Travel Guide to Dachaidan Emerald Lake

Dachaidan Emerald Lake, located in Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, was originally a salt lake mining area of the Dachaidan Chemical Plant. The lake is named for its emerald-like blue-green color under sunlight and is often referred to as "God's Palette." Below is a practical guide for your visit: Transportation Options 1. Self-Drive/Private Car: Start from Dachaidan Town and drive approximately 12 kilometers (20 minutes) along National Highway 315. Use navigation to locate "Dachaidan Emerald Lake." 2. Group Tours: Many Qinghai-Gansu loop tours include this attraction, making it a convenient option for first-time visitors. Best Time to Visit • June to September: The weather is stable, and the lake's colors are at their most vibrant, ideal for aerial photography. • Sunrise/Sunset: During these times, the lake surface displays a gradient of Tiffany blue and amber hues under the slanting sunlight. Must-Try Activities 1. Lake Exploration on Foot: Walk along the wooden boardwalks into the salt flats. Different mining pits showcase colors like green, blue, and yellow. Starting your tour at the "Heart-Shaped Lake" is recommended. 2. Drone Photography: Capture low-altitude aerial views of the salt pools, which resemble scattered diamonds embedded in the earth. A panoramic shot of the "Emerald Chain" is highly recommended. 3. Salt Flat Experience: In certain areas, you can walk barefoot on the salt (shoe covers required) to feel the texture of crystallized salt. Photography Tips • Wear solid-colored long dresses (white or red are best) and accessorize with a straw bag or wide-brimmed hat to enhance the atmosphere. • Use a wide-angle lens for expansive scenes and a telephoto lens to compress the layers of salt flats and snow-capped mountains. • On cloudy days, try black-and-white photography to highlight the textures and geometric patterns of the salt flats. Important Notes 1. The salt lake is highly corrosive; avoid prolonged contact between metal items (e.g., camera tripods) and the salt flats. 2. At an altitude of approximately 3,148 meters, avoid strenuous activities and carry an oxygen tank to prevent altitude sickness. 3. Do not enter undeveloped areas. Some dark-colored lakes are brine pools and pose safety risks. 4. There are no dining facilities within the scenic area, so bring your own snacks and drinking water.