The 360-kilometre circuit of Qinghai Lake is one of the classic long-distance cycling trips in China, and one of the most scenic. Most cyclists take three to four days to complete the loop, with accommodation at lakeside towns on each shore. Bicycles can be rented in Xining or at the lakeside settlement of Er Lang Jian on the southern shore; the quality varies, so inspect the brakes and tyres before committing.
The road surface is mostly sealed and the gradients are manageable, but the altitude — over 3,200 metres throughout — makes the first day hard on those not yet acclimatised. Wind can also be a significant factor; the prevailing winds move counterclockwise around the lake, so most cyclists go in that direction. The northern shore route past Gangcha is arguably the more dramatic half; the southern shore near Heimahe offers easier access to birdwatching at the western end.