good looks~ 🔸 Desert camping with hotpot lamb, bonfire dancing under the stars - ultimate vibes! 🔸 Get early access tickets for special Mogao Grottoes caves! Bring a notebook for stamps to collect all the Silk Road cultural easter eggs~ ⚠️ Tips: Sunscreen + sunglasses glued to your face! Highland redness looks cute in photos, but don't forget repair face masks! ⏰【Part 5: Listen Up! Now Is the Time to Book】 May Day holiday flight prices are skyrocketing 📈! Early bird group tour prices save enough for a whole photo shoot! (Don't ask why I'm urgent, just know Dunhuang hotels are almost fully booked...😱)

🚗【Part 1: Why is the Qinghai-Gansu Loop so addictive?】 💫Instant patriotic pride! Dunhuang murals showcase the glory of the thousand-year Silk Road 🌄Salt lake reflections more beautiful than Bolivia! Phone photos get 99+ likes on social media 🏜️Desert camping under the Milky Way, my bestie said it's like dating on Mars 😂 📸No photo editing needed! The colorful Danxia landforms make your skin look brighter! (Epic landscapes + cultural immersion, the wildness and beauty of Northwest China is truly unmatched!) 🎒【Part 2: Perfect group tour hacks for lazy travelers】 🏨Stay in 4-star hotels throughout! Collapse like a tired bear after each day of adventure 🚙2-8 person off-road vehicles stop whenever you want! Even roadside wild lakes become perfect photo spots 🎁Sleep kit provided at boarding, fall asleep instantly on the plane 👗Free styling + Trip Moments! Everyone asks for the link to that red desert dress 🤫 (Desert camping hot pot + Dunhuang hotel! Play hard by day, be a princess at night 👸) 📲Click below to unlock your Northwest adventure! 👉 🌌【Part 3: Insider tips revealed!】 Qinghai Lake sunrise guide: Reach the lakeshore by 6:20 AM to see golden light pierce through the clouds! 🌅 Fresh yak milk at herders' homes is delicious~ (Don't wear white shoes! Dewy grasslands will stain them) Chaka Salt Lake photography hack: Shoot at 4 PM with backlight! Wear sunglasses and stand in shallow water to look like the female lead from "Interstellar" 👽 (Secretly bring a bottle of mineral water to rinse your feet—super practical) Mogao Caves hidden experience: Join a tour guide at Cave 220 to hear about the "Paradise" murals—guaranteed goosebumps... (Remember to book A-class tickets 1 month in advance!) 3 must-dos for desert camping: ①Lie on sand dunes and identify constellations with a star map app ②Walk barefoot on cooling evening sand—better than a foot massage ③Shout at Crescent Moon Spring for mysterious echoes‼️ (Desert hot pot with apricot skin water will awaken your Northwest appetite!) 🎉【Part 4: Go for it, adventure seekers!】 May Day holiday has fewer crowds but beautiful scenery! Now the grass is turning green/salt lake hasn't melted/sand won't burn your feet~ Wearing Han-style clothing to Yangguan Pass is perfect! Even staff will ask to take photos with you 😎 (Prepare red/yellow/white clothes! They pop against the Danxia landforms & salt lake)

Finally, I went to the northwest with my bestie. We saw mountains, rivers, lakes, deserts, Gobi, and grasslands. This trip was really worth it‼ ️ After I came back, I was asked a lot by my friends. Everyone wanted the guide for this route, so I stayed up late to sort it out and share it with everyone... 🌤️Northwest climate 🎈Average temperature from July to August: 15℃-30℃, the temperature rises, but the temperature difference between day and night is large 🎈Average temperature from September to October: 10℃-27℃. The temperature is dropping, so please keep warm! ‼ ️PS: July to August is the peak tourist season in Northwest China. The weather is good most of the time. Remember to bring clothes that are easy to put on and take off, as well as rain gear. 