Da Qaidam Snow Mountain Hot Spring
大柴旦雪山温泉
A hot spring valley at the foot of the Dakendaban Mountains, about 8–10 km north of Chaidam Town. Natural springs reach 70–80°C, letting visitors soak while watching the snowy peaks and starry skies.
The Da Qaidam Hot Springs lie in a valley at the southern foot of the Dakendaban Mountains (also called the Chaidam Mountains), about 8–10 km north of Chaidam Town, at an altitude of roughly 3,500 m. More than 100 springs flow through the valley, dozens of them hot, with outflow temperatures reaching 70–80°C. The water is rich in minerals, and the site is said to be the highest and hottest natural hot spring in the Qaidam Basin. A snow mountain resort has now been built here, with outdoor pools, indoor pools and accommodation. Tickets start at around 100 yuan, and the site stays open late into the evening. It is ideal for soaking after visiting Emerald Lake and enjoying the snowy peaks and night sky. At high altitude, it is easy to feel short of breath, so limit each soak and avoid it after drinking alcohol or if you have altitude sickness.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–23:00 (shorter in low season; check scenic area notices)
Nearby sights
- Chaidan Town & Starry Sky Camp
- Emerald Lake, Da Qaidam
- Da Qaidam Lake
- Hongya Mars Landform Area
- Xiao Qaidam Lake
- G315 U-shaped Road
- East Taijinar Lake
- Wusute Water Yardang