Xinjiang Nalati Travel Guide
Nalati Grassland stands as one of Xinjiang’s most renowned grasslands, celebrated as the ‘Green Isle of the Tianshan Mountains’ and the ‘Green Homeland’. This natural pastureland nestled in the heart of the Tianshan range captivates travellers from across the globe with its distinctive natural landscapes and rich Kazakh culture. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, photography aficionado, or cultural explorer, Nalati fulfils every vision you may hold of Xinjiang.
I. Nalati Overview: A Perfect Fusion of Nature and Culture
1. Basic Information
The Nalati Scenic Area is situated within Xinyuan County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, nestled in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains at the eastern end of the Ili River Valley. Spanning a total planned area of 1,848 square kilometres with an average elevation of 1,800 metres, it forms part of the subalpine meadow vegetation zone—one of the world’s four major grasslands. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the winding Gongnasi River flows through the area, creating a distinctive landscape described as ‘green mountains forming a screen on three sides, with a jade belt of rivers criss-crossing the waist’.
Nalati experiences a temperate continental climate, with an average annual temperature of approximately 20°C and annual precipitation reaching 880 millimetres. Summers are pleasantly cool, making it an ideal summer retreat; winters are blanketed in snow, presenting a quintessential northern landscape.
2. Historical Development
‘Nalati’ means ‘sun’ in Mongolian. Legend has it that during Genghis Khan’s western campaigns, a Mongolian army marched from the depths of the Tianshan Mountains towards Ili. Though spring had arrived, the mountains were shrouded in blizzards, leaving the troops utterly exhausted. Upon crossing the mountain ridge, they were greeted by a vast, flower-strewn grassland. As the clouds parted and the sun emerged, the soldiers cried out ‘Nalati!’ – thus the place name was born.
The Nalati Grasslands boast over 3,000 years of cultural history, having successively witnessed the cultural periods of the Saka, Wusun, Xiongnu, Turkic peoples, and Mongols. In 1999, the Nalati Scenic Area was formally established. It was designated a National 5A-Grade Tourist Attraction in 2011 and recognised as a National Tourist Resort in 2020.
II. Detailed Guide to Major Attractions: The Essence of Grassland Scenery
1. Sky Meadow Route
The Sky Meadow represents Nalati’s most iconic attraction, situated at an average altitude of 2,200 metres. It exemplifies typical alpine meadow and subalpine meadow landscapes.
The Heavenly Realm Terrace marks the watershed between the river valley grasslands and the Sky Meadow, symbolising ‘the gateway to paradise on earth and the boundary between heaven and the mortal world’. From this vantage point, one beholds a panoramic vista of the grasslands: distant snow-capped peaks, nearby forests, and the expanse of grassland below coalesce into a three-dimensional tableau.
The Nomadic Homestead serves as the comprehensive service hub for the Sky Meadow route. Visitors may experience horseback riding, don traditional attire for photographs, and interact closely with native grassland fauna. Sculptures here depict the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakh people, offering an exceptional opportunity to understand nomadic culture.
Snow Lotus Valley (also known as Heavenly God Platform), situated at an altitude of 3,000 metres, derives its name from its resemblance to a blooming snow lotus when viewed from above. Each year between July and August, snow lotuses bloom solitary and proud near the snow line, making this a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts.
2. River Valley Grassland Route
The River Valley Grassland Route specialises in historical and cultural experiences, showcasing Nalati’s profound cultural heritage.
Tawusani, meaning ‘beautiful mountain valley’ in Kazakh, serves as the gateway to the river valley grasslands. It presents a unique landscape of ‘one mountain, four vistas’: snow-capped peaks, dense forests, undulating hills, and flat meadows, encapsulating the vertical natural landscape zones of the grasslands.
The Wusun ruins bear witness to the glorious history of the Wusun tribe from the 2nd century BC to the 1st century AD. Over 200 Wusun tombs are scattered across the Nalati grasslands, the largest of which measures 350 metres in circumference at its base and stands 6.5 metres tall, believed to be the tomb of Wusun King Liejiaomi.
The Grassland Tribe recreation brings the Wusun tribe to life as it existed over two millennia ago, constituting the world’s first comprehensive attraction reflecting the history, culture, and customs of the Kazakh people. Within the tribe, the Wusun Golden-Topped Grand Tent is hailed as the ‘Northwest’s Premier Tent,’ where visitors may witness grand reenactments of the Wusun king’s marriage to a Han princess.
3. Panlong Valley Route
The Coiling Dragon Valley Trail is celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, forming a sinuous grassland landscape particularly favoured by photographers.
The Dragon Emerges from the Sea section is renowned for its Black Forest, where snow-capped cedar forests nestle within the overlapping mountain ridges on either side, presenting the most awe-inspiring vista among the trail’s woodland scenery. Towering, rugged fir trees stand like pillars anchoring the sea amidst the surging winds and clouds.
Woniu Ridge commands elevated, sweeping vistas, its contours resembling a bovine reclining to graze upon the mountainside. From this vantage point, one may gaze upon distant mountain ranges, while below, Kazakh winter dwellings appear and disappear amidst the valley forests, and cattle and sheep graze leisurely upon the slopes.
III. Practical Travel Information
1. Admission Fees and Opening Hours
Nalati Scenic Area is open year-round from 8:30 to 20:00.
