Live Your Best Lives
Keke Salt Lake is located in Keke Town, Ulan County, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. "Keke Salt Lake" means "blue salt lake" in Mongolian. The lake, at an altitude of 3,010 meters, stretches approximately 28 kilometers from east to west, narrowing from north to south, and covers an area of 119 square kilometers.
The lake, a sodium salt type, is gradually drying up, with only small areas of water remaining at its east and west ends. The intercrystalline brine originates from springs that overflow from the sloping gravel layer of the piedmont plain, encountering clay at its front edge. There are over 665 springs. Salt deposits are substantial, amounting to approximately 7.5 million tons per square kilometer. These reserves are easily accessible for open-pit mining and have a high regeneration capacity. The Keke Salt Plant is established for this purpose.
Plateau continental climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
free
All day
Keke Salt Lake is an important natural resource in Qinghai, particularly known for its salt production. Historically, the lake has been a crucial source of salt for local communities and remains a center for traditional salt harvesting. The surrounding area is also culturally significant, reflecting the unique lifestyle of the local ethnic groups.
Keke Salt Lake is located in Ulan, Qinghai, China. It is accessible by car or taxi from nearby cities. There are no direct public transport links to the lake, so hiring a car or booking a taxi is the most convenient option.
The lake is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is milder. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, especially during the sunrise or sunset.
The entrance fee for Keke Salt Lake is typically minimal. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site at the entrance. It is recommended to carry cash as card payments may not be accepted.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors. However, if you are visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it may be helpful to check for availability and make a reservation in advance.
A visit to Keke Salt Lake typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. This allows time for walking across the salt flats, taking photos, and exploring the surrounding area. If you plan to visit the local salt extraction sites, you might want to allocate additional time.
Guided tours may be available, typically in Mandarin. It is advisable to check locally for availability. Audio guides in other languages may not be available, so consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience.
The best photography spots include the salt flats, where the landscape stretches endlessly, and the areas surrounding the lake that offer picturesque views of the mountains and sky. The sunrise and sunset are particularly ideal for capturing the beauty of the landscape.
Start your visit by exploring the salt flats, walking across the shimmering salt plains. Next, visit the local salt extraction sites to understand the region's salt-harvesting tradition. Finally, take a moment to admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and take photographs at the best viewpoints.
Night visits are not commonly available, and there are no light shows. However, visiting at dawn or dusk provides the best natural lighting for photography, with the added tranquility of fewer crowds.
The lake is not typically crowded, but the best times to visit are during weekdays and outside of Chinese holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons also provide a more peaceful experience.
The lake has basic facilities, including toilets and a few rest areas. There may be small shops selling souvenirs or water. However, it is advisable to bring your own water and snacks as options may be limited.
The terrain around Keke Salt Lake is flat but can be difficult to navigate due to the salt crust. While it is generally accessible for children and the elderly, disabled visitors might face some challenges due to the lack of paved paths and the uneven ground.
Cash is preferred at the entrance and for purchasing souvenirs, as mobile payments and cards may not always be accepted. It's recommended to carry enough cash with you.
There are no restaurants directly at the salt lake, but there are local eateries and small restaurants in nearby towns such as Ulan. It's a good idea to have a meal before heading to the lake.
Vegetarian food options may be available at some local eateries, especially in Ulan, but vegan and halal options might be limited. It's recommended to inquire at the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several guesthouses and budget accommodations available in Ulan, which is about 30-40 minutes away from the lake by car. For more luxurious options, you may need to stay in larger cities like Xining, though the travel time will be longer.
There are small souvenir shops near the lake selling local crafts, salt-based products, and traditional Tibetan goods such as scarves and jewelry.
