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

Baozis👫, listen to me👂, Qinghai is a super awesome👍 place! Spending four days and three nights here is simply exhilarating😎! 🌏Qinghai is located in the vast northwest of our great China👈, where it boasts a unique geographical location and breathtaking natural scenery🌅. 🎯The travel itinerary is clear and straightforward👇👇👇: Day1️⃣: Arrive in Qinghai - Rest a bit😴 - Head to the local food street for a feast😋 Day2️⃣: The sacred atmosphere of Ta'er Monastery🛕 calms you down🙏, the azure of Qinghai Lake🌊 is unbelievably beautiful🌊, Baozis👫, believe me😎, these two places are definitely worth it👍. Day3️⃣: The 'Mirror of the Sky' at Chaka Salt Lake✨ lives up to its name✨, the emerald green clarity of Emerald Lake💧 is intoxicating💧, both spots are perfect for taking photos📷. Day4️⃣: The majestic beauty of Mount Zhuoer🏔 will make you linger😍, savor the charm of nature once more before heading back🏞. 8 must-visit attractions, each with its own charm👇👇👇: 👉Ta'er Monastery, experience the profound Buddhist culture🙏, and it's free of charge😜, Baozis rush over🎉! 👉Qinghai Lake, its deep blue seems to cleanse the soul🌊, immersing you in its beauty😍. 👉Chaka Salt Lake, the 'Mirror of the Sky' is not an overstatement✨, every photo looks amazing📷, remember to wear a pretty dress👗. 👉Emerald Lake, the water is as clear as jade💧, breathtakingly beautiful👀! 👉Mount Zhuoer, the mountain range is majestic and picturesque🏔, like a painting🖼. 👉Qilian Mountains, the undulating mountain range is a marvel of nature😌. 👉Menyuan rapeseed flower sea🌼, a vast expanse of yellow, as if in a golden ocean🌻. 👉Riyue Mountain, witness the historical vicissitudes🧐. How exactly do you enjoy these attractions🤔? Let me explain slowly🧐: At Ta'er Monastery, you can calm your mind and visit the temple buildings👀, savor the charm of Buddhist culture📚; at Qinghai Lake, stroll along the lakeside🚶♀️, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery🌅, feel the pleasant breeze😌; at Chaka Salt Lake, put on your most beautiful clothes and take as many photos as you want📷, leaving the most beautiful memories👗; Emerald Lake is perfect for boat tours🚣♀️, the clear water will cheer you up💖; Mount Zhuoer is great for hiking🧗♀️, challenge yourself while enjoying the beautiful scenery🏞. Personal travel experience tips🤓: 🎈Baozis👫, be sure to bring sunscreen👝, the sun here🌞 is very enthusiastic😜! 🎈The temperature difference between day and night is quite large🥶, remember to keep warm🧥. 🎈There's a lot of delicious food😍, don't miss out👄! The food streets of Qinghai are also quite distinctive😍! Here are 5 local food streets to recommend👇👇👇: 👉Mo Jie Street: A variety of snacks available😋, Baozis can enjoy to their heart's content👄. 👉Shuijing Alley: A dazzling array of delicacies🤩, there's always something to satisfy your taste buds😜. 👉Xin Qian International Plaza: The food here is rich and varied👍, making you eat non-stop🤤. 👉Tangdao 637: Enjoy the food👄 while experiencing the unique local cultural atmosphere🤓. Each food street has its own mouthwatering specialties😍, such as: 👉Hand-grabbed lamb🐑, the tender taste😋, melts in your mouth🤤, simply amazing👍. 👉Qinghai old yogurt🧃, sweet and sour🤩, with a rich taste👍. 👉Niàngpí🥘, cool and refreshing😜, the best choice for summer👏. 👉Sweet fermented rice🍯, fragrant and delicious😝, endlessly memorable🤤. Baozis👫, Qinghai is really a place that makes you want to return again and again👍! With beautiful scenery😍, delicious food😋, it's simply a vacation paradise🤩! Pack your bags🎒, and embark on a trip on a whim🚶♀️! 💖Qinghai awaits you💖! Qinghai

