Qinghai Lake, formerly known by its Mongolian name Lake Koukounoor, is China's largest salt lake. This high-altitude lake lies northeast of Qinghai, 150 km from Xining, the provincial capital.

With its extraordinary beauty, the lake has become an important pilgrimage destination for countless believers. Its azure waters harbor several small islands, including Bird Island, a true paradise. During your journey through Qinghai, the lake will be one of the principal sites you won't want to miss.

History

Sacred to Mongols and Tibetans alike, the lake remains a revered destination and important pilgrimage site.

In 1578, Mongolian leader Altan Khan conferred upon Sonam Gyatso, chief of the Gelugpa sect, the title of Dalai Lama at Qinghai Lake. Many Mongolian troops settled in the region. Today, the shores are primarily inhabited by sheep herders.

In 1960, a research center for nuclear weapons was established near the lake in the Haibei Autonomous Prefecture. In the late 1970s, a uranium enrichment plant was built on the lake's site, closing its doors in 1987. Other nuclear facilities followed, eventually contaminating the lake with radioactivity.

During the 20th century, the lake's surface area shrank considerably. Water levels dropped by at least 13 meters. Overgrazing and irrigation in the region are believed to be responsible for these changes. Chinese authorities subsequently encouraged herders to relocate away from the lake.

Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake, literally "Blue Sea," sits at an altitude of 3,260 meters. This salt lake covers an area between 4,635 and 5,694 km² depending on the season, with a circumference of 360 km, making it China's largest salt lake. Its average depth is estimated at 19 meters.

The water's salinity level is 6%, significantly higher than seawater, which averages 3.5%.

The lake contains five small islands, including Bird Island (Niao Dao), which will certainly capture your attention with its thousands of birds.

Trekking Around Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake is one of the most visited destinations in the region. A true haven of peace and life source with its thousands of birds, the lake will leave you speechless.

!Qinghai Lake China

Its azure color stretching across grasslands and mountains in the background creates a landscape worthy of one of the finest paintings.

Once there, you can walk along the shores and stop in villages to meet herders and sample local dishes. However, avoid the fish, which, freshly caught from the lake, is becoming increasingly scarce and directly impacts bird survival. Indeed, a significant colony of migratory birds arrives between April and May, delighting ornithologists who can observe rare species such as the bar-headed goose.

Each year, between July and August, a major cycling race takes place around the lake. The altitude promises an exceptionally challenging race that only the best-prepared cyclists will finish.

For the less athletic, bikes are available for rent to explore a smaller section and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Horseback rides are also offered along the lake shore to fully immerse yourself in the surroundings.

Often, you won't be able to circle the entire lake in a single day. However, you can plan a two-day excursion and stay at Niao Dao near Bird Island.

When to Visit?

From May to October, the weather is relatively stable and pleasant. During these periods, you can observe numerous bird species.

Train

Trains depart in the morning from Xining to Haergai, a small town on the northern shore of the lake. The journey takes just over 5 hours. Taxis or private vehicles can then take you to the lake or to Niao Dao.

Bus

Long-distance buses depart from Xining's bus station for the small Tibetan hamlet Heimahe, located southwest of the lake. From Heimahe, you can reach Niao Dao by taxi for a nominal fee.

Entrance Fees

Access to the lake is free. However, to visit Bird Island, an entrance fee of approximately 80 RMB is required. The island is open from 7am to 6pm during the tourist season.