[2025 Ulan Attraction] Travel Guide for Chaka Salt Lake (Updated 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!

5-day tour of Xining, Qinghai Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake! A super detailed guide to the Northwest of China. Save it now! -------------------- 🛣️Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xining and start your Qinghai tour! Day 2: Ta'er Monastery -> Laji Mountain -> Riyue Mountain -> Qinghai Lake · Heima River Visit the ancient Ta'er Monastery, cross the magnificent Laji Mountain, pass through the picturesque Riyue Mountain, and finally arrive at the beautiful Heima River in Qinghai Lake to enjoy the beauty of nature. Day 3: Chaka Salt Lake -> Rubber Mountain -> West Road of Qinghai Lake -> Qilian Grassland -> Binggou Forest -> Mount Zhuo'er Visit the mirror of the sky, Chaka Salt Lake, cross Rubber Mountain, travel along the West Road of Qinghai Lake, pass through Qilian Grassland, visit Binggou Forest, and finally climb the magnificent Mount Zhuo'er. Day 4: Aru Monastery -> Qilian Grassland -> Qilian Mountains · Gangshika Snow Peak Scenic Area -> Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea Visit Aru Monastery, experience the vastness of Qilian Grassland again, visit Qilian Mountains · Gangshika Snow Peak Scenic Area, and finally immerse yourself in the splendid Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Sea. Day 5: Leave Xining and end your Qinghai tour. Return home with fond memories. -------------------- Tips: - Specialty prices🏷️: Compare prices when buying specialties to avoid being overcharged. - Customs🎉: Respect local customs and experience Tibetan dance and food. - January climate❄️: Cold and dry. Bring warm clothes and keep warm. - Sun protection and moisturizing🧴: The UV rays are strong. Be sure to bring sunscreen and lip balm. - Travel safety🔒: Be aware of altitude sickness and bring common medicines. -------------------- 🎉Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Xining, Qinghai Lake, and Chaka Salt Lake. Don't forget to share your travel stories!🎉

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

We spent about a week in Qinghai, mostly at Qinghai lake as we visited local horse racing there. I liked Chaka lake better than Qinghai lake (as I still don't understand why Qinghai lake entry tickets are so overpriced) We came to Chaka in the evening by bus from Qinghai lake and stayed in a hotel. In the early morning I walked about 3-4km to the Scenic area witnessing wildlife such as hares and ducks. At the entrance I requested information in English and there was an English speaking employee to give details which were quite helpful. The path in the area is about 5km long, there are some cafés at the beginning and special shoes and fancy dresses rental somewhere in the middle. Visiting Chaka was one of the highlights of this summer! There are 2 Scenic areas, I've been to one only (should have visited both) It's not easy to find a taxi in the area, so the English speaking employee helped to arrange it in the evening #chakasaltlake #chaka

Chaka Lake is a must to visit. We took a bus and a slow train to the lake . People use to walk all the way to the lake in the past. Glad we don’t have too. It is known as “Mirror of the Sky in China”. “Chaka” means “Salt Lake” in Tibetan. As the name, Chaka Lake is a famous natural crystal salt lake in Qaidam Basin, able to meet all Chinese’s need to salt for 75 years. The lake reflects wonderful images , but it depends on where and how you take your pictures. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to caption the reflection from the lake. However, we had a great time.

Getting There - You can drive yourself, get a taxi or go with a tour group. You drive for kilometers on end mext to the big salt lake. We went a tour group so we had a bus that took us to the scenic area. It's pretty easy to locate when you are in the area. Attractions - The whole Chaka Salt lake are breathtaking! Just spectacular! You can take the train to the middle of the lake, there you can walk in the lake, do a photoshoot, eat a salty ice-cream, just take in the beautiful scenery, you can decide if you want to take the train back to the entrance/exit or you can walk back. Hotels - There are hotels 5-10 minutes drive from the salt lake. Food & Restaurants - There are shops to buy food and drinks. There's also a few small restaurants. Shopping - There are shops to buy....salt😋, souvenirs, food, something to drink and the blue ice-cream that you have to try! It has a salty taste but not overbearing, it's sooo good #silkroad #awesomepic #summervacation #naturalwonders #chakasaltlake

