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The Shaliu River Scenic Area is located in the south of Gangcha County, Haibei Prefecture, Qinghai Province. It is named after the Shaliu River, which originates from the southern foot of Sangsiza Mountain, the highest peak in Gangcha County.
The Shaliu River Scenic Area in Gangcha County is one of the best spots in China to witness the miraculous migration of naked carp. Every summer, from June to July, densely packed schools of huang carp migrate upstream to the Shaliu, Buha, and Quanji rivers within Gangcha, where they fertilize and ovulate. As they pass through shallows, their dorsal fins emerge from the water, resembling a thousand sails racing. Finally, they reach a suitable spawning area, creating a unique spectacle of "half clear water, half fish" stretching across dozens of miles. The Tibetans who have lived here for generations have a saying: "Riding a horse while wading can kill fish." This is truly a miracle of life.
The climate of Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is a plateau continental climate with long cold periods and short warm and cool periods. It has abundant sunlight, strong solar radiation, distinct dry and wet seasons, rainy and hot seasons in the same season, and frequent night rains and strong winds.
It is recommended to visit for half a day
The Shaliu River Scenic Area is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and ecological diversity. The river, set against the backdrop of Qinghai's stunning mountainous landscape, is an important site for environmental conservation and offers visitors a serene escape to nature. It's also significant as a site for ecological tourism, offering a closer look at the natural habitats of the region.
Shaliu River Scenic Area is located in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car, as public transportation options are limited. The area is roughly 40 minutes from the nearest city center.
The scenic area is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak, especially for outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, or online via third-party platforms, especially during peak seasons when advanced booking is recommended.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays. Booking at least a few days ahead of time ensures smoother access to the site.
A full exploration of the Shaliu River Scenic Area typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking, taking boat rides, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin Chinese. Audio guides are not commonly offered, but guides can provide information in basic English for international visitors.
The best photography spots include the river’s edge, mountain peaks surrounding the area, and the viewpoints offering panoramic views of the river winding through the valley. The early morning light and sunset are perfect times for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Start your visit by exploring the riverbanks on foot or by boat. Afterward, visit the viewpoints to take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and river. End your visit with a relaxing time at one of the rest areas or picnic spots near the river.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Shaliu River Scenic Area. The area is primarily a daytime attraction, offering scenic beauty and outdoor activities during daylight hours.
The scenic area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially in the early morning hours or during the off-season (late autumn or early spring).
Basic facilities such as toilets, water fountains, and rest areas are available throughout the scenic area. There are also small food stalls selling snacks and drinks, though dining options are limited within the park. Souvenir shops may also be available near the entrance.
The scenic area is mostly accessible to elderly and children, with paved walkways and easy routes for walking. However, some parts of the terrain might be difficult for visitors with mobility issues, so it is best to check in advance regarding accessibility for disabled visitors.
Both cash and mobile payment options (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may also be used at major service points, but it’s recommended to carry cash for smaller purchases.
There are small cafes and food stalls within the scenic area offering local snacks and beverages. For more dining options, visitors can head to nearby towns or the city center of Xining, where a variety of restaurants are available.
Vegetarian options are available in the food stalls inside the scenic area. Halal food options may be more limited, but nearby restaurants in Xining may offer more diverse food choices, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal.
There are several accommodations available near the entrance to the Shaliu River Scenic Area, including budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels. For more luxury options, visitors can look for hotels in Xining, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
There are souvenir shops at the entrance of the scenic area where visitors can purchase local Tibetan handicrafts, textiles, and small memorabilia such as keychains and postcards.
After visiting Shaliu River Scenic Area, visitors can take a taxi or hire a private car to explore nearby attractions like Qinghai Lake or head back to Xining. Public transportation options are limited, so private transport is recommended for convenience.
