A More Fairy-Tale and Lesser-Known Secret Spot Than Binalati: The Ultimate Guide to Kuerdening

Kuerdening, located in Gongliu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, is a hidden gem in the Tianshan Mountains, known as "the most beautiful green valley in Tianshan." Here, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, and streams intertwine, offering different scenery in each season, especially in spring and summer when it feels like a fairy tale world. - 📍Location: Xinjiang · Ili · Gongliu County · Kuerdening 🚗Transportation: 3 hours self-drive from Yining | 1.5 hours charter from Gongliu County 🎫Entrance Fee: 60 RMB (peak season) - 🌿Reasons to Choose Kuerdening ✅Fewer crowds and beautiful scenery: More pristine than Binalati, fewer tourists, completely relaxing with no feeling of crowding. ✅Self-driving paradise: The drive is full of beautiful views, with plenty of spots to stop and take photos (may be busier during peak season). ✅Hiking paradise: Friendly for light hiking, with snow mountains, spruces, and wildflowers—every snapshot looks like wallpaper. ✅Great value: Accommodation and horseback riding are cheaper than popular scenic spots, and the herders are very genuine! - 📸 Recommended Photo Spots 1️⃣ Qimengde Viewing Platform 🌟Why visit: Overlooks the entire Kuerdening Valley, with wildflowers and snow mountains in the frame during summer! 📷Photo tips: Morning light is best; wear white or bright-colored dresses for magical running shots! The staggered area below the platform is perfect for horseback videos! (Herders’ horses cost 30 RMB per ride; video prices range from 100-168 RMB; prices can be negotiated if in a group) 2️⃣ Spruce Forest Hiking Trail 🌟Why visit: This is also Spruce Town, like stepping into the scenes from "Heidi and Grandpa," with stunning light and shadow! You might also encounter squirrels, foals, and lambs. 3️⃣ Foot of Kabanbay Peak 🌟Why visit: Snow mountains are right in front of you, and it’s super heartwarming to see herders driving sheep by. 4️⃣ Camping and Afternoon Tea Along the Way 🌟Why visit: Maximum relaxation, with red maples nearby; you can even capture autumn vibes in summer. - 🚗 Suggested Itineraries 1️⃣ Classic One-Day Tour: Visitor Center → Qimengde Viewing Platform → Spruce Forest → Valley Grassland (ideal for visitors with limited time). 2️⃣ In-Depth Two-Day Tour: Day 1: Kuerdening → Qimengde Hiking → Spruce Forest Exploration → Overnight at a hotel or guesthouse inside the scenic area. Day 2: Self-drive or horseback ride to the foot of Kabanbay Peak to experience herder life → Return trip. - 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations Yurt inside the scenic area: 200-400 RMB/night, with snow mountains visible right outside the door and the Milky Way at night! Hotels in Gongliu County: Better facilities, suitable for those sensitive to cold. - 🍢 Food Recommendations 🔥 Freshly brewed milk tea at herders’ homes: Rich milky flavor, perfect with naan bread! 🔥 Grilled lamb skewers: Freshly slaughtered lamb, 10 RMB per skewer, sprinkled with cumin that’s irresistibly fragrant! ⚠️Avoid: There is a food street at the trailhead with average taste, just filling; it’s better to bring your own snacks or Xinjiang fruits and enjoy afternoon tea inside the scenic area. - ⚠️ Practical Tips 1️⃣ Clothing: Summer clothes plus a jacket for daytime from May to September 2️⃣ Sun protection: Strong UV rays, sunglasses + hat + SPF50 sunscreen are essential! 3️⃣ Signal: There may be no signal in the mountains, so download offline maps in advance. 4️⃣ Hiking: Bring a bottle of water; there are refill points along the way. - Kuerdening is less commercialized and retains its original natural beauty, making it perfect for travelers who love peace, hiking, and photography. This is definitely a hidden treasure alternative to the Ili Valley!