Introducing Flower Sea Mandarin Duck
Located on the south side of Panpo, 42 kilometers west of Menyuan County, Qinghai Province, in the Huangcheng Prairie, known as the Golden Prairie, this lake is surrounded by eight-fold lotus-like hills and is formed by the confluence of 108 springs. It contrasts with the Gangshika Snow Peak, like a mirror embedded in the snow-capped highlands.
It is a nature reserve for rare alpine waterfowl. In spring and summer, nearly a hundred Tibetan mandarin ducks, in pairs, playfully bobbing in the water, earning it the nickname "a paradise for lovebirds." The Xining Prefecture New Chronicles records the area as "Flower Sea Mandarin Ducks," listing it as one of the Eight Ancient Scenic Spots of Menyuan.
Climate and best time to travel
Spring and autumn are the best times to travel here. Accompanying the Tibetan mandarin ducks are rare birds such as the red-crowned crane and the black-necked crane. They come here to lay eggs and give birth in April and May every year, and sail away with their young in August and September, making it an excellent base for bird watching and photography.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
1-3 hours
Tickets
30 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
8:00-17:00
Most Popular FAQs for Mandarin ducks in the sea of flowers
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The “Mandarin ducks in the sea of flowers” area in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture is renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance. It combines floral landscapes with wildlife habitats, particularly for mandarin ducks, and is an important spot for ecological tourism and photography in Qinghai.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
It is located in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China. Visitors can reach it by car or taxi from nearby towns. Local buses may be available to nearby scenic entrances. Walking is needed within the park to explore the flower fields and wetlands.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Generally open from early morning to late afternoon. The best times to visit are during the peak blooming season, typically late spring to summer (May to August), when the flowers are most vibrant and wildlife is active.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fees vary by season, generally around 50–80 RMB per person. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; online booking may be available through local tourism websites or travel agencies.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended during peak flower season to ensure entry. Tickets can typically be booked a few days to a week ahead.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
2–4 hours are generally sufficient to explore the main flower fields, observe the mandarin ducks, and enjoy short trails.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Large expanses of seasonal flower fields.
- Wetland areas where mandarin ducks gather.
- Scenic viewpoints overlooking the flower sea and surrounding mountains.
- Nature trails connecting different sections of the park.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours may be available through local agencies, primarily in Chinese. Audio guides are generally not offered.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Overlooking the main flower fields from elevated viewpoints.
- Near the wetland areas where mandarin ducks are visible.
- Along winding trails within flower fields for immersive photography.
- Sunrise or sunset for enhanced lighting and color.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start from the main entrance and walk along the central trail to view the largest flower areas.
- Visit wetland zones to observe mandarin ducks.
- Follow side trails to explore smaller flower patches and scenic viewpoints.
- Return via alternative trails to experience different perspectives.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not allowed due to safety. No regular light shows are offered, but special photography tours may be organized during peak bloom season.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
The area can become crowded during peak bloom season and weekends. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and early afternoons during the off-peak flowering periods.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic restrooms at main entrances.
- Small food stalls or local vendors near parking areas.
- Picnic and rest areas along main trails.
- Limited souvenir or convenience shops near entrances.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Trails are mostly easy to moderate; suitable for children with supervision.
- Elderly visitors can access main paths, but some areas may be uneven.
- Wheelchair accessibility is limited; terrain is mostly natural.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is recommended for small purchases; mobile payment methods may be accepted at some facilities.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local teahouses and small restaurants near park entrances.
- Street-side stalls offering snacks and beverages in nearby villages.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are generally available in local eateries. Halal food may be limited; visitors may need to plan ahead.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and small inns in nearby towns within Haibei Prefecture.
- Limited hotels; booking in advance is recommended during peak bloom season.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Qinghai Lake – ideal for lake scenery and birdwatching.
- Other flower fields and alpine meadows in Haibei Prefecture.
- Local Tibetan villages and monasteries.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Local handicrafts and Tibetan cultural items.
- Postcards and small mementos featuring flower fields and ducks.
- Traditional snacks or packaged local specialties.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or private car to nearby towns, Qinghai Lake, or other scenic areas.
- Local buses connecting to Haibei Prefecture towns.
- Organized day tours combining multiple scenic spots.