📣Must-have for travel 💊Medicine: Rhodiola rosea, glucose, Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid, motion sickness medicine, stomach-strengthening and digestion-promoting tablets, mosquito repellent 🌞Sun protection products: sun protection clothing, jackets, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen 💧Moisturizing products: lip balm, moisturizing essence, moisturizing mask, body lotion 📱Electronic products: power bank, charging cable, selfie stick ☂️Daily necessities: hair care essential oil, thermos cup, wet wipes, disposable raincoat, garbage bag, U-shaped pillow, eye mask 👕Clothing: short-sleeved shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, trousers, boots, sneakers 🚗🔥🔥Qinghai Lake Dunhuang Zhangye Shuiyacharhan seven-day loop: Day 1: Xining ---- Sun Moon Mountain ---- Qinghai Lake (Heima River) ---- Chaka Salt Lake (stay overnight) Day 2: Chaka - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Golmud (overnight) Day 3: Golmud ---- U-shaped road ---- Dongtaijinaier Lake ---- Water Yadan ---- Dachaidan Emerald Lake (stay overnight) Day 4: Daxiadan - Heidu Mountain - Silk Road Heritage City - Dunhuang (overnight) Day 5: Dunhuang ---- Mogao Grottoes (tickets are recommended to be purchased around 9 am) ---- Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Lake ---- Shazhou Night Market ---- Dunhuang City (overnight) Day 6: Dunhuang City ---- Passing Jiayuguan ---- Zhangye Colorful Danxia ---- Zhangye (stay overnight) Day 7: Zhangye ---- Biandukou ---- Qilian Mountains, Qilian Grassland ---- Gangshika Snow Peak (view from a distance) ---- Xining City (end) 📸Must-visit attractions 💕Qinghai Lake The lake water is as blue as jade, and the lakeshore is winding and undulating. It is known as the "Heavenly Lake". When circumnavigating the lake, you must follow Tibetan beliefs and walk around the lake in a clockwise direction. 💕Chaka Salt Lake The natural landscape of Chaka Salt Lake is unique. It is surrounded by the Qilian Mountains, Kunlun Mountains and Rubber Mountains. It reflects the beautiful sky and snow-capped mountains like a mirror, forming a wonderful sight of water reflecting the sky and the sky connecting to the ground. 💕Colorful Danxia It is like a palette overturned by God, affected by natural environment such as geological structure, climate change and wind, presenting a variety of colors such as red, yellow and white. 💕 Horseshoe Temple The temple is named after the legendary celestial horse that left horseshoe prints when drinking water. It consists of seven parts: Thousand Buddha Caves, South Temple, North Temple, Upper/Middle/Lower Guanyin Caves, and Golden Pagoda Temple (advance reservation required). 💕Zhuoer Mountain Zhuoer Mountain belongs to Danxia landform, composed of red sandstone and conglomerate. The exposed parts of the mountain are all red sandstone, which is overlapped and interlaced with green grassland, which is very beautiful. 💕Qilian Mountain Grassland The Qilian Mountain grassland is rated as one of the six most beautiful grasslands in China because of its "beauty of integration". The grassland is covered with vast green waves and herds of cattle and sheep, forming a beautiful picture. ⚠Northwest Travel Tips ① The ultraviolet rays in the northwest region are relatively strong, so bring more lotions, lip balm, and moisturizing masks (one piece per day). ②In August, you can wear a skirt or short-sleeved jacket during the day and a fleece jacket at night. Ultraviolet rays are very strong in summer, so remember to wear sun-protective clothing, sleeves, sunglasses, etc. after taking photos. ③ The distances between cities in the northwest are long, the scenic spots are scattered, and the travel time is long. You can bring a U-shaped pillow. The temperature difference is large in summer, so bring your own motion sickness medicine. ④The deep part of Chaka Salt Lake is the best spot for taking photos. It is recommended to bring some bright clothes for better shooting effects!

