Top 10 Best Things to Do in Qinghai: Seeing Sunrise, Watching Birds, Cycling...

Qinghai is a land of dreamlike landscapes—vast golden seas of flowers, dazzling snow-capped mountains, and endless stretches of turquoise waters. For a moment, it feels as if you have stepped into a dream. As the "source of rivers" and the "water tower of China", Qinghai represents the poetry and distant longing in the hearts of many travelers. Following are the best things to do in Qinghai.

Top 1: See the Sunrise at Heimahe

In the vast northeastern part of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, there lies a lake like a pearl embedded in the earth—Qinghai Lake. As China’s largest inland saltwater lake, it boasts an expansive surface and sapphire-blue waters, renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views. Anyone fortunate enough to witness the sunrise over Qinghai Lake will be captivated by its stunning beauty, immersed in nature’s masterpiece, and experience an unparalleled sense of spiritual renewal.

Among the many Qinghai Lake sunrise spots, Heimahe Village is the most mesmerizing, where the dawn’s radiance is magnified and intensified. Located along the shores of Qinghai Lake, Heimahe marks the starting point of the lake’s scenic highway. From this point, a 70-kilometer journey along the road leads to the famous Bird Island, with the stretch between Heimahe and Bird Island hailed as the most picturesque section of Qinghai Lake’s route.

The anticipation of sunrise is exhilarating. Gradually, the eastern sky begins to lighten, transitioning from deep darkness to a faint, silvery glow. The dim light gradually strengthens as the sun, hidden below the horizon, sends its golden rays piercing through the clouds, illuminating the distant lake and sky in soft red hues. Meanwhile, the western sky remains shrouded in darkness. About 20 minutes later, a golden arc subtly emerges from the horizon, gradually growing into a magnificent semicircle. Bit by bit, it ascends, and then, in a sudden leap, the half-circle bursts free from the horizon. Instantly, the boundless sky is bathed in shimmering gold as the resplendent sun rises, casting red beams across the vast landscape, filling the world with a sense of warmth and vitality.

The sunrise at Heimahe is like the people living on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau—passionate, bold, and dauntless. Its beauty and grandeur leave an unforgettable impression.

Top 2: Cycle around Qinghai Lake

Qinghai Lake, ranked the first among "China's Five Most Beautiful Lakes", shines like a sapphire embedded in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Traveling here by car feels so rushed that fleeting glimpses will miss the lush greenery along the lakeshore, while on foot is too slow to capture its vast grandeur, leaving some regrets. Perhaps, cycling is the perfect way to visit Qinghai Lake.

Imagine cycling beneath a vast blue sky dotted with white clouds, with deep azure waters, golden rapeseed fields, lush green grasslands, and herds of cattle and sheep. Escape the noise and emptiness of city life, breathe freely in the pure highland air. You may move in silence, listening to the wind rush past your ears; or you might shout with joy, feeling the exhilarating freedom.

Qinghai Lake has a circumference of approximately 360 kilometers, linking its shimmering waters, rolling grasslands, and endless sky into a magnificent natural scroll. To the south of the lake lies the vast Qinghai Lake Grassland, where soft, green meadows stretch endlessly toward the water’s edge. As breezes pass through, the grass sways gently, and wildflowers of every color bloom freely, as if welcoming every traveler on their cycling journey. From the east, Qinghai Lake’s iconic deep blue dominates the horizon, its waters shimmering under the sunlight, mesmerizing and profound, and distant snow-capped mountains loom, contrasting with the lake. On the west is considered one of the most scenic cycling paths. On one side, the vast expanse of Qinghai Lake stretches infinitely, while on the other, sand dunes rise and fall like waves. As the sun sets, its golden light spills over the lake and dunes, painting the world in a dreamlike glow of gold.

Top 3: Watch Birds at Bird Island

Bird Island in Qinghai Lake is located in the northwest corner of the lake, near the mouth of the Buha River. It consists of two islands, one to the east and one to the west. Surrounded by water on three sides, with lush aquatic vegetation and an abundance of fish, this unique geographical setting and natural environment make it an ideal habitat and breeding ground for birds.

