Don't miss the stunning sunset at Qarhan Salt Lake

Located in Golmud City, Qinghai Province, Qarhan Salt Lake is the largest salt lake in China and the second largest in the world. With its magnificent scenery and sparkling salt crystals, it's a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Here's a detailed travel guide to help you plan the perfect trip: --- ### **1. Basic Information** - **Location**: Golmud City, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, about 60 km from downtown Golmud. - **Best time to visit**: May-October (sunny days are common in summer, and the salt lake's colors are most vibrant; winter is cold but with fewer tourists, offering a unique desolate beauty). - **Tickets**: Approx. CNY 100 (including scenic bus), prices may fluctuate depending on the season. - **Opening hours**: 8:30-18:30 (it is recommended to go early to avoid the strong midday sun). --- ### **2. Transportation** 1. **Self-drive/chartered car**: - From Golmud City, it takes about 1 hour to reach the lake along National Highway G215. The road conditions are good. - Chartered car costs about CNY 200-300/day (can be combined with a day trip to Ussut Yadan). 2. **Public transportation**: - There are direct buses to the scenic area from Golmud Railway Station or Bus Station (buses are infrequent, it is recommended to confirm in advance). --- ### **3. Must-see Attractions** 1. **Wan Zhang Salt Bridge**: - A naturally formed salt crust road across the salt lake, offering a unique driving experience. 2. **Salt Flower Wonders**: - The salt flowers crystallized in the lake have various shapes. The best viewing spot is in the depths of the scenic area (requires taking a battery car). 3. **Thousand Islets Salt Flowers**: - Salt islands scattered in the salt lake reflect the blue sky, making it an excellent spot for aerial photography (drones need to be registered in advance). 4. **Salt Lake Museum**: - Learn about the formation, mining history, and industrial value of the salt lake (free admission). --- ### **4. Travel Tips** 1. **Photography suggestions**: - Best time: early morning or evening (soft light, avoid strong midday glare). - Essential equipment: polarizing filter (to reduce glare), drone (needs to be registered in advance), brightly colored clothing (contrasting colors make for better photos). 2. **Clothing and protection**: - High-top shoes or shoe covers (the salt crust is sharp, avoid walking barefoot). - Sunglasses, sunscreen (very strong UV rays), hat (for wind and sun protection). 3. **Precautions**: - The salt lake water is corrosive, avoid direct contact with skin, and do not drink it. - Protect the environment, do not step on the salt flowers or litter. --- ### **5. Nearby Attractions** - **Ussut Yadan**: About 200 km from the salt lake, featuring unique water-eroded landforms. - **Dachaidan Emerald Lake**: Another niche salt lake with emerald-like colors (about 150 km away). - **Golmud Kunlun Mountains**: Can be combined with a trip to the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, experiencing the magnificence of snow-capped mountains and deserts. --- ### **6. Food and Accommodation Recommendations** - **Accommodation**: It is recommended to stay in Golmud City, which has more choices and better conditions (such as Golmud Salt Lake Hotel, budget chain hotels). - **Dining**: Golmud offers Northwest flavors such as roasted lamb on a heated brick bed, yogurt, and noodles. There are fewer dining options in the scenic area, so it is recommended to bring your own snacks. --- ### **7. Special Reminders** - **Altitude sickness**: The salt lake is about 2670 meters above sea level. Generally, there is no altitude sickness, but avoid strenuous exercise. - **Weather changes**: The weather in Qinghai is changeable, so bring a jacket with you (large temperature difference between day and night). The purity and magnificence of Qarhan Salt Lake are definitely worth a special trip. Plan your itinerary in advance, bring your camera and a spirit of exploration, and set off!