2025 Gongliu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Tucked away in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains in the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, the Kurdnin Scenic Area is a little-known, breathtaking natural wonder. Home to magnificent alpine meadows, clear streams, and lush primeval forests, it resembles a timeless painting, quietly showcasing the purity and mystery of nature. Wandering through Kurdnin, you'll be greeted by rolling mountains and lush green meadows, dotted with colorful wildflowers and herds of cattle. In the early morning, mist shrouds the valley, while sunlight filters through the treetops, casting a gentle glow over the landscape. The fresh air invites you to forget the hustle and bustle of life and return to inner peace. Kurdnin is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also an ideal destination for photographers capturing breathtaking scenery. The warm hospitality of the local Kazakh people adds a human touch to your journey. Whether you're exploring on foot or simply appreciating the natural beauty, Kurdnin offers a unique and profound experience. 🌿 Traveler's Notes: • Best Time to Travel: June to September, for pleasant weather and the most stunning scenery. • Transportation Tips: Access to scenic areas often relies on chartered vehicles or self-driving, so be sure to check road conditions in advance. • Recommended Experiences: Hiking, nature photography, and exploring ethnic customs. Kurdening, a shining pearl in Yili, Xinjiang, invites you to journey into this pristine world and experience the stunning beauty and tranquility deep within the Tianshan Mountains. ⸻ 🔖 Tags #KurdeningScenic ...

| Just back from Xinjiang, this guide is super practical! I've prepared a super detailed Xinjiang travel guide for you today, hoping to help those planning a trip to Xinjiang! 🌸 Must-sees in Northern Xinjiang (4-7 day trip) Sayram Lake: In April, Sayram Lake boasts the spectacle of ice shoves and lakeside wildflowers, offering stunning views! A second visit is recommended for better photo opportunities. Turgen Apricot Valley: The world's largest wild apricot forest, with the best viewing period for the pink sea of flowers from late March to mid-April. Xiata Trail: A hiker's paradise in May, with picturesque scenery featuring snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and grasslands. Kuerdening: A lesser-known spot with pristine spruce forests, perfect for photos and features the same photo spots as Yi Mengling. Tip: Nalati Grassland doesn't turn green until May. For early spring, consider heading to Qasi Grassland for more scenic beauty. 🕊 Must-do experiences in Southern Xinjiang (3-7 day trip) Kashgar Old City: Wander through the maze-like city of the Western Regions and take Uyghur-style photos. Renting traditional clothing is a bargain at just CNY 50/day during the off-season. Baisha Lake: The "blue tears" of the Pamir Plateau, with a dreamy half-ice, half-water lake surface in March. Panlong Ancient Road: 75 kilometers with 600 bends, perfect for aerial photography capturing the essence of "taking all the detours today." Taxkorgan Apricot Village: The apricot blossoms are in full bloom from March 15th to April 2nd. Stay in a century-old Tajik stone house and experience the local culture. Note: Visiting Muztagata Glacier requires a 4WD vehicle with snow chains, and access is easier after April. 🍲 Xinjiang Food Recommendations Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken): Tender chicken and soft potatoes, paired with onions, create an irresistible aroma. Lamb Skewers: Grilled to perfection, these fragrant skewers are a signature Xinjiang dish. Nang Pit Meat: Aromatic roasted meat, paired with nang bread, is incredibly satisfying. Pilaf: Fluffy rice served with mutton, carrots, and raisins, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal. Baked Buns: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these are a traditional Xinjiang snack. Yogurt Rice Dumplings: Indulge in these at local food streets and savor their unique flavor. Xinjiang Banmian (Mixed Noodles): La Tiao Zi noodles are hand-pulled from high-quality flour and served with mutton, tomatoes, peppers, and various vegetables for a truly satisfying meal. Fried Rice Noodles: Thick and chewy rice noodles in a rich broth, available with chicken, beef, mushroom, and other flavors. 🗓 7-Day, 6-Night Itinerary for Spring Flower Viewing in Ili 📅 Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi from various locations nationwide 📅 Day 2: Urumqi - S101 - Kenswat - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun 📅 Day 3: Kuitun - Sayram Lake Loop - Sayram Lake Afternoon Tea - Trip Moments at Sayram Lake 📅 Day 4: Sayram Lake - Turgen Apricot Valley/Kuerdening - Nalati 📅 Day 5: Nalati - Nalati Aerial Grassland - Jinghe/Shuanghe 📅 Day 6: Jinghe/Shuanghe - International Grand Bazaar - Urumqi 📅 Day 7: Departure from Urumqi 🌟 Xinjiang is a place full of natural beauty and ethnic charm. Whether it's the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Northern Xinjiang or the ancient cities of Southern Xinjiang, your trip is sure to be filled with excitement. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip with ease and enjoy a perfect Xinjiang adventure! Save it and get ready to go!

