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Donggecuo Lake, also known as Toso Lake and the Black Sea, is located in Maduo County, within the fault basin between the Buqing and Burhanbuda Mountains. Its waters originate from the Amnye Machen region. Despite its lofty origins, Donggecuo Lake chooses not to flow into the Yellow River, but instead flows into the Qaidam Basin, a crucial step in its journey. This has nurtured a precious oasis civilization.
The beauty of Cuonahu in winter is equally as famous as its famous red grass beach. When the rich autumn colors come around the National Day, the lakeside meadows with Artemisia Pamiris as the dominant vegetation immediately transform into a continuous and eye-catching red grass beach, which is almost comparable to the red grass beach in Sangdui, Daocheng. The scenery is breathtaking.
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Donggecuo Lake is located in the northern part of Qinghai, China, and is part of the area renowned for its natural beauty and Tibetan culture. The lake holds spiritual significance for local Tibetans, with the surrounding areas being sacred sites for pilgrimage. It also plays a crucial role in the region's ecosystem, providing a habitat for various bird species and wildlife.
Donggecuo Lake is located in the Banma County of Qinghai, China. The easiest way to reach the lake is by traveling to Xining, the nearest major city, and then taking a bus or private car to the lake. There are no metro services available in this area, and walking is not feasible due to the distance from major urban centers.
Donggecuo Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer can be crowded, while winter is cold, and some areas may be inaccessible due to snow.
The lake itself does not have an entrance fee. However, visitors may need to pay for activities such as boat rides or visits to nearby cultural attractions. Tickets for these activities can usually be purchased onsite in cash, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are commonly accepted.
Booking tickets in advance is typically not necessary for visiting Donggecuo Lake. However, for special activities like guided tours or boat rides, it is a good idea to book at least a few days in advance, especially during the high tourist season.
Exploring Donggecuo Lake and its surroundings can take 2 to 3 days, especially if you want to hike, engage in photography, and visit nearby Tibetan villages. A shorter visit of one day is possible if you are just exploring the lake and taking in the views.
Guided tours are available for visitors, primarily in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it is recommended to book them in advance. Audio guides are generally not available.
Begin your visit by walking along the shores of the lake to get a feel for the landscape. Then, hike up to one of the higher viewpoints for a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Afterward, visit nearby Tibetan villages to experience the local culture. If time permits, enjoy a boat ride on the lake for a peaceful and scenic experience.
Night visits are possible due to the clear skies, and stargazing is a popular activity. However, there are no light shows or special night tours available in the area. The best time for visits is during the day to enjoy the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Donggecuo Lake is generally not overcrowded, but it can get busy during the peak tourist season in summer or during Chinese holidays. The least crowded times are typically in spring and autumn, especially during weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available near the lake and in the surrounding areas. There are small food stalls, but it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks for longer excursions. Rest areas are limited, so it’s best to plan accordingly for extended stays.
The area around Donggecuo Lake is mostly natural and undeveloped, making some parts of it difficult to access for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. However, there are some paved paths near the lake that can be easily accessed by families and elderly visitors. More strenuous hiking trails are not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay or Alipay are widely used throughout the area, especially for smaller purchases and activities. It is advisable to carry both cash and have access to mobile payments for convenience.
There are no major restaurants or cafes directly by the lake. Small food stalls and local eateries can be found in nearby villages. For more dining options, visitors should head to Xining or larger towns in the region.
Halal food options are widely available due to the local Tibetan Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options are also common in the area, particularly in local eateries.
Accommodations near Donggecuo Lake are limited, with basic guesthouses and inns in nearby villages. For more luxurious options, visitors may need to travel to Xining, where a wider range of hotels is available.
Souvenir shops are limited around Donggecuo Lake. However, local Tibetan handicrafts such as jewelry, textiles, and religious items can be found in nearby villages. Traditional Tibetan rugs and clothing are popular items to take home.
After visiting Donggecuo Lake, travelers can head back to Xining by private car or bus. From Xining, further travel options are available, including flights, trains, or buses to other parts of China.
