Tucked away in the remote Qaidam Basin of Qinghai Province, Emerald Lake (Feicui Lake) in Mangya City is one of China’s most breathtaking hidden gems. Known for its vibrant turquoise and emerald-green waters, this salt lake shimmers like a jewel against the stark backdrop of the Gobi Desert and snow-capped mountains. Spanning approximately 26 square kilometers, the lake’s surreal colors, created by mineral-rich waters, make it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This guide will help you plan a visit to this enchanting destination.
A Travel Guide to Emerald Lake
Why Visit Emerald Lake?
Emerald Lake is a natural wonder formed from former mining areas, where high concentrations of lithium, potash, and other mineral salts create a kaleidoscope of colors ranging from light blue to deep green. Unlike more crowded attractions like Qinghai Lake or Chaka Salt Lake, Emerald Lake offers tranquility and a sense of discovery, with its relatively untouched landscapes and serene ambiance. The lake’s unique setting in the high-altitude plateau (around 3,000 meters) and its striking contrast with the surrounding salt flats and desert make it a must-visit for those exploring Northwest China’s rugged beauty.
How to Get There
Emerald Lake is located in Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, near Mangya City, Qinghai Province. Its remote location requires some planning:
Starting Point: Xining Xining, the capital of Qinghai, is the most convenient hub for reaching Emerald Lake. It’s accessible by: Flight: Xining Caojiabao Airport has direct flights from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu (2–3 hours, ¥500–1,500 one-way). Train: High-speed trains connect Xining to Lanzhou (1–2 hours, ¥50–100) and other cities along the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. Bus: Long-distance buses from nearby provinces like Gansu or Sichuan arrive at Xining Bus Station.
From Xining to Mangya: By Car: The most practical option is hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour from Xining. The drive to Emerald Lake takes about 10–12 hours (approximately 900 km) via National Highway 315, passing through scenic areas like Chaka Salt Lake. Expect to pay ¥2,000–3,500 for a round-trip chartered car. By Bus: Long-distance buses from Xining to Mangya or Huatugou Town (20 minutes from the lake) are available but less frequent. The journey takes 12–14 hours and costs ¥200–300. Check schedules at Xining Bus Station. By Train: Take a train from Xining to Golmud (7–9 hours, ¥100–250), then transfer to a bus or taxi to Mangya (4–5 hours, ¥80–150).
From Mangya to Emerald Lake: The lake is just off National Highway 315, about 20 minutes’ drive from Huatugou Town or 1 hour from Mangya City. Taxis or tour vehicles can easily reach the lake, and road signs guide the way.
Note: Self-driving is an option, but the final stretch includes dirt roads, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended. Navigation apps like Baidu Maps work well.
Best Time to Visit
Optimal Months: May to October is the best time to visit, when temperatures are milder (5–20°C), and the lake’s colors are most vibrant under clear skies. Summer (June–August) offers the warmest weather, while September–October brings crisp air and fewer crowds.
Avoid Winter: November to April can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below -10°C and strong winds making outdoor exploration challenging.
Photography Tip: Visit in the early morning (before 6:00 AM) for calm waters, soft light, and fewer visitors. The lake’s colors are most striking when the sun is low.
Altitude Warning: At 3,000 meters, altitude sickness is possible. Acclimatize in Xining (2,300 meters) for a day or two, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity if you feel lightheaded.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Admission: Emerald Lake is currently a free attraction, with no formal ticket gates. However, recent developments suggest that entry fees and restrictions (similar to Chaka Salt Lake) may be introduced soon as the site gains popularity.
Opening Hours: The lake is accessible 24/7, but daytime visits are recommended for safety and visibility. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography.
Checkpoints: Epidemic registration or security checkpoints may be present on the road, so carry your passport and any required travel permits.
What to See and Do
Admire the Lake’s Colors: The lake’s emerald, turquoise, and blue hues, caused by mineral salts like lithium and potash, create a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. Walk along the salt flats to see the water’s reflections against the desert and distant snowy mountains.
Photography: Emerald Lake is a photographer’s paradise. Use a drone for aerial shots to capture the lake’s full expanse and intricate patterns, but check local regulations first. The salt flats and tire tracks from former mining vehicles add unique textures to photos.
Explore the Surroundings: The lake is part of a larger salt-bed area with smaller lakes, each with distinct colors and shapes due to varying mineral compositions. Wander carefully, avoiding unstable salt crusts or black holes inNgay the ground.
Nearby Attractions: Aiken Spring: A colorful geothermal spring near Mangya, also free and accessible along Highway 315. Chaka Salt Lake (410 km away): Known as the “Mirror of the Sky,” this popular lake is a great stop en route from Xining. Yadan Geopark: A unique water Yadan landform with dramatic desert landscapes, about 2 hours from the lake.
Note: Do not enter the water or step on fragile salt formations to preserve the lake’s ecosystem.
Where to Eat
On-Site: There are no restaurants or cafes at Emerald Lake due to its remote location. Bring your own food and water for a picnic, and pack out all trash to keep the area pristine.
In Huatugou Town or Mangya City: Small restaurants offer Qinghai specialties like hand-pulled noodles (lamian), yak meat dishes, and barley-based tsampa. Meals cost ¥15–40 per person.
Tip: Stock up on snacks and bottled water in Xining or Golmud, as options in Mangya are limited.
Where to Stay
Mangya City or Huatugou Town: Basic hotels and guesthouses are available, with rooms ranging from ¥100–300/night. Examples include Vienna Hotel Mangya or local budget inns. Book via Ctrip or contact hotels directly, as English may not be widely spoken.
Golmud (4–5 hours away): A larger city with more options, including Holiday Inn Express Golmud (¥300–500/night) and budget hostels (¥80–150/night).
Camping: Camping near the lake is possible but requires preparation for cold nights and high winds. Check local regulations and avoid restricted areas.
Tip: Book accommodations in advance during peak season (July–August), as rooms fill up quickly.
Tips for a Great Visit
Dress for the Weather: Daytime temperatures vary widely (5–25°C in summer), and nights are cold. Wear layers, sturdy shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against strong UV rays.
Photography Gear: Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to enhance the lake’s colors. Drones are ideal but require permits in some areas.
Stay Safe: Avoid stepping on unstable salt crusts or black holes in the ground, which can be dangerous. Do not drink or touch the lake water due to its high mineral content.
Combine Your Trip: Include Emerald Lake in a broader Qinghai itinerary, such as the “Great Northwest Loop,” covering Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, and Zhangye’s Danxia landforms. A 7–10-day trip costs ¥4,500–7,500 per person, including transport and accommodation.
Respect the Environment: The lake’s ecosystem is fragile. Avoid littering, and follow local guidelines to preserve its beauty.
Final Thoughts
Emerald Lake in Qinghai is a testament to nature’s artistry, offering a serene and visually stunning escape from China’s more crowded tourist destinations. Its vibrant waters, set against the vast desert and towering mountains, create a landscape that feels both magical and humbling. Plan your visit carefully, embrace the solitude, and let this hidden jewel of the Qaidam Basin leave you in awe. Whether you’re capturing its colors with a camera or simply soaking in the tranquility, Emerald Lake promises an unforgettable adventure.
Happy travels!
