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Visit the lake's serene surroundings, take a boat ride, hike around the shore, and enjoy photography of the picturesque landscape.
Ulan Ula Lake: Located in the north of Tanggula Mountain Town, Golmud City, Qinghai Province, China, the lake is under the jurisdiction of the Western Working Committee of Zhiduo County (Beiluhe Township) to the north, with an area of about 610 square kilometers.
To the east is the Ulan Ula Mountains, and to the east further is the Tuotuo River.
It is located in the south of the core area of Hoh Xil Nature Reserve and in the southwest of the Yangtze River Source Reserve.
The county has a complex terrain with large altitude differences. The average altitude is above 4,500 meters, ranging from 6,860 meters at the top of Bukadaban Peak to 3,850 meters along the Tongtian River in the eastern part of the county. The average annual temperature is -0.3 to -0.6℃ with no absolute frost-free period. The annual precipitation is 394 mm, with sufficient sunlight and strong radiation.
The cold season lasts nearly 10 months, with large temperature differences between day and night, and it is a typical plateau continental climate.
Ulan Ula Lake: A large saltwater lake and adjacent swampland on the northern edge of the Qiangtang Basin, with deep, indented shores and several large islands.
free
All day
Ulan Ula Lake is a scenic lake surrounded by mountains in Qinghai, known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. It's often considered a peaceful getaway for those seeking nature and serenity.
Located in Ulan, Qinghai, the lake can be accessed by car or bus from the nearby towns. There is no metro access, but taxis are available in Ulan to reach the lake.
The lake is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to September, to enjoy pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
Entrance fees typically range from 20-50 RMB, depending on the season and activities. Tickets can be purchased on-site or at local ticket vendors.
Booking in advance is not generally required, though it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons (June-August).
It takes around 3-4 hours to fully explore the area, depending on the activities and how much time you spend hiking or boating.
The lakeside area, the surrounding mountain views, and various walking trails are the main highlights of the visit.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese, though English-speaking guides may be arranged with prior notice.
The shore of the lake, with the mountains in the background, offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Begin by walking along the shore, then explore hiking paths leading up to the nearby hills for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Night visits are not typically promoted, and there are no light shows. However, the lake's beauty at twilight makes evening visits worthwhile.
It’s most crowded during national holidays and summer weekends. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the shoulder months of spring and autumn.
Basic facilities like toilets, drinking water, and small rest areas are available. There are also small shops offering snacks and souvenirs.
Some paths around the lake are accessible for the elderly and families with children. However, some trails may be challenging for disabled visitors due to uneven terrain.
Cash is still commonly accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also available for most purchases.
There are small local restaurants near the lake that serve traditional Chinese cuisine and snacks. Some cafes may offer basic refreshments.
Vegetarian food is available, though options for vegan or halal dishes may be limited in the area. It’s advisable to bring your own food if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several small guesthouses and hotels in Ulan and the surrounding area. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak seasons.
The nearby Kumbum Monastery and the city of Xining offer other cultural and historical attractions that can be combined with a trip to Ulan Ula Lake.
There are souvenir shops selling local crafts, postcards, and small trinkets. Tibetan-style items, such as jewelry and textiles, are popular.
Buses and taxis are available to continue your journey to nearby cities like Xining. Renting a car is also a good option for further exploration of Qinghai.
