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Visit Bird Island to observe the vast array of migratory birds, especially during the breeding season. Enjoy boat tours around the island for a closer look at the bird colonies, and take part in photography, nature walks, and birdwatching. The area is also ideal for appreciating the natural beauty of Qinghai Lake and surrounding wetlands.
Qinghai Lake Bird Island, located in the northwest of Qinghai Lake, covers an area of 0.8 square kilometers and is named for the hundreds of thousands of migratory birds that inhabit it. Due to ecological changes, bird sightings are now rare. At high tide, Bird Island appears isolated in the sea, while at low tide, it connects to the main island. The sunlight shimmers the entire island. The lush greenery of the island, nestled against the deep blue Pacific, resembles a secluded emerald. It is also the best spot on Saipan Island to watch the sunrise; on clear days, you can even see a star-filled sky above the sea before sunrise.
Bird Island closed its scenic area on August 29, 2017 and stopped all tourism operations. As an internationally important wetland, it only allows some organized scientific research and teaching activities to minimize interference from human activities.
Birds begin arriving in April, and the best birdwatching season is from May to July. After August, the birds gradually leave. However, the best time to see whooper swans is between November and February.
50-100 yuan
8:30-17:30
Bird Island is located in Qinghai Lake and is known for being one of the largest bird reserves in China. The island is a key stop for migratory birds, especially during the spring and autumn migrations. It is home to over 100 species of birds, including the endangered black-necked crane, making it a vital ecological site for bird conservation.
Bird Island is located near Qinghai Lake, about 100 kilometers west of Xining, the capital of Qinghai province. You can reach the site by car or bus from Xining. There are no direct metro or walking routes, so taxis or private transport are the best options for visiting the island.
The site is typically open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when migratory birds are abundant. During these seasons, the birds are most active and can be seen in larger numbers. The island is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and visiting early in the morning is recommended for birdwatching.
The entrance fee is generally around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Some tour agencies may offer packages including transport and guides, which can be booked in advance either online or at travel agencies in Xining.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required for individual visits, but it is advisable during peak seasons (spring and autumn) when the island can get crowded. A few days' notice should be sufficient for making arrangements if you are visiting during busy times.
To fully explore Bird Island, you should allocate 2-3 hours. This allows time for birdwatching, taking photographs, and exploring the surrounding natural landscape. If you plan to take a boat tour, add another hour to your visit.
The key highlights include the large bird colonies, especially the swan and heron populations, which are most visible during the migration period. The panoramic views of Qinghai Lake and the surrounding wetlands also offer excellent photography opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may also offer basic English. It is recommended to arrange a tour in advance if you require an English-speaking guide. Audio guides are not widely available.
The best viewpoints are near the birdwatching platforms, where you can observe the birds up close. The surrounding wetlands and the view of Qinghai Lake from the island also offer excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Start by visiting the birdwatching platforms, then take a boat tour around the island for a closer view of the bird colonies. Walk along the shore for scenic views of Qinghai Lake and the surrounding area. Finish your visit with some time at the observation areas for panoramic photography.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available on Bird Island. The attraction is best visited during the day, especially during the early morning hours for birdwatching.
Bird Island can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the spring and autumn migration periods. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly outside of the peak tourist seasons.
The island has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or shops, so it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks. Some local vendors may sell light refreshments near the entrance.
The main areas of the island are accessible to most visitors, including families with children. However, due to the terrain and lack of paved paths, elderly or disabled visitors may find some parts of the island difficult to access. It is recommended to check with local guides about accessibility before visiting.
Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also available. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's best to bring cash or use mobile payment methods.
There are no significant dining options directly on Bird Island. The closest restaurants are located in the nearby town of Xining, where you can enjoy local Qinghai cuisine, including Tibetan dishes and noodles.
In Xining, you'll find a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, as the city has a significant Muslim population. Some local restaurants may also offer vegetarian Tibetan dishes.
There are various hotels and guesthouses in Xining, ranging from budget to mid-range. Popular options include the Qinghai Hotel and various local inns. It's best to stay in Xining and take a day trip to Bird Island.
Other nearby attractions include Qinghai Lake, which is perfect for hiking, boating, and photography. The Kumbum Monastery and the Tibetan-style Ta'er Monastery are also worth visiting while you're in the area.
Souvenir shops are limited around Bird Island, but in Xining, you can find typical Tibetan handicrafts, such as thangka paintings, prayer beads, and local woolen goods.
After visiting Bird Island, you can continue your trip by car or taxi to nearby Qinghai Lake for sightseeing, or head back to Xining to explore the city's other cultural attractions. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region.