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

This is the only professional Tibetan medicine museum in the world. It is located in Xining, Qinghai Province. It displays the splendid culture of Tibetan medicine. From it, you can understand the traditional life, humanistic spirit and health-preserving methods of the Tibetan people. It contains the strengths of ancient Indian medicine, traditional Western medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine. It has become the most magical, scientifically valuable and most concerned essence of Tibetan culture. The building is magnificent, with the ancient theme of the round sky and square earth, integrating the traditional Tibetan architectural style with modern architectural art. It is one of the representative buildings in Xining City and is well worth a visit. #Overseas Travel#Explore the Museum#I'm so worried about staying#Good Places to Go in the Hot Summer

In Xihai Town, Qinghai Province, there is the largest Wang Luobin Memorial Hall in China. Because the place described in Wang Luobin’s most famous song, "In That Faraway Place", is the Golden Silver Beach in Xihai Town. Entering the museum, you can hear the guide explain his life. Although he created many famous works, his life was very difficult. This increases the greatness of this father of western Chinese folk songs. It is worth a visit. #Overseas Travel#Explore the Museum#Good Places for Parents and Children#I'm So Missing You#Good Places for Summer

This observation deck overlooks the mountains and waters of Menyuan County, Qinghai, and is known as the most beautiful scenery. Many tourists drive here specifically to check in. The endless, verdant ridgeline is fascinating. Although it is a bit cool at an altitude of about 3,000 meters, the air is fresh and comfortable, and it is worth recommending. #Overseas Travel#High-altitude Scenic Spots#I'm So Missing You#A Good Place to Go in the Hot Summer

This is No. 21 Middle School, in Xining, Qinghai. I had the honor to visit it. The campus facilities are very attentive and antique. There is a calligraphy corridor and a history museum on campus with a wide variety of collections. There is also a distinctive library with a strong bookish atmosphere, which is suitable for checking in. There is also an aquarium inside. Studying here will surely achieve success. #Overseas Travel#Explore the Museum#I'm so worried about staying#Good Places to Go in the Hot Summer

Qinghai Lake, located in the northeast of Qinghai Province, is the largest lake in China and the largest saltwater lake in China. It is known as the most beautiful lake in China. It is boundless and impressive. The natural landscapes in the lake area mainly include Qinghai Lake, Bird Island, Erlang Sword, etc. In addition, there are also the famous Tang-Tibet Ancient Road and Silk Road in the scenic area, and many historical and cultural sites are preserved, which are very worth visiting. #travelinspiration #overseastravel #i miss you so much #hot summer places

In mainland China, a major feature of urban life recently has been seen in Qinghai. To see the square dance of the aunties, you have to go to the city center. There are many people gathered in the square to dance in different groups, with large loudspeakers, uniform clothes, neat dance steps, and strong music. It is not just an ordinary physical fitness activity, but a large-scale, entertaining and culturally distinctive life custom that is worth appreciating and promoting. #Overseas Travel#Good Places for Parents and Children#I'm So Missing You#Good Places for Summer

Qinghai Provincial Museum is located in Xining City, Qinghai Province. The museum mainly has two floors. There are some shops on the underground floor specializing in unique handicrafts. The permanent exhibition area is located on the second floor. It is mainly divided into two parts, namely the Qinghai Historical Relics Exhibition. and Qinghai Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition. Visitors can appreciate Qinghai cultural relics from ancient times to the present as well as the culture and customs of Qinghai's many ethnic groups. The exhibits are rich in number and have high collection value. It is worth recommending and visiting here. #Overseas travel#Go to the museum to explore#I’m so hung up#A good place to go in hot summer

When in Qinghai Province, you must visit Ta'er Monastery, which is one of the six major monasteries of the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism in China and the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the Yellow Sect master of Tibetan Buddhism. The tower of Ta’er Monastery was built first, and then the temple was built, so it was named Ta’er Monastery. The unique architectural style attracts many tourists from afar. The lifelike butter sculptures, colorful murals, and brilliant embroidery are known as the "Three Wonders of Ta'er Temple's Art". The temple also houses many Buddhist scriptures and academic works on history, literature, and philosophy, which are worth a visit. #The most stylish travel experience #Overseas travel #I miss you so much #A good place to go in the hot summer

Every July, a large field of rapeseed flowers blooms in Menyuan, Qinghai. Qilian Mountain is a good place for eco-tourism and sightseeing. This sea of ​​flowers has won the title of the most beautiful rapeseed flower sea in China. It is boundless and bright yellow, very suitable for checking in. People are particularly refreshed in it. There is an aerial zipline on the top of the mountain. Sliding down from the top of the mountain and crossing the sea of ​​flowers is even more unforgettable. #Overseas Travel#Flower Viewing Guide#I'm so worried about staying#Good Places to Go in the Hot Summer

