Written by Catherine |
Nanshan PastureĀ (in Xinjiang) lies immediately south of Urumqi, at the northern foot of Karawucheng Mountain, a branch of Tianshan. It’s a huge meadow where you can ride a horse, go to Kazakh yurts, and experience ethnic traditions, with nature surrounding you throughout. This Nanshan grassland in UrumqiĀ has a rich history, having served as an imperial hunting ground during the Tang Dynasty.
Even scholar Ji Xiaolan of the Qing dynasty composed poems praising it as a valuable grazing pasture. Today, Nanshan PastureĀ covers a number of east-west valleys, linking low and middle mountainous regions with an average altitude of 2,252 meters. As the nearest grassland to Urumqi, it’s famous for its towering snow-capped mountains, lush forests, fields of wildflowers, grazing herds, and cozy yurts. The cool climate, refreshing air, and lush landscape make theĀ pasture a perfect summer resort for visitors on Xinjiang tours.
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- Nanshan PastureĀ Facts
- Top Attractions in Nanshan Pasture
- Things to Do in Nanshan Pasture
- Best Time to Visit
- Accommodation in Nanshan Pasture
- How to get to Nanshan Pasture
- Nearby Attractions
- Useful Travel Tips for Nanshan Pasture
- FAQs about Nanshan Pastry
- Explore Urumqi with China Xian Tour
Nanshan PastureĀ Facts
- Chinese Name:åå±±ē§åŗĀ [Ā Ā nĆ”nshÄn mĆ¹chĒng Ā ]
- Best Time to Visit:May to November
- Recommended Visiting Hours:3-5 hours
- Popular Activities:Photography, Hiking
- Opening Hours: All day
- Entrance Fee:CNY 30
- Location:About 40 kilometers away from Urumqi
Top Attractions in Nanshan Pasture
West Baiyanggou
West Baiyanggou, having an average elevation of about 2,000 meters, is the top attraction of Nanshan Pasture. Situated at the northern foot of Tiangeer Peak, it is about 62 kilometers away from Urumqi’s center. The valley stretches over an area of about 612.52 hectares and is named after the thick poplar woods. The slopes are blanketed with dense spruce and pine, and tiny streams snake through rocky landscapes.
The expansive grasslands are dotted with Kazakh yurts. Don’t miss the stunning 42-meter-high Shenbrak Waterfall, tumbling dramatically like a silver dragon down the cliffs. Horse riding, meeting Kazakh families, and trying the local milk tea give a true taste of Kazakh life here in Nanshan in Urumqi.
East Baiyanggou
East Baiyanggou, which is situated about 56 kilometers south of Urumqi, has an average elevation of around 2,050 meters. It is 334.4 hectares in size, and there are towering ancient trees, lofty peaks, and lively streams flowing through the valley. If the wind is blowing, the forest waves heroically; if it is raining, there comes a misty forest, a fairyland. Greenfield Villa, the area’s only star-rated hotel, provides excellent facilities and services to enhance your summer vacation in Urumqi tour.
Clover Terrace
Situated in Tori Town, Urumqi’s southern suburb, nearly 55 kilometers from the city proper, Clover Terrace has an average elevation of approximately 2,020 meters. Dubbed as the “back garden of Urumqi,” it is a 3-square-kilometer hilltop grassland platform. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, it has a pleasant central grassland and lush surrounding mountains, with a far-off view of Urumqi city. The green grassland is dotted with colorful wildflowers, red houses, and white Kazakh yurts like stars.
Chrysanthemum Terrace
Chrysanthemum Terrace in Gangou Township is at an average elevation of about 2,200 meters and another Nanshan pastureās must-see.
It’s about 61 kilometers from Urumqi City and has an area of 500 hectares. Chrysanthemum Terrace is an alluvial fan platform on the gentle slope, with dense growth of green pines on the north and fresh grass on the south. There are herds of cattle and sheep grazing in open spots, among fuchsia and golden blossoms, in the sunlight, with cloud shadows on the undulating green grass.
Related reading: Top Things to Do in Urumqi
Things to Do in Nanshan Pasture
Trekking and Snapping at Nanshan Pasture
You can go hikingĀ at Nanshan pastureĀ and discover the stunning sites like Alpha Meadow, West Poplar Gulch, East Poplar Gulch, and Chrysanthemum Terrace on your own feet. Alpha Meadow sits on a mountain meadow, with mountains on three sides, wildflowers, babbling springs, and animals darting in and out.
Life of a Nomad
On your way to West Poplar Gulch in Nanshan Pasture, you can ride horses, listen to the sweet sound of bells, and take in the tranquility and grandeur of the surroundings.