Xinjiang is beautiful, but there are also many pitfalls! 😅 I sincerely suggest you do your research before you go, otherwise, you'll be crying on the roadside! 📝 Here's a guide to avoiding common mistakes. Please save it and read it carefully. - ✅ Weather: Xinjiang's weather is unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in one day. ⛅ Be sure to pack sunscreen, warm clothes, and rain gear. - ✅ Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is huge. Even in July and August, the nights are cold! 🧣 Wear breathable, warm clothing. Choose loose, cotton pants. - ✅ Transportation: Xinjiang's straight roads can cause visual fatigue and speeding. Drivers, please be careful! Travel times are long, so if you get carsick, remember to bring motion sickness pills 💊. - ✅ Shopping: Goods in Xinjiang are sold by the kilogram. - ✅ Accommodation: Apart from a few cities like Urumqi and 🏠 Karamay, which have modern hotels, accommodation in other areas is basic. Some places don't have air conditioning, or even showers and private bathrooms. - ✅ Time difference: Xinjiang is 2 hours behind Beijing time. ⏰ Most businesses operate on a different schedule than in other parts of China. - ✅ Acclimatization: The water in Xinjiang is alkaline and hard. If you're not used to it, it can cause constipation. 🍉 Fruits are high in sugar, so don't eat too much at once. Some people also experience diarrhea after eating fresh mutton and dairy products. - ✅ Trip length: Plan to spend at least 7 days in Xinjiang, starting in Urumqi. - 🚗 Sample 7-day Xinjiang itinerary: D1: Urumqi - Bole - Sayram Lake (stay overnight at Sayram Lake) D2: Sayram Lake - Yining - Zhaosu (stay overnight in Zhaosu) D3: Zhaosu - Shata (stay overnight in Shata) D4: Shata sunrise - Tekes (stay overnight in Tekes) D5: Tekes - Shixi - Nalati (stay overnight in Nalati) D6: Nalati scenic area sunrise - Nalati town (stay overnight in Nalati) D7: Nalati town - Urumqi

Visit Xinjiang! This is a place favored by the heavens. In Xinjiang, you can see vast grasslands like a green ocean, with galloping horses and flocks of sheep dotting the landscape like clouds. The Tianshan Mountains are majestic and spectacular, with snow-capped peaks shining mysteriously under the sunlight. Lakes are like sapphires embedded in the earth, with clear waters reflecting the blue sky and white clouds, creating breathtaking scenery. Northern Xinjiang 12-Day Dream Tour D1: Various locations --- Urumqi D2: Urumqi - Ulungur Lake Sunset - Burqin Night Market D3: Burqin - Hemu Travel Photography - Hemu Sunset Platform - Hemu Starry Sky - Hemu Wooden Cabin Homestay D4: Hemu Sunrise Morning Fog - Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion - Kanas River - Old Kanas Village D5: Kanas Three Bays Hiking - World Devil City Sunset - Karamay D6: Karamay - Sayram Lake Circle - Guozigou Bridge - Yining D7: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiata - Zhaosu D8: Zhaosu - Qiongkushitai Travel Photography D9: Qiongkushitai - Nalati Air Grassland Travel Photography - Nalati D10: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Fairy Lake - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Dushanzi D11: Dushanzi - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - S101 National Defense Highway - Colorful Danxia - Urumqi D12: Urumqi Departure - Warm Home Preparations 1. Documents: Prepare your ID card and various discount certificates. 2. Clothing: Bring warm clothes, sun protection clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. Transportation Guide 1. Long-distance transportation: You can choose to fly or take a train to Urumqi. 2. City transportation: The distances between attractions are long, so it is recommended to rent a car or carpool for convenience and flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at any time. Food Recommendations 1. Urumqi: Baked buns, hand-grabbed rice, large plate chicken. 2. Burqin: Dogfish, Wudaohei and other cold-water fish. 3. Yining: Nang pit meat, grilled lamb skewers, laghman.

