A Saline Lake On 'Roof Of The World'

Asia, the largest continent of world, is a land full of hidden treasures. These treasures are the best gifts of 'Mother Nature' to mankind and are yet to be explored.

Every country in Asia is embellished with numerous unique things that can captivate the imagination of anyone at the very first glimpse. Be it a person from creative field or simply a laymen, its very hard to resist the charm of these natural beauties. One such thing is a blue saline lake on the 'roof of the world.'

Now, you must be wondering how could be a lake positioned on the roof of the world? Well, its true that God has created a beautiful tranquil lake on our very own roof of the world. Yes, Tibet, the land of Dalai Lamas, is heralded as 'roof of the world'. It is a high altitude plateau which is renowned for its unique culture, history and breath-taking geographic features.

It is an autonomous region of China and a dream destination for both globetrotters and pilgrims. A azure saline lake named Qinghai lake is one of the eye-catching spots of Tibet. This largest lake of China, is located just 100 km from west of the provincial capital of Xining at an altitude of 3, 205m above sea level in a depression of Tibetan Plateau in Tibetan province of Amodo. Twenty three rivers and several streams empty into this placid lake.

Qinghai lake is a very unique lake as it fluctuates in size. Earlier, the size of the lake started to shrink but later on, in the year 2004, its size suddenly starts increasing. Another astonishing feature about this lake is that despite its salinity, Qinghai lake is rich in various species of fishes. There is also an island located in the western part of lake which is famous for wide ranges of exotic migratory birds. There are two bird sanctuaries namely Cormorant Island and Egg Island serves as a stopover for these migratory birds. They are considered under Natural Protection Zone in 1997.

This lake is also a significant pilgrimage site for Tibetans. They circumambulated around the lake and worship at temple which is built in the island. The ideal time to visit this lake is during winter when it remain frozen continuously for three months.

So, whenever you are on a tour to Asia, don't forget to explore this amazingly beautiful place on earth.