Da Qaidam Lake
大柴旦湖（伊克柴达木湖）
A natural saltwater lake southwest of Da Qaidam Town, with wetlands, aquatic plants and snow peaks in the distance. Emerald Lake was formed from the salt lake's mining area.
Da Qaidam Lake, known in Mongolian as Ike Qaidam Lake, lies about 12 km from Chaidam Town. It is a natural saltwater lake on the northern edge of the Qaidam Basin. The salt mining area on the northeast side of the lake later developed into the Emerald Lake scenic area. Extensive marshland, known as the Da Qaidam Wetland, surrounds the lake. In summer, the aquatic plants flourish, and visitors can spot bar-headed geese, ruddy shelducks and other waterbirds. To the north, the snow peaks of the Dakendaban Mountains come into view. There is no formal scenic area or admission fee. After visiting Emerald Lake, you can make a detour along the dirt road beside the lake to enjoy the view, with the best light in the evening. The wetland is muddy and soft, so do not leave the hard road. The water is very salty, so swimming is not recommended.
Opening hours
All day (no formal scenic area)
Nearby sights
- Emerald Lake, Da Qaidam
- Chaidan Town & Starry Sky Camp
- Da Qaidam Snow Mountain Hot Spring
- Hongya Mars Landform Area
- Xiao Qaidam Lake
- G315 U-shaped Road
- East Taijinar Lake
- Wusute Water Yardang