You may also stretch out on the soft grass in the sun and watch eagles flying above. Additionally, watch the traditional Kazakh performances of horse riding, wrestling, and girl chasing, catching a glimpse of Kazakh folklore.
Savor Authentic Delights
At Nanshan Pasture’s Kazakh yurt, indulge in authentic delights like horse milk wine, lamb stew with cheese, kebabs, etc., savoring the robust ethnic flavor. And why not, dine in the yurt too, living the traditional nomadic lifestyle that’s perfect for your China Silk Road travelĀ adventure.
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Best Time to Visit
Nanshan Pasture, whose major scenic spots are at an altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level, is blessed with lush verdure and a peculiar mountain climate.
The climate and weather here are quite different from those of Urumqi. When Urumqi gradually warms up to the spring, theĀ Pasture is still cold until May. And when the city is baking in the hot summer sun, the pasture continues to be pleasantly cool. So, summer (June to August) is the ideal season to visit it, when you can soak in the breathtaking natural scenery and bask in the fine weather.
Accommodation in Nanshan Pasture
After a trip to Nanshan Pasture, tourists generally opt to drive back to Urumqi for their Urumqi accommodation.
That said, if you’d like, you can spend a night at the pasture and treat yourself to a more extended communion with nature.
The most common and default accommodation is the traditional Kazakh felt tents on the slope. A felt tent is a traditional Kazakh home, with just thick rugs and a fireplace, offering simple, basic facilities ā no beds, quilts, or toilets.If you’re staying in a Kazakh felt tent for the first time, it’s advised to take your own sleeping bag.
How to get to Nanshan Pasture
Traveling to Nanshan PastureĀ from UrumqiĀ is not only a matter of traversing the 70 kilometers distance but also of deciding on the best means to ensure that your journey is smooth.
Your options are as follows:
- By bus:Proceed to the Nanjiao Bus Terminal along Huanghe Road, from which a direct shuttle bus to the Pasture leaves every hour from 9:00 to 19:00.Ā This bus does not have stops along the way. Another choice is to take the passing bus at Zhongqiao Bus Terminal. This bus does not reach the core scenic area, but stops at the West Baiyanggou, Banfanggou, Miaoergou, etc, so it is suitable for tourists who plan to visit the specific valley.
- Self-drive:You may rent a car or use your own vehicle for a comfortable Urumqi travel to the Nanshan Pasture. The duration varies from 40 minutes to 2 hours based on your destinations.
Nearby Attractions
- Small Drains: Small Drains is the wooded meadow in the middle mountain belt, some 10 kilometers long and 3-5 kilometers wide. It is one of the most beautiful and comfortable hiking routes in the southern mountain of Urumqi.
- Tianshan Grand Canyon: Tianshan Grand Canyon is not just about its soaring peaks. It is also about the deep and steep canyons, the moving and rushing rivers, and the unusual ethnic customs that make it famous.
Useful Travel Tips for Nanshan Pasture
- Nanshan Pastry is at a relatively high altitude, so a warm overcoat and sun protection items are needed.
- The Kazakh peopleare the residents of Nanshan Pastry. During the tour, please respect their culture and customs. Do not touch their belongings at will if you plan to have a family visit. And pay attention to their food prohibitions when dining in the restaurant.
- For your safety, do not use the open fire in the pastry in case of the fire. Protect the environment and do not litter.
- If you want to ride a horse, negotiate the price in advance and take care of yourself during the ride.
- The mobile signal may be weak here, so download the map in advance and prepare some cash.
FAQs about Nanshan Pastry
How far is Nanshan Pasture from Urumqi city center?
It is about 40 km away from Urumqi.
What is the best way to get to Nanshan Pasture from Urumqi (e.g., bus, taxi, tour)?
Considering its distance, a private tour with a vehicle included is more recommended, as it is convenient and flexible.
When is the ideal season to see the lush green grass and wildflowers?
Summer (June – August) is definitely the best season.
Can I visit Nanshan Pasture during the winter for activities like skiing?
In winter, the ski resort will open. But some areas may be closed due to the snow, so check the opening status before your tour.
What is the typical altitude of the pasture area?
The altitude is about 2,250 meters.
Explore Urumqi with China Xian Tour
Most domestic tourists who are planning a Urumqi tour prefer to choose the tour group after they know the long distance between the scenic spots. Another main reason is that they find they need to spend much time planning a trip to cover the attractions. So for foreign tourists, a private tour is definitely a better choice. China Xian Tour is glad to arrange a carefree tour for you. Our tailored itinerary can meet all your needs. Besides, we will assign a local guide and a local driver to help you during the tour. So contact us right now.
