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Heading towards Qilian, you'll encounter the Binggou Forest Sea. Melted snow from the Qilian Mountains flows into a stream, flanked by untouched pine forests, giving it the name Binggou Forest Sea. Densely covered with pristine forest, Binggou Forest Sea offers year-round shade, buoyed by flowing springs and herded cattle and sheep, creating a tranquil and tranquil environment.
Binggou Forest Sea is only 2,000 meters above sea level, and with dense pine trees, those who have previously suffered from altitude sickness can enjoy a good breath of air here. The scenic area is still under development and no entrance fee is required. It is indeed an ideal place for camping and picnics in the summer.
June to August is the best time to travel
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
free
All day
Binggou Forest is known for its striking geological formations and unique landscape. It is a part of the larger Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and has significant natural beauty. The forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the biodiversity of the region. It also holds cultural importance, being close to Tibetan communities.
Binggou Forest is located in the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai, China. The nearest city is Xining. From Xining, you can take a taxi or a private car to reach the forest. Public transportation options are limited, so taxis or rental cars are the most convenient ways to travel to Binggou Forest.
Binggou Forest is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is milder. The winter months can be quite cold, and some trails may be inaccessible due to snow.
The entrance fee for Binggou Forest is usually around 40–60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. It is advisable to check local prices before visiting.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors. However, during peak seasons (such as national holidays), it may be advisable to book tickets a few days in advance to avoid long lines.
To fully explore Binggou Forest, 2–3 hours is typically sufficient. This includes time for hiking, photography, and enjoying the natural surroundings. If you want to explore the surrounding areas or nearby Tibetan villages, you might need an extra hour or two.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. It is recommended to hire a local guide for a more immersive experience, as they can explain the geological formations and the cultural significance of the forest.
Start by walking along the main trail, which takes you through the forest and offers the best views of the rock formations. Stop for photos at various points along the route. If time permits, visit a nearby Tibetan village to learn more about the local culture.
There are no night visits or light shows at Binggou Forest. However, the area is known for its clear skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing after dark.
Binggou Forest can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, such as summer and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays in the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, but fewer tourists are around.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the entrance. There are limited food options inside the forest, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and water. Souvenir shops can be found in nearby villages.
The trails in Binggou Forest can be uneven and challenging in some areas, making it less accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main viewpoints are accessible with minimal walking, so most visitors can still enjoy the scenery.
Cash is preferred in the area, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in some locations. It is recommended to carry sufficient cash for tickets and small purchases.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside Binggou Forest itself, but you can find local eateries and small restaurants in the nearby Tibetan villages or in Xining, where traditional Tibetan food is served.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in the nearby Tibetan villages. However, vegan options may be limited in the region.
Accommodation options are available in Xining, the nearest city. Xining has a range of hotels from budget to mid-range. For a more traditional experience, you can stay in guesthouses in nearby Tibetan villages.
Souvenir shops in nearby Tibetan villages offer traditional handicrafts, such as handwoven textiles, prayer beads, and jewelry. Local snacks and Tibetan spices are also popular souvenirs.
The best way to continue your trip after visiting Binggou Forest is to take a taxi or private car to nearby attractions like Qinghai Lake or the Kumbum Monastery. Public transportation options are limited.
