Bayi Glacier

Introducing Bayi Glacier

The Bayi Glacier (39°01.00′N, 98°53.53′E, glacier number 5Y425L2), also known as the Little Salon Glacier, is located in Yeniugou Township, Qilian County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, northwest China, on the southern slope of the southern mountain in the middle corridor of the Qilian Mountains. It is the source of the Heihe River, the second largest inland river in my country.

Bayi Glacier is approximately 180 kilometers from Qilian County. Driving close to the glacier offers many ordinary tourists the opportunity to experience it up close. The glacier is largely unspoiled, shimmering in the sunlight like a cascading white waterfall, a truly stunning sight. A full day is recommended for a round-trip drive or chartered vehicle. As one-third of the road crossings are difficult, hiring an experienced driver is recommended. There are no shops near Bayi Glacier, so bring your own water and food supplies.

Against the backdrop of blue sky and white clouds, the white glaciers cascaded down the snow-capped mountains like waterfalls, extending over the ridge before being cut off neatly, leaving behind vertical walls crisscrossed by gullies. On each snow hillock, you could still see icy ridges where the melted snow had solidified.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a plateau continental climate; it is the source of the Heihe River, the second largest inland river in my country, and the largest glacier in the source area of ​​the Heihe River mainstream, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for half a day to one day

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Bayi Glacier

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bayi Glacier is one of the major glaciers in Qinghai, known for its ecological significance and natural beauty. It is a key site for studying climate change, glacier dynamics, and the high-altitude environment of the Tibetan Plateau.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province. Access is typically by car or tour bus from Xining or nearby towns; there is no metro service. Taxis or private drivers are commonly used for direct access.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, usually from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Best time to visit is late spring to early autumn (May–September) for safer trekking conditions and clearer views, though winter offers a dramatic ice landscape for experienced visitors.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the season and guided tour packages, typically purchased at the park entrance or through local tour agencies. Online booking may be available via regional tourism websites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For regular visits, advance booking is not mandatory. For guided glacier tours or peak season visits, booking a few days to a week in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours are recommended for a standard visit including short hikes, sightseeing, and photography stops.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main glacier face and ice cliffs
• High-altitude viewpoints offering panoramic scenery
• Nearby alpine meadows and rivers fed by the glacier
• Snow and ice formations along accessible trails

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, mainly in Chinese. Specialized adventure tour guides may offer English or Tibetan assistance, but audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Glacier terminus and ice cliffs
• Mountain ridges overlooking the glacier
• Clear riverbeds fed by melting glacier water
• Alpine meadows in the foreground with the glacier backdrop

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the visitor center, follow marked trails along the glacier, stop at scenic viewpoints, visit alpine meadows nearby, then return via a loop trail or guided path to the entrance.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not recommended due to safety risks. Special guided tours may be offered seasonally, including educational tours on glaciology and ecology.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It is less crowded than urban parks but can see moderate tourist traffic in summer. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include restrooms, a small visitor center, and limited snack stalls. Bring your own water and snacks for longer hikes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Accessibility is limited due to high-altitude terrain and steep trails. Elderly or disabled visitors should take caution; short, flat viewing platforms are available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended, especially for small local purchases. Some ticket counters may accept mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and tea houses are available near the park entrance, offering Tibetan and local Qinghai cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some vegetarian and Tibetan-style vegan options are available; halal food can be found in local nearby villages or towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations are available in nearby towns such as Haiyan County or along the Qinghai Lake route, ranging from guesthouses to small hotels.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Qinghai Lake (nearby scenic area)
• Fairy Bay
• Chaka Salt Lake
• Local Tibetan villages and grasslands

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local handicrafts, Tibetan-style jewelry, woolen items, and postcards of the glacier and surrounding landscapes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private car or taxi is most convenient to continue exploring nearby attractions. Local tour buses may be available seasonally for Qinghai Lake and surrounding sites.