Chaka Salt Lake aka “Mirror of the Sky” truly lives up to its name 🪞 I wanted to share some shots from this magical place in Xining province which I’ve been sitting on for a while (honestly far too long) The journey to get here was hectic but boy was it worth it for the view 🤩 Fun fact: The Chinese name of this lake is 茶卡盐湖 or Chá kǎ yánhú. “Chaka” means salt lake in Tibetan while “yanhu” means salt lake in Chinese So this marvel of nature is actually named “Salt Lake Salt Lake” Go figure! 🚫Don’t go on a windy day or you won’t be able to see the mirror effect🚫 #travellater #chinatravel #xining #chakasaltlake #solotravel #solofemaletravel

Chaka Salt Lake, located in Wulan County, Qinghai, was rated as "the first of 55 places to visit in a lifetime"😚ヾ Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, it is spectacular and beautiful. The most famous thing is the view of the sky reflected on the lake, as if time has stood still and there is only the sky, the lake, and you. 😘༄ It is very nice to take pictures there. If you wait for the sunset, it will be extremely beautiful. It is worth recommending! ՞😃՞ #goodoutdoors #12月去边 #外游 #goodnewyearsendplace

Getting There - From Xining, there is a train to and from Chaka Lake. Only one train leaving from xining to chaka at 8am. The train returns 5:10pm. (Chaka to Xining). The train is not packed as Chaka is the only stop. (There is one stop before the lake also called Chaka, but it is for people that work in the are.) The train takes about 4:20 minutes. Attractions - Chaka salt lake Hotels - a day trip is more than enough Entrance fee: 80 yuan (Does not include train. The walk to the lake is much more quiet than the train and short.) Food & Restaurants - Dicos, Huizu cuisine, lots of beef noodles, Shopping - I mailed a postcard abroad. Some souvenir shops. Chaka lake was one of the better tourist experiences as a foreigner living in China. Very easy to get to from Xining, few people on the train. The staff on the train and park entrance did not make a big deal about encountering a foreigner. If you have traveled by train as a foreigner being in China during covid you will be surprised how smoothly it was to get on the train and into the park. For the train you will need the health code with green arrow, stamp showing when you entered China, phone number, vaccine record (phone one with health code is ok). Highly recommended as an easy day trip with not too much walking. Use the bathroom in the information/ticket office.

#salt #lake #qinghaitravel #qinghai #summervacation

Qinghai in China is a great option for summer as the weather is milder due to higher altitude. Especially Chaka Salt Lake is worth to experience when you are looking for a more extraordinary adventure. You fly in to Xining and take a car from there for around 4hrs❣ #summervacation#urbanexplorer

📍 Chaka Salt Lake in Qinghai Province, China 青海茶卡盐湖 📸 August 2019 🧂Chaka Salt Lake in Qinghai Province, China is a salt lake. The admission fee is 50 yuan (about 8,300 won) for adults, and the shuttle bus ticket is 20 yuan per person. Since Chaka Salt Lake is so large, you can take a shuttle bus to get around. If there were no clouds, you could take reflection photos like the Uyuni Salt Flats in South America, but unfortunately, it was a cloudy day when I went. It was fun to walk on the salt lake and feel the soles of my feet squeak~!! Qinghai Province, China has such beautiful natural scenery, so you should definitely visit it, and if you travel to Qinghai Province, be sure to visit Chaka Salt Lake 茶卡盐湖. #China travel #lake scenery #Qinghai Province, China #salt lake #Chaka salt lake #Chaka salt lake

For my birthday, my boyfriend brings me to this beautiful natural place 🎊 This salt lake is also called “Mirror of the sky” for the reflective shots you can take. My advice is to just walk around and enjoy the views on the lake and the snowy mountains around ! You will not be disappointed 👌😉 Bring your best camera and outfits to take incredible shots of the salt lake, the snowy mountains and yourself for your next profile pics 📸 Tips 1: Stay until sunset 🌅😎 the views are unbeatable Tips 2: if you want to relax🧘‍♂️, there is also a Spa located in the site for salt bath and other relaxing spa activities with salt #happylaborday #travelguide #landscapes #beautifulnature #chinatravel #scenicspotphotoguide

