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About 40 kilometers from Delingha City, along National Highway 315 in the direction of Dunhuang, you'll find a clear sign pointing to a UFO. This is the legendary Delingha Alien Site. This legendary "alien site" is located in Baigong Mountain, over 40 kilometers southwest of Delingha City, the capital of Qaidam. It sits on the southern shore of the salty Tuosu Lake.
Here you can find all kinds of western beauty you want. It is spacious and sparsely populated, without any noise or disturbance. Friends who like off-road can step on the accelerator to the bottom, just like in American westerns, use speed and passion to dispel loneliness and desolation, and enjoy the soothing scenery of thousands of miles.
free
All day
The Alien Ruins in Qinghai are a mysterious site surrounded by speculation about their origins. Some believe that the structures could be evidence of extraterrestrial activity, while others think they could be remnants of ancient civilizations. The ruins have captured the imagination of both researchers and tourists alike due to their unusual shape and layout.
The Alien Ruins are located in Ulan, Qinghai Province, China. The best way to reach the ruins is by taxi or private vehicle from nearby towns like Xining, which is about 70 kilometers away. Public transportation options are limited, so booking a guided tour is often recommended.
The site is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is generally affordable, but it may vary depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site. For guided tours, booking in advance through local tour agencies is advisable.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during the peak tourist season or if you plan to join a guided tour. Booking a few days in advance is ideal.
A visit to the Alien Ruins can take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the site, taking photographs, and participating in a guided tour.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour operators may offer English-speaking guides during peak seasons. Audio guides are typically not available, but a guide will provide detailed information about the site’s significance and history.
Start by walking through the main area of the ruins and taking photos of the formations. Then, hike up the nearby hills for a panoramic view of the site and surrounding area. If possible, explore any nearby research stations or information centers to learn more about the theories surrounding the ruins.
Night visits and light shows are not currently available at the Alien Ruins. However, the site offers an eerie atmosphere, especially during sunset or under the moonlight, which is perfect for photography and reflection.
The Alien Ruins are not usually crowded, especially outside of the Chinese holiday seasons. The best times to visit for fewer crowds are early mornings or weekdays, particularly during the off-peak seasons (fall and spring).
Basic facilities such as toilets and resting areas are available at the site. There are no large shops or restaurants, so it's a good idea to bring your own water and snacks. Small kiosks selling refreshments may be found in nearby towns.
The terrain around the ruins can be challenging due to its rocky nature, so it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children and young visitors can navigate the site with ease.
Cash is accepted at the site, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in nearby towns. Credit cards are typically not accepted, so it is advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment platforms.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the ruins. However, nearby towns offer a variety of small restaurants serving local cuisine.
Some nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Halal food options may be available in areas with a Muslim population.
There are no accommodations directly at the site. However, you can find various hotels in Xining, about 70 kilometers away, with options ranging from budget guesthouses to more luxurious hotels.
There are limited souvenir shops near the site, but nearby towns may have stores offering local handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, and other unique items.
After visiting the Alien Ruins, the best transportation options are to return to Xining by taxi or private car. From there, you can continue your journey to other nearby attractions such as Qinghai Lake or the Kumbum Monastery.