The grassland scenic areas in Ili are mostly located in east-west valleys, but Kurdening in the eastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili, is situated in a north-south valley. It stretches about 14 kilometers long and is about 1 kilometer wide at its widest point, with an average valley floor elevation of 1500 meters. 'Kurdening' means 'crossing ditch' in Kazakh. The unique north-south orientation makes Kurdening warm in winter and cool in summer, with a pleasant climate throughout the year. Therefore, Kurdening is not only a famous scenic spot in Ili but also a popular summer resort. It combines the charming and delicate beauty of Jiangnan's mountain villages with the vast and rugged grassland scenery, attracting more and more domestic and international tourists. With an average elevation of about 1500 meters, it boasts the largest primeval spruce forest in China. The national-level spruce nature reserve is located here, offering beautiful and pleasant scenery. It's definitely worth a visit!

After a trip to Xinjiang, my heartfelt feeling is! Apart from Xinjiang, the rest is elsewhere, no other place can replace it! Xinjiang is about to enter the most beautiful summer, this summer, you must go to Xinjiang 🌲 · ✈ Chengdu - Yining, rent a car for a self-driving tour 🚙 Total cost per person is 6k (excluding airfare) May in Yili has just entered spring, there is still snow in many places, the biggest advantage is that during the off-season, air tickets and hotel prices are cheap, and you can enjoy both the snow-capped mountains and some early blooming flowers🌼. June is the best time, with blooming flowers and green grass, but the snow mountains have melted, and the consumption is moderate. July and August are the peak tourist seasons, with all the lavender in Huocheng in full bloom, and the consumption is relatively high. · 🚙 My favorite places throughout the journey 【Nalati】 Self-driving 300/person, although the price is not cheap, it is truly worth it, I love Nalati the most, there are herds of cattle and sheep on the grassland, as well as snow-capped mountains and streams, you must wait for the sunset at the nomadic homes 【Qiaxi Forest Park】 Compared to Kuerdening, I prefer Qiaxi, it's as romantic as an oil painting, just like the movie scene of 'Heidi and Grandfather', I suggest staying in Gongliu 【Qiongkushitai】 The road to Qiongku is extremely beautiful, there is a snow mountain swing in front of the mountain, there is no need to be stubborn about the back mountain, the stay at Qingkong Jiyi is awesome 【Fairy Lake】 Although it requires hiking, the scenery is absolutely worth it 【Sailimu Lake】 Get up at 5 am to go to S bay to watch the sunrise, an unforgettable experience, it is a beautiful scene that will be remembered for a lifetime . 🚙12-day trip recommendation 1. Chengdu - Urumqi 2. Huocheng - Sailimu Lake (must see the sunrise) 3. Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender, stay in Yining or Huanghuang Village 4. Yining - Tekes - Qiongkushitai 5. Qiongkushitai 6. Qiongkushitai - Kalajun Grassland - Stay in Zhaosu 7. Xatage scenic area - Stay in Tekes Bagua City at night 8. Tekes - Tekes River - Qiaxi Forest Park - Nalati, stay in the town 9. Nalati Grassland Scenic Area 10. Nalati - Northern section of Duku Highway - Tangbula - Fairy Lake, stay in Tangbula 11. Tangbula - Northern section of Duku Highway - Urumqi · 🌟Precautions 1. Prepare mosquito repellent 2. Choose an SUV for car rental, the roads to Qiongkushitai and Qiaxi are not very good 3. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, you can experience four seasons in one day 4. If you want to take pictures of the sunrise at Sailimu Lake and don't want to stay in the scenic area, you can enter from the east gate before 9 am (the south gate does not check tickets)