Chaka Salt Lake is a natural, crystallised saline lake in Qinghai Province. It’s a vast and expansive landscape, with salt lake sections stretching as far as the eye can see - it’s said to be the largest salt mine in the world! There’s nothing like the feeling of salt between your toes...but this section of the Chaka Salt Lake was a little more painful than the others. The further you walk, the bigger (and sharper...) the pieces got. But, you won’t be able to stop taking pictures while here because it truly is beautiful! Can you capture the famous mirror-like photos? ⠀ 📍Chaka Salt Lake, Qinghai Province, China #leaveyourmark

#goout After entering the Sky Mirror Scenic Area of ​​Chaka Salt Lake, you can take a small train to the center of the lake. After that, everyone can step into the lake barefoot or rent a pair of shoe covers to find an angle to shoot the beautiful scenery of the sky and people reflected in the water. If there are blue sky and white clouds, it will definitely be more beautiful.

#awesomepic 🦸‍♂️The legendary mirror of the sky is the Uyuni salt marsh, which is located near the small town of Uyuni in southwestern Bolivia. It is the largest salt marsh in the world. The Uyuni salt marsh in Bolivia is the largest salt marsh in the world. The scenery and peaceful surroundings make it a dream place for many travel enthusiasts. Tea card, praised by the donkey friends as the sky of China, compared to Bolivia, the beauty here is more intoxicating green. It's still a quiet place that is rarely touched. As quiet as a virgin, stands quietly on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau like a city in the sky. Entering the tea card, your heart will be much quieter. #awesomepic

The beauty of the tea card is stronger than the memory. Whether it is the first few times, it is full of excitement and ecstasy. At the moment of arrival, I still feel that everything is worth it. The day with you seems to live in a dream because it is a nightmare so there will be "infinitely good" possible um.../ Hh/ This must be my favorite season I received a lot of lots of warm greetings

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!

🤔 Have you ever dreamed of: Lying atop the Mingsha Mountain at 3 a.m.⛰️ counting the stars in the Milky Way, having your eyelashes tinted red by the sunrise at Chaka Salt Lake at 6 a.m., or chasing the sunset🌅 over the colorful Danxia landforms in the evening? ...... The vastness of the Northwest, spanning 3,000 kilometers, engraves the words "must-visit in a lifetime" into the travel DNA of every young adventurer‼️ 💢 But worried about the hassle of independent travel❓ Or afraid of being scammed on group tours❓ 🙋‍♀️ This "lazy-friendly" guide has got you covered! With transportation, accommodation, and tickets all included, plus great food and fun, even students can pack up and go❗ Save this now! Preparation Before Departure: Documents: ID card, student ID (for discounts) Clothing: Bring both light and heavy jackets as the temperature difference between day and night is significant Skincare: Sunscreen, lip balm, and hydrating face masks Others: Power bank, sunglasses, hat, and some stomach medicine 💊 Classic 7-Day Itinerary: 🔹 Day 1: Xining — Riyue Mountain — Qinghai Lake — Chaka Salt Lake 🔹 Day 2: Chaka Town — Qarhan Salt Lake — Dachaidan 🔹 Day 3: Dachaidan — Water Yadan — Emerald Lake — Dachaidan 🔹 Day 4: Dachaidan — Heidushan — Silk Road Heritage City — Dunhuang 🔹 Day 5: Mogao Caves — Mingsha Mountain Crescent Spring — Night Market — Dunhuang 🔹 Day 6: Dunhuang — Son of the Earth — Zhangye Danxia Landform — Zhangye 🔹 Day 7: Zhangye — Qilian Grassland — Gangshika Snow Peak (distant view) — Xining Advanced Ways to Explore Classic Spots: ✨ Tiptoe on the clouds at Chaka Salt Lake, pour a bottle of mineral water to create icy cracks in the "Mirror of the Sky" ✨ Drive an off-road vehicle through the Heidushan mountains, feeling the rough carbon texture of the rock walls with your fingertips ✨ Fly a drone over Emerald Lake, where the emerald green salt caves swallow your distorted shadow ✨ Chase the setting sun barefoot on Mingsha Mountain, feeling the warmth of the sand waves under your toes ✨ Hover your fingers three millimeters away from the murals at Mogao Caves, letting your breath gently brush the flying ribbons of the celestial beings 📸 Photography Tips for the Northwest: 👗 Outfits: Wear a silver futuristic jacket at Heidushan, denim chic at Danxia, and avoid overly plain outfits on the grasslands (the wind makes them look too thin) 🪄 Props: Bring a pack of Wangzai Milk Buns! Use them to feed birds at the salt lake for a dynamic shot, or toss sand in the desert to capture a "sand rainbow" 👍 Lighting: Shoot at Water Yadan at noon (minimal shadows), and capture the U-shaped road an hour before sunset (golden edges on the car body) Important Notes: Book Mogao Caves tickets in advance; last-minute purchases may not be available Some areas have poor signal, so download offline maps beforehand Respect local customs; dress modestly when entering temples Protect your camera equipment from sand and dust during desert activities

