Qinghai Lake

​​Geographical & Ecological Significance​​

Qinghai Lake, at ​​3,260 meters above sea level​​, is a critical ecological barrier on the Tibetan Plateau, preventing desertification and serving as a "climate regulator" for northwestern China. Its ​​4,549 km² water area​​ supports:

• ​​Biodiversity​​: Habitat for 225+ bird species (e.g., bar-headed geese, black-necked cranes) and the endangered Przewalski's gazelle.
• ​​Wetland Conservation​​: Recognized as a ​​Ramsar Wetland of International Importance​​, with Bird Island hosting 100,000+ migratory birds annually.

​​Key Attractions​​

1. ​​Bird Island (Niaodao)​​
   • A ​​0.5 km² island​​ teeming with birds (May–June). Highlights include egg-laying colonies and the ​​Great Cormorant breeding site​​.
2. ​​Erlangjian Scenic Area​​
   • Gateway to the lake, offering panoramic views and ​​cycling routes​​ along the shoreline.
3. ​​Sand Island & Haixin Mountain​​
   • Sand Island features dunes and ice sculptures in winter, while Haixin Mountain is famed for its ​​Buddhist monasteries​​ and rocky landscapes.

​​Cultural & Recreational Activities​​

• ​​Tour of Qinghai Lake​​: Asia’s top ​​cycling race​​, held every July, circumnavigating the lake.
• ​​Pilgrimage​​: Tibetan Buddhists perform ​​kora (circumambulation)​​ around the lake during Horse Year, taking ~18 days on horseback.
• ​​Winter Wonders​​: Frozen lake (November–March) allows ice fishing for ​​naked carp​​, a local delicacy.

​​Conservation Efforts​​

• ​​Ecological Projects​​: Since 2008, ​​¥1.57 billion​​ invested to restore wetlands and ban overfishing, increasing naked carp populations 30-fold.
• ​​Tourism Management​​: Restricted access to fragile zones (e.g., Bird Island closures in peak seasons).

​​Visitor Essentials​​

• ​​Best Time to Visit​​: ​​May–October​​ for wildflowers and birdwatching; July for cycling events.
• ​​Entry Fees​​: ​​¥100​​ (peak season, April–October); ​​¥50​​ (off-season).
• ​​Access​​: 136 km from Xining; buses/taxis available.

Qinghai Lake blends ​​natural grandeur, cultural depth, and adventure​​, making it a crown jewel of China’s ecotourism.