【Introduction】: ◆ The scenery of the Ili region is the most representative and popular in Xinjiang. From May, the grasslands of Ili begin to turn green, with vast seas of flowers and clouds that seem to come straight out of an anime. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that such beautiful scenery exists in the world. 🛬【Itinerary】: Kanas Ili 10-Day Tour 1 - Urumqi - Burqin Attractions - Wulungu Lake - Colorful Beach Sunset Accommodation - Burqin Colorful Beach 2 - Burqin - Hemu Attractions - Haden Viewing Platform - Aid Bridge Accommodation - Hemu Hemu Scenic Area 3 - Hemu - Kanas Attractions - Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion Accommodation - Kanas Kanas Burqin 4 - Kanas - Burqin Attractions - Kanas Three Bays - Burqin River Night Market Accommodation - Burqin 5 - Burqin - Kuitun Attractions - Devil City Accommodation - Kuitun World Devil City 6 - Kuitun - Yining Attractions - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge Accommodation - Yining Sayram Lake 7 - Yining - Nalati Attractions - Nalati Grassland Accommodation - Nalati Nalati Tourist Scenic Area 8 - Nalati - Bayinbulak Attractions - Bayinbulak Accommodation - Bayinbulak Bayinbulak Grassland 9 - Bayinbulak - Kuitun Attractions - Duku Highway - Tangbula Accommodation - Kuitun Duku Highway 10 - Kuitun - Urumqi Attractions - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hundred Mile Danxia - S101 National Defense Highway Accommodation - Urumqi Anjihai Grand Canyon 🧡【Tips】: 💬 For more customized routes, feel free to leave a message or contact me👇🏻

If you ask me whether to choose Nalati or Kuerdening for a trip to Yili, Xinjiang during the May Day holiday, I can only tell you that it's a tough choice, because I like both places. Kuerdening is a small but exquisite beauty spot that has really become beautiful during this time. Kuerdening means 'horizontal ditch' in Kazakh, and it is a niche attraction in Xinjiang that has become popular in the past two years. I did some research online before and discovered its advantages 'few people, suitable for self-driving' plus the pictures online were very tempting! So I set off, and I really don't regret it. Navigation location: Kuerdening Zhonggou Ticket Checkpoint Currently, the West Gully and East Gully are closed, and you can only visit Kuerdening Zhonggou. After driving to the scenic area, follow the wooden plank road for a light hike. Zhonggou is at a low altitude, with streams, and the scenic spot is on the opposite side of the river in the forward direction, with parking spaces and a cable bridge to cross, suitable for picnics and camping. There are also many beautiful sceneries along the way, and of course, hiking is tiring, but it's all worth it. I really like one of the spots here, the Qimengde Viewing Platform. This is the highest viewing platform in Kuerdening. Follow the wooden plank road all the way up, and you can see the same kind of little wooden house as in the movie 'Heidi and Grandfather', and because I really like this movie, I feel it's really worth it. Note: Currently, you cannot drive to Qimengde. You can only park at the 'Kafeng Campsite' parking lot at the intersection of Zhonggou and Donggou, and then walk or ride a horse in. The entrance fee is 30 RMB per person, no other fees are required for driving in, and the indoor parking is free. Horse riding is also available, 80 RMB for 1 hour of fun. The opening hours are from 9 am to 7 pm, so pay attention if you plan to go. You can also refer to my route Shili Gallery - Fengxiang Post Station - Kafeng Base Camp - Qimengde Viewing Platform - Ayusai Viewing Platform - King of Spruce - Cloud-top Grassland Please note 1. There is no signal in many places on the mountain, so it's better to download an offline map in advance. 2. Prepare food and water in advance, so you can replenish energy if you get hungry on the mountain. 3. There are no hotels in the scenic area, but there are camping sites and wooden houses, felt tents of the herdsmen, and you can also stay in the town of Kuerdening, so there are more choices. 4. It is recommended to go there in the morning or after 7 pm to catch the good light and shadow, which is key for taking good photos. If you go at noon, the sun is very strong, and the photos taken with a mobile phone are gray and not very good 😫 Welcome everyone to Xinjiang 👏👏