📍Qinghai, China I haven't showered in three days 🛁 and I'm still here taking beautiful photos 😷 For the first two days, we each slept in the airport and on the train, each carrying two large bags. 🚞On the third night, we checked into a hostel. Suddenly, I felt so blessed to be able to shower and sleep in bed. 😳😳😳 For the past few days, there was absolutely no signal or WiFi, so I didn't have a chance to share my itinerary updates with everyone. Now, we're about to leave the city for the high altitude areas. Wish us all the best ☺️ #roadtrip #backpacker #solotraveller #travelinspiration #mostcooltravelexperiences #naturalwonder #selfdrive #Tibet #Qinghai

#qinghai #西宁#qinghailake

Damei Qinghai self-driving route recommended! Qinghai--China's representative place Qinghai is separated from Sichuan by only one mountain, and Mianyang, but one thousand kilometers. There are mountains surrounded by blue waters, Qinghai Lake, and Lingshan Holy Water Cambra. Route 1: XiningMenyuanQilian smeared with a piece of green, and its golden color it is an energetic and vibrant romantic declaration . Under the deep blue sky of the plateau, the rich yellow flowers stretch for nearly 100 kilometers, like the golden sea. It shows the domineering of rapeseed flowers in the northern region under the blue sky, white clouds and snow-capped mountains... You can follow the 227 national road to the Russian Fort and then divide the road to the west to the big road, passing the imperial city grassland and the Aru grassland. . All the way from the source of the door, all the way is full of endless grassland and cattle and sheep, and then to the back, will feel the mountain suddenly increased, at first glance, a beautiful scenery in the mountains. A few kilometers along the mountain road is the Zall Mountain. You will see the mountains on both sides and the mountains in the distance. At this time, the eyes are not enough. The wheat fields, rape fields and Yadan landforms. The scenery of pine forests, snow mountains and grasslands surrounds you. Step by step, each angle is beautiful, and each angle is a perfect postcard. Route 2: Guide-Lajishan-Tal Temple took out Xining, driving south for several tens of kilometers to the foot of Lajishan. Not far from the hills, the five-color prayer flags fluttered in the wind, climbed up to take pictures, and later learned that Tibetans generally hang on the mountains, intersections, lakes or roofs to pray. It is said that the longer the connection between the warriors and the shackles, the higher the hang, the better the luck, which is why they choose the snow-capped mountains. When you reach the foot of the mountain, the right hand side is a compelling green, and the left hand side is a dazzling Danxia landform that is not pleasing in the grass in the afternoon sun. A crisscrossed, fine layered layer. The first time I saw the clear green green river, the trip was worth again. The statement that a basin of river water and half basin mud does not apply in Guide. If I didn't see it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that there would be such a clear and clear Yellow River water anyway. , the birthplace of Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. A row of eight treasures like the tower, the size of the Jinwa Temple, is an iconic building. The Ta'er Monastery has three musts: murals, piles of embroidered, butter flowers.

Get up early in the sunrise of the tea card Salt Lake, there are not many people in the scenic area, and the black paint, all the way to go away! You can enter the park at 5:30 in the morning, wait for sunrise, wait for the sunrise, fly the aerial camera self-timer! Casually pat is the mirror of the sky! No girl shoots, then shoot yourself more, after all, its handsome, Aunts who passed by, all of them are competing to take a group photo! When I am going to leave, there are not many people in the depths of the scenic spot, But when I go back, my horse! People crowded into the sea! horror! terrible! When I was out of the park, it was the 65th. So many people like me like me! Tea Lake Salt Lake is not very beautiful, but! ! Today's focus is not on the tea card salt lake!

