Beijing has officially entered the dog days under persistent yellow high-temperature alerts
Hot, hot, hot. Everyone is saying this year’s weather in Beijing is just too hot
It’s getting hot earlier, hotter, and the most common concern has become
“Go somewhere cool and stay there.”
See for yourself — come experience this giant fridge where temperatures rarely exceed 25°C.
Visiting Xining in July will definitely lead you to explore around Qinghai Lake.
The rapeseed flowers here are gradually blooming, with mid to late July being the best time to view them. With clear lake water, azure skies, and endless grasslands,
the mountains covered with cattle and sheep plus the yellow flower seas create an incredibly beautiful scene.
Here, you can spend the night by the Black Horse River
and look up to see the starry sky twinkling like fireflies scattered across the night.
Stay in the tents of hospitable Hui families
and wake up in the morning to watch the sunrise by Qinghai Lake.The lake loop highway is divided into four sections: East Lake Loop Road, National Highway 109, West Lake Loop Road, and National Highway 315.
Among these, the section of East Lake Loop Road from Daoyinghe Jiayi Village to the entrance of Er'langjian Scenic Area has a dedicated bicycle lane, 3 meters wide and 31 kilometers long.
A regular 4-day route is typical for circling the lake. For travelers with less stamina or those who prefer to take their time, 5 days is also comfortable.
Of course, experienced cyclists in a hurry can complete the loop in 3 days. The general route is as follows:
This section of the ride is easy and energy-saving. As Qinghai Lake comes into view, you’ll pass by Daotang River, which flows into Erhai Lake. It’s recommended to slow down and enjoy the wetland scenery along the road. At the point where the road is closest to the lake, a small path leads to a release platform by the water, where many water birds reside in summer.
Most of the route features hidden slopes that aren’t obvious but are quite challenging to ride. Fortunately, after leaving Jiangxigou, Qinghai Lake gradually reappears on the horizon, along with two lake islands — Haixin Mountain and Three Rock Stone — looming in the distance.
This is the part of the journey closest to the lake and with the most stunning scenery. Right at the start, you’ll encounter continuous wave-like slopes, which are quite challenging. Not far out of Black Horse River, you’ll pass by the Banchan Lazhe Scenic Area, followed by 6 kilometers of continuous wave-like slopes that really test your endurance.
In addition to a sturdy bicycle and cycling gear (helmet, raincoat, gloves, headscarf, windproof glasses, etc.), you’ll also need:
Daily essentials
Clothing: Even in summer, warm clothing is essential; bring cycling pants to save your skin a lot of pain.
Skincare: Sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizing skincare products.
Food: Bring enough water and dry food for one day — there are plenty of supply points along the way.
Medications: Altitude sickness medication (Compound Codonopsis Tablets, Rhodiola Capsules, Astragalus-Poria Compound, etc.), cold medicine, anti-diarrhea medication, band-aids, Yunnan Baiyao. Bring some glucose to mix with water — it helps prevent altitude sickness and provides energy.
Also consider bringing a thermos, flashlight, portable mini speaker, and an extra waterproof cover for your photography gear.
Finally, don’t forget to buy cycling insurance before you go — if anything happens, “it’s better for your wallet than your body.”
▲ National roads have heavy traffic and high speeds. Whether cycling or resting, always stay close to the edge and avoid riding side by side. When going downhill, control your speed carefully, avoid locking the brakes, and use the rear brake primarily. When shifting gears, gently press the pedals to avoid putting too much stress on the chain, which could cause it to break. Maintain a steady pace while cycling — avoid sudden speed changes.
Recommended Homestays in Xining, Qinghai
Long cycling journeys call for the comfort of a cozy, welcoming home to ease travel fatigue.
Modern, fully furnished homestay in Chengdong District, Xining
468 RMB/night sleeps up to 8 people
This July, let’s meet at Qinghai Lake and in Xining
In that pristine plateau
With its breathtakingly beautiful highways
By a sacred lake, with a group of good friends
Lost in the picturesque beauty of Qinghai