Why Chaka Town is a Must-Visit

Tucked away in Qinghai Province, Chaka Town (茶卡镇) is home to one of China’s most surreal landscapes—the Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖), famously dubbed "Sky Mirror" for its flawless reflections of the heavens. Paired with the gravity-defying 315 National Highway U-Bend, this region is a photographer’s paradise and road-tripper’s dream.

Unmissable Experiences

1. Chaka Salt Lake (茶卡盐湖) – Walk on the "Mirror of the Gods"

• Best Time to Visit: May to September, when dry weather creates the iconic mirror effect. Arrive at sunrise (6 AM) or sunset (7 PM) for golden-hour magic.
• What to Do:
• Barefoot Walk: Wade into the shallow lake (knee-deep) for ethereal photos—rent colorful boots or dresses onsite for contrast.
• Salt Train Ride: Hop on the vintage narrow-gauge train to the lake’s heart, passing salt mounds like Arctic icebergs.
• Starry Nights: Stay till dusk for Milky Way reflections (summer only; check moon phases).

Pro Tip: Avoid midday crowds (11 AM–3 PM). The lake sits at 3,100m—pace yourself to avoid altitude fatigue.

2. 315 National Highway U-Bend (315国道U型公路) – China’s Most Dramatic Road

• Location: 30km west of Chaka Town (not "317"—a common mislabel).
• Why It’s Unique: This steep desert rollercoaster appears to vanish into the sky, creating optical illusions.
• Safety First:
• No Stopping on the Road: Park at designated lots (1km away) and walk back for shots. Traffic accidents are frequent due to reckless tourists.
• Drones Allowed: Capture the U-bend’s full grandeur from above (permit-free, but respect no-fly zones).

Local Secret: Drive 20 minutes further to Xiligou Salt Lake—equally stunning but crowd-free.

Chaka’s Local Flavors & Culture

• Yak Yogurt (牦牛酸奶): Tart, creamy, and topped with honey—sold at lakeside stalls.
• Tibetan Silver Jewelry: Handmade by local herders; bargain at Chaka Old Street.
• Nomadic Homestays: Sleep in a yurt near the lake (book via Qinghai Lake Dreamland).

High-Altitude Health Tips

Chaka sits at 3,100m+. To acclimate:

• Prep in Xining (2,200m) for 1–2 days before ascending.
• Hydrate aggressively—avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
• Pack layers: Temperatures swing from 25°C (day) to 5°C (night).