7-Day Northwest Grand Loop Hiking Guide✨ The stunning landscapes of Qinghai and Gansu have me completely captivated! This trip covers snow-capped mountains, lakes, deserts, and gobi all in one go, and I just can’t stop taking photos📸 🌈 Itinerary: Day 1️⃣ Xining - Qinghai Lake Qinghai Lake is really huge and so blue! Erlangjian Scenic Area lets you get close to the lake water, ticket price 90 RMB. It’s recommended to wear bright-colored dresses for photos, and bring a jacket because it’s windy by the lake~ Day 2️⃣ Chaka Salt Lake - Emerald Lake Chaka Salt Lake truly looks like the Mirror of the Sky! Ticket 60 RMB + small train 50 RMB, make sure to go on a sunny day to see the reflection effect. Emerald Lake looks like a spilled palette, the blue-green water is breathtaking! Day 3️⃣ National Highway 315 - Water Yadan The U-shaped road is super cool for photos! Water Yadan ticket 60 RMB + sightseeing vehicle 60 RMB, it’s best to go in the evening when the light is softest. Bring mosquito repellent spray because there are lots of mosquitoes! Day 4️⃣ Mogao Caves - Mingsha Mountain Remember to book an A-class ticket for Mogao Caves in advance! Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Spring ticket 110 RMB, camel riding 100 RMB/person, it’s recommended to go in the morning or evening, otherwise the sand will burn your feet🔥 Day 5️⃣ Jiayuguan - Zhangye Jiayuguan Fortress combo ticket 110 RMB, Zhangye Danxia ticket + shuttle 93 RMB, the best viewing platform is No. 4, sunset is the most beautiful time! Day 6️⃣ Qilian Grassland - Menyuan The Qilian Grassland in summer looks like a Windows desktop! Menyuan rapeseed flowers are at their peak in July, with golden flower seas stretching for dozens of kilometers🌼 Day 7️⃣ Return to Xining ⚠️ Practical Tips: 1. Big temperature difference between morning and night in the Northwest, bring sun-protective clothing + thick jackets! 2. Long drives between scenic spots, prepare snacks and power banks 3. Some places have poor signal, download offline maps in advance 4. It’s best to bring altitude sickness medicine and cold medicine, the highest altitude is 3800 meters 🍜 Food Recommendations: Qinghai yogurt, hand-pulled lamb, donkey meat yellow noodles, apricot peel water, niangpi (cold skin noodles), sweet fermented dough... Northwest cuisine is truly authentic! 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions: Stay at Chaka to watch the stars in the scenic area, stay in downtown Dunhuang for easy access to the night market, Zhangye’s Danxia Kou town is very distinctive~

