[2025 Xinyuan Attraction] Travel Guide for Xuelian Valley (Updated May)

I see many people discouraging Narati, but I personally like it very much. It's really pretty, but now there are too many people coming to Xinjiang. The scenic spots are full of people. You have to queue for the shuttle bus. It is recommended to drive by yourself, but the self-driving is limited. Only 5000 tickets are sold a day. You may need to make an appointment in advance. To go to the Snow Lotus Valley, you need to buy another shuttle bus ticket. It's closer to the snow mountain. There are too many people queuing for the Internet celebrity bridge. I just walked forward and took pictures. The conclusion is that besides the crowd, there are still a lot of people. But the scenery will heal everything.

Nalat: A Complete Guide to a Three-Dimensional Scroll Painting Deep in the Tianshan Mountains The moment your plane lands at Nalat Airport, the emerald grasslands and spruce trees spreading outside the porthole will instantly make you understand Genghis Khan's exclamation "Narat" during his westward expedition. This place, recognized by Chinese National Geography as one of "China's Six Most Beautiful Grasslands," hides a magical space-time woven with snow-capped mountains, forests, canyons, and Kazakh pastoral songs. As a traveler who has just completed an "In-Depth Ili River Valley Tour," I will use a three-day, two-night immersive experience to guide you in unlocking the ultimate way to explore this "Three-Dimensional Grassland Museum." 1. Scenic Routes That Fold Space and Time: Magical Moments Away From the Crowds 1. Aerial Grassland Snow Lotus Valley Loop (A Must for Photography Enthusiasts) Route: Visitor Center → Tianjie Platform (40-minute drive) → Nomadic Family (20 minutes) → Snow Lotus Valley Special Line (requires transfer) Core Experience: Tianjie Platform: Wait here at 7:00 AM to capture the "Yin and Yang Dividing Dusk and Dawn" spectacle of snow-capped mountains and meadows in the morning mist with a telephoto lens. The prayer flag array on the left side of the platform is a natural frame for shooting cultural blockbusters. Nomadic Family Internet-Famous Bridge: Avoid the tour group peak after 10:00 AM and use a slow shutter speed to capture the moment when a Kazakh girl rides a horse across the bridge, with the aerial grassland covered in dandelions as the background. Hidden Spot in Snow Lotus Valley: Hike 1.5 km along the snow line to the "Glacier Eye," where you can simultaneously photograph the reflection of Kabanbay Peak and wild snow lotus. Crampons are required (available for rent in the scenic area). 2. Panlong Valley Road Wolta Jiaota Secret Realm (Exclusive to Adventurers) Route: Visitor Center → Entrance of Panlong Valley Road (self-driving/sightseeing bus) → Wolta Jiaota Viewing Platform (5 km hike) Hardcore Data: The valley road is 12 km long and contains 27 180-degree hairpin bends, with an altitude drop of 800m. It is recommended to rent a four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle (the scenic area provides guided services for CNY 800/vehicle). The 5 km wooden boardwalk in Wolta Jiaota hides mysteries: the third viewing platform allows you to capture the magical scene of "Pine Forest Waterfall Piercing Through the Clouds." You need to use a CPL filter to eliminate water surface reflections when the sun shines directly at 12:00 noon. 2. Magical Spots With a 100% Success Rate: Even Phone Users Can Take National Geographic-Level Blockbusters 1. Tawsani: Four-Dimensional Space-Time Folding Point Shooting Time: 1 hour before sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to shoot from north to south, which can capture four landforms at the same time: snow-capped mountains, forests, meadows, and streams. The "radial blur" filter in PS can be used in post-production to enhance the sense of spatial depth. Hidden Play: Take silhouette photos at the megalithic array on the south bank of the stream and use natural stone frames to form a "picture within a picture" effect. 