The Qinghai Lake Area is a vast section on the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau whose main selling points are the many species of birds, the scenery with its myriad of colours and some good camping opportunities. Though not really an essential destination in Qinghai, many hikers and campers opt to stay here for a while, normally en route to or from Xining and Golmud.The Lake itself is the main attraction here, an expanse of azure, salty water that stretches to the distance, with some of China least polluted waters. The Bird Island, a peninsular in the westernmost part of the lake, is the most impressive sight, especially in season. For most of the summer rare species can be seen here in great multitude. Those with a little time on their hands may like to head to the nearby Chaka Salt Lakes, that are Qinghai Lake more saline cousins. Sights here include salt houses, salt bridges, salt dredgers, salty locals and a number of small, salty lakes.