Dragon Boat Festival Travel: A Mini Guide to Chaka Salt Lake
by 出門天天玩
May 28, 2025
🚀【Deep Exploration of Qinghai】Unique Salt Lakes, Grasslands, and Geological Wonders! An Impromptu "Wilderness Adventure"🌍
“Think Qinghai is only about Qinghai Lake and salt lakes? Wrong! There are hidden secret spots waiting for you to discover.”
Today, we take you to Qinghai’s lesser-known treasure spots, offering the most authentic experiences to break the “tourist routine” and start a wild adventure!🔥
1. Ancient Salt Field Ruins around Chaka Salt Lake 🧂✨
“Beneath the salt lake lies a thousand-year-old salt industry memory.”
Besides the dreamy salt lake, the ancient salt field ruins around Chaka quietly tell the story of Qinghai’s ancient salt civilization. These salt fields were once an important part of the Silk Road. Walking on the ruins feels like traveling back to the bustling days of ancient merchants.
Best photo spot: The reflective effect of the salt fields is amazing, especially at sunrise and sunset!📸
Recommended gear: Sunscreen + wind protection, bring long sleeves and a hat, Qinghai is very windy!🌬️
2. The First Bend of the Yellow River in Guide 🌊🌈
“Not all bends can move your heart, but this one will definitely amaze you!”
Compared to the famous Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns, Guide’s “First Bend” is more pristine and breathtaking! Standing on the viewing platform, the Yellow River winds around the mountains, with layers of mountains reflected in the water like a flowing landscape painting. Few people come here, and the tranquility is intoxicating.
Best time: Early morning or dusk, with soft light and rich colors.🌅
Transportation: Charter a car or self-drive. Qinghai has abundant travel resources, so it’s recommended to contact local drivers in advance.🚗
3. Mado Grassland in Mado County 🐎🌾
“In the wilderness deep in Qinghai, there is a pure land.”
Mado Grassland is vast and boundless, with herds of cattle and sheep, and the sky is as clear as if washed. The local herders live simple lives, making it an excellent place to experience Tibetan and Tu cultures. Horse riding, herding, and quietly watching the clouds roll by will greatly relax your soul.
Experience tip: You can stay short-term with herder families to experience authentic Tibetan life.🏡
Note: Prepare for altitude sickness with enough medicine, wear comfortable clothes, and protect your skin.🧴
4. Duoba National Geopark in Tongde County 🌋🎨
“The Earth’s palette, where colors tell stories.”
Unique landforms and rich mineral colors create the most captivating scenes in Duoba Park. Volcano craters, salt lakes, and colorful rock layers make it feel like stepping onto a Mars base. Geology and photography enthusiasts must not miss this!📷
Best shooting time: Early morning and evening for the softest light and richest colors.🌄
Transportation advice: It’s recommended to charter a car or join a local day tour for convenience.
5. Wilderness Wonders in Lenghu Area ❄️🌵
“Desolation doesn’t mean boring; this is the place on Earth closest to Mars!”
Lenghu is Qinghai’s most mysterious “land of silence.” Salt flats, deserts, and salt lakes intertwine, resembling an alien wilderness. If you love adventure and exploring the unknown, you absolutely cannot miss this “wilderness secret.”
Safety tips: Stay hydrated and energized, and prepare sunscreen and windproof gear.
Photography tips: Use minimalist composition to express desolation and grandeur.
Qinghai’s “treasure” spots await your brave exploration!
These places have no crowds or noise, only pure nature and whispers of history. “Step out of your comfort zone to meet your truest self.”
Post by surely_bowler | Oct 21, 2025