2. Wusun Ancient Ruins: Birthplace of Wasteland Aesthetics Golden Moment: When the rain has just stopped, carry a polarizing filter to photograph the collision between dry poplar trees and newly green grass. Raise the drone to a height of 200m to capture the space-time dialogue between the ancient road and National Highway 218. Safety Tips: Marmots often appear in this area. Feeding is prohibited. It is recommended to bring bear spray (available in scenic area stores). 3. A Pastoral Epic on the Tip of Your Tongue: 24 Hours From Snow Mountain to Yurt 1. Nomadic Family Food Matrix Must-Order Set Meal: Snow Water Stewed Air-Dried Horse Meat (CNY 128/portion) + Baursaki with Honey (CNY 15/portion) + Horse Milk Wine (CNY 30/pot). Note that horse milk wine has a very strong after-effect, so it is recommended to pair it with plum juice to relieve the alcohol. Hidden Menu: Recite the Kazakh proverb "The wisdom of Aksakal is in milk tea" to the yurt owner to receive a "Grassland Blind Box" worth CNY 88 (may be milk curd, horse sausage, or Dombra performance). 2. Yitigense Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop Immersive Experience: The "Grassland Lifestyle Expert" course from 14:00–16:00 allows you to make wolf phalanx necklaces (CNY 280/person) or felt embroidered coasters (CNY 120/person) by hand. You can take the finished products away and be awarded an intangible cultural heritage certificate. Avoid the Pitfalls: Refuse the "free photo with Hada" promotion, as these services usually charge high frame fees afterward. 4. Alternative Rainy Day Plans: Open the Grassland Metaverse Indoors 1. Nalat International Ski Resort (Off-Season Carnival) Black Technology Play: Rent a VR ski simulator (CNY 80/20 mins) and experience winter snow tracks in a blizzard effect. The system will generate a "Grassland Skiing Rank Certificate" based on your movements and scores. Parent-Child Surprise: The "Snow Monster Ale" theme park in the ski equipment hall allows you to use a 3D printing pen to create exclusive snow monster dolls (CNY 198/piece). 2. Kazakh Folk Museum In-Depth Play: Participate in the "Transfer Memory" special exhibition at 10:00/16:00, which uses holographic projection to reproduce the epic of the Kazakh people's seasonal migration. Interactive devices can simulate the perspective of a shepherd driving cattle and sheep. Cultural and Creative Treasure Hunt: The "Grassland Flavor" series of fragrances in the museum store mixes artemisia, snow lotus, and mare's milk into a unique scent. The "Nomadic Dawn" model (CNY 168/bottle) is recommended. 5. Accommodation Red and Black List: From Luxury Tents to Cloud Hotels 1. Nianhua Bay Nalat Luxury Camping Site Red List Reason: The tent is equipped with floor heating and a starry sky skylight. The Milky Way and snow-capped mountains can be seen in the same frame at 3:00 AM. Includes "Grassland Awakening Service": Kazakh teenagers ride horses to deliver freshly squeezed warm mare's milk. Black List Warning: Some tents will be removed during the off-season (November–March). You need to confirm in advance whether they are on the operating list. 2. Senjing Treehouse Hotel Survival Guide: The treehouse is suspended above the spruce forest. It is recommended to bring a windproof jacket (night temperatures can be as low as -5℃). The balcony's star-gazing telescope has a preset M31 Andromeda galaxy coordinate and can be used for free. 6. Exclusive to Hardcore Players: Unlock the B-Side of Nalat 1. Gongnais River Valley Stream Tracing Equipment List: Stream tracing shoes (Decathlon MH500 series, CNY 299/pair) Waterproof backpack (OSPREY Talon 22, CNY 799/piece) Target Species: Rainbow trout (artificial bait lure can be used, limited to 3 fish per day) Blue sheep (limited to distant viewing, it is forbidden to use lenses with a focal length exceeding 400mm) 2. Light Hiking on Wusun Ancient Road Safety Instructions: You need to report to the scenic area 7 days in advance and sign the "Letter of Life and Death." A satellite phone is mandatory (available for rent in the scenic area, CNY 300/day). Fantastic Moment: Wait for the "Sunlight on the Golden Mountain" by Heaven Lake. When the first ray of sunlight illuminates the Muzart Glacier, the glacier cracks will refract colorful halos.

