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The Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area is most famous for its mirror-like salt lake that reflects the sky, creating stunning panoramic views. Visitors can walk along the wooden platforms to admire the vast expanse of the lake, take a boat tour, or visit the salt production area. There are also opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the lighting is most dramatic.
Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area is located in Chaka Town, Ulan County, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, east of Chaka Salt Lake. Within the scenic area, a wetland viewing area has been constructed. Based on the principle of ecological protection, a wooden plank road provides visitors with panoramic views of the salt lake wetlands. This scenic area, along with the "Sky Mirror" scenic area, is a newly constructed attraction within the lake and the first scenic spot at the eastern gate of the Qaidam Basin.
Climate: Plateau continental climate, dry and cool, with an average annual temperature of 4°C and a temperature of 19.6°C in July
Best travel time: Summer and autumn
Recommended places to visit: Brine Floating Experience Hall, Submerged Plank Road, Wetland, Mongolian Drama Field, Plateau Flight Camp, etc.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Peak season (May 1st - October 31st) is 50 yuan/person, off-season (November 1st - April 30th) is 25 yuan/person.
The park train costs 20 yuan. The train goes around the scenic area without going back. The whole journey is 7.5km with five stops. You can get on and off at any stop with your ticket.
Monday to Sunday 07:00-21:00 (you can take the train) After 21:00, you can walk into the scenic area.
Peak season (May 1st - October 31st) Low season (November 1st - April 30th)
Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area is located in the Chaka Salt Lake area, known for its centuries-old salt production history. The lake itself has become a popular tourist attraction due to its otherworldly beauty, where the sky and water merge in a perfect mirror image, earning it the nickname "The Mirror of the Sky." The area has recently gained fame as a scenic destination due to its unique natural features.
The Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area is located in the Chaka Salt Lake area of Qinghai Province, Ulan County. It is accessible by taxi, private car, or bus from Ulan city, which is about 130 kilometers away. For those traveling from Xining, the provincial capital, there are direct buses that take around 2.5-3 hours.
The scenic area is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful lighting for photography, with the reflections on the salt lake being most striking during these times.
The entrance fee is approximately CNY 80-100 (about USD 12-14). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various Chinese travel platforms. It's recommended to buy tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid long queues.
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and national holidays. Booking a few days in advance is generally sufficient to ensure entry, but it’s best to check availability during busy periods.
It takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore the Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area. This includes walking around the lake, taking photographs, and visiting the salt production area. If you plan to enjoy a boat ride or explore the surroundings more leisurely, you may need up to half a day.
The main highlights include the vast salt lake, the wooden walkways that allow you to walk out onto the lake, and the reflections of the sky on the water. The salt fields, where traditional salt harvesting is done, are also a unique experience. Don't miss the panoramic views from the observation platforms.
Guided tours are available, but they are typically in Mandarin. Audio guides in English are sometimes offered, but it’s best to check availability in advance. Many visitors also enjoy exploring the area independently, as it’s well-marked and the beauty of the lake speaks for itself.
The best photography spots are the wooden platforms extending over the lake, where you can capture the reflection of the sky. The sunrise and sunset provide magical lighting conditions, and the observation decks offer a wider view of the entire lake and surrounding landscape.
Start at the main entrance, take the wooden walkways out onto the lake, and spend time exploring the salt fields. Afterward, visit the observation platforms for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding scenery. If time permits, take a boat ride on the lake to see the reflections from a different perspective.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area. The area is primarily a daytime attraction, with the best times to visit being early in the morning or during the late afternoon to capture the stunning reflections of the lake.
The area can get crowded during weekends, public holidays, and the summer months. The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the morning before 10 AM or later in the afternoon. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) is also recommended for fewer crowds.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets, food stalls, and small shops selling souvenirs. You can also find rest areas along the walkways to take a break and enjoy the views. It’s recommended to bring water and snacks with you, especially if you plan to explore for a longer time.
The scenic area is mostly accessible for elderly and children. The wooden walkways and platforms are well-maintained, but some parts of the area might be challenging for visitors with limited mobility due to uneven terrain. The main areas are generally wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the staff for specific needs.
Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the area. Credit and debit cards are not commonly accepted, so it’s recommended to use mobile payment apps or carry cash for small purchases.
There are small local eateries and food stalls near the entrance of the scenic area serving traditional Qinghai food. The nearby town of Ulan also has several restaurants, including options for both local and more familiar Chinese cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal food options may be more limited. It's recommended to check with the restaurants or bring your own snacks if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels near the Chaka Sky No. 1 Scenic Area, but for more options, it’s better to stay in Ulan city, which has a wider range of accommodations from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Chaka Salt Lake, which is a famous nearby salt lake with striking views. The Qilian Mountains are also a beautiful destination and can be combined with a trip to Chaka Sky No. 1 for a more comprehensive tour of the region.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the entrance and along the scenic area selling items like traditional Qinghai crafts, salt-related products, postcards, and small trinkets related to the lake's beauty.
The best transportation options include taking a taxi or bus back to Ulan city, from where you can continue your journey to other destinations in Qinghai Province or catch a bus to Xining, the provincial capital, to access more transportation options.