This is not just an ordinary trip; it’s an encounter with the wind, landscapes, and history. Over 7 days, you’ll journey from Qinghai to Gansu and back to Qilian, experiencing a different world each day. If you’re planning to visit Northwest China between June and August, this tried-and-tested guide is worth a read👇 🧳 Packing List Before Departure ✔ Thermos (1 piece): The high-altitude temperatures are low, and drinking hot water is more comfortable. ✔ Sun protection gear (5 items): Essential for the strong sunlight. ✔ Power bank and charging cables. ✔ Disposable raincoat and wet wipes. ✔ Snacks/Energy bars: Some routes lack restaurants. ✔ Camera and lens covers: Salt mist can be corrosive. Recommended Travel Season: June to August ✅ Pleasant weather, avoiding the summer heat. The salt lakes are stunning, the grasslands lush, and the flower fields in full bloom. ✅ Ample daylight for photography. ✅ Minor inconveniences: High tourist volume; consider traveling during off-peak times. 🚗 7-Day Northwest Grand Loop Itinerary: ✔ DAY 1: Departure city → Xining (24-hour pick-up service). ✔ DAY 2: Xining → Distant view of Riyue Mountain → Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake → Delingha. ✔ DAY 3: Delingha → U-shaped road → Dongtai Jinel Lake → Water Yadan → Nanbaxian. ✔ DAY 4: Dachaidan → Emerald Lake → Scenic highways → Dangjin Mountain → Dunhuang desert camping. ✔ DAY 5: Mogao Caves → Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake (camel ride to watch the sunset). ✔ DAY 6: Son of the Earth sculpture → Distant view of Jiayuguan → Rainbow Mountains → Zhangye. ✔ DAY 7: Zhangye → Qilian Grassland → Menyuan Rapeseed Flower Fields → Return to Xining. 📸 Must-Visit Attractions ✔ Qinghai Lake: Recommended to self-drive along the west line of the lake for its natural and unspoiled scenery. ✔ Chaka Salt Lake: Visit in the early morning or evening for the best sunlight angles for photography. ✔ Water Yadan: Exudes a wild and desolate atmosphere; take the sightseeing bus to the core area. ✔ Emerald Lake: Vibrant colors with many small pools perfect for photography. ✔ Mogao Caves: The digital exhibition hall is highly recommended! A-tickets must be booked on the official website a month in advance. ✔ Mingsha Mountain Crescent Lake: The back mountain has fewer tourists and beautiful scenery. Red or mustard yellow long dresses are recommended for photos. ✔ Rainbow Mountains: Platform 4 is the best spot for sunset colors; arrive early. ✔ Qilian Grassland + Menyuan Flower Fields: Rapeseed flowers bloom in late July, with snow-capped mountains and flower fields complementing each other. 🧭 Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 📵 Limited signal coverage: Weak signals in Dachaidan, Yadan, and Dangjin Mountain areas! Download offline maps in advance. 💸 Bring cash: Some gas stations and convenience stores do not accept mobile payments. 🧴 Don’t slack on sun protection: The high-altitude sunlight is intense. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and sun-protective clothing. 🌬 Strong winds: Noticeable winds in Chaka and Heidushan. Be cautious when wearing long dresses with shawls. 🧳 Pack light: Daily hotel changes and long travel times make it essential to avoid overpacking. 🧯 Safety in uninhabited areas: The road conditions can be challenging. If unfamiliar, consider carpooling or hiring a private car.