Nalati Grassland & Bayanbulak: A Guide to Xinjiang's Most Beautiful Pastures (2026)

Duku Highway and just 3–4 hours apart, they form the perfect 2–3 day combo for anyone seeking rolling green hills, Kazakh yurt culture, wild horses, and one of Asia's most spectacular sunset viewpoints." data-zh="新疆伊犁河谷拥有中国最令人屏息的两个草原目的地——那拉提和巴音布鲁克。它们由传奇独库公路相连，相距仅3-4小时车程，是追求连绵绿丘、哈萨克毡房文化、野马和亚洲最壮观日落观景点的旅行者的完美2-3天组合。">Xinjiang's Ili Valley holds two of China's most breathtaking grassland destinations — Nalati and Bayanbulak. Connected via the legendary Duku Highway and just 3–4 hours apart, they form the perfect 2–3 day combo for anyone seeking rolling green hills, Kazakh yurt culture, wild horses, and one of Asia's most spectacular sunset viewpoints.

Quick Facts

Detail	Info
Location	Ili & Bayanbulak, Xinjiang
Altitude	1,600 – 2,500 m
Best months	June – September
Entry fee	Nalati 60 CNY / Bayanbulak 65 CNY

Why Visit These Two Together

Nalati and Bayanbulak sit on opposite sides of the Duku Highway's most scenic stretch. The drive between them takes 3–4 hours through alpine meadows and mountain passes, making it one of the most rewarding short road trips in western China. Together they offer a complete grassland experience: lush lowland pastures at Nalati contrast with the high-altitude wetlands of Bayanbulak.

Nalati Grassland (那拉提草原)

Nalati is a vision of rolling green hills carpeted with wildflowers, Kazakh yurt clusters, grazing horses, and snow-capped Tianshan peaks on the horizon. It ranks among China's top four grasslands and is the most accessible from the Duku Highway.

Air Grassland vs Valley Grassland

Nalati offers two main scenic routes. The Air Grassland (空中草原) climbs to over 2,000 meters and delivers panoramic views of endless green ridges against snow peaks — this is the iconic Nalati experience. The Valley Grassland (河谷草原) follows the river through forests and meadows, quieter and ideal for families. Most visitors prefer the Air Grassland for its dramatic vistas.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is the signature Nalati activity. Prices range from 200–400 CNY per hour depending on the route. Local Kazakh guides lead all rides and beginners are matched with calm, well-trained horses. Wear long pants and closed shoes, and agree on the route and price before setting off.

Accommodation

For an authentic experience, stay in a traditional Kazakh yurt (50–150 USD per night), often with home-cooked meals included. The nearby town of Xinyuan offers standard hotels for those preferring modern amenities. Book yurts well in advance during July and August.

Bayanbulak (巴音布鲁克)

Swan Lake (天鹅湖)

Bayanbulak is home to China's only swan nature reserve. The best viewing window runs from May through October, with peak activity during spring and autumn migrations when hundreds of swans gather on the lake. The surrounding wetland grasslands are also home to other rare bird species.

Nine Suns and Eighteen Bends (九曲十八弯)

This is Bayanbulak's crown jewel — a sunset photography spot where the winding Kaidu River catches the dying light, creating reflections that look like nine glowing suns in the water. Arrive at least one hour before sunset to secure a position on the viewing platform. Bring a tripod and telephoto lens for best results. The optical spectacle lasts only minutes, so be ready.

Altitude Note

summer, nighttime temperatures drop to 5°C or below. Bring warm layers — a fleece or light down jacket is essential. The altitude is mild but sensitive travelers may notice slight breathlessness on walks." data-zh="巴音布鲁克海拔2500米。即使盛夏，夜间温度也会降至5°C以下。带上保暖衣物——抓绒衣或轻薄羽绒服必不可少。海拔相对温和，但敏感旅行者在步行时可能会感到轻微气促。">Bayanbulak sits at 2,500 meters. Even in midsummer, nighttime temperatures drop to 5°C or below. Bring warm layers — a fleece or light down jacket is essential. The altitude is mild but sensitive travelers may notice slight breathlessness on walks.

Suggested Itineraries

2-Day Express

Day 1: Arrive at Nalati, ride horses on the Air Grassland, overnight in a Kazakh yurt. Day 2: Drive to Bayanbulak, visit Swan Lake in the afternoon, catch the Nine Suns sunset, then drive out or overnight locally.

3-Day Relaxed

Add a Duku Highway approach on Day 1 with stops at Tangbula. Spend a full day at Nalati exploring both grassland routes and visiting a Kazakh family. Day 3 at Bayanbulak with ample time for both Swan Lake and sunset photography.

5-Day Ili Loop

lavender fields (June only), Day 3 Nalati, Day 4 Bayanbulak, Day 5 return via Duku Highway or fly from Nalati airport. Contact us for a custom itinerary." data-zh="与更广阔的伊犁地区结合：第1天赛里木湖，第2天伊犁薰衣草田（仅6月），第3天那拉提，第4天巴音布鲁克，第5天经独库公路返回或从那拉提机场飞离。联系我们获取定制行程。">Combine with the wider Ili region: Day 1 Sayram Lake, Day 2 Ili lavender fields (June only), Day 3 Nalati, Day 4 Bayanbulak, Day 5 return via Duku Highway or fly from Nalati airport. Contact us for a custom itinerary.

Getting There

From Urumqi, fly to Nalati Airport (seasonal flights) or drive the Duku Highway (approximately 8 hours when open). From Yining (Ili), Nalati is a 3-hour drive east. Bayanbulak is most commonly reached via the Duku Highway from either direction. Private vehicle with a local driver is the most flexible option.

Practical Tips

Weather — Nights are cold even in July at Bayanbulak's altitude. Pack a warm jacket, fleece, and thermal layers regardless of season.

Altitude sickness — At 2,500 m, Bayanbulak can cause mild symptoms in sensitive travelers. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on the first night, and walk slowly.

Booking — Yurt stays and popular hotels sell out fast in peak season (July–August). Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead.

Insects — Grassland areas have mosquitoes and horseflies in summer. Bring strong insect repellent and wear covered clothing at dusk.

Cash — Mobile payment is unreliable in remote areas. Carry enough cash for entrance fees, horse rides, meals, and small purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions