Dongtai Jinai’er Lake (东台吉乃尔湖), located in the Qaidam Basin near Golmud City, is a unique salt lake characterized by its magnesium sulfate-rich brine. Spanning approximately 24 kilometers in length and 8.7 kilometers at its widest point, the lake covers an area of 121.3 square kilometers, with an average width of 5.05 kilometers and a depth ranging from 0.6 to 1 meter.
The lake is known for its diverse salt mineral composition, including halite (rock salt), mirabilite, thenardite, and other magnesium sulfate minerals. The solid salt resources mainly consist of halite, which is divided into two layers. The upper layer consists of newly deposited salt, with a thickness of 2 to 3 meters covering an area of 76 square kilometers. The lower layer contains mud-sand salt with a thickness varying from 15 to 20 meters, being thinner in the eastern part (5 to 8 meters) and thicker in the west (25 to 30 meters), covering an area of 91 to 109 square kilometers. The total reserves of halite in the lake are estimated at around 460 million tons.
Unlike the famous Qinghai Lake, Dongtai Jinai’er Lake displays a striking green hue due to its high copper content, contrasted by the white crystalline formations along its shores. The surrounding landscape features expansive yardang landforms, enhancing the lake’s beauty and giving it a unique appearance reminiscent of a “naval fleet on the sea.” A road cuts through the middle of the lake, but caution is advised, as the high salt content can be harsh on the skin. This scenic lake offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and geological wonder, making it a notable destination in the region.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day |
Location and Transportation
Dongtai Jinai’er Lake is situated in the heart of the Qaidam Basin, located in the Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai Province. It lies approximately 280 kilometers from Golmud City and about 320 kilometers from Delingha City. The lake is best accessed by car, making self-driving a recommended option for visitors to fully enjoy the scenic route to this unique destination.