📍 𝐂𝐡𝐚 𝐊𝐚 𝐘𝐚𝐧 𝐇𝐮 Chaka Salt Lake "Clouds in the sky, salt on the ground, a mirror dropped from heaven" 🐚🌊 Travel guide for Chaka Salt Lake: 🌻1. Best time to visit: May to October each year. During this period, Chaka Salt Lake enjoys clear weather, abundant sunshine, and crystal-clear water, making it perfect for sightseeing and photography. 🌻2. Transportation: You can fly to Caojiapu Airport in Xining, Qinghai Province, then take a long-distance bus or hire a car to Chaka Salt Lake. Alternatively, you can take a train to Xining Railway Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus or hire a car to Chaka Salt Lake. If you prefer self-driving, you can drive from Xining along the G6 Beijing-Tibet Expressway, and reach Chaka Salt Lake after about 3 hours. 🌻3. Tour routes: The main attractions at Chaka Salt Lake include the salt lake scenic area, salt sculpture art gallery, and salt lake museum. You can choose to take a sightseeing bus in the scenic area or explore on foot. During your visit, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the salt lake and visit the salt sculpture art gallery to learn about the history and culture of the salt lake. 🌻4. Important notes: • Sun protection: Chaka Salt Lake is located on a plateau with strong ultraviolet rays, so be sure to take sun protection measures when going out, apply sunscreen, and wear a sun hat and sunglasses. • Keeping warm: Although it's summer, Chaka Salt Lake has large temperature differences between morning and evening, so bring enough clothes to stay warm. • Environmental protection: During your visit, follow the rules of the scenic area, don't litter, and protect this beautiful lake. 🌻5. Accommodation and dining: There are many hotels and inns in Chaka Town for tourists to choose from, with moderate prices and complete facilities. In addition, there are restaurants and snack bars in town where you can taste local specialties. Wish you good luck! 🔥Popular Qinghai-Gansu Loop Route Day 1: Arrive in Xining—Free arrangement Day 2: Sun and Moon Mountain—Qinghai Lake—Chaka Salt Lake—Delingha Day 3: 315 Internet-famous U-shaped Road—Water Yardang—East Taiji Nai'er Lake Day 4: Jade Lake—Dangjin Mountain—Aksai Oil Town—Dunhuang Day 5: Mogao Grottoes—Singing Sand Dunes·Crescent Moon Spring Day 6: Son of Earth—Mirage—Jiayuguan—Colorful Danxia Day 7: Qilian Mountain Grassland—Return to Xining

When traveling to the northwest, you must not miss the Qarhan Salt Lake! Those who haven't been there will really regret it~😌 The beauty of Chaka Salt Lake is greatly affected by the weather, but the Qarhan Salt Lake has its own "beauty filter", which can reach new heights of beauty no matter what the weather is! 📌 Tourists share their experiences on good locations for taking photos ❶ Emerald Channel (midpoint where the sightseeing bus arrives): When taking a bird’s-eye view of the salt flats, the blue-green brine will naturally create an effect like a “mirror in the sky”. ❷ Salt Flower Secret Realm (about 300 meters towards the salt mining area): Step on the salt crystal layer that makes a creaking sound, focus the camera on the details of the salt flowers, and the hair in the picture seems to be glowing. ❸ Sunset Salt Bridge (after 18:30): At this time, the entire salt lake will turn into the color of orange soda. The silhouette shot in a white dress is so beautiful that it will leave you speechless. ⚠️ The truth about the Qarhan Salt Lake ✔️ No need for color adjustment when the weather is clear! The lake water itself has a soft light effect. On cloudy days, the lake water will appear in a Morandi gray tone, which is also very high-end. ✔️ The reflection of the salt flat is like a natural reflector, even oily skin can be photographed to look cool and white. ✔️ Drones are allowed in the scenic area! However, please note that brine is corrosive, so remember to put a protective film on the drone. 👗 Dressing tips: Wearing a red skirt is not recommended! Wearing a red skirt not only has a 99% chance of you wearing the same clothes as others, it also makes you look darker. 💡We recommend clothes in avocado green or cream yellow, which contrast with the color of the salt lake and make it very easy to take beautiful photos. 💡 Remember to wear sunglasses! The salt flats are very reflective, so wearing sunglasses can not only protect your eyes, but also make your eyes appear particularly deep in the photos you take. 🌐 Sharing of real travel experience "The moment I stood on the salt bridge, I even felt that breathing would destroy the purity here!" - Stepping on the salt crust feels like stepping on crispy rice crackers, and the brine is so blue that people can't help but want to jump in and swim (dangerous! The brine contains magnesium ions that can burn the skin). ——There are often strong winds in the salt lake! Tying your hair up is more suitable for taking photos than letting it down (this is my personal experience 😭). Navigation information: Chaerhan Salt Lake Scenic Area (starting from Golmud, the drive takes about 1 hour) 🎫 Ticket status: Currently free! free! free! (The sightseeing bus charges are voluntary and you can choose to take it according to your own situation) ⏰ Best time for shooting: It is recommended to reserve 3 hours. The light is most fantastic from 16:00 to 19:00, and it is easy to take beautiful photos. If you want to adjust the style, details, etc. of the content, or have other modification requirements, please feel free to tell me! Recommended itinerary: D1. Xining Airport Pickup/Train Pickup (Overnight) D2. Xining - Sun Moon Mountain (viewing by car) - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Delingha/Chaka (stay overnight) D3. Delingha - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan (stay overnight) D4. Daxiadan - U-shaped road - Dongtaijinaier Lake - Water Yadan - Nanbaxian Yadan - Daxiadan (stay overnight) D5. Da Qaidam - Emerald Lake - Oil Town - Dunhuang (stay overnight) D6. Dunhuang - Mogao Grottoes - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Lake - Dunhuang (stay overnight) D7. Dunhuang - Guazhou - Jiayuguan - Zhangye Colorful Danxia - Zhangye (overnight) D8. Zhangye – Biandukou – Qilian Mountain Grassland – Gangshika Snow Peak (view from a distance) – Menyuan (passing by the rapeseed flower sea, flowering period is July-August) – Xining. The pictures and texts are taken from the Internet. If there is any infringement, please inform us to delete them.

