The Gentle Water Town In The Heart Of The Tianshan Mountains: Bayanbulak Grassland
Bayinbuluke Grassland, located at the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang, is China's second-largest alpine grassland. It is renowned for its vast meadows, herds of cattle and sheep, and expansive horizons.
Nestled at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains in the northwest of Hejing County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Bayanbulak Grassland serves as the central hub of the southern section of the Duku Highway. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and situated at an average elevation of approximately 2,500 meters, this vast expanse spans over 23,800 square kilometers, making it China's second-largest grassland.
“Bayanbulak” translates to “abundant spring” in Mongolian. Characterized by a typical meadow grassland ecosystem, the grassland features flat terrain, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous lakes. With minimal human impact, it has become a sanctuary for rare species like swans and yak.
Activities at Bayinbuluke Grassland
The allure of Bayanbulak Grassland extends beyond its vast vistas and Tianshan foothill wetlands—it lies in immersing yourself in its meadows, lakes, and nomadic herders' way of life. Observe flocks of swans in lush wetlands, gaze upon the legendary “Nine Bends and Eighteen Curves” at sunset, or experience the thrill of the “Bayanbulak Race” on its exhilarating track.
Bayanbulak Swan Lake
Unlike lakes such as Karakul Lake and Sayram Lake, Swan Lake is, to be precise, a vast wetland composed of numerous interconnected small lakes.As part of the Bayanbulak Grassland National Nature Reserve, it is home to tens of thousands of swans and over 120 species of rare birds. Around April each year, swans and migratory birds return from the south to live and breed here. During this season, visitors can witness swans filling the sky—a romantic spectacle that every photography enthusiast dreams of capturing.
Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends
Seven lakes of varying sizes, 13 springs, and 20 rivers spread across the Bayanbulak Grassland, forming this 800-square-kilometer marshland. Due to the meandering waterways and numerous bends, it is known as the “Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends.” Looking out, endless rivers curve and flow from the distance, resembling a silver ribbon drifting in the landscape.
Nadam Fair
From June 4th to 6th each year, the bayanbulak grassland host a major event called the “Nadam Fair.” This traditional gathering serves as an exciting occasion for locals to compete in horse racing, wrestling, and archery—the three fundamental skills of manhood. It offers visitors the perfect opportunity to experience authentic local culture.
Bayanbulak Race
The bayanbulak grassland doesn't feature a dedicated race track, but it does boast a rugged, challenging gravel road—the real-life inspiration for the “Devil's Track” in the movie “Racing Life.” While you might not be able to freely race your car across Bayinbulak, this doesn't diminish the chance to soak in its wild, vibrant scenery. If you crave speed, horseback riding on the Bayinbulak Grassland might just satisfy your thirst for adventure.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
For a trip to Bayinbuluke Grassland, plan your visit between June and September. This period offers the most comfortable climate, with lush flowers and grasses, herds of cattle and sheep grazing, and swans nesting.
Warm Clothing
Evenings on the grasslands get chilly, and summer nights can be cold. Pack warm layers to prevent catching a cold.
Mosquito Protection
Dusk brings swarms of mosquitoes. Bring insect repellent to avoid disease transmission.
Stomach Protection
While the bayanbulak grasslands offer fresh dairy products, children's digestive systems are more sensitive and may struggle with unfamiliar foods. Avoid giving them excessive amounts of raw or cold foods.
Travel Options
We recommend the following travel methods to reach Bayinbuluke Grassland. Not only will you take in the vast grasslands, but you'll also enjoy other scenic views along the way.
- China G219 Highway: The Ultimate Scenic Road Trip from Xinjiang to Guangxi
- China's Most Scenic Highway: Duku Highway
- 16 Days Xinjiang Luxury Panda Train Tour Late Aug. to Sept. 2026
- 6 Days Kashgar Folklore Tour
- 12 Days China Xinjiang New Orient Express Tour in late October
- The Karakoram Highway: The Sky Road Connecting China and Pakistan
- The Ultimate Guide to the Kashgar Xinjiang Highway: Discovering the Allure of China's Spectacular Roadway
Conclusion
Bayanbulak grassland's charm lies in its harmonious blend of vastness and intricacy. Here, you'll experience more than just the gentle breeze across endless grasslands and graceful swans gliding across expansive lakes—you'll also embrace a slower pace of life.
If you wish to immerse yourself in this tranquil essence of the grasslands, feel free to contact our travel agency. Our team of professional guides, backed by years of travel service experience, is dedicated to crafting a journey you'll cherish forever.
