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The Mohe Salt Field is a unique landscape offering visitors the chance to explore an expansive area of salt production and the natural environment surrounding it. Here are some recommended activities:
The Chaka Salt Lake covers a large area. In addition to the Chaka Salt Lake Scenic Area that is well known to tourists, there is also a Mohe Salt Field on the lakeside about 20 kilometers east of the scenic area. The Mohe Salt Field has not been developed into a scenic area, but it is accessible, so it is now free to visit. Moreover, compared to the scenic area, there are fewer tourists here, and it is quiet and pure.
The salt mining here is very ancient. The lake's high salt content causes natural crystallization on the surface, creating a pure white hue. A thin layer of brine sits above the crystals, reflecting the sky, clouds, and mountains on the opposite bank in the stunning white water. This beautiful salt lake scenery has earned the nickname "Sky Realm." Visitors to the salt fields can even walk barefoot onto the lake's surface to observe and photograph their own clear reflections, resulting in stunning photos.
The Mohe Salt Field is a still-operating salt field. Here, you can see salt trucks working in the water and huge piles of salt drying on the shore, a truly beautiful sight. When visiting the Mohe Salt Field, it's important to visit on a sunny day, preferably after several consecutive days of sunny weather, when the water is at its most crystal-clear. If it rains for several days in a row, the salt layer in the lake may be diluted and dissolved, revealing the muddy ground beneath.
Plateau continental climate;
Best time to travel in summer
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
free
All day
The Mohe Salt Field has been a key source of salt in the region for centuries. The salt produced here is highly prized and has been an important economic resource for the local communities. The area is also notable for its natural beauty and unique landscape, which includes both salt plains and surrounding mountains.
Mohe Salt Field is located in the Ulan region of Qinghai Province, near the city of Mohe. The best way to get there is by hiring a taxi or taking a private car. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most convenient option.
Mohe Salt Field is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the light is perfect for photography. Summer can be hot, and winter is cold but offers a unique snowy landscape.
Entrance to Mohe Salt Field is generally free, as it is an open-air natural site. However, some salt production areas may require a small fee for guided tours or access to certain parts of the field. Tickets for these tours can be purchased on-site.
Booking in advance is not necessary unless you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons. It is advisable to contact local tour operators if you wish to book a guided tour ahead of time.
It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the Mohe Salt Field. This includes walking around the fields, taking photographs, and learning about the salt production process. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, you may need additional time.
The main highlights of Mohe Salt Field are the vast salt plains, where the crystalline white salt creates a striking landscape. The salt production areas are also fascinating to visit, where you can observe local workers extracting salt in traditional methods.
Guided tours are available and can be arranged on-site. These tours typically focus on the history and process of salt extraction. Most guides speak Mandarin, but some may offer basic information in English.
The best viewpoints are from the edges of the salt fields, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light creates beautiful reflections and contrasts. The surrounding mountains also offer great vantage points for panoramic shots of the fields.
Start by exploring the main salt fields and walking through the salt flats. Visit the salt production area to learn about the harvesting process. Then, take a short walk to the surrounding hills for panoramic views and photography opportunities.
There are no night visits or light shows at Mohe Salt Field. It is best visited during the day for the best lighting and visibility, as the area is remote and lacks nighttime infrastructure.
The Mohe Salt Field is not typically crowded, especially during weekdays or in the off-season. The least crowded times are during the spring and autumn months, outside of major holidays.
Basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas, are available. There are no large shops or restaurants in the immediate vicinity, so it is recommended to bring your own food and water or purchase snacks from local vendors.
The terrain at Mohe Salt Field can be uneven, making it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate, especially in certain areas of the salt flats. However, children and those able to walk short distances will find the area enjoyable.
Cash is generally used at the Mohe Salt Field, though mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted by local vendors. It is a good idea to carry some cash with you.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside the salt field area. The nearest dining options can be found in the town of Mohe or nearby Ulan, where local Tibetan and Chinese restaurants offer basic meals.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but you can find vegetarian dishes in Tibetan cuisine.
There are a few basic accommodations in the nearby town of Mohe, including guesthouses and small hotels. For more comfort, you can find mid-range hotels in Ulan or Xining, which are a bit farther from the salt fields.
Other nearby attractions include the Ulan Hot Springs and the Mohe Grasslands. Both can be easily combined into a day trip for nature lovers.
Small souvenir shops are available, mostly selling local Tibetan crafts, including jewelry, textiles, and trinkets. You can also find salt-related products as a unique souvenir from the Mohe Salt Field.
After visiting Mohe Salt Field, you can take a taxi or hire a private car to continue your trip. There are bus services connecting nearby towns like Ulan and Xining, which offer access to more attractions in the region.
