<p>The deep-penetrating geochemical exploration techniques (also known as penetrative geochemical methods) has matured and has been successfully applied in numerous mining districts across China, yielding notable results in deep and peripheral deposit exploration. However, their applicability and performance have not yet been systematically evaluated in the Qaidam Basin, a region renowned for its mineral wealth. This study investigates the applicability of geogas-based geochemical measurement through an investigation of the Donggou sedimentary exhalative Cu–Zn deposit in the eastern Qimantagh Mountains, on the southern margin of the Qaidam Basin. Using the geogas-based geochemical measurement technique, geogas anomalies were delineated. Seven geogas profiles were established, identifying three Cu–Pb–Zn–Ni–Co anomaly zones and fourteen discrete anomaly segments. On typical profiles, Cu–Pb–Zn–Ni–(Co) geogas anomaly segments consistently correlate with verified concealed Zn-polymetallic orebodies. Comparative analysis of these characteristic geogas anomalies identified six discrete segments with high exploration priority for future verification. The results indicate demonstrate pronounced geogas anomaly responses above the concealed Donggou Zn-polymetallic orebodies, supporting the potential applicability of the geogas-based geochemical measurement method in the Qaidam Basin. Furthermore, two primary geogas migration mechanisms are summarised. The method provides useful geochemical information for delineating anomalies and tracing mineralised belts in overburden areas, providing a reliable geochemical basis for the exploration of concealed deposits in such terrains.</p>