After coming to Xinjiang, I realized that there really are fairy tale snow-capped mountains and grasslands, forest lakes, herds of cattle and sheep, and mountains of flowers and dandelions in this world. It is no exaggeration to say that Xinjiang in summer is so beautiful that I am at a loss for words, and every frame under the lens is like a movie. 🚶 Recommended classic tour routes 🏞 Air Grassland (most popular 🔥) Route: Visitor Center ➝ Tianyun Platform ➝ Tianjie Platform ➝ Tianmu Platform ➝ Yumin Renjia ➝ Visitor Center ✨ Highlights: Internet-famous bridge, Tianmu Platform, vast grassland scenery 🌿 River Valley Grassland (super beautiful scenery, suitable for taking blockbusters 📷) Route: Visitor Center ➝ Grassland Tribe ➝ Tawsani ➝ Wusun Ancient Site ➝ Yitigense ➝ Racecourse ➝ East Gate ➝ Forest Park ➝ Daigelas ➝ Visitor Center 🐉 Panlong Valley (fewer people, hiker's favorite 👣) Route: Visitor Center ➝ Tawsani ➝ Wusun Ancient Site ➝ Yitigense (transfer) ➝ Shilaiyunzhuan ➝ Jiaolongchuhai ➝ Woniugang ➝ Racecourse ➝ Daigelas ➝ Visitor Center ⛰ Tianshentai (extension of the Air Grassland, more shocking scenery) Route: Yumin Renjia ➝ Tianchengtai ➝ Tianjie Platform ➝ Tianmu Platform ➝ Yumin Renjia 🚫 No self-driving allowed. You need to purchase a ¥60 minibus separately. The tour takes about 1.5 hrs. 🏕 Wo'ertajiaota (fewer people, continuation of the River Valley Grassland) Route: Daigelas ➝ Panlongsong Road Intersection ➝ Lvyuanbao ➝ Wanhua Valley ➝ Wo'ertajiaota ➝ Daigelas 🚫 No self-driving allowed. You need to purchase a ¥120 sightseeing bus separately. The tour takes about 2 hrs. ⚠ Some tips 1⃣ The ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang are really strong! Do a good job of sun protection before departure! The best light at Yumin Renjia is in the morning and evening! The backlight is not good for taking pictures in the afternoon. 2⃣ Be sure to wear light and comfortable shoes! It is best to choose boots 👢 that can step on water! Because it is easy to get your shoes wet at Yumin Renjia. 3⃣ There are distinctive B&Bs in the Nalati scenic area. You can stay next to the grassland at night and feel the tranquility of nature. 4⃣ If you want to ride a horse, be sure to choose a regular horse team in the scenic area. If you have never ridden a horse before, do not ride for too long. 5⃣ Nalati Grassland is divided into two major areas: Air Grassland and River Valley Grassland. Scenic spot tickets are valid for 48 hours. It is recommended to reserve more than 1 day for the tour.

🌄 Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions (Including Hidden Experiences) 1. Sky Grassland (Core Scenic Area) 📍High mountain meadow at 1,800-3,000 meters elevation 🐎Must-try experience: Horseback riding through flower fields (80 yuan/hour) 📸Best photo spot: Walk 15 minutes from the nomadic family station toward the snow mountains 🌸Seasonal highlight: Wild flowers bloom in June-July 2. Valley Grassland (Photography Paradise) 🌊Popular spot: Tawusani Stream reflections ✅Special activity: Kazakh Kokpar performances daily at 11:00/17:00 🚶‍♂️Hiking route: Forest Park → Wuoertajiata (5 km wooden plank path) 3. Snow Lotus Valley (Close encounter with snow mountains) ❄️Touch glaciers even in summer (shuttle bus required) 💡Hidden experience: Search for wild snow lotus near the snow line ⚠️Note: Elevation 3,000 meters, bring oxygen bottles 4. Heavenly Platform (Panoramic viewpoint) 🌅Best spot for sunrise and sea of clouds 📡Unique sight: Giant radar station on the grassland 🚌Transportation: Get off at the third stop