In Qinghai's capital, Xining, it's hard not to wind up at the lake. Touts shout "Qinghai Hu! Qinghai Hu!" at both the bus and train stations, while it seems that very taxi driver in town will try to turn a three-kilometer journey into an overnight excursion to the lake. Be careful, and bargain hard.
There are three main ways to get to the lake:
Private car
These can be hired from a travel agent for ¥400. Or try approaching any taxi driver, they or someone they know can take you to the lake for cheaper.Tour
A number of companies in town offer trips to the lake. The standard run stops at Bird Island, the lake, a former nuclear testing site and several jade stores in a long day trip from Xining. Prices start at around ¥100, which doesn't include entrance fees that more than double the price.Public Bus
Most westbound buses from Xining pass by the lake. Just buy a ticket and tell the driver you want to get off at the lake. You will be dropped off at either Heimahe on the southern shore or Gangcha on the northern shore.