Xinjiang’s Ili River Valley is home to three of China’s most stunning alpine grasslands—Nalati, Bayinbuluke, and Zhaosu. Each offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, from sweeping green meadows to wildflower-covered hills, framed by distant snow-capped peaks.
Known as the “Three Brothers” of China’s highland pastures, these destinations are perfect for summer escapes. Travelers can ride horses across open fields, camp under starry skies, and experience the nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakh people.
1. Nalati Grassland: Sky-High Meadows and Kazakh Folk Songs
Recommended Rating: ★★★★★
Located in Xinyuan County of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Nalati is one of China’s four major grasslands and is famed as the “Sky Grassland.” Set at high altitude and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, forests, and winding rivers, Nalati turns into a flower-filled paradise every summer.
Highlights:
Horseback riding across vast meadows, echoing the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
Hike up the hillside for panoramic views of the valley—sunrises and sunsets are especially stunning.
Spend a night in a Kazakh yurt and hear tales of herders passed down through generations.
Visit in June and July for the best wildflower displays.
Practical Tips:
Entrance Fee: Around CNY 95/person (includes shuttle service).
Shuttle buses stop at multiple viewing platforms; you can hike or ride horses between them.
Recommended stay: 1–2 days, ideally combined with Yining and Sayram Lake.
Nalati Grassland
2. Bayinbuluke Grassland: Swan Paradise and the Nine-Bend River
Recommended Rating: ★★★★★
Located in Hejing County, Bayinbuluke means “abundant springs” in Mongolian and is China’s second-largest grassland. It is world-famous for its Swan Lake and the stunning curves of the Kaidu River known as the “Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns.”
Highlights:
Swan Lake Nature Reserve: Between June and August, you may spot flocks of wild swans and other migratory birds.
Capture the winding Kaidu River from the viewing platform at sunset—a photographer’s dream.
Explore scenic boardwalks and wooden trails that stretch deep into the grasslands.
Enjoy camping or stay in scenic hotels with views of the starry night sky.
Practical Tips:
Entrance Fee: Around CNY 90/person; shuttle bus tickets sold separately.
The park is large—allocate at least 1.5 days for exploration.
Best time: June to September; June for lush greenery, July–August for peak swan season.
UV is strong and temperature drops significantly at night—pack accordingly.
3. Zhaosu Grassland: Golden Canola Fields and the Land of Heavenly Horses
Recommended Rating: ★★★★☆
Zhaosu Grassland sits in Zhaosu County at a relatively high elevation, making it one of the best summer escapes in Xinjiang. Famous for its canola flower sea and as the homeland of the “Heavenly Horses,” it’s a breathtaking sight from late June to mid-July.
Highlights:
Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Festival (early July): Enjoy horse-riding performances and traditional Kazakh and Uyghur cultural shows.
Canola Flower Sea: Endless golden fields backed by snowy mountains and blue skies—ideal for drone shots and portraits.
Drive the scenic Yizhao Highway—one of China’s most beautiful highland roads.
Enjoy camping, bonfires, and barbecue in one of the many open-air grassland camps.
Practical Tips:
Flower season: Late June to mid-July is best.
Lodging includes guesthouses and hotels—book early during festival season.
Getting there: About 200 km from Yining; best reached by self-drive or private car.
The weather is unpredictable—bring rain gear and warm layers.
General Tips for Grassland Travel
- Transportation:
Grasslands are widely spaced and public transportation is limited. For flexibility and comfort, self-driving, car rentals, or joining a private tour is recommended. - What to Pack:
Bring sun-protective clothing, windproof jackets, hiking shoes, hats, sunglasses, and rain gear.
Don’t forget power banks, offline maps, and a camera for those jaw-dropping landscapes. - Cultural Notes:
Most locals are Kazakh and practice Islam. Be respectful of local customs—do not touch food without permission and always remove shoes before entering a yurt. - Altitude & Safety:
UV radiation is strong; sunscreen is a must. Night temperatures can fall below 10°C even in summer.
Xinjiang’s grasslands offer both gentle beauty and awe-inspiring grandeur. In Nalati, the sky seems to melt into green fields. In Bayinbuluke, golden light dances over winding rivers. And in Zhaosu, horses gallop through golden canola fields beneath snow-capped peaks. Each of these iconic grasslands has its own soul—but together, they create the ultimate summer journey across western China.
🌿 Ready to experience it for yourself? Let China Dragon Travel help you craft a personalized grassland adventure—complete with private transport, local guides, and unforgettable views. Your dream trip to Xinjiang begins here.
