Stunning Emerald Lake! Complete Photo Guide to the Highland Secret Spot, the 20 RMB Viewing Platform Is Totally Worth It

Fragments of emerald beneath the snow-capped mountains are nature’s most luxurious gift. You have to visit the Northwest at least once, to experience a romantic rendezvous between salt lakes and snowy peaks! As a photographer stationed in the Northwest for five months, I declare that the 20 RMB viewing platform at Dachaidan Emerald Lake is the best money I’ve ever spent! Standing here, the magnificent scenery of the entire lake area unfolds before your eyes, with multiple emerald patches sparkling under the sunlight—breathtakingly beautiful. Basic Information Address: Dachaidan Administrative District, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province Opening Hours: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM (last entry at 7:00 PM) Ticket Price: Entrance ticket 50 RMB, viewing platform an additional 20 RMB (highly recommended!) Must-Do Experiences · Viewing Platform Panorama: Spend 20 RMB to climb the viewing platform and overlook the entire lake area; the aerial-like panoramic view will amaze you · Mini Train Tour: The scenic area is vast; it’s recommended to take the sightseeing mini train (60 RMB round trip) to easily visit 6 main spots and save energy · Find the Heart-Shaped Lake: Near the exit of the scenic area, there is a naturally formed “heart-shaped lake,” a perfect photo spot Complete Photo Guide · Best Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, when the light is soft and reflections are most beautiful. On clear, windless days, the lake surface mirrors the sky. · Outfit Suggestions: Wear solid-colored long dresses; red, white, and yellow tones photograph best · Must-Have Gear: Drone (only a bird’s-eye view can capture the effect of the emerald patches pieced together), wide-angle lens (to capture the grand scene of salt lake and snowy mountains in one frame) · Hidden Spot: Walk 10 minutes from the mini train’s final stop to find a less crowded “private salt lake” Practical Tips Emerald Lake is over 3,000 meters above sea level; avoid strenuous exercise for the first three days after arrival. The high-altitude UV rays are strong; sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats are essential. The salt flats by the lake are soft; watch your step to avoid sinking. Cars are not allowed inside the scenic area; sightseeing buses must be used. Here, every shutter click is a tribute to natural aesthetics. When the drone flies over the lake, the emerald salt pools scatter like crushed gems across the earth. When are you ready to set off for this highland emerald rendezvous?