The lake is located in the northeast of the Qinghai Plateau and covers an area of about 4,500 sq km. (1 million acres). It is completely surrounded by a range of high mountains, at the foot of which lie sprawling grasslands that extend on to the water. The scenery is at its most breath-taking during the summer and autumn, when the grasslands and trees are at their most verdant green, are scattered by herds of sheep and cattle and acre upon acre of rape and wheat crop wave in the wind on nearby farm plots. The water in the lake at this time is a rich blue-green color which glimmers in the bright sunshine, creating an overall scene as beautiful as that in any painting.The lake contains three islands: Sand Island, Haixinshan Island and Bird Island - generally considered the most impressive of the group. Bird Island is located towards the northwest of the lake and ranks top of the eight bird reserves in China. Every year over 100,000 birds migrate to the island, further enhancing the natural scenery around Qinghai Lake.
A number of tent hotels have been set-up around the lake where, in addition to providing you with accommodation, it is also possible to enjoy activities such as fire parties and performances by the local Tibetan people.
Travel Tips
Qinghai Lake is about 151 km. (94 mi.) away from Xining, and can be reached by bus from the coach station. The best time to visit is between July and August, when the lake is at its most beautiful with the rape crops in full-bloom. However, Bird Island is best viewed in May and June, a time when a variety of breeds of bird are lured to the island in the hope of finding a mate.
Admission Fee
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151 Scenic Spot
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CNY 100(Apr. 16 - Oct. 15);
CNY 50 (Oct. 16 - Apr. 15)
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Sand Island
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CNY 70 (Apr. 16 - Oct. 15);
CNY 35 (Oct. 16 - Apr. 15)
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Bird Island
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CNY 110 (Apr. 16 - Oct. 15)
CNY 60 (Oct. 16 - Apr. 15)
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Back to Map of the Tibet Railway Scenery