A year's wait, just for Xinjiang in May. Mid-May in Yili, not many people around, snow mountains, grasslands, flowers, beautiful scenery coexist! Friends who want to go to Xinjiang, you can set off in May! 📍Sailimu Lake: A must-visit! After entering the scenic area and reaching the lakeside, turn left to the S bend, where there are many people. Continue forward to the next bend, you can park your car on the roadside, then climb up the hillside on the left to admire the stunning scenery of Sailimu Lake🌊. 📍Nalati: Recommended for the sky grassland! The difference between the self-driving ticket and the sightseeing car ticket is not big, both require parking at the nomadic homes🚗. Follow the popular bridge and walk along the stream, the fewer people, the more beautiful the scenery🌄. 📍Kuerdening: An exclusive scenic area for May, like Qiaxi, it belongs to the grasslands that turn green early. After parking in the parking lot, you can ride a horse or hike, about an hour to reach the Qimengde viewing platform🧐. Along the way, there are small cabins and plank roads facing the snow mountains, the scenery is super beautiful! 📍Qiaxi: May's Qiaxi is the essence of Yili, because it turns green early and is an open scenic area, you can drive in, stop along the way to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but be sure not to block the way for passing vehicles🚧. 📍Xia Ta: Highly recommended! Even in summer, there are snow mountains and forests here, and the divine position is at the transfer bridge. After admiring the transfer bridge, cross the bridge and walk the right plank road all the way to the end, General Bridge, the scenery along the way is breathtaking👀! If you want to go to house number 2, you can start walking or riding from the transfer bridge, about half an hour to reach🐎. ▪ Tour Line Reference 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 D1: Yining-Sailimu Lake-Guozigou Bridge-Qingshuihe Town D2: Qingshuihe Town-Nalati Scenic Area-Nalati Town D3: Nalati Town-Kuerdening D4: Kuerdening-Qiaxi-Zhaosu County D5: Zhaosu County-Xia Ta-Tekes County D6: Tekes County-Yining ▪️My Views 𝗠𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 Yili in May can be selectively played, some attractions may not be so green yet, but the places listed above are all worth a visit! The grasslands of Yili are similar, be sure to choose differentiated scenic areas to avoid aesthetic fatigue😉.

Dear friends! The 7-day route of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is a must-recommend! You can ride UTV snowmobiles at Sayram Lake, enjoy tea by the fire while admiring the snowy scenery which is super healing, soak in snowfield hot springs, and fill your trip with romance and happiness! -------------------- 🚗 Itinerary: This trip is tightly scheduled, allowing you to visit many attractions within a limited time~ DAY 1: Arrive in Urumqi, rest well to prepare for the upcoming journey 💤 📝 Upon arrival in Urumqi, take a short break to adapt to the environment. DAY 2-3: Head to Sayram Lake to deeply experience the winter romance of Sayram Lake. You can ride UTV snowmobiles, enjoy tea by the fire in the snowy scenery, and soak in snowfield hot springs ♨️ -> On the third day, visit Guozigou Bridge to admire the spectacular bridge and natural scenery. 📝 Deep exploration of Sayram Lake, feeling the collision of ice, snow, and hot springs; Guozigou Bridge witnesses the perfect blend of nature and engineering. DAY 4: Have fun on the Sky Grassland, feel the vastness and grandeur of the grassland -> Return to Sayram Lake to appreciate its beauty from a different perspective 🌄 📝 The dual beauty of Sky Grassland and Sayram Lake offers a visual feast for your eyes. DAY 5: Kurdeng Scenic Area, explore the mysteries of nature and ecology 🌳 📝 Walk through the primeval forest in Kurdeng Scenic Area, breathe fresh air, and feel the charm of nature. DAY 6: Dushanzi Grand Canyon, challenge your visual limits and experience the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship 🌉 📝 Stand at the edge of Dushanzi Grand Canyon, feeling awe and amazement. DAY 7: Return from Urumqi, bringing back full memories and photos, back to your warm home 🏠 📝 End a pleasant journey and look forward to the next trip. -------------------- Travel Tips: 1️⃣ **Photo Spots**: Sayram Lake lakeside boardwalk, Dushanzi Grand Canyon cliff café, Guozigou Bridge viewing platform. Wearing light-colored dresses makes photos stand out 📸 2️⃣ **Must-Try Foods**: Ili roasted baozi with kvass, Karamay cold noodles, Bortala Mongolian milk tea with fried rice, prepare your stomach capacity 🍢🥛 3️⃣ **October Climate**: Large temperature difference between morning and night. Bring a windbreaker by Sayram Lake, wear a light down jacket on Ili grassland, and don’t forget sunscreen in Karamay during the day ☀️🧥 4️⃣ **Customs and Taboos**: Avoid stepping on the threshold when entering a Mongolian yurt, don’t touch children’s heads in Kazakh herders’ homes, carrying small snacks as gifts is thoughtful 🎁🙏 5️⃣ **Transportation Reminder**: Yizhao Highway may be closed in October, check road conditions in advance. It’s recommended to charter a car from Karamay to Devil City for more freedom 🚗💨 -------------------- 🎉 Friends, this group tour of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is awesome. Wishing everyone a fun trip without any mishaps!

