Haixi

Located in western Qinghai Province (青海省), west of Qinghai Lake (青海湖), Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (海西蒙古族藏族自治州) is one of the largest and most spectacular regions on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (青藏高原). Covering most of the vast Qaidam Basin (柴达木盆地), Haixi is famous for its deserts, salt lakes, snow mountains, glaciers, wetlands, and unique plateau ecosystems.

With landscapes ranging from endless Gobi deserts and turquoise salt lakes to sacred mountains and remote wilderness, Haixi is one of China’s best destinations for self-driving journeys, landscape photography, ecological exploration, and high-altitude adventure travel. The region also preserves a rich multicultural heritage shaped by Mongolian, Tibetan, Hui, and Han communities.

Why Visit Haixi?

Qaidam Basin (柴达木盆地) – Vast Desert and Plateau Landscape: The Qaidam Basin is the defining geographic feature of Haixi and one of the largest inland basins in China. Surrounded by the Kunlun Mountains (昆仑山), Qilian Mountains (祁连山), and Tanggula Mountains (唐古拉山), the basin contains deserts, salt flats, wetlands, mountains, and unique geological formations. Its endless horizons, dramatic terrain, and changing colors make it one of the most impressive regions for self-driving exploration in China.

Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖) – The Mirror of the Sky: Chaka Salt Lake is one of Qinghai’s most iconic natural attractions and is often called the “Mirror of the Sky.” The vast white salt surface reflects the blue sky, clouds, and surrounding mountains, creating a dreamlike landscape. Visitors can walk across the salt fields, take scenic trains, and experience one of China’s most famous photography destinations.

Emerald Lake (翡翠湖) – Turquoise Salt Lake Wonderland: Located near Dachaidan (大柴旦), Emerald Lake is famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and colorful salt formations. The different shades of blue and green are created by mineral-rich waters, producing a surreal landscape surrounded by desert and mountains. It has become one of the most popular stops on the Qinghai-Gansu travel route (青甘环线) for photography and sightseeing.

Delingha (德令哈) – Desert Oasis and Plateau Culture: Delingha, the capital of Haixi, is an important cultural and transportation center in the eastern Qaidam Basin. The city combines desert landscapes, grasslands, rivers, wetlands, and plateau culture. Famous for its connection with poet Hai Zi (海子), Delingha offers visitors a unique experience combining literature, nature, astronomy, and the lifestyle of western Qinghai.

Kunlun Mountains (昆仑山) – Sacred Snow Mountains: The Kunlun Mountains form the southern boundary of Haixi and are one of the most culturally significant mountain ranges in China. Featuring glaciers, snow peaks, valleys, and high-altitude ecosystems, the mountains are deeply connected with Chinese mythology, Tibetan traditions, and local beliefs. They provide spectacular scenery and opportunities for trekking, photography, and plateau exploration.

U-shaped Roads and Gobi Desert Adventures: Haixi is famous for its spectacular desert highways and iconic road landscapes crossing the Qaidam Basin. Straight roads stretching toward distant mountains, empty Gobi deserts, and constantly changing light create unforgettable scenery for self-driving travelers and photographers. These routes have become some of the most popular road-trip experiences in western China.

Hoh Xil (可可西里) and Wildlife Landscapes: The western part of Haixi connects with Hoh Xil, one of China’s largest and most remote wilderness areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is famous for its untouched alpine ecosystems, vast grasslands, snow mountains, and rare wildlife including Tibetan antelope, wild yak, and Tibetan gazelle. It is an important destination for ecological research, wildlife observation, and nature photography.

Ethnic Culture and Plateau Traditions: Haixi is home to diverse ethnic communities including Mongol, Tibetan, Han, Hui, and other groups. Their traditions are reflected in local festivals, music, clothing, food, and daily lifestyles. Visitors can experience the unique cultural combination of Mongolian grassland traditions and Tibetan plateau heritage while exploring towns, villages, and pastoral areas.

Outdoor Adventure and Self-Driving Journeys: With its enormous landscapes and excellent road conditions, Haixi is one of China’s premier destinations for overland travel. Travelers can explore salt lakes, cross desert highways, photograph glaciers and mountains, camp under star-filled skies, and discover remote plateau landscapes that represent the wild beauty of western Qinghai.

Local Cuisine and Plateau Flavors: Haixi’s cuisine reflects the multicultural character of the region, combining Tibetan, Mongolian, Hui, and northwest Chinese influences. Popular local foods include yak meat, lamb dishes, dairy products, noodles, Tibetan-style cuisine, and regional snacks adapted to the plateau environment. Local markets and restaurants provide visitors with an authentic taste of life in the Qaidam Basin.