Maduo

Introducing Maduo

Maduo, meaning "source of the Yellow River" in Tibetan, is located in the northwest of Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in southern Qinghai Province. Historically, it served as a post station for people entering Tibet from the inland region and also served as an ancient ferry crossing. Because the source of the Yellow River lies within the county, people have flocked here since ancient times to trace their roots. The predominant ethnic group here is Tibetan, with Han, Hui, and Salar also present.

Climate and best time to travel

It has an alpine grassland climate with no four seasons, only cold and warm weather.

The best tourist season is from June to September, when the tributaries have sufficient water, making the entire Yellow River source more spectacular.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 2-day tour

Eling Lake

Eling Lake, a large plateau freshwater lake in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, is also known as Elinghai. Anciently known as Baihai, it is called Co'erlang in Tibetan, meaning "Long Blue Lake." The lake is rich in cold-water, scaleless fish, and a small island in its center attracts migratory birds, forming another bird island on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Surrounding the lake are subalpine meadows, a key pasture in Qinghai.

Source of the Yellow River

The source of the Yellow River lies in the heart of Qinghai. The first, second, and third source rivers are the Zhaqu River, the second, the Yuguzonglie River, and the third, the Karez River. The Zhaqu River dries up most of the year, while the Karez River is the longest, originating from five springs. Its drainage basin is also the largest, and it remains dry even in the dry season. Its longest tributary, the Nazhalongcha River, is the source of the Yellow River.

Zhaling Lake

Zhaling Lake and Eling Lake are the largest freshwater lakes in the upper Yellow River. Also known as "Chalinghai," meaning "white long lake" in Tibetan, the lakes are rich in phytoplankton and fish, making them, along with Eling Lake, a major fishing base in Qinghai. Three small islands lie to the west of the lake, not far from where the Yellow River meets the lake. These islands are home to large flocks of migratory birds in summer and are known as Bird Islands. The lakeshores are primarily covered in subalpine meadows, serving as important pastures.

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Most Popular FAQs for Maduo

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Maduo is located in the Tibetan region of Qinghai and holds cultural and historical significance due to its proximity to traditional Tibetan settlements. The region is important in Tibetan Buddhism and features several ancient monasteries.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Maduo is situated in the southeastern part of Qinghai, China. It can be reached by bus or taxi from Xining (the provincial capital), approximately 6-7 hours away. There are no metro services, so bus travel or private car hire is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The best time to visit Maduo is during the summer months (June to September), when the weather is mild. The region is harshly cold during winter, and accessibility can be difficult.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no specific entrance fees for the general region of Maduo. However, some local monasteries or attractions may charge a small fee, which can be paid on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance for Maduo, but if you plan to visit any specific attractions or monasteries during peak tourist seasons, it may be advisable to confirm details in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of Maduo typically requires 2-3 days. This allows time to visit local monasteries, hike the surrounding landscapes, and experience the Tibetan culture.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The surrounding grasslands and natural scenery.
• Local Tibetan monasteries for insight into the region's spiritual practices.
• Qinghai Lake, which is easily accessible and offers stunning views.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer Tibetan language guides. English-speaking guides might be limited, so it is advisable to arrange one in advance if necessary.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The expansive Maduo Grasslands offer wide open vistas, perfect for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• The nearby Qinghai Lake is a great location for capturing the interplay of light and water.
• High-altitude mountain trails provide stunning panoramic views of the plateau.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to Qinghai Lake for some early-morning photography. Then, head to the Tibetan monasteries in the area. The following day can be spent hiking in the mountains or exploring the grasslands.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no light shows or special tours at night in Maduo. However, the star-filled sky offers a unique stargazing opportunity due to the area's remote location.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Maduo is not heavily crowded, especially outside the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are from November to March, during the winter months.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities are limited in Maduo, especially in remote areas. Basic public toilets and food stalls are available in the town, but it's best to carry your own water and snacks for longer excursions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Due to the high altitude and rugged terrain, Maduo is not very accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the town and certain monasteries may be manageable for children or those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment in Maduo. Some places may accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay or Alipay), but it's best to carry cash, especially in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan restaurants offer traditional dishes like yak meat and barley bread. There are also small cafes serving tea and snacks in Maduo.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, mainly consisting of barley and vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited, as Maduo is predominantly Tibetan and Buddhist.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and small hotels in Maduo. For more luxury options, you may need to travel to nearby cities like Xining or Golmud.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Qinghai Lake, a major attraction nearby, known for its beauty and significance in Tibetan culture.
• The city of Xining offers further cultural attractions, including Tibetan Buddhist sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Local shops sell Tibetan crafts, including yak wool items, prayer beads, and traditional Tibetan jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Maduo, the best transportation options are buses or taxis to nearby cities such as Xining or Golmud. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility.