Heimahe Sunrise
黑马河日出
A small town on Qinghai Lake's southwest shore. Watching the sunrise over the lake is a must on the lake-circling route. The sun rises directly from the water, and flocks of birds and silhouettes of prayer flags make striking pictures.
Heimahe is a small town on the southwest shore of Qinghai Lake, beside National Highway 109. It is an important supply stop on the lake-circling road and is widely regarded as the best place to watch the sunrise over Qinghai Lake. The lakeshore on the east side of town faces the rising sun, so the sun appears directly over the water, and both the lake and the sky turn red. There are two main sunrise viewing spots: a paid lakeside viewing area in town, run by herders or the scenic area (around several dozen RMB), and a free stretch of lakeshore a few kilometers east along the lakeside road. In summer, sunrise is around 6 a.m., so arrive before 5:30 a.m. Temperatures are close to zero, so wear a down jacket. After the sunrise, you can ride horses by the lake or photograph yaks. Then cross Xiangpi Mountain pass (3,817 meters, with views over Qinghai Lake) to Chaka Salt Lake, about 1.5 hours away. The 80-kilometer drive from Heimahe to Erlangjian is the most classic stretch on the south shore, with rapeseed fields and lake views along the roadside. The town is mainly made up of family guesthouses and tent camps. Facilities are basic, and prices are higher in peak season, so book in advance. The night sky is also spectacular here. Note that you are above 3,200 meters, so dress warmly for early mornings and watch for altitude sickness. Grasslands along the lake are mostly private pasture, so ask before entering.
Opening hours
All day