Natural Wonder! Emerald Lake

Who hasn't visited Dachaidan Emerald Lake yet! It's literally the most beautiful "Mirror of the Sky" I've ever seen ✨. This hidden gem in Haixi, Qinghai transforms into jade-like colors under sunlight - absolutely breathtaking! 🚏Travel Guide: 📍Location: About 10km northwest of Dachaidan Administrative Committee, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture 🚗Transportation: 1. ~6hr self-drive from Xining 2. Chartered car is more convenient (can visit after Chaka Salt Lake) 3. Recommended to stay overnight in Dachaidan Town and depart early next morning 💡Tips: ✅Best season: June-October (most vibrant water colors) ✅Must visit on sunny days! Cloudy weather dulls the colors ✅Altitude: ~3000m (move slowly to avoid altitude sickness) ✅Extreme UV - apply triple sunscreen! ✅Bring a drone for epic aerial views ✅Scenic train available (¥50/person saves energy) 📸Photo Spots: 1️⃣White salt crystal beaches: Perfect for pure white aesthetic shots 2️⃣Emerald waters: Shows blue-green gradients at different times 3️⃣Salt paths to lake center: Super Instagrammable 4️⃣Snow mountain backdrop: Most dramatic in winter 🏨Hotel Recommendation: "Snow Mountain Hot Spring Hotel" in Dachaidan Town - great for soothing altitude symptoms with hot springs (book in advance!) 🍜Food Tips: Must-try yak hotpot and lamb skewers! Pair with barley wine. The Tibetan milk tea at "Plateau Family" (¥10/jug) is amazing~ ⚠️Important Notes: 1. No stepping on lake edges (damages crystal structures) 2. Huge day-night temperature difference (bring windproof jacket) 3. No restaurants inside (bring snacks) 💬Personal Experience: Totally worth the detour! The unreal blue waters shift between stunning blue-green hues under sunlight. Best photo light after 4pm - drone shots are incredible! Only downside is growing crowds (come early morning to avoid). Qinghai travel | Emerald Lake photography | Haixi tourism | Northwest hidden gems | Dachaidan guide