In autumn, come to Kurdinning in Xinjiang to start a unique journey with yoga! Kurdinning is located in the southeastern forest area of Gongliu County, 55 kilometers from the county seat. It is a World Natural Heritage site and a national AAAA-level scenic area. Covering a total area of 1,176 square kilometers, with an average altitude of about 1,500 meters, it enjoys warm winters and cool summers with a pleasant climate. It features the 4,257-meter-high snow peak Kabanbay Peak and a naturally formed hidden reclining Buddha. Forests and grasslands create a magnificent landscape, making it a natural oxygen bar and one of China's top ten forests with negative oxygen ions. Practicing yoga here allows visitors to experience natural tranquility and gain relaxation and comfort. Come to Kurdinning to stretch your body and mind amidst beautiful scenery and encounter a different kind of autumn!

Having been to Xinjiang three times, I recently happened to watch the animated film "The Adventures of Nalati" and realized that the animation is actually very realistic! The endless grasslands Healing cartoon clouds The adorable Ili pika Tianshan snow chrysanthemums blooming all over the hillsides Grilled buns, baked naan, and other delicacies unique to Xinjiang …… Each scene in the animation takes me back to my travels in Ili~ Looking back at the photos I took, I have to say: the scenes in "The Adventures of Nalati" are truly faithfully recreated! . 👇Here are some of my favorite travel spots in Ili 📍Nalati Grassland Among all of Xinjiang, the grasslands here are top-notch! I recommend self-driving tours; the scenic area is very large, so it's best to set aside a whole day. . 📍Kuerdening A relatively less popular forest grassland scenic area, with fewer people and very pristine scenery~ I recommend a full self-driving tour, with about half a day to explore. There are tent campsites in the scenic area, and you can also bring your own gear to stay overnight. . 📍Qiaxi Qiaxi is very close to Kuerdening, so you can visit both together. The weather here is very changeable; when we went in May, it even snowed heavily! . 📍Qiongkushitai No entrance fee, but relatively more popular. There are homestays and campsites for overnight stays, and you can hike the ancient Wusun Trail. - Attached is a 7-day itinerary DAY 1 Urumqi - Yining (high-speed train recommended) Rent a car in Yining and drive to Tekes 🏨Stay in Bagua City - DAY 2 Tekes ➡️ Qiongkushitai Drive and explore along the way, the scenery is amazing 🏨Stay in Qiongkushitai - DAY 3 Qiongkushitai ➡️ Nalati Spend a full day in Nalati, you won’t want to leave 🏨Stay in Gongliu DAY 4 Gongliu ➡️ Kuerdening One-day tour of Kuerdening, return to Gongliu for accommodation 🏨Stay in Gongliu - DAY 5 Gongliu ➡️ Qiaxi ➡️ Yining Half-day tour of Qiaxi, return to Yining 🏨Stay in Yining - DAY 6 Yining ➡️ Sayram Lake ➡️ Guozigou One-day tour of Sayram Lake, watch the sunset at Guozigou in the evening, return to Yining and return the car 🏨Stay in Yining - DAY 7 Yining ➡️ Urumqi Spend the day in Yining, fly to Urumqi at night 🏨Stay in Urumqi

Gongliu 2 Days 1 Night Travel Guide | A Secret Journey at the Foot of the Tianshan Mountains Day 1: Prairie Pastoral Song + Forest Secret Morning: Kuerdening Scenic Area 09:00-12:00 Drive or charter a car to [Kuerdening] (60 km from the county seat, about 1.5 hours by car). This is the core area of the Tianshan Heritage Site. Hike along the wooden plank road to the "Kabanbay Peak Viewing Platform," where the snowy spruce and wildflowers frame a scene like a Windows wallpaper! Lunch recommendation: Have a bowl of rich milk tea and hand-pulled lamb at a Kazakh herder’s home inside the scenic area (about 50 RMB per person). Afternoon: Qiaxi Prairie 14:00-18:00 Drive 40 minutes to [Qiaxi Prairie], ride horses through the valley (about 80 RMB/hour). From June to August, the prairie looks like a green ocean, and the chance to spot marmots is very high! Dinner & Accommodation: 19:30 Return to Gongliu County, go to [Kuergan Food Street] to eat roasted buns and belt noodles; Stay overnight in a prairie starry sky room (recommended "Qiaxi Yunding Camp," book in advance, about 400 RMB/night). Day 2: Canyon Light & Shadow + Pastoral Poetry Morning: Tarim Forest Park 08:30-11:30 Explore [Tarim Canyon], hike 3 km along the stream, ending at "Fairy Lake." The Tyndall effect when sunlight passes through the canyon is stunning (a must for photographers). Lunch: At the canyon entrance, try wild black mushroom stir-fried meat at "Tarim Farmhouse." Afternoon: Diehu Park & Return Trip 13:30-15:00 Return to the county seat to visit [Diehu Park], shaped like a butterfly, perfect for reflection photos. Local honey is sold by the lake (30 RMB/jar); 15:30 On the way, visit [Walnut Valley] to pick wild walnuts (autumn only). Transportation Tips: Best by self-driving (about 6 hours from Urumqi); If no car, join a local one-day tour group (about 200 RMB/person). Seasonal Highlights: May: Pink sea of apricot blossoms in the valley; September: Apple picking (Gongliu is the "City of Apples"). Estimated total cost: about 800 RMB/person (including fuel/charter). —— Follow me to discover 100 ways to explore Xinjiang! 🌄

