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Located off the western ring road of Qinghai Lake, the Qinghai Lake Bird Island consists of two islands: the larger one is called Haixipi Island, and the smaller one is called Haixishan Island. It is also known as Egg Island because of the eggs scattered throughout the island during the bird-laying season. Bird Island is a bird paradise near Qinghai Lake. Every year from April to June, during the transition from spring to summer, hundreds of thousands of birds flock to the island, creating a spectacular scene. It is a key scenic spot for tourists to enjoy the scenery of Qinghai Lake.
Haixipi Island is large in area and has dense vegetation. In the east, there are huge rock cliffs close to the lake. It is the kingdom of birds such as cormorants. On the eastern rock wall, cormorant nests are connected to each other, like a castle made of bird nests.
Haixi Mountain was originally quite small, but has expanded in recent years due to falling water levels. It now stretches approximately 1,500 meters. The gently sloping terrain makes it ideal for bird nesting. Bird nests are scattered throughout the island, and during suitable seasons, the island is home to an impressive 100,000 birds. Locals often refer to this island as "Bird Island." Every spring, dozens of bird species, including bar-headed geese, gulls, and brown-necked gulls, flock here to build nests, including many rare species. During the egg-laying season, the densely packed nests of eggs give rise to the island's nickname, "Egg Island."
After entering the Bird Island Scenic Area, you'll need to take the scenic area's electric car for about 3 kilometers, followed by a 1-kilometer walk to reach the two bird-watching platforms on either side of the island. Parts of these areas are now separated by glass for bird protection. Looking east from the platforms, you'll see the vast blue waters of the lake, and the bustling flight and landing of birds, a truly spectacular sight and a great opportunity for photography.
Temperate continental climate; May to July is the best season for bird watching, and the best time to watch swans is between November and February. There are not many birds on the island at other times, and the scenery is similar to other places in Qinghai Lake, so it is not worth buying a ticket to enter.
"Egg Island" and "Haixipi";
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
Peak season (May-October): 115 yuan/person, November-April: 75 yuan/person
The scenic spot is temporarily closed. Please refer to the scenic spot’s announcement for details.
Qinghai Lake Bird Island is a protected area for migratory birds, including rare species. It is ecologically significant for wetland conservation and serves as a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Located on the eastern shore of Qinghai Lake in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Access is mainly by car or tourist buses from Xining or nearby towns; walking is used within the park along boardwalks.
Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is May to October, especially during bird migration periods in spring and autumn.
Tickets cost around 60–80 RMB. Purchase is available at the entrance or via official tourism websites and local travel agencies.
Booking in advance is recommended during peak migration seasons; 1–3 days ahead is sufficient.
2–4 hours, depending on whether you plan to birdwatch extensively or take boat rides.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators offer English-speaking guides on request. Audio guides are generally not available.
Enter the park, visit the main observation towers first, walk the boardwalks through the wetlands, explore the lakeshore paths, and finish at a sunset viewpoint if timing allows.
Night visits and light shows are not available. Special tours focus on daytime birdwatching and ecological education.
Less crowded on weekdays and outside peak migration periods. Early morning visits offer a quieter experience and active birdwatching.
Basic facilities include restrooms, benches, and small snack stalls near the entrance. Limited food and water options inside the park.
Mostly accessible via boardwalks, but some uneven paths may be challenging. Elderly and children should exercise caution. Wheelchair access is limited in some areas.
Tickets and on-site payments usually accept cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay).
Small local eateries and cafes near the park entrance serve Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, including simple meals and snacks.
Vegetarian options are available; halal food may be limited and is mostly available in nearby towns.
Guesthouses and small hotels are available in towns near Qinghai Lake. Some eco-lodges and homestays offer lake views.
Souvenir shops sell postcards, bird-themed items, local handicrafts, and Tibetan-style accessories.
Private car or taxi to nearby towns, bus services back to Xining, or joining a local tour for further sightseeing around Qinghai Lake.