Ultimate Qinghai Travel Guide: Plateau Sacred Lakes, Mirror of the Sky, and Tibetan Culture Qinghai, a magical land with an average altitude above 3,000 meters, combines snow-capped mountains, lakes, grasslands, deserts, and Tibetan culture. From the azure Qinghai Lake to the dreamy Chaka Salt Lake, from the desolate National Highway 315 to the mysterious Kunlun Mountains, this place fulfills all your plateau imaginations. This guide covers classic routes, off-the-beaten-path experiences, food recommendations, and practical tips to help you plan the perfect Qinghai trip! ------ 🌊 Must-Visit Attractions in Qinghai 1. Qinghai Lake and Surroundings • Qinghai Lake: China’s largest saltwater lake, most beautiful when rapeseed flowers bloom in July and August • Heimahe: Best spot to watch the sunrise, with opportunities to visit Tibetan homes by the lake • Erlangjian Scenic Area: Official attraction with boat tours (but the scenery along the West Ring Road is more pristine) • Lake Cycling: About 360 km around the lake, takes 4-5 days (beginners can choose shorter rides) 2. Chaka Salt Lake and Emerald Lakes • Chaka Salt Lake: The "Mirror of the Sky," best photographed on sunny mornings or at sunset • Dacaidan Emerald Lake: More off-the-beaten-path than Chaka, with Tiffany blue and emerald green waters • Mangya Emerald Lake: A secret spot in the west with richer water colors (requires self-driving) 3. Qilian Mountain Scenic Area • Zhuo’er Mountain: Danxia landform plus snow-capped grasslands, known as the "Little Switzerland of the East" • Arou Monastery: More pristine Tibetan Buddhist monastery than the Ta’er Monastery • Menyuan Rapeseed Flowers: Golden flower sea with snow mountains in July (viewing platform charges, roadside viewing free) 4. Deep Adventure Routes • National Highway 315: U-shaped road, water Yadan landforms, Xitai Jinaier Lake (two-colored lake) • Hoh Xil: Requires advance registration, home to Tibetan antelope (recommended with professional teams) • Nianbaoyuze: Closed but hiking around the perimeter is possible (ecological protection required) ------ 🚗 Classic Itinerary Recommendations 【5-7 Day Classic Loop】 • Day 1: Xining → Ta’er Monastery → Qinghai Lake (stay in Heimahe) • Day 2: Heimahe sunrise → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha (stay) • Day 3: Delingha → Dacaidan Emerald Lake → National Highway 315 → Water Yadan (stay) • Day 4: Water Yadan → Xitai Jinaier Lake → Dunhuang / return to Delingha 【7-9 Day In-Depth Tour】 • Days 1-3: Xining → Qinghai Lake loop → Qilian Zhuo’er Mountain (stay) • Days 4-5: Qilian → Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains → Jiayuguan • Days 6-7: Jiayuguan → Dunhuang (Mogao Caves + Singing Sand Dunes) 【3-4 Day Short Trips】 • Day 1: Xining → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake (stay) • Day 2: Chaka → Qilian Grasslands → Menyuan → return to Xining ------ 🍜 Must-Try Foods in Qinghai ✅ Hand-Pulled Mutton: Recommended "Yixin Hand-Pulled" (Xining old brand) ✅ Yak Yogurt: Yellow cream on top, sweet and tangy rich flavor ✅ Ga Mian Pian: Qinghai specialty noodles with delicious broth ✅ Sweet Fermented Barley Wine: Made from fermented highland barley, better chilled ✅ Dog Urine Cake: Funny name, actually a highland barley pancake ------ 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions • By Qinghai Lake: Heimahe / Erlangjian guesthouses (book early in peak season) • Chaka Town: Choose hotels with floor heating (large day-night temperature difference) • Dacaidan: Basic accommodations, bring your own toiletries • Xining City: Convenient near Limeng commercial area / Mojia Street ------ ⚠️ Plateau Travel Tips 1. Prevent altitude sickness: No bathing or strenuous exercise on the first day, bring oral glucose solution 2. Sun protection: SPF50+ sunscreen + sunglasses + hat (UV rays are very strong) 3. Clothing: Day-night temperature difference up to 20°C, bring windbreaker / light down jacket 4. Transportation: ◦ Car rental about 600-800 RMB/day (5-seat SUV) ◦ Public transport inconvenient, self-driving or carpooling recommended 5. Environmental protection: Do not litter, no shoe covers allowed in the salt lake, no swimming ------ 📅 Best Travel Seasons • June to August: Rapeseed flower season, comfortable temperatures (most tourists) • September to October: Beautiful autumn colors, fewer crowds • November to April: Some attractions closed, experience frozen Qinghai Lake ------ The beauty of Qinghai lies in its purity and vastness. Whether chasing the golden light of Qinghai Lake at sunrise or gazing at the brilliant Milky Way over Hoh Xil, this land will always surprise you. If you need detailed guides for specific routes (such as National Highway 315 self-driving or family travel tips), feel free to ask anytime! 🌄✨