This time I'm taking you to a mysterious and beautiful place—Qinghai! 🌈 Don't know where to go for the May Day holiday? Then follow me, and I guarantee your social media will explode with amazing photos! 🌟Day 1: Qinghai Lake + Chaka Salt Lake 🌅 Morning: Depart from Xining and head straight to Qinghai Lake. Remember to wear your white dress and red shawl to transform into a Japanese-style girl. Stand on the herdsmen's path where yaks appear and disappear in the morning mist. Your hair will glow in the backlight, creating divine photos without any editing! 🛤️ Afternoon: Chaka Salt Lake—enter after 4 PM to avoid harsh sunlight and tour groups. Take the small train to the end station and walk back. Don't forget to capture the salt sculptures and sunset. Try placing your phone on the ground for upward shots. A sapphire blue dress photographs better than red! 🌟Day 2: Emerald Lake + Water Yardang 🚁 Early morning: Head to Emerald Lake, which is still free to visit! Use a drone for a God's-eye view. Stand at the intersection of salt pools for the perfect shot—the gradient from light green to deep blue makes it look like you're standing on jade! 🏞️ Evening: Check in to the RV campsite at Water Yardang (book 1 month in advance!). At night, enjoy the starry sky and Milky Way all to yourself. The uninhabited Yardang landforms are a photographer's paradise. At sunset, take a boat to the middle of the lake and capture the "sea fleet" with your drone—absolutely stunning! 🌟Day 3: East Taiji Nai'er Lake 🌐 The newly famous "Maldives Qinghai Branch"—Tiffany blue waters against white salt flats. During the dry season, you can walk on the lake bed; during high water, take photos on the boardwalk for that "pretending to be in Iceland" vibe. Recommend hiring a private car; the U-shaped road along the way is perfect for jumping photos! ⛳Food Recommendations 👐 Hand-pulled lamb: A paradise for lamb lovers! No gamey taste at all, fatty but not greasy. Dip it in dried chili powder and enjoy it hot—absolutely delicious! 🥘 Kang pot lamb: Southern friends might not have seen this cooking style before. Lamb, vermicelli, and potatoes stewed in one pot—so fragrant that the potatoes steal the show from the lamb! 🍜 Yak soup: Tender and flavorful yak meat with a rich, savory broth. Paired with chewy vermicelli and bread, it's full of Northwestern flavor. After drinking this soup, you'll feel completely energized! 🧘‍♀️ Earth hotpot: This hotpot is special—the food is already cooked when served, and the copper pot is just for heating. But don't underestimate the soup—it's so delicious you'll be amazed! 🍢 Grilled lamb skewers: Eating grilled lamb skewers in the Northwest is a must! Not gamey or greasy, even the baked flatbread is delicious—truly the best of grilled meats! This journey is not just a visual feast but also a spiritual cleansing. Every step reveals a different landscape, and every photo tells a different story.