Every spring, bar-headed geese, great black-headed gulls, brown-necked gulls, and many other bird species flock here, each claiming a section of the island to build their nests. During the egg-laying season, the island becomes densely covered with bird eggs, impossible to count, earning it the nickname "Egg Island".

From April to May each year, Bird Island becomes a thriving haven for migratory birds during their breeding season. Even from a distance, visitors can hear the lively and varied calls of the birds, chirping with joy. From the observation deck, one can witness birds soaring freely across the sky, leaving elegant white trails in their wake; others gliding and chasing each other on the water’s surface, creating shimmering silver ripples; while some bask lazily on the shore, soaking up the warm sunlight.

Top 4: Camp beside Qinghai Lake

Imagine setting up a tent by Qinghai Lake, sitting with loved ones under a star-studded sky where the Milky Way stretches across the heavens, seemingly within reach. This is not just a camping trip, but a spiritual awakening that helps you rediscover yourself in profound tranquility.

Nestled as a hidden gem along Qinghai Lake, Tongbao Mountain Camping Base is a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The facilities here are comprehensive, from minimalist self-service camping to luxurious stargazing rooms, catering to every need. As night falls, a lively bonfire party comes to life. People gather around the crackling flames, singing and dancing while sharing tales of the day, their laughter and songs echoing through the valley. When silence descends, gazes turn upward to the cosmos, searching for your own star.

At the first hint of dawn in the eastern sky, Tongbao Mountain’s summit transforms into the sunrise vantage point. As the sun slowly breaches the horizon, golden light spills across the heavens, making every moment of anticipation worthwhile. Bathed in morning glow, the mountain exudes serene mystery, like a sacred gift from nature to those who rise with the light.

Top 5: Take a Train on Chaka Salt Lake

The "Mirror of the Sky", Chaka Salt Lake, captivates not only with its surface but also with the railway stretching into its heart. This railway, extending deep into the salt lake, was originally built in the 1950s for salt transportation. However, with the advent of ship-based salt transport, the railway gradually faded from industrial use. Yet, this track, bearing witness to historical changes, has been preserved, blending with the mirrored waters and forming a stunning and unique artistic landscape.

The small train within Chaka Salt Lake holds an irreplaceable significance compared to the newly constructed tourist trains in other scenic areas. This narrow-gauge railway, dividing the lake into two halves, is the only one of its kind built on a salt lake in China. Today, riding the small train has become an essential experience at Chaka Salt Lake. As it glides through the silvery expanse, the journey feels like a dream, transporting passengers into a fairy-tale world.

Sitting aboard the leisurely train, the deeper you go into the lake, the more vivid the scenery becomes. The milky-white mirrors on either side blur the lines between salt, snow, and clouds, enveloping you in a vast, ethereal expanse. In this boundless serenity, all worldly concerns seem to fade away, leaving only a sense of profound peace.

Top 6: Climb the Zhuo’er Mountain

Zhuo'er Mountain is a masterpiece sculpted by nature, blending breathtaking landscapes with touching mythical tales. Legend has it that this was the place where the Dragon Princess and the Mountain God, Amidoṅso, fell in love and vowed to stay together for eternity.

Zhuo'er Mountain is also a Danxia landform, but unlike the Danxia formations in Zhangye, its exposed red sandstone is covered with a thick layer of lush green grass, barley fields, and dense pine forests. Under the interplay of snow-capped peaks, blue skies, white clouds, and golden sunlight, the mountain presents a mesmerizing palette of colors, resembling a beautifully painted oil canvas.

From a distance, with rolling hills and stretching highland barley, the red symbolizes the Dragon Princess, while the green represents the Mountain God, standing as eternal guardians of this enchanting land. Climbing to the summit, one is greeted with an awe-inspiring panorama. The distant snow-capped mountains glisten under the sunlight, while the nearby grasslands flourish in vibrant green, dotted with wildflowers, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.

Top 7: Ride Horses at Qilian Grassland

Qilian Mountain Grassland, one of the most beautiful grasslands in China, stretches across the northeastern part of Qinghai. Here, the vast grassland stretches like a green sea to the horizon, dotted with herds of grazing sheep, cattle, and galloping horses. This land of nature, revered se the "Heart of the Homeland" seems to exist for those who long for a carefree life, inspiring an irresistible urge to run wild and escape the worries of the world.

