The clouds disperse and the moon shines bright, who decorates this scene? The sky and sea are naturally clear.

✨Dongtai Jina'er Lake | Complete Guide to the Dreamy Blue and White Wonderland✨

📍Location: Within the Qaidam Basin, Golmud City, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, beside National Highway 315.

🎫Admission: Free.

⏰Opening Hours: Open all day, recommended to visit during sunny daytime for more magical lake colors.

Transportation

- Self-driving: Navigate directly to "Dongtai Jina'er Lake." About 2.5 hours from Dachaidan, passing the U-shaped road; about 280 km and 4 hours from Golmud, with scenic views like Chaerhan Salt Lake along the way.
- Car rental with driver: If you don't want to drive, you can hire a car with a driver who will help plan the route and introduce local customs.
- Carpool: From Xining, 5-person SUV, about 800 RMB per person for 5 days; from Golmud, join a small one-day tour group for about 200 RMB per person.

Itinerary

- 2-day in-depth tour: Day 1 depart from Golmud, pass the U-shaped road, arrive at Dongtai Jina'er Lake, overnight at Shui Shang Yadan; Day 2 visit Xitai Jina'er Lake and Mars Camp.
- 3-day photography route: Day 1 from Golmud to Chaerhan Salt Lake; Day 2 full day creation at Dongtai Jina'er Lake, camping available; Day 3 visit Mangya Emerald Lake and Aiken Spring, then return.

Photo spots

- "Lake center" location: Avoid crowds, drone shots are stunning, but you need to cross from a narrower right side.
- Left side facing the lake: Fewer people, walk further left for many beautiful photos.
- Small hill: Standing on it allows shooting the lake from a higher position, cleverly avoiding crowds in the frame.

Outfit suggestions

Light-colored outfits are more photogenic, such as white or light blue long dresses, and can be paired with a straw hat. If visiting both the U-shaped road and Dongtai Jina'er Lake, bring two sets of clothes: cool and stylish for the U-shaped road, gentle fairy style for Dongtai Jina'er Lake.

Food recommendations

- Nearby vendors sell fruits, ice cream, and snacks.
- About 18 minutes by car from Dongtai Jina'er Lake along National Highway 315, Siji Stir-fry is recommended, especially spicy prawns and fish-flavored eggplant.

Accommodation options

- Dachaidan Starry Sky Tent Hotel: Choose a salt lake view room to capture tent silhouettes and sunset glow in the evening.
- RV campsite inside Shui Shang Yadan Scenic Area: 30 minutes from the lake, offers a unique experience.
- Dongtai Work Area Simple Inn: Economical and suitable for travelers with low accommodation requirements.

Notes

- The lake water contains chemicals; the brine is toxic, do not touch.
- The narrower right side of the lake is knee-deep; to cross, you can run and jump or wear waterproof shoe covers.
- Use the restroom in advance; there is only a simple temporary toilet at the entrance.
- Check the weather before departure; only on sunny days can you see the stunning Tiffany blue lake water.
- Strong UV in the northwest; protect yourself with sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.
- Protect the environment; do not litter.

💕Hope this guide helps everyone have a perfect trip to Dongtai Jina'er Lake and take beautiful photos! Remember to bring a good mood😉