Just returned from a 3-day Qinghai trip, and I really don't recommend going from July to September because...

Because it's too beautiful!!!
The ultimate 3-day 2-night romantic adventure in Qinghai

As the Dragon Boat Festival approaches, why not escape the city bustle and head to the vast wilderness of Qinghai for a magical romantic journey in the Northwest! This carefully curated 3-day 2-night guide will take you to stunning attractions for an immersive experience of the region's rugged beauty and tender charm.

Itinerary Overview

- Duration: 3 days 2 nights
- Ideal for: Couples, best friends, photography enthusiasts
- Best season: June-September when grasslands are lush and lakes azure

Day 1: Depart from Xining to encounter lakes and mountains

Morning
Depart from downtown Xining to Riyue Mountain, the dividing line between the Loess Plateau and Tibetan Plateau. Legend says Princess Wencheng shed homesick tears here. The ¥50 ticket includes walking along mountain trails with panoramic views of grasslands and peaks. Make wishes amid fluttering prayer flags (1.5-hour visit).

Noon
En route to Qinghai Lake, stop for lunch at a farmhouse near Daotanghe Town. Must-try: hand-grabbed mutton (tender and flavorful with dipping salt) paired with butter tea (perfect blend of creamy and savory) to recharge.

Afternoon
Arrive at Qinghai Lake Erlangjian Scenic Area (¥90 ticket). This highlight area features crystal-clear blue waters merging with the horizon. Alternatively, visit local herders' viewing platforms (¥10-20) for close-up lake access. Horseback riding along the shore (3-hour activity).

Evening
Stay near Chaka Salt Lake - recommended Starry Sky Tent Hotel offers beds under galaxies. For dinner, try local kanggui mutton (crispy and flavorful with potatoes) and Qinghai yogurt.

Day 2: "Sky Mirror" and emerald wonderland

Morning
Arrive at Chaka Salt Lake (¥60 ticket + ¥50 shuttle) before sunrise when the salt crust mirrors the sky. Wear red/white dresses with shoe covers (avoid salt holes). Best photo time: 3-4 hours.

Noon
After simple lunch in Chaka Town, head to Dachaidan Emerald Lake (¥50 + ¥60 shuttle). Its mineral-rich waters display gradient greens like Gobi gems. Walk wooden paths for best shots (2-hour visit).

Afternoon
Cross the Gobi to Dunhuang (bring snacks/music). At night, visit Shazhou Night Market for apricot juice and red willow kebabs.

Day 3: Ancient caves and desert wonders

Morning
Visit Mogao Caves (book 30 days ahead for ¥238 "A ticket" with digital show + 8 caves). Marvel at millennium-old Buddhist art with guides (3-4 hours).

Noon
Try donkey meat noodles near Mogao Digital Center before returning to downtown.

Afternoon
Explore Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (¥110, fingerprint re-entry for 3 days). Ride camels (¥100) through singing sands, watch sunset over the spring, or dress in "flying apsaras" costumes for photos.

Food Guide

- Xining: Liangpi noodles with sweet fermented oats at Shuijing Lane; authentic Qinghai hotpot at Shalihai
- Qinghai Lake: Try ga mianpian (noodle soup) besides mutton
- Dunhuang: Whole roasted lamb at Jingyuan Ga Liu; must-drink apricot tea

Accommodation Tips

- Xining: James Joyce Coffetel (retro-industrial) near Tangdao 637
- Chaka: Salt Cube Hotel (lake views) or budget-friendly Qingyan Hotel
- Dunhuang: Dunhuang Hotel (central) or artsy Xiyi Dunhuang Art Hotel

Travel Essentials

Transport: Car rental in Xining ¥200-500/day; 13-hour train to Dunhuang; ¥6 taxi starting fare
Packing: Layered clothing (cold nights), desert gear (face cover, sunglasses)
Altitude: Avoid exertion initially, take rhodiola supplements
Photography: Chaka best before 10am/after 4pm; wear light colors at Emerald Lake

Pack your bags and let Northwest winds heal all weariness! 🌄