Jian Zhao
What You'll Learn in This Article
I've been guiding foreign tourists around China for over eight years. And honestly? Qinghai Lake still surprises me every time. The entry fee situation? It changed three times in the last two years alone. So let me cut through the noise.
Here is the catch: most online guides quote outdated prices — or worse, they forget to mention that you pay separately for the scenic spots along the lake. I've seen travelers show up with $50 in cash expecting that covers everything. It doesn't.
The bottom line upfront: The official Qinghai Lake ticket (Erlangjian Scenic Area) costs 90 RMB (approx $12.50) for adults during peak season (Apr 15–Oct 15). But you'll likely need to budget another 100–200 RMB for bus shuttles, bike rentals, or side attractions. I'll break down every single cost below — no fluff.
Why the Entry Fee Matters
Qinghai Lake isn't just one entrance. The lake is huge — 4,500 km². Most tourists head to the main developed section called Erlangjian Scenic Area. That's where the ticket booth, parking, and main boardwalk are. But there are other spots: the bird island, the sandy side near Shaliuhe, and the western grasslands. Each has its own fee structure if accessible.
Exact Fees and What You Get
| Item | Price (RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Erlangjian Scenic Area Entry (Peak: Apr 15–Oct 15) | 90 | Includes basic boardwalk and lake view. No extra hidden entrance. |
| Erlangjian Scenic Area Entry (Off-peak: Oct 16–Apr 14) | 50 | Much cheaper, but many facilities closed. Still beautiful in snow. |
| Shuttle Bus (from parking to lakeshore) | 20 | Optional but highly recommended. Parking lot is about 2 km from water. |
| Bicycle Rental (around the scenic area) | 40–80 | Per hour. Great if you want to explore small side paths. |
| Boat Ride (on the lake | 110 | Usually a 30-minute cruise. Scenic but can be windy. |
| Children (1.2m–1.5m) | Half of adult | Must show height or ID. Approx 45 RMB. |
| Seniors (60+ with ID) | Free or half | Depends on specific age policy. Bring passport. |
How to Buy Tickets Without Headache
- Online via WeChat mini-program: Search for "青海湖二郎剑景区". It's in Chinese only, so ask your hotel reception or a Chinese friend to help. You'll get a QR code — scan at the gate. This is the fastest method.
- On-site ticket counter: Cash and Alipay accepted. International credit cards? Nope, 95% of the time they don't work. Bring RMB in small bills. The line can be 30 minutes in July and August.
- Third-party platforms: Trip.com (ctrip) and Klook sometimes list tickets. But they add a service fee. Only use if you really want prepaid.
Timing and Transport Tips
From Xining city center, the drive to Erlangjian is about 2.5 hours. Most visitors join a private day tour (around 400–600 RMB per person including driver and entry). But if you go on your own:
- By bus: From Xining's long-distance bus station (close to the train station), buses depart for Daotanghe (倒淌河) every hour from 7 AM–3 PM. The fare is about 35 RMB. From Daotanghe, it's a 20 RMB taxi ride to the lake entrance.
- By rental car: You can rent a car in Xining but road conditions near the lake can be rough. I'd advise an SUV in summer. Winter? Don't drive unless you have snow tires.
- By tour: Many hostels in Xining offer 1-day trips for 250–350 RMB (just transport). They drop you at Erlangjian for 4–5 hours.
Best time to arrive: 8:30–9:30 AM. The morning light is soft, and the crowds haven't flooded in yet. I've brought groups that arrived at 11 AM — we spent 40 minutes just buying tickets.
Saving Money and Avoiding Scams
Let me be blunt: don't pay for "VIP access" or "special photo spots" touted by touts near the parking lot. The official area already gives you amazing views. Also, some drivers claim they can drive you to a "secret entrance" for 100 RMB — that's just a spot where the fence is broken. I've been there. It's rocky and full of trash. Stick to Erlangjian.
Another way to save: if you're on a tight budget, skip the boat ride and walk along the boardwalk. You'll get the same turquoise water and mountains without spending an extra 110 RMB. For the brave, bring a picnic — there are benches near the lakeside. But watch out for the seagulls; they will steal your sandwich (yes, really).
Frequently Asked Questions
That's the real deal on Qinghai Lake entry fees. I've been there more times than I can count, and the key is always: bring cash, skip the extras you don't need, and get there early. If you still have questions, drop a comment on my travel blog — I personally answer every one.
Verified and fact-checked by the editorial team. This content has been fact-checked to ensure informational precision.
Honestly, I was a bit let down. The entry fee is 100 yuan per person, but the lake view from the official entry point is limited by fences and charging extra for a boat ride to the center. I saw better views just from the highway. The online ticket system had a bug and charged me a service fee anyway. For the price, I expected more access. Would not recommend during peak season when it's crowded.
Nice experience overall. The lake is beautiful and the surrounding grasslands are lovely. I bought my ticket on site and waited about 15 minutes in line — not too bad. However, I wish there were more signs in English to explain the different zones. Also, the shuttle bus inside the scenic area costs extra which feels a bit like a money grab. Still, a solid 4/5 for the views.
As a landscape photographer, Qinghai Lake is a dream. I paid the full 100 yuan entry fee but it's money well spent. The best light is around 5-6pm when the sky turns pink. One thing: the gate staff were slow to scan mobile tickets, so I suggest printing your voucher or downloading the PDF beforehand to save time. Five stars for the location, four for the logistics but overall a must-visit.
If you're on a tight budget like me, take the local bus from Xining to the lake and buy your ticket at the visitor center instead of the resort's own gate — saved me 50 yuan! The lake is massive and the water is crystal clear. I spent the whole day just walking along the shore. Highly recommend the combo ticket with the bird island if you have time.
Stunning! I arrived at 7am using the early bird online ticket (saved 30 yuan). No queues at all, and the lake was so calm and mirror-like. The entry fee is totally worth it for the sunrise colors alone. Pro tip: bring your own snacks because the food stalls inside are pricey.