Admission Pricing:
Scenic Area Ticket: ¥95 per person (valid for two days)
Shuttle Bus Tickets:
- – Sky Meadow: ¥40 per person
- – River Valley Meadow: ¥24 per person
- – Snow Lotus Valley: ¥60 per person
- – Coiling Dragon Valley Path: ¥40 per person
Self-drive vehicle ticket: ¥300 per vehicle (for vehicles with 7 seats or fewer; advance booking required via the ‘Smart Travel Nalati’ WeChat official account; daily limit of 300 vehicles)
Discounts: Senior citizens aged 60-64 and students: ¥87; Senior citizens aged 65 and above: ¥20 (all prices include shuttle bus).
2. Optimal Visiting Seasons
Spring (April–May)
As winter melts away across Nalati Grassland in spring, wild lilies quietly blossom beneath the nourishing snowmelt, heralding the season’s first burst of colour. With rising temperatures, tulips, wild poppies, dandelions and other wildflowers gradually come into bloom, creating prime conditions for capturing picturesque floral landscapes.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is Nalati’s most splendid season, with hillsides blanketed in vibrant wildflowers—red, yellow, blue, and purple—adorned across the grasslands. Average temperatures hover around 20°C, making it an ideal summer retreat. Visitors may also experience traditional Kazakh festivals and activities during this period.
Autumn (September–October)
In autumn, Nalati’s golden grasslands contrast magnificently with distant snow-capped mountains. The cool weather makes it the prime season for hiking and photography. Animals on the steppe prepare for winter, presenting a scene of abundant harvest.
Winter (November–March)
Nalati is cloaked in snow during winter, presenting a quintessential northern landscape. The scenic area offers winter tourism programmes combining sightseeing, skiing, snow activities, dining, and homestays—an excellent opportunity to experience the grassland’s icy charm.
3. Travel Guide
External Transport
By Air: Fly to Nalati Airport, approximately 60 kilometres from the scenic area.
By Train: Travel by train to Yining City, then transfer to a coach bound for Nalati.
By Car:
From Ürümqi, take the Lianhuo Expressway and then the Duku Highway. The entire journey is approximately 460 kilometres, taking around 8 hours.
From Yining City: Travel via Gongliu, Qiaxi, and Xinyuan to Nalati Town, approximately 340 kilometres.
Internal Transport
Shuttle Buses: A comprehensive shuttle bus system operates within the scenic area, connecting all major attractions.
Hiking: Walking trails are available throughout the area, ideal for travellers seeking a leisurely exploration.
Horse Riding: Horseback tours are offered in designated areas, priced at approximately 60 yuan per hour.
4. Accommodation Recommendations
Distinctive Lodgings
Steppe Homestays: Experience Kazakh felt yurt accommodation and immerse in nomadic life (approx. ¥300 per night, requires booking one month in advance)
Forest Cabins: Nestled within the forest park, offering tranquil surroundings to savour nature’s serenity
Standard Hotels
Luxury Hotels: Such as Jinling Mountain Villa, offering comprehensive facilities at approximately ¥500 per night
Budget Hotels: Numerous guesthouses and hotels in Nalati Town provide affordable options with convenient access
5. Culinary Experiences
Nalati Scenic Area offers an array of Xinjiang specialities, allowing visitors to savour a feast for the palate alongside the stunning landscapes.
Main Dishes
Hand-pulled Rice: Steamed with lamb, carrots, onions and rice, resulting in distinct grains and tender lamb.
Tossed Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served with assorted vegetables and lamb, offering a firm texture and savoury flavour.
Snacks
Grilled Lamb Skewers: Crafted from premium local lamb, charred on the outside yet tender within, with an enticing aroma.
Grilled Buns: Crispy crust with generous fillings, a convenient and distinctive snack
Dairy Products
Salted Milk Tea: Savoury flavour made by boiling brick tea with milk and salt, a daily staple for locals
Yoghurt Lumps: Traditional dairy product, tangy and sweet with rich nutritional value
IV. Signature Activities and Experiences
1. Cultural Immersion
Nalati Scenic Area hosts daily Kazakh song and dance performances. Visitors may also participate in making felt-yurt milk tea, gaining deeper insight into Kazakh daily life. The Grassland Tribes and Yitigense Folk Experience Zones within the area offer opportunities to personally experience traditional Kazakh production and living practices.
2. Outdoor Activities
Horseback Expeditions: Traverse grasslands and forests under professional guides, immersing in nomadic traditions
Hiking: Multiple trails of varying difficulty cater to all levels of trekkers
Photography: Nalati’s ever-changing seasonal landscapes create a photographer’s paradise, with sunrise and sunset offering particularly spectacular views
3. Seasonal Activities
Summer: Traditional sporting events including grassland gatherings, horse racing, goat-grabbing, and maiden-chasing
Winter: Snow activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and horse-drawn sleigh rides
V. Travel Tips
Best time to visit: June to September is recommended for pleasant weather and peak scenery.
Clothing advice: Pack warm layers even in summer due to significant temperature fluctuations between day and night; comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Sun protection: UV rays are intense at high altitudes; bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sun hat.
Environmental Awareness: Refrain from trampling grasslands or picking wildflowers to preserve the ecological balance of the grasslands.
Cultural Respect: Respect local ethnic customs and traditions; always seek permission before photographing local residents.
Booking Advice: Accommodation and self-drive permits are in high demand during peak season; advance booking is strongly advised.
Nalati Grassland combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering distinct seasonal landscapes and a wealth of activities. Whenever you visit, this “sky-high grassland” will immerse you in nature’s marvels and the warm hospitality of the Kazakh people. May this Xinjiang Nalati travel guide assist you in planning a perfect journey through Nalati, creating unforgettable memories on this enchanting land.
