Complete Guide to Chaka Salt Lake "Mirror of the Sky" – The Super Beautiful Photo Season in August is Here!

Chaka Salt Lake in August is simply breathtaking‼️
The sunshine☀️ is just right, and the breeze🌬️ is gentle.
Self-driving🚗 from Xining,
Head west along National Highway 109,
Enjoying the prairie scenery🌈 along the way~

📍No. 9, Salt Lake Road, Chaka Town, Wulan County, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province

✨As soon as you enter the scenic area, you’ll be amazed!
The lake surface is calm like a mirror🪞,
Reflecting the blue sky, white clouds☁️, and distant snow-capped mountains🏔️,
It’s truly the real-life "Mirror of the Sky"!
Every shot you take is a masterpiece📸

🚗 Transportation Guide:
✔️ Tourist train: operates during peak season from July to September (Xining - Chaka)
✔️ Passenger bus: direct from Xining Bus Station
✔️ Recommended self-driving route: Jingzang Expressway + National Highway 109 (about 3.5 hours)

⏰ Best Viewing Time:
🎯 Summer (June to August) – perfect for a cool getaway👍
🎯 Autumn (September to October) – stunning color contrasts✨
🎯 White Wonderland (December to February) – free admission!

💡 Travel Tips:
🔻 Must-try experiences:
✔️ Wear shoe covers to walk on the lake (rental 10 yuan)
✔️ Take the small train across the salt lake (one way 50 yuan)
✔️ Climb the observation tower for panoramic views
✔️ Check in at the colorful prayer flag blocks

🚂 Recommended Routes:
1⃣️ Observation Tower - Electric Cart - Salt Sculpture Square - Small Train
2⃣️ Hiking route: Salt Lake Avenue - Prayer Flag Square - Chaka Station

💰 Ticket Information:
🎫 Peak season (May to October) 60 yuan
🎫 Off-season (November to April) 30 yuan
🚂 Combo ticket 108 yuan (includes small train + shoe covers)

📸 Photo Tips:
🔸 Light-colored long dresses are best for photos
🔸 The light is most beautiful at 9 AM & 4 PM
🔸 It’s windy by the lake, bring a light jacket

Post by nicholascreek | Oct 24, 2025

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