Qinghai's 'biological gene bank'

Qinghai Lake is the largest inland lake in China. Its name means "Blue Lake". Located in Qinghai province, Northwest China, on an endorheic basin – a closed drainage basin that retains water and allows no outflow to other external bodies of water - it is classified as a saline and alkaline lake. It has a surface area of 4,500 square kilometers with a perimeter of about 360 meters, more than twice that of Lake Tai in Jiangsu province.

Surrounded by vast grassland and snowy peaks and with an abundance of wildlife and plants, the place is known as a natural "biological gene bank" as well as being a beautiful place for touring and sightseeing. These photos, taken by Rong Xiandong on July 15, 2014 , give a glimpse of Qinghai Lake's charm.

Rape flowers and the lake form beautiful scenery. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]