Kuerdening Scenic Area is located in Gongliu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that while most mountain valleys descend along the mountain slopes, this wide valley runs parallel to the snow-capped mountains. It is a north-south oriented mountain valley, approximately 14 kilometers long and up to 1 kilometer wide, with an average elevation of 1,500 meters at the valley floor. In 1984, Kuerdening Scenic Area was designated as the Autonomous Region's Xueling Spruce Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to over 1,000 species of higher plants, 146 species of terrestrial vertebrates, and 196 species of insects. The peaks in Kuerdening Scenic Area range from 3,000 to 4,200 meters, with the highest peak being Kabanbay Peak, which is snow-covered year-round. The climate is mild and humid, with lush greenery, offering scenic views throughout all four seasons.

In September 2025, we stayed at Bai Rui Camp in Kurdening and truly experienced what it means to "live within the scenery." The camp faces snow-capped mountains and is backed by a pristine spruce forest. The lush green meadows stretch like a matcha latte foam, with sunlight filtering through the trees, casting soft Dali-like halos. Every glance feels like admiring a moving oil painting. 🏔 Room Selection Tips: Balancing Views and Tranquility We stayed in the "Pine Listening Twin Room," which was reasonably priced during the off-season. Arrive early to choose your room! Our original room, B18, had a slightly obstructed view, but switching to B19 offered a more open snow mountain view. However, B19 is less private as it’s near a path frequented by photographers, wedding setups, and workers. For a quieter stay, we recommend rooms in the back row of Area B, where balconies face the pine forest, offering serene views and more privacy. ✨ Stay Experience: A Blend of Nature and Reality 1. Warmth and Cleanliness: The room had ample underfloor heating and was generally clean. While ants were occasionally spotted on the grass, it’s a natural occurrence. 2. Decent Dining: Breakfast had a wide variety, and for main meals, we recommend the yellow noodles with roasted meat and grilled eggplant. Such flavors are rare in scenic areas. 3. Transportation and Construction: It rained during our stay, making the dirt roads muddy. Frequent traffic from construction and wedding vehicles occasionally caused jams. Visiting during the off-season or in good weather is advised. 4. Starry Nights as Compensation: Despite the daytime noise, the night sky cleared, allowing us to capture stunning starry skies at the camp—a small joy of the trip. 📌 Practical Tips 1. The camp provides free Kurdening entrance tickets. You need to inform the manager in advance with your license plate number. Although we were only briefly questioned at the entrance, it’s best to prepare ahead. 2. Within the scenic area, we recommend visiting Qimengde. You can also try horseback riding arranged by the camp to explore the spruce forest and grasslands, immersing yourself in nature. 3. Services are mostly self-guided. The manager didn’t proactively provide guidance, so you’ll need to follow up on the check-in process yourself. 🌈 Worth the Journey for the Scenery, but Be Prepared for Reality Bai Rui Camp’s location is unparalleled—snow mountains visible from your window and forest trails at your doorstep make it the "ultimate" spot for Kurdening views. However, issues like construction disturbances and vehicle management persist. If you’re seeking an immersive natural experience and can accept some imperfections, this place is still worth it. If you prioritize impeccable service and privacy, consider carefully or book a back-row room in Area B. May everyone visiting encounter clear skies and a perfect view of the snow mountains.

#mytraveldiary 4. Cultural & Human Elements Photography in Kuerdening isn’t only about landscapes: Kazakh yurts with smoke rising from chimneys add a rustic, authentic charm. Nomadic lifestyle: Herdsmen in traditional attire, horses galloping across the plains, or families preparing dairy products. These moments bring a human warmth to photos.

