June to August at Qinghai Lake! The ultimate summer getaway

June to August is the peak beauty season of Qinghai Lake, with average temperatures between 15-25℃. The lake water is crystal clear and blue, the migration of Huangyu fish is in full swing (visible from June to August), rapeseed flower fields frame the snow-capped mountains, and every snapshot looks like a masterpiece. Must-try experiences • Lake cycling: Rent a bike and cycle around the lake to feel the breeze on your face (recommended section from Heimahe to Shinaihai). • Tibetan culture: Experience Tibetan butter tea and tsampa, visit temples or prayer wheels (such as Garila Monastery). • Stargazing camping: Camp around Chaka Town to watch the stars (bring your own gear or book a campsite in advance). 🗺️ Two-day, one-night itinerary Day 1: Xining → Erlangjian at Qinghai Lake → Chaka Salt Lake • Erlangjian Scenic Area (tickets about 90-198 RMB depending on activities): A must-visit on sunny days! Lakeside boardwalk, boat trips to the peninsula (about 40 minutes), highly photogenic (recommend reserving 3 hours). On cloudy days, head straight to Chaka Salt Lake. • Chaka Salt Lake (ticket 60 RMB + one-way train 50 RMB): Best visited at dusk; the mirror effect is stunning on sunny days. Recommended to photograph the vintage salt transport train at Chaka Station. • Accommodation: Hotels or guesthouses in Chaka Town (standard rooms about 200-300 RMB/night, some include breakfast). Day 2: Chaka Salt Lake → Heimahe → Donggeer Viewing Platform → Garila Monastery Cliff → Xining • Heimahe Panchen Aobao: Free viewing platform with distant views of Qinghai Lake (avoid rainy days; shuttle bus management is chaotic). • Donggeer Viewing Platform (free): From June to August during the Huangyu fish migration season, you can see fish leaping out of the water (recommended in the morning). • Garila Monastery Cliff (incense fee 10 RMB): Cliff overlooking Qinghai Lake with fluttering prayer flags, a perfect photo spot (be cautious, some areas require a 15-minute walk). • Return trip: On the way, stop by Jinsha Bay (desert and lake scenery overlap; the frozen lake in winter and spring offers a unique charm). 🍜 Food recommendations • Must-try specialties: Hand-pulled lamb, yak yogurt, kangguo lamb stew (restaurants in Chaka Town are generally affordable; avoid overpriced meals in scenic spots). • Avoid: Overpriced yellow mushroom chicken soup and large dishes in scenic areas; simple meals or bringing your own snacks are recommended. ⚠️ Tips to avoid pitfalls • Weather priority: Choose Erlangjian on sunny days; on cloudy days, go straight to Chaka Salt Lake or free viewing platforms. • Transportation options: Self-driving is preferred (car rental in Xining about 200-400 RMB/day); if not driving, consider hiring a car (about 400-600 RMB/day, carpooling is more cost-effective). • Altitude sickness: Areas above 3000 meters; avoid strenuous exercise and consider taking Rhodiola in advance. • Temperature difference and sun protection: Use sunscreen and sunglasses during the day; add a windbreaker in the evening (recommended: outdoor jacket).