🌇Product recommendation: ✅The carefully planned grand loop integrating Qinghai and Gansu brings together the three major natural regions of the eastern monsoon, southwestern plateau, and northwestern desert, runs through the Hexi Corridor and the Silk Road, and brings together a variety of natural and cultural landscapes such as the spectacular Yellow River, plateau, snow-capped mountains, forests, Gobi, deserts, plains, grasslands, lakes, Danxia, ​​sea of ​​flowers, temples and numerous delicacies. · ❤️Itinerary features: comprehensive upgrade, product advantages ✅【Exclusive Quality】: 24-hour seamless connection between airport and hotel, butler-style service, no ordinary way, no backtracking. ✅【Exciting and Diverse】: The itinerary is more in-depth, the landscape is more diverse, the experience is richer, and the route runs through the Hexi Corridor + Silk Road. ✅【Select the best hotel】: 3-diamond hotel throughout the trip, upgrade to 4-diamond hotel for one night, stay in Lanzhou New District for one night according to the flight arrangement; stay in Lanzhou City for one night; single person guaranteed to share room!!! ✅【Professional recommendation】: The Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is ingeniously created by a professional product team. After many field visits, just to give you a better experience, time settles the fantasy night, and professionalism creates quality. ✅【High-quality service】: Customized tour guides with high praise rate provide warm and thoughtful service. ✅【In-depth Tour】: Arrange sufficient time to visit all scenic spots and take photos of the sunrise or sunset, Gobi Desert, Danxia and other beautiful scenery at the end of the sea and sky. · ❤️【Specially arranged gift】: (Gift items, no refund if you don’t visit!) ✅Specially added popular attractions: Heidu Mountain, Emerald Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Qinghai Lake, and Son of the Earth. ✅Special dishes: Jiayuguan Steam Pot Chicken, Qinghai Local Hot Pot, Dunhuang Donkey Meat Yellow Noodles, Snow Mountain Camel Paw, Cordyceps and Duck Soup (if it is the guest’s birthday during the trip, a birthday cake will be given as a gift). ❤️Special Experience ✅Dunhuang Mingsha Mountain Hanfu dress change, camping base experience project, one night in the sand Moroccan tent (due to weather reasons in March and April, those who cannot stay in the desert camping will be able to stay in the Dunhuang 3-diamond hotel instead). ✅Photos in space suits, aerial photos, small gifts with Dunhuang characteristics, a silk scarf for taking photos, and a bottle of mineral water per person per day. [Solemn Promise]: We will travel responsibly and all unincurred expenses will be refunded to tourists by the tour guide locally. · ❤️【Special Tips】: Unified refund standard for ticket discounts (no second refund, thank you for your understanding) ✅March special offer (150 off for (student) tickets for those aged 60-69 and adults under 18; 300 off for those aged 70 and above and those with special certificates). ✅April special offer (200 yuan discount for (student) tickets operated by adults aged 60-69 and under 18 years old; 400 yuan discount for those aged 70 and above and those with special certificates).

The best part of this Qinghai-Gansu trip is waking up to breathtaking views every day! At the "Lonely Starry Sky" hotel on the Gobi Desert, lie in a glass house and gaze at the Milky Way, or watch the sunset over the Yadan landforms from a 40-meter-high viewing platform—it's simply divine. Dunhuang East Inn is like a desert art museum, with earthen houses offering windows that open onto the Mingsha Mountain, and flying apsaras dances in the evening. The bubble houses at Chaka Salt Lake are incredible! Sleep by the salt lake, take a small train to the "Sky Realm" during the day, and lie down at night to count the stars as they seem to fall into the lake. 🏨 [Luxury Hotel Recommendations: Unforgettable Stays] ✅ Dunhuang East Inn: The rooms are cleverly named after acupuncture points! We recommend the "Zhiyang" scenic view room, where you can open the window to see Mingsha Mountain. Explore the art museum and artist studios at your leisure, and watch the flying apsaras dance by the fire pit in the evening—a truly immersive experience. ✅ Lonely Starry Sky Gobi Hotel: You must stay in the glass dome stargazing room! Lie in bed and watch the stars rotate, witness the sunrise over the Yadan landforms from the viewing platform in the morning, and take "astronaut-style" photos for your social media—prepare for a surge in likes! ✅ Chaka Starry Sky Bubble House: Enjoy an exclusive location within the scenic area, just a 3-minute walk from the salt lake. Take photos from the transparent boat and viewing platform—a lazy traveler's dream! 🌟 [Unique Experiences] ✔ Water Yadan ATV Adventure: Journey deep into the Gobi Desert to find the "Eye of Yadan," where the contrasting colors of the yellow and blue salt lakes create an otherworldly scene. ✔ Emerald Lake Glass Boat Aerial Photography: Float on the lake's surface in a transparent boat and capture stunning drone footage, reminiscent of the parallel world in "A Little Red Flower." ✔ Qilian Grassland Horse Riding + Seven-Colored Danxia Sunset: Let a herdsman lead you on horseback across the grasslands, and in the evening, watch the "earth's palette" ignite as the sun sets over the Danxia landforms.