#mytraveldiary Let me expand this into a detailed, travel-guide style explanation on why Kuerdening Grassland is worth visiting: 3. A Seasonal Wonderland Spring (May–June): Meadows burst into bloom with wildflowers, rivers run crystal clear, and the grassland feels fresh and alive. Summer (July–August): The best time for horse riding, camping, and experiencing nomadic life. Green pastures stretch endlessly under the blue sky.

#mytraveldiary 4. Rich Nomadic Culture Kuerdening is not only a natural paradise, but also a living cultural landscape. In summer, Kazakh herders move their flocks of sheep, cattle, and horses here. Visitors can: Stay in a traditional yurt and enjoy authentic Kazakh hospitality. Taste kumis (fermented mare’s milk), freshly made cheese, and other local dairy delicacies.

#mytraveldiary Here’s a clear and attractive explanation of why Kuerdening Grassland is worth visiting: --- 🌿 Why You Should Visit Kuerdening Grassland in China 1. Unspoiled Natural Beauty in Kuerdening Kuerdening remains less commercialized than other famous grasslands in Xinjiang. Here, you can enjoy peace, clean air, and untouched scenery without the crowds.

#mytraveldiary 2. Seasonal Charm for Different Photography Styles Spring (May–June): A paradise for flower photography. The meadows turn into a colorful carpet, making wide-angle shots vibrant and full of life. Background: dense spruce forests and snow-capped Tianshan peaks, adding drama and depth. This multi-layered composition creates stunning photos without needing artificial settings.

#mytraveldiary 🌄 Why You Need to Visit Kuerdening Grassland 1. A Rare Blend of Landscapes Most grasslands are wide and flat, but Kuerdening is different. Nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, it combines: Rolling flower-filled meadows that stretch endlessly. Towering spruce forests covering the mountain slopes. Sparkling rivers and streams that bring life to the valleys.

#mytraveldiary 5. Adventure & Exploration Kuerdening is perfect for travelers who love outdoor activities: Hiking through the valleys and forests, where fresh pine scents fill the air. Horse trekking across wide meadows for a true steppe experience. Camping under a sky full of stars, far from the light pollution of cities. Photography of ever-changing landscapes, from golden sunsets to misty mornings.

#mytraveldiary Watch or join horseback games, a tradition of Kazakh culture. Ride horses across the grassland, just like the nomads have for centuries. Autumn (September–October): The forest turns golden while snow begins to dust the mountain tops—an unforgettable sight. Every season gives Kuerdening a new character, making it worth visiting more than once.

#mytraveldiary 📷 Why Kuerdening Grassland is Perfect for Photo Shoots 1. Diverse Scenery in One Place Wide flower-filled meadows that create a colorful natural carpet. Towering spruce forests that add depth and contrast to your shots. Sparkling rivers and clear streams reflecting the blue sky. Majestic snow-capped peaks in the background for dramatic compositions.

#mytraveldiary 📷 Why Kuerdening Grassland is Perfect for Photography 1. A Natural Canvas of Landscapes Kuerdening offers layers of scenery that make photos dynamic and rich: Foreground: meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers, perfect for close-up details or framing portraits. Middle ground: endless grasslands where herds of horses and sheep roam freely.

#mytraveldiary Summer (July–August): The greenest season. Ideal for cultural portraits with Kazakh yurts, horse riding shots, and lifestyle travel photography. Autumn (September–October): Forests turn golden, contrasting with evergreen trees and snowy peaks—perfect for dreamy, warm-toned photos. Winter (less visited): A snowy wonderland with white landscapes, great for dramatic or minimalist photography.

#mytraveldiary 3. Golden Hour Magic Sunrise: Mist often lingers in the valleys, creating soft, mystical shots with glowing light over the peaks. Sunset: The sky burns with pink, orange, and purple hues, reflecting on rivers and meadows—ideal for romantic and cinematic photos. Horseback portraits: Very popular among travelers—imagine yourself in traditional dress, riding through endless grasslands.

#mytraveldiary Kuerdening Grassland so you can see why it’s such a dream destination for photo lovers: 5. Best Spots for Shooting Meadows with rivers: Capture reflections of mountains in the water. Forest edges: Contrast between dark spruce and bright grasslands. High viewpoints: Hiking up a hill gives panoramic shots of valleys and yurts. Nomadic camps: Best for lifestyle, cultural, and portrait photography.