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At Xingxiu Sea, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the lake, engage in peaceful boat rides, and hike around the surrounding area. It's also a great spot for photography, bird watching, and soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
Located in Maduo County, Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, Xingxu Lake borders Zhaling Lake to the east and Maqu, the source of the Yellow River, to the west. Ancient Chinese considered it the source of the Yellow River. The Xingxu Lake area, at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, is nearly three times the height of Mount Tai, the highest of the Five Sacred Mountains. It's called "Cocha" in Tibetan, meaning "sea of flowers."
On the emerald green beaches of Xingxiu Lake, there are clusters of purple alpine asters, yellow drooping chrysanthemums, pink pedicularis, as well as ground raspberries, primroses, and sweet clover; on the hillsides, groups of wild yaks and Tibetan antelopes roam freely; in the streams, bar-headed geese and yellow ducks paddle in the water and play, and schools of scaleless 湟鱼 swim. It is truly a natural beauty.
As the Yellow River reaches this area, due to the gentle terrain, the river suddenly widens and its flow slows. The flowing water creates vast swamps and numerous lakes. This small basin is dotted with hundreds of lakes of varying sizes and shapes, ranging from several hundred square meters to just a few. From a high vantage point, these lakes sparkle in the sunlight like twinkling stars in the night sky, likely deriving their name, Xingxiu Lake.
Continental plateau climate;
Best time to travel in summer
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
free
All day
Xingxiu Sea is a natural lake in Qinghai, surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes. It is significant for its pristine beauty and cultural importance, being a popular spot for both nature lovers and those seeking spiritual tranquility.
Xingxiu Sea is located in Banma County, Qinghai. The most convenient way to reach the lake is by taxi or private car, as public transportation options are limited. From the town center, it takes approximately 30 minutes by car to reach the site.
The lake is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its most beautiful. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal to avoid crowds.
There is typically no entrance fee for visiting Xingxiu Sea, as it is a natural site. However, if you wish to participate in boat rides or special tours, there may be additional costs. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.
Advance booking is not necessary for general visits. However, if you plan to join a guided tour or boat ride, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the area around Xingxiu Sea, including a boat ride and some light hiking, typically takes 2-3 hours. If you're planning to hike further or take part in a full-day tour, you might need half a day to explore more thoroughly.
The must-see highlights include the serene lake itself, the surrounding mountains, and the lush flora. The boat ride offers unique views of the lake's clear waters and the natural landscape.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and there may be options for English-speaking guides. These tours typically include boat rides and scenic walks around the lake. It's recommended to arrange tours in advance if possible.
The best viewpoints are along the lake’s shore, especially near the boat docks and the surrounding hills. Photographers can capture stunning shots of the reflections on the water and the surrounding greenery, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Start by walking along the lake’s shore to enjoy the views, then take a boat ride to see the lake from a different perspective. Afterward, you can hike the nearby trails to get panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Xingxiu Sea. The area is best enjoyed during daylight hours, especially early mornings and late afternoons for the most scenic views.
The site can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, outside of peak tourist seasons.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the lake. There are no large restaurants or shops, but you may find small local stalls selling snacks and water. It’s advisable to bring your own supplies for longer visits.
The main areas around Xingxiu Sea are accessible for children and elderly visitors. However, some of the more scenic walking areas or hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled individuals. It’s best to check the trail difficulty before heading out.
Cash is generally required for small purchases and donations. Mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) may also be accepted at some local stalls, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for purchases.
There are no large restaurants within the immediate vicinity of Xingxiu Sea. Small eateries or tea houses offering local food can be found in Banma County, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local eateries in Banma County. Halal food options are more limited, but there are some Muslim-owned restaurants in the area that may cater to halal diets.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in Banma County, which is the nearest town to Xingxiu Sea. For more comfortable accommodations, consider staying in nearby cities like Xining and traveling to the site.
Nearby attractions include the Tibetan Plateau and local monasteries. You can combine a visit to Xingxiu Sea with a trip to the surrounding natural parks or historical sites in Banma County.
Souvenir stalls around the lake sell local handicrafts, including Tibetan jewelry, prayer beads, and traditional textiles. You can also find small items such as postcards and keychains to remember your visit.
The best transportation options after visiting Xingxiu Sea are by taxi or private car. Public transportation is limited, so hiring a local car or taxi is the most convenient way to continue your trip to nearby attractions or cities.
