If you ask me which section of the Ili loop is the most breathtaking, I would say—Panlong Valley Trail—without hesitation. Riding through the grasslands at an altitude of about 1800 meters feels like stepping into a sunlit fairy tale world. On a clear day, the entire grassland seems to glow, with cattle and sheep scattered across rolling hills. Every view along the way refreshes your imagination of what a “grassland” can be.
Many travelers give mixed reviews about Nalati, but once you experience Panlong Valley Trail the right way, you’ll understand: the proper approach makes all the difference. In just 4 hours, you can efficiently explore this route, and it’s extremely cost-effective—perfect for those who want a pure grassland experience in limited time.
Nalati Panlong Valley
1. First, Figure Out If Panlong Valley Trail Suits You
Before visiting Ili, the most important thing is not how many guides you read, but knowing your preferences.
If you enjoy:
- Endless open grasslands
- Rolling hills dotted with grazing cattle and sheep
- Landscapes like a green velvet carpet
Then Panlong Valley Trail will captivate you.
However, if you prefer:
- Diverse landscapes (forests, rivers, snow-capped mountains, flowers)
- Rich photo spots and variety
Then the Sky Grassland (Kongzhong Grassland) might be a better choice.
Quick Summary:
- Sky Grassland = Comprehensive scenic variety
- Panlong Valley Trail = Ultimate grassland experience
2. 4-Hour Quick Route (Most Time-Efficient)
The biggest advantage of Panlong Valley Trail is that you don’t need to walk much; the shuttle bus lets you enjoy the scenery along the way.
Route Logic
Panlong Valley Trail and the River Valley Grassland are on the same line. Buying a Panlong Valley shuttle ticket allows you to explore both areas efficiently.
Recommended Strategy:
- Skip the first two stations (River Valley Grassland) if short on time
- Focus on the core highlights of Panlong Valley Trail
3. Must-Stop Spots in River Valley Grassland
1️⃣ Tawu Sani
Perfect for those who enjoy peace and quiet.
- Open grassland with minimal crowds
- Great spot for “exclusive” landscape photos
- Cartoon-like small yellow flowers
2️⃣ Wusun Ruins (Highly Recommended)
One of my personal favorite stops.
- Giant stones with grassland background create strong visual impact
- Heart-shaped path ideal for photos
- Grazing sheep and cattle nearby for authentic pastoral atmosphere
Tip: Walk about 1 km to the right to find two trees for shade and photos.
3️⃣ Yitigensen (Transfer Point)
Key junction for entering Panlong Valley Trail.
- Transfer to a small shuttle bus
- Wait for a mostly empty bus for better photo opportunities
- Front seats are ideal for capturing mountain road footage
Nalati Panlong Valley
4. Panlong Valley Trail Highlights (Worth the Ticket)
🚐 Scenic Shuttle Ride
The main attraction is the scenery along the route.
- Rolling hills like waves
- Cattle, sheep, and horses scattered across the green landscape
- Every frame is Instagram-worthy
Tip: Sit by the window, or better, in the front row for video shots.
📍 Dragon Emerging from the Sea Viewpoint
Official highlight, though personal impressions may vary.
- Offers grassland + snow mountain views
- Wide-angle compositions recommended
- Side shots recommended if facing backlight
Suggested Stop: 30–60 minutes
📍 Wo Niu Gang
- Short stop (~10 minutes)
- Ordinary scenery; can be skipped
📍 Forest Park & Daigelas
Optional depending on personal interest.
Forest Park:
- Can take a small electric cart to Walta Jota
- About 100 CNY round-trip
Walta Jota:
- Stunning views, replaces 2–3 hours of hiking
- Recommended if time allows
Daigelas:
- Expansive grassland
- Ideal for spontaneous photo stops
5. Real Experience & Tips
Many expect dense herds of cattle and sheep, but:
- You can see animals along the shuttle route
- They may not always be at the stops
Solution:
- Want dense herds → self-drive for more freedom
- Shuttle bus → enjoy overall scenery and atmosphere
6. Sky Grassland vs Panlong Valley Trail
If you only have one day:
Recommendation:
- First-time visitors → Sky Grassland
- Already seen diverse landscapes → Panlong Valley Trail
Sky Grassland Summary:
- Highlights at Nomadic Family station
- Famous bridge and trails are scenic
- Snow, flowers, forest available
Cons:
- Crowded
- Long queues
Panlong Valley Trail Summary:
- Highlights across the entire route
- Fewer people, better experience
- Pure, vast grassland
Cons:
- Less landscape variety
Nalati Panlong Valley
7. Transportation & Ticket Guide
🎫 Tickets & Shuttle Bus
- Tickets generally valid for 48 hours
- Shuttle bus ticket: ~40 CNY
Tip:
- On day two, only buy the shuttle bus ticket if your entrance ticket is still valid
🚌 Shuttle Bus Tips
- Window seat recommended (left or right depending on sunlight)
- Transfer during empty bus for best photos
- Front seats ideal for video
🚗 Self-Drive Tips
- Greater flexibility
- Easier to capture herds of animals
- Book in advance
Caution:
- New drivers: winding mountain roads can be challenging
8. Best Time to Visit & Avoiding Pitfalls
⏰ Suggested Duration
- 4 hours: just right
- 6 hours: leisurely pace
☀️ Best Time of Day
- Morning: soft light
- Afternoon: grasslands glow beautifully
⚠️ Avoid Pitfalls
- Don’t blindly follow “Instagram spots”
- Not every station requires stopping
- Choose based on your preferred landscape type
9. One-Sentence Summary
Panlong Valley Trail isn’t a place for a single “wow” moment—it’s a slow, immersive experience. When sunlight hits rolling green hills and cattle scatter across the giant carpet of grass, you’ll understand why travelers return to Ili again and again.
If you love pure, expansive grasslands, this trail is truly worth it.
