From Xining, it takes only 2.5 hours to reach the “Blue Jewel of the Plateau.” This guide covers everything—transport, food, accommodation, photography, hidden spots, and pitfalls to avoid. Save it and you’re good to go.
Qinghai Lake is one of those places where everyone arrives with different expectations—photographers chase sunrise, cyclists chase freedom, and casual travelers simply want to get close to that vast blue. No matter which type you are, this 1500-word guide will help you plan the smoothest trip possible.
qinghai lake
🌅 Top Experiences (Ranked by Priority)
1. Sunrise at Huanhu West Road – Black Horse River
If you only have time for one thing, make it this.
Wake up around 6:00 AM and pick a spot near the lakeshore. In the first few minutes, the lake shifts from deep navy to gold, with prayer flags dancing in the wind. It’s quiet, healing, and easily one of the best sunrise shows in western China.
📸 Photo tip: Wear bright colors and bring gloves—mornings are cold even in summer.
2. Erlangjian Scenic Area
Entrance: 40 RMB
This is the most accessible part of the lake if you prefer a structured visit. You’ll find:
• Long wooden boardwalks extending deep into the lake
• Panoramic views of turquoise water
• Seasonal patches of yellow rapeseed flowers
• Photogenic yak photo spots (negotiate price beforehand)
If you don’t want to deal with crowds or local detours, Erlangjian is a safe and reliable choice.
3. Cycling or Self-Drive Along the Lake
The classic route: Black Horse River → Bird Island (70 km of pure beauty)
This section gives you the postcard version of Qinghai Lake: wide grasslands, snow peaks in the distance, grazing cows and horses.
🚴 Bike rental: about 30 RMB/day for a mountain bike
🚗 Self-drive tip: fuel early—gas stations can be spaced far apart.
4. Hidden Gem – Qinghai Lake Cliffs
This is the place for travelers who want great photos without crowds. From the cliffs, you get a sweeping view of the lake glowing in shades of sapphire.
💡 Many entrances charge a small fee (10 RMB).
Go early for the best lighting and empty shots.
🍲 Food & Accommodation – No-Nonsense Guide
What to Eat
Qinghai food is hearty, perfect for the plateau climate.
Must-try dishes:
• Kang Guo Lamb (炕锅羊肉) – tender, rich, and perfect in cold weather
• Tibetan-style hotpot – generous portions; around 50 RMB per person
⚠️ Avoid buying overpriced yak jerky sold in scenic areas—it’s often double the normal price.
Where to Stay
Your stay depends on what you want most—sunrise, convenience, or atmosphere.
1. Black Horse River Town
Best for sunrise chasers.
You’ll find lake-view guesthouses that allow you to walk to the shoreline in minutes.
2. Luxury Glamping – Xiabuda Wild Camp
For travelers who want comfort + scenery.
Expect:
• Starry skies
• Bonfire gatherings
• Ready-to-use tents
Slightly pricier, but unforgettable.
qinghai lake
⚠️ Important Tips to Avoid Trouble
1. Strong UV at High Altitude
Even on cloudy days, UV is brutal.
Bring:
• Sunglasses
• Sun hat
• Strong sunscreen
• A windproof jacket (temperature drops fast after sunset)
2. Animal Photography Prices
Whether it’s a horse or a yak, always agree on the price before taking photos.
Avoid “cheap full-lake tour” taxis—they’re usually unlicensed.
3. Respect Local Culture & Ecology
• Pack your trash
• Do not enter temples loudly
• Do not step into restricted pastures
• Protect the fragile lakeshore plants
4. Altitude Sickness Precautions
Qinghai Lake sits at 3200m. If you’re worried about altitude issues:
• Bring portable oxygen
• Avoid running or climbing rapidly
• Stay hydrated
📸 Photography Tips
• Wear red or bright colors—they pop against the blue lake
• Use a wide-angle lens for full, sweeping landscapes
• Best light: sunrise & sunset
• Drone flights must be approved—check local regulations
🚍 How to Reach Qinghai Lake (Public Transport Guide)
If driving long distances isn’t your thing, public transport works surprisingly well.
1. Xining → Qinghai Lake (Central Bus Station)
Ticket: 60 RMB one-way / 120 RMB round-trip
Earliest bus: 08:40
⚠️ Round-trip gives you only 3 hours at the lake.
Most travelers buy a one-way ticket, then call to reserve seats for the return bus.
During peak season, buses fill up—reserve by calling the driver (ask them on arrival).
2. Xining → Hatu Bus
Ticket: 48 RMB
Get off directly at Erlangjian Scenic Area.
Earliest bus: 09:45
Cheaper and flexible.
3. Rideshare / Hitching
Cost: ~70 RMB per person
During peak season, rides are easy to find because of high tourist volume.
qinghai lake
⛺ Suggested Itinerary (Half-Day to Full-Day)
If you’re only visiting Qinghai Lake and not combining it with Chaka Salt Lake, here’s a practical route.
At Erlangjian Scenic Area
No need to take the 20 RMB sightseeing shuttle—it only saves 3 minutes.
You can walk 10 minutes and enjoy the views on the way.
Free lakeside rest area:
• Look for the tent with pink chairs—quiet and scenic.
Where to Get Closest to the Lake
Behind the Torpedo Museum , there’s a stretch where the lake water feels incredibly near.
Walk the shoreline, skip stones, take portraits—you can easily spend 4 hours without noticing.
If you want to take the ferry to an island, reserve more time. The island is beautiful but the cost (entrance + boat tickets) adds up.
💰 Basic Itinerary Budget
• Transport: 120 RMB (round-trip bus)
• Entrance ticket: 90 RMB
Total: 210 RMB
qinghai lake
🧊 Winter Bonus – Blue Ice Viewing Guide
Qinghai Lake freezes solid in winter, but cracks between ice layers remain thin.
Today, we saw a traveler step through with one leg—stay alert.
Entrance Fee (Private Access Points)
Most charge 10 RMB per person.
Only a few areas have “blue ice”—most are plain frozen surfaces.
Best Blue-Ice Locations
1. Jiangxigou Town – Tianhe Hotel Area
A dirt road beside the hotel leads directly to the blue ice.
2. Cuo Ri Lang Ga – Sacred Gate
This area has massive piles of blue ice—very photogenic.
We arrived early and didn’t encounter fees, but sometimes herders will charge.
Why Go Early (Before 10 AM)?
• Fewer people → clean backgrounds
• Ice is harder → safer
• Less melting → less slippery
• Morning colors → better photos
Around noon, the surface starts to soften and becomes dangerously slippery.
🧭 Final Notes for Travelers
• Weather matters—a sunny day transforms the whole lake
• On the bus ride, sit on the right side for lake views
• Walk deeper into the core area—scenery improves each step
• Off-boardwalk lakeside spots are quieter and great for portraits
• Blue-ice viewing is better between January–February
❤️ Why Qinghai Lake Is Worth It
Qinghai Lake isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s a feeling.
The wide sky, the deep blue lake, the grasslands dotted with horses, the golden sunrise… it slows you down and makes you breathe deeper.
Whether you’re coming for a spontaneous day trip or a long, slow journey around the lake, Qinghai Lake rewards anyone willing to look a little closer.
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