Birds Island

Introducing Birds Island
Xining Birds Island is named after the tens of thousands of migration birds on the island. Situated in the west of Qinghai Lake, it covers an area of 0.8 square kilometers and it is the most noteworthy tourist attraction in Qinghai Lake. The idland ranks the top among the eight bird natural resorts in China.

Birds Island Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Qing Hai Hu Niao Dao 青海湖鸟岛
• Best Time to Visit: April to June
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 1-2 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Birding
• Opening Hours: 08:30-17:30
• Entrance Fee: CNY 100 from Apr 20 to Aug 20; CNY 50 from Aug 21 to Apr 19
• Address: Gangcha County, Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province

What to expect at Birds Island

Xining Birds Island consists of east and west islands. Haixishan (mountain on the west of the sea) is also called Xiaoxishan (small west mountain) where in April each year, albatross, seagulls and numerous other birds arrive here to lay hatch and eggs.

In the birds' laying season there are thousands of birds' eggs on the ground. One kilometer from Haixishan is the Haixipi Island; cormorant is the main type of birds on the island. So it is called "Cormorant Island". Two islands combine together called Xining Birds Island. The amount of the birds enabled it ranks as the world's densest "kingdom of birds". When the birds are flying, the sky is covered to darkness, which is the awesome picture on Qinghai Lake.

Xining Birds Island is the ideal habitat of those birds because of the island's unique geographical condition and the natural environment. Xining Birds Island is chosen for its flat terrain, mild climate, water-surrounded, tranquil environment and plentiful fish. Those birds are clever enough, they will choose different lands and environment to match their habits and hobbies, and then establish an ideal home.

How to get to Birds Island
• Birds Island is approximately 150 km away from Xining.
• Take a bus from Xining Bayilu Bus Station to Birds Island directly.
• Rent a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle free private transfer from hotels in Xining to Birds Island.

Additional travel advice on Birds Island
• Please follow the guideline of the scenic area to the watching platform. Do not enter the nesting area of the birds without permission.
• It is not suggested to show, sing or run on the mountain due to the high altitude.