Horseback riding here is both a test of harmony between rider and steed and a thrilling challenge of strength and speed. Galloping across the plains, the grassland ignites a fiery passion, awakening dreams of unrestrained liberty. Beginners need not fret—professional trainers at Qilian’s ranches offer patient guidance. Whether galloping freely across the open plains or leisurely trotting through pastoral trails, every moment spent connecting with nature promises unforgettable memories.

Drawing a bow and shooting arrows on horseback is another way to immerse in nomadic traditions. Mastering communication with your horse, adjusting angles and strength, and stabilizing your posture are all part of the sport. In the moment the arrow flies, you’ll feel transported to an era when life revolved around the grasslands and horses, filling your heart with quiet confidence and serenity.

Top 8: Trek around Amne Machin

Amne Machin, or Anyi Machen, stands at an elevation of 6,282 meters and is located in the northwest of Maqên County, Golog Prefecture. As the largest mountain in the source region of the Yellow River, it is the only sacred mountain in the Tibetan region that is open for climbing.

The pilgrimage trek around the sacred mountain can be divided into two routes. The western route of the Amne Machin range starts from the traditional trailhead at Tsam Nak Kham Do and follows a clockwise path around the mountain, ending at Xiadawu. The eastern route begins at Xiadawu and extends to Xueshan Township, with road access available. Most trekkers choose to hike the western route to Xiadawu before taking a vehicle to complete the eastern route. Those who do not wish to hike can opt for the eastern route entirely by car, still experiencing the mountain’s breathtaking majesty. A full trekking circuit covers about 130 kilometers and takes around 5-6 days. Most of the journey is above 4,000 meters in elevation, making altitude sickness an inevitable challenge.

Overcoming these hardships brings an overwhelming sense of relief. At the foot of the snow-capped peaks, prayer flags flutter in the wind, while massive glacial tongues cascade down from the mountains. A surge of warmth rises in your heart, your eyes grow misty, and a profound reverence takes hold deep within. This is the undeniable allure of the sacred mountain.

Top 9: Ski at Gang Ziska Snow Peak

Gang Ziska Snow Peak, located in Menyuan County, Haibei Prefecture, is one of the three major mountaineering peaks in Qinghai. Towering at an altitude of 5,254.5 meters, its summit remains snow-covered throughout the year, draped in a silver-white mantle. Resembling a winding jade dragon, it reigns as the highest peak in the Menyuan region.

The Gang Ziska Ski Mountaineering Base boasts soft snow and vast, open views, making it an ideal location for ski mountaineering activities all year round, dubbed the "Summer Paradise for Ski Mountaineering" by enthusiasts. Compared to areas of similar altitude in the heart of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Gang Ziska enjoys a relatively humid climate, reducing the likelihood of severe altitude sickness.

With its exceptional skiing conditions, Gang Ziska provides wide slopes with moderate inclines, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiing enthusiasts alike. Whether seeking an adrenaline rush or simply enjoying the breathtaking alpine scenery, every visitor can find their own joy in this high-altitude wonderland.

Top 10: Photo Animals in Hoh Xil

In the western part of Yushu Prefecture lies Hoh Xil, a vast uninhabited land roughly the size of Denmark. With an average altitude of 5,000 meters and oxygen levels only half that of the plains, it remains the last great wildlife sanctuary on Earth. Known as the "dreamland of adventurers", Hoh Xil is one of the world's largest high-altitude permafrost regions and is often referred to as "the last pure land of humanity". Here, you will witness breathtaking landscapes that seem to exist only in dreams, embracing nature’s most unfiltered and awe-inspiring gifts.

Hoh Xil is a protected nature reserve, and visitors must adhere to strict environmental regulations to avoid disturbing wildlife. Vehicles are required to stay on designated roads, and photographing animals must be done from a distance of at least 300 meters using telephoto lenses. If you are fortunate, you may witness Tibetan antelopes gracefully traversing the grasslands, wild yaks grazing leisurely in the wilderness, or even rare species like snow leopards and Tibetan wild asses dashing past. Focusing on these magnificent creatures, you will feel the raw power and purity of nature in its most primal form.

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