The 7-day, 6-night guide for the Qinghai-Gansu Grand Loop is here! It will take you to appreciate the magnificent scenery of our motherland, including the desert, grassland, salt lake, Gobi and snow-capped mountains. Friends who have plans to travel to the Northwest should save it quickly! -------------------------- 🧳Travel preparation ✔️Documents: ID card, student ID card, military ID card, press ID card, etc. that can enjoy discounts ✔️Clothing: The temperature difference between morning and night is large in the northwest. You can bring a jacket or down jacket when traveling now. When the weather gets warmer, you can just bring a coat. ✔️Electrical appliances: drones, power banks, headphones, chargers, etc. ✔️Cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, band-aid, etc. ✔️Others: sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrellas, disposable bed sheets, disposable toilet covers, etc. -------------- 💯Itinerary D1: Xining - Sun Moon Mountain - Qinghai Lake - Chaka Salt Lake - Chaka Town [Accommodation] D2: Chaka Town - Crossing the Qaidam Basin - Chaerhan Salt Lake - Dachaidan [Accommodation] D3: Daxiadan - 315U-type highway - Yadan on the water - Emerald Lake - Daxiadan [accommodation] D4: Daxiadan - Heidu Mountain - Silk Road Heritage City - Desert Camping or Dunhuang [Overnight] D5: Dunhuang - Mogao Grottoes - Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Moon Lake - Shazhou Night Market - Dunhuang [Accommodation] D6: Dunhuang - Jiayuguan (optional: Son of the Earth, Boundless) - Colorful Danxia - Zhangye City [accommodation] D7: Zhangye - passing through Biandukou - Qilian Prairie - viewing Gangshika Snow Mountain from a distance - Menyuan rapeseed flowers (end of July) - end in Xining ---------------- Highlights 🏞 📌Qinghai Lake 🌊: China's largest inland saltwater lake, with clear blue water, is an excellent place to enjoy natural scenery and migratory birds. 📷 📌Chaluhan Salt Lake 🌈: Walking in it feels like being in a fantasy world. 📌Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes 🕍: A world cultural heritage, it preserves a large number of exquisite murals and sculptures and is an important window for understanding ancient Buddhist art. 📌Zhangye Colorful Danxia 🌄: Colorful and intertwined, it seems as if nature's palette has been overturned on the earth. The scene is spectacular and is one of the classic attractions in Gansu. --------------------------- ✅Northwest cuisine 💎Qinghai Lake: Tibetan and Muslim flavors, mainly noodles, beef and mutton, etc. 💎Xining: Hand-pulled mutton, stuffed skin, mutton intestine noodles (strong mutton smell), Ga noodles, old yogurt, fermented glutinous rice, etc. 💎Zhangye: rubbed fish, stir-fried firecrackers, apricot peel tea, sauerkraut noodles, pulled noodles, fish noodles and beef rice, etc. 💎Dunhuang: Donkey meat yellow noodles and apricot peel water ----------- ⚠Notes⚠ 1⃣Almost all hotels and restaurants along the Northwest Grand Loop accept Alipay payment, so there is no need to carry a lot of cash. 2⃣The economic development of the Qinghai-Gansu Ring Road is lagging behind, and hotel conditions along the way are limited. Those who have high requirements for hotels need to be mentally prepared in advance. 3⃣ There is a big temperature difference between morning and evening in Qinghai, especially because Qinghai is at a high altitude. Because it belongs to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, you must bring warm clothes to prevent colds. 4⃣Don’t go directly to the scenic spot to buy tickets. It is recommended to make an appointment online in advance. ----- Weather and outfit 6-8🈷: 8°—32°, it is recommended to wear sun protection clothing, long skirts, short skirts, shorts, short sleeves, and thin jackets 9-11🈷: -8°—20° Warm clothes, down jackets, windbreakers -------- 📌Notes📌 The climate in the Northwest is dry, so pay attention to moisturizing and drink more water. Ultraviolet rays are strong, so take sun protection measures. Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. Some scenic spots are at high altitudes, so avoid strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness.

#discoverchina Chaka Salt Lake is a beautiful oval-shaped lake known for its reflective salt lake bed. It is a key salt mine in Qinghai with abundant salt resources. With the crystal blue water, white salt crust, and surrounding snow-capped mountains, the heavenly scene attracts millions of visitors and photographers to come every year. The scenic sites around the lake include Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area and new developed Sky No.1 in the western lakeside. The view is spectacular. It is also known as the Mirror Lake. #qinghai #naturalwonders