When you mention Qinghai, certain images automatically come to mind, such as the plateau winds, the deep blue waters, and the vastness of the grasslands stretching endlessly. Everything carries a unique texture, closer to the sky, which always makes me yearn for it deeply. However, the distances between Qinghai’s attractions are quite far, and traveling alone in unfamiliar territory with inconvenient transportation requires a lot of planning for a good experience. Group tours often have limited itineraries mostly involving bus rides and fixed schedules. How wonderful it would be if this Qinghai trip could be a bit freer, not just ticking off spots, but wandering and pausing according to one’s mood! With this idea, I did a lot of research and eventually came across a friend’s travel diary. It turned out they had arranged a private car tour, offering both freedom and local expertise (with a local driver-guide), perfectly meeting my needs. When discussing the itinerary, I told the driver-guide in advance that I preferred less popular, more secluded spots over the usual tourist attractions. The guide immediately recommended the Water Yadan and Emerald Lake. When I saw the Water Yadan with my own eyes, I was deeply shocked. In the boundless desert, a shimmering “lake” suddenly appeared, and on the lake stood uniquely shaped Yadan landforms, like mysterious castles growing out of the desert. ❤️‍🔥 The Water Yadan already amazed me with nature’s wonders, but the beauty of Emerald Lake captivated me even more at first sight. Compared to the famous Chaka Salt Lake, Emerald Lake is quieter and more profound. Before departure, I saw others’ photos of Emerald Lake under gray, overcast skies and worried I might encounter the same weather. Fortunately, the guide had already considered the weather, closely monitoring it days in advance and ready to adjust the itinerary flexibly, moving the Emerald Lake visit to a sunny day if needed. As it turned out, just as we wished, the weather was perfect without any changes. When we got off the car and saw Emerald Lake, I was truly stunned. Emerald Lake shines like a jewel, displaying various gradient colors, with the blues of Chaka Salt Lake and the greens of Chaerhan Salt Lake combined. From a drone’s aerial view, Emerald Lake reveals the earth’s colorful secrets. Countless salt ponds, like carefully cut emeralds and sapphires, scatter across the Gobi Desert. In perfect sunlight, the blues and greens blend vividly through the lens. The shallows are tender green, the lake’s center is imperial green, and some salt ponds shimmer cobalt blue, reflecting the sky. My most anticipated spots, Eboliang and Heidushan, felt like walking in a futuristic otherworld. Before the trip, I checked some wild route guides for Eboliang and saw someone taking cool photos by circling Mars Lake to the mountain. I asked the guide to take us there. The guide said that route is indeed drivable but very dangerous, with a high risk of getting stuck, and many areas prohibit self-driving to protect the environment. I thought we would miss out, but the guide, not wanting us to regret it, took us on a similar but safer route. We could freely roam among the Yadan formations, touching and photographing without restrictions. Plus, the spot we visited was mostly off the usual tour routes, becoming our exclusive scenic wonder—free and magical. To capture the dazzling starry sky of Eboliang, we decided to camp there. The guide carefully avoided cloudy periods and chose a sheltered hollow among the Yadan formations for camping, blocking the Gobi’s fierce winds while offering an open view of the starry sky. They also prepared thick blankets and ginger tea for us. Under that starry sky, it felt as if I could reach out and touch the universe’s pulse. The stars were like gems embedded in black velvet, countless and uncountable. The Milky Way stretched across the sky so clearly that even the nebulae were distinguishable. We then went to Heidushan. There was a stretch of road without signal, but luckily the guide had warned us, so we downloaded some TV shows in advance to pass the time. Thanks to the guide’s familiarity with the route, we avoided getting lost despite the lack of navigation. 🧭 Heidushan does not allow cars inside; you can only take the park’s shuttle bus or hike. Although it was a bit breath-taking, it was worth it! It truly felt like stepping into a giant ink wash painting—desolate, silent, majestic, and soul-liberating! The wonder of Heidushan lies in its rare visual impact. From above, it looks like a dense ink painting splashed by a god on the Gobi. The continuous black mountains resemble sleeping giants, their spines carved with ravines by wind erosion. The gray-white salt flats act as natural blank spaces, outlining the sharp edges of the ink-black hills. The distant Yadan formations connect seamlessly with Heidushan. From the sky, the boundary between the black mountains and the Gobi is as straight as a knife cut, with only black and white spreading across the land, making you feel as if you were on the moon’s surface. Thanks to the guide finding the best drone angles, I captured a photo at Heidushan that looks like a painting come to life. The drone’s perspective was even more stunning than being there in person! We had so much fun shooting inside that by the time we left, our camera and drone were out of battery! Looking back on this trip, I’m really glad I chose a private car tour. No need to think about planning, someone arranges the itinerary for you, no frantic rushing, and most importantly, having a guide who knows the routes well in the wilderness is incredibly reassuring! You just need to enjoy the beauty along the way. TIPS: For geological wonders like Water Yadan, Emerald Lake, Eboliang, and Heidushan, viewing from the air reveals unparalleled grandeur, magical textures, and magnificent compositions (such as the gradient color blocks of Emerald Lake and the ultimate ink-wash atmosphere of Heidushan). If possible, be sure to bring a drone.

#chinatravel Aru Monastery, nestled in the vast landscapes of Qinghai, is a serene haven of Tibetan Buddhism. With its striking red and white walls, golden rooftops, and intricately painted interiors, the monastery offers a glimpse into centuries-old religious traditions. Visitors can observe monks chanting, spin prayer wheels, and witness colorful ritual ceremonies. Surrounded by the expansive Qinghai plateau, Aru Dasi provides both spiritual immersion and breathtaking panoramic views, making it a must-visit for culture seekers and photography enthusiasts alike.

#chinatravel Set against the endless blue skies and rolling hills of Qinghai, Aru Monastery is more than a spiritual site—it’s a visual and sensory experience. Wander through the temple courtyards, admire the vibrant murals, and listen to the soft hum of daily prayers. The monastery’s location offers sweeping views of the surrounding plateau, making it perfect for contemplative walks and capturing dramatic landscape photos. A visit to Aru Dasi combines quiet reflection with a deep appreciation of Tibetan culture and architecture.

