Continue the Mysterious Underground Yardang

Qinghai Underground Yardang (also known as "Water Yardang" or "Ustyurt Yardang Geological Park") is located in Da Qaidam, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province. It is the world's only water-based yardang landform and has become a popular destination for outdoor adventurers due to its unique natural scenery and mysterious allure. Below is a detailed guide for exploration:

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### **1. Basic Information**
- **Location**: Xitai No. 2, Da Qaidam Administrative Committee, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province (next to National Highway G315).
- **Best Season**: May to October (mild summer, cold and windy winter).
- **Ticket Fee**: 120 RMB (includes shuttle bus), additional fee for self-driving vehicles.
- **Opening Hours**: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM.

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### **2. Transportation Options**
1. **Self-Driving** (Recommended):
- From Xining: Head west along G315 Highway, about 700 km, 8-9 hours drive.
- From Da Qaidam Town: About 220 km, 2.5 hours drive.
- **Road Conditions**: G315 is in good condition, but some sections have no signal. Download offline maps in advance.

2. **Chartered Car/Shared Ride**:
- Available from Xining, Dunhuang, or Golmud, costing approximately 800-1500 RMB/day (including driver).

3. **Public Transport**:
- Buses from Xining to Da Qaidam, then transfer to local vehicles (less convenient, not recommended).

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### **3. Recommended Exploration Routes**
**1. Standard Tour Route (Suitable for Most Visitors)**
- **Route**: Scenic area entrance → shuttle bus to core area → hiking to viewing platform → Yardang group photography → return.
- **Duration**: 3-4 hours.
- **Highlights**: Panoramic views of Water Yardang, sunset light, drone photography.

**2. In-Depth Exploration Route (For Outdoor Enthusiasts)**
- **Route**: Outer area of the scenic spot → hike or off-road vehicle into undeveloped zones → explore "Underground Yardang" (wind-eroded caves, canyons).
- **Duration**: 6-8 hours (guide required).
- **Tips**:
- Notify the scenic area in advance; some areas are off-limits.
- 4WD vehicles and GPS devices are essential.

**3. Lakeside Adventure Route**
- **Route**: Traverse along the edge of Dongtai Jinaier Lake (dried up), combining Yardang and salt lake landscapes.
- **Risks**: Salt flats are prone to vehicle sinking; travel with companions.

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### **4. Essential Gear**
- **Clothing**: Windproof jacket, sun hat, sunglasses (extreme UV exposure).
- **Footwear**: High-top sand-proof hiking shoes.
- **Tools**: GPS, satellite phone (for no-signal zones), car air pump (for stuck vehicles).
- **Supplies**: Ample water, high-energy snacks (no stores in the scenic area).
- **Others**: Sunscreen, lip balm, camera (extra batteries).

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### **5. Important Notes**
1. **Safety First**:
- Yardang landforms are fragile; avoid climbing steep slopes.
- Large temperature differences (25°C daytime, 0°C nighttime); bring warm clothing.
2. **Environmental Protection**: No littering; protect the fragile geology.
3. **Vehicle Preparation**:
- Check fuel (nearest gas station is in Da Qaidam).
- Spare tire, tow rope, first aid kit.
4. **Altitude Sickness**: Elevation is about 2800m; avoid strenuous activity.

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### **6. Nearby Attractions**
- **Dongtai Jinaier Lake** (dried up, but salt flats remain unique).
- **Xitai Jinaier Lake** (two-color lake, along G315).
- **Mangya Emerald Lake** (about 300 km from Water Yardang).

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### **7. Accommodation Suggestions**
- **Inside Scenic Area**: Ustyurt Yardang Hotel (expensive but convenient).
- **Da Qaidam Town**: More budget-friendly options (e.g., Pai Hotel); book in advance.
- **Camping**: Designated areas outside the scenic spot (prepare for cold and wind).

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### **8. Photography Tips**
- **Best Time**: 1 hour after sunrise, 1 hour before sunset (golden Yardang reflections).
- **Locations**: Viewing platform at shuttle bus terminal, high mounds.
- **Drones**: Requires prior registration.