↖️As soon as summer vacation started, I took Phoebe on a "Qinghai-Gansu Loop Adventure." Considering the complex road conditions in the northwest, I chose a chartered car tour. No need to drive or plan the route myself, I could relax and spend quality time with her. Finally, I could truly enjoy father-daughter time! 🧳 Actually, before every self-driving trip, I used to feel anxious for days because of all the preparations—planning the route in advance, packing a bunch of "just in case" items. The worst part was driving while Phoebe shouted from the back seat, "Dad, look!" I didn’t dare to turn my head, afraid of missing an exit, and missed many moments to interact with my child. This time, the chartered car eased my anxiety. The driver-guide took care of everything, no rushing or worrying about time, so I could enjoy every moment of the journey with my daughter~ Route: 1. Xining → Qinghai Lake → Dachaidan 2. Dachaidan → Tosu Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Golmud 3. Golmud → 315 U-shaped Highway → Water Yadan → Eboliang → Lenghu 4. Lenghu → Petroleum Ruins → Heidushan → Dunhuang 5. One day in Dunhuang 6. Dunhuang → Guazhou Art Corridor → Jiayuguan → Zhangye 7. Zhangye → Matisi Temple → Biandukou → Xining Tips ✅ Mogao Caves require advance reservation; photography is prohibited inside the caves ✅ Bring glucose oral solution to prevent altitude sickness ✅ Strong UV rays in the northwest, remember sun protection (physical sun protection is preferred for children) 💡 The driver-guide was very responsible throughout the trip, picking us up at the hotel early every morning. He even prepared a child’s neck pillow for Phoebe in the car. At Qinghai Lake, he took us along a herder’s trail into the scenic area, saving us from queuing. On the way back from Mingsha Mountain, Phoebe felt car sick. The driver immediately pulled over, took out a small bottle of Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid and a wet towel from the bag, and quickly relieved her discomfort. In the past, I had to drive and take care of her at the same time, which was chaotic. This time, I could handle it calmly. 💕 What touched me most was that this trip gave Phoebe many photos, each full of freedom and happiness. We could stop anytime at beautiful spots, and the driver-guide never got impatient even if we took longer to shoot. He often taught Phoebe poses, saying things like, "Run with a smile, it looks great," or "Open your arms and look around." Seeing these photos, this old father smiled with satisfaction. I believe when she grows up and looks back, this will be a precious and beautiful memory~ At the end of the trip, Phoebe quietly said to me, "Dad, I had so much fun these days. You didn’t have to drive, so you could play with me all the time." The chartered car tour truly fulfilled my original intention of traveling with my daughter—wholehearted companionship, creating beautiful memories that belong to us~

#chinatravel Last weekend I had the chance to explore Kazila Mountain in Qinghai Province, and it was such a cool experience. The scenery was absolutely stunning with vast green meadows, wildflowers everywhere, and clear blue skies that made everything pop. Hiking up was a bit challenging but totally worth it once I reached the top. The views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks were breathtaking and made me forget all the effort. Along the trail, I met some friendly locals who shared stories about the mountain and its history, which added a nice cultural touch to the adventure. The fresh mountain air and peaceful atmosphere made it easy to relax and enjoy the moment. If you ever find yourself in Qinghai, Kazila Mountain is definitely a spot to check out for nature lovers and anyone wanting a break from city life. I’m already thinking about going back to catch the sunrise next time!

#chinatravel Ta’er Monastery, one of the six major Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in China, traces its origins back to the 12th year of the Hongwu reign in the Ming dynasty (1379), boasting over 600 years of history. Built to honor Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, it stands as a cultural treasure blending Han and Tibetan architectural styles. The monastery is grand in scale, sprawling over 450,000 square meters on a mountainside with nearly 10,000 structures arranged harmoniously. Its architectural style is unique, merging Tibetan flat-roofed designs with Han features such as flying eaves, intricate dougong brackets, and the iconic xieshan-style golden roofs. Key buildings like the Great Golden Roof Hall, Small Golden Roof Hall, and the Great Sutra Hall not only serve religious functions but also exemplify outstanding architectural artistry. Inside, every beam, column, door, window, and wall is carefully carved and painted. The walls are made of blue bricks or rammed earth, adorned with embedded copper mirrors and “bianma” walls, combining beauty with deep religious symbolism. Ta’er Monastery is truly a masterpiece where the mysticism and solemnity of Tibetan Buddhism meet the elegance and refinement of Han culture, making it a must-see landmark in Qinghai.

#chinatravel Ta’er Monastery, located in Qinghai Province, is a nationally protected historic site celebrated for its exquisite fusion of Han and Tibetan architectural styles. Founded in 1379, this 600-year-old complex sprawls over more than 600 acres on the slopes of Lotus Mountain, featuring a staggering 9,300 buildings—including palaces, Buddhist halls, study rooms, living quarters, and courtyards—forming one of China’s largest and most magnificent religious sites, comparable in scale to the Forbidden City. The monastery’s architecture masterfully blends the elegant triple-eave Han palace style with Tibetan flat-roofed structures, integrating intricate whip-woven walls, golden Kalachakra mantras in Sanskrit, copper mirrors, and brick foundations. This seamless combination of Han and Tibetan artistic elements creates a breathtaking spiritual garden, embodying centuries of cultural convergence and craftsmanship.

#chinatravel 🚩 Located in the Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province, Laji Mountain marks the boundary between the Loess Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. With an average elevation of 3,500 to 4,000 meters, it is famously known as “the place where eagles cannot fly over,” and remains snow-covered for most of the year. 🎯 Laji Mountain is the highest and most uniquely scenic mountain within the 2,000-kilometer tourism circle around Xining. The mountain’s weather is highly variable, allowing visitors to experience rain, snow, fog, sunshine, and overcast skies all within a single day. ⛳ In the Qinghai-Tibet region, reverence for nature’s mountains and waters runs deep. Tibetans believe the spirits of heroic ancestors reside within natural features like mountains, rivers, and trees to protect their descendants. To honor these spirits, they build fortresses or palaces known as “Laze.” 🎏 At the summit of Laji Mountain, standing at 4,188 meters above sea level, lies the Guinness World Record-certified “World’s Largest Laze.” It is currently China’s largest Laze complex and is revered as the grandest hall of mountain-water culture in the world—a true sanctuary for myriad deities.

#chinatravel 1. Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖) • 📷 Most famous and accessible salt lake • Nickname: “Sky Mirror” of China • Highlights: • Crystal-clear reflection photography • Salt sculptures, mini train into the lake • Walk barefoot on salt crust (summer) • 🚗 How to Get There: ~3 hrs drive from Xining • 🕒 Best Time: May–October (winter frozen, less reflective) ⸻ 2. Wusute Salt Lake (乌素特盐湖) • Lesser-known, quieter alternative to Chaka • Located near Delingha • Richer in industrial salt fields, otherworldly photo spots • Great for drone shots of geometric pools ⸻ 3. Jingyu Lake / Mirror of the Sky Scenic Area (翡翠湖/天空之镜景区) • Located in Mangya (茫崖) near the border of Xinjiang • Stunning green and turquoise salt pools • Often compared to Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni • Less touristy, hard to reach (need private car/guide) • Entrance is free, but remote with no services #chinatravel #travelchina #china #travel #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #familytravel #chinatrip #青海 #chakasaltlake

#chinatravel 🕒 Best Time to Visit • May to October for clear skies and reflective water • Avoid winter unless you want icy, white salt plains (less color) ⸻ 📸 Photography Tips • ☁️ Go on calm, windless days for better mirror reflections • 👚 Wear bright colors for contrast in wide-angle shots • 🚁 Drone highly recommended for capturing geometric patterns • 🕶 Bring sunglasses — light reflection is intense ⸻ 🧭 Travel Tips • 🧴 Sunscreen + lip balm (dry and high UV) • 💧 Bring water/snacks — there are no facilities onsite • 🧤 Gloves/jackets if visiting early or late in the day (cold winds) • ♻️ Leave no trace — it’s an unspoiled environment #chinatravel #travelchina #china #travel #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #familytravel #chinatrip #青海 #chakasaltlake

#chinatravel 🏔 Why Visit in Winter? • Stunning snow-covered desert landscapes (e.g. Dunhuang, Zhangye) • Fewer tourists, peaceful atmosphere • Unique winter scenes like frozen lakes, camel treks in snow, sunrise over snowy dunes • Special seasonal food: lamb hotpot, hand-pulled noodles, roasted yams #chinatravel #travelchina #china #travel #malaysiatochina #myitinerary #familytravel #chinatrip #青海 #大西北