of the shuttle bus 5. Panlong Ancient Road (Self-driving highlight) 🚗12 km of continuous hairpin turns 🦅Common wildlife: Golden eagles, marmots 🕒Best time: Evening light is softest 🍖 Special Food Map 🍢 Kazakh Flavors: 1. Grassland Roasted Whole Lamb 🏠Recommendation: "Shepherd's Home" in Nalati Town 💰Average cost: 150 yuan (reservation required 3 hours in advance) 🍶Pairing: Kumiss (beware of the aftereffect) 2. Naren (Traditional hand-pulled noodles with meat) 🍜Must-try: Belt noodles + original lamb broth 🌶️Hidden tip: Add onions and chili sauce 3. Baursak + Milk Tea 🕒Best time: Breakfast 🏡Experience: Freshly fried dough at a herder's home 🍽️ Chinese Cuisine Recommendations: Western Regions Restaurant (Nalati Town) 🥘Signature dish: Big plate chicken with naan bread 🌿Bonus: Lavender field in the backyard Sichuan-Xinjiang Restaurant (next to the parking lot) 🌶️Must-have comfort food: Boiled beef in chili oil 🥬Seasonal wild vegetables: Stir-fried wild leeks with eggs 🏕️ Accommodation Recommendations (3 types of experiences) 🌌 Grassland Stargazing Rooms: 1. Nalati Hidden Grass Cottage B&B ✨Feature: Panoramic glass room for viewing the Milky Way 🛁Facilities: Floor heating + stargazing telescope 💰Price: 800-1,200 yuan/night 2. Kazakh Yurt Experience 🏕️Recommendation: Inside the Nomadic Family Scenic Area 🔥Includes: Bonfire party + breakfast 💰Price: 300-500 yuan/yurt (accommodates 4-6 people)👭 🏨 Comfortable Hotels: Nalati Tourism Hotel ✅Advantage: Official hotel of the scenic area 🚌Free shuttle to the visitor center 💰Price: 400-600 yuan/night Western Regions Resort 🌿Feature: Garden-style courtyard 🍴Includes special ethnic song and dance dinner 💰Price: 500-800 yuan/night 🚐 RV Campsite: Nalati International RV Campground 🚍Facilities: Water and electricity hookups + public bathrooms 🌄Location: Facing the snow mountains 💰Price: 600-900 yuan/vehicle 🚗 Complete Transportation Guide ✈️ Long-distance Transportation: Nearest airport: Nalati Airport (60 km from scenic area) 🚕Airport shared ride: 50 yuan/person 🚌Airport shuttle: 3 departures daily (25 yuan) From Urumqi: 🚗Self-driving: Lianhuo Expressway + Duku Highway (8 hours) 🚄High-speed rail: Urumqi → Yining → shared ride (6 hours) 🚍 Scenic Area Transportation: Shuttle bus routes: 🚌Sky Grassland line: 💰40 yuan/person (must-ride)👭 🚎Valley Grassland line: 💰24 yuan/person 🚐Snow Lotus Valley special line: 💰60 yuan/person 🚗Self-driving tips: ✅Vehicles allowed (300 yuan/car) ⚠️Speed limit 40 km/h (frequent cattle and sheep crossings) ✈️ Long-distance Transportation: Nearest airport: Nalati Airport (60 km from scenic area) 🚕Airport shared ride: 50 yuan/person 🚌Airport shuttle: 3 departures daily (25 yuan) From Urumqi: 🚗Self-driving: Lianhuo Expressway + Duku Highway (8 hours) 🚄High-speed rail: Urumqi → Yining → shared ride (6 hours) 🚲 Special Transportation: Electric vehicle rental: 💰80 yuan/hour (limited to Valley Grassland) Horse carriage tour: 💰50 yuan/loop (suitable for families) ⚠️ Important Notes 🧳 Essential items: 1. Sun protection trio: Sunglasses + hat + SPF50+ sunscreen 2. Day-night temperature difference gear: Light down jacket + short-sleeve combination 3. Mosquito repellent (grassland mosquitoes are fierce) 📌 Useful tips: 🎫Entrance fee: 95 yuan (valid for 48 hours) 🕒Best season: June-September (avoid rainy season in August) 🚫No-fly zone: Drones need to be registered in advance ✅️💡 Hidden benefits: Free shuttle bus fee for entry before 8 AM Half-price tickets with student ID Collect stamps from 3 scenic spots to exchange for kumiss 📅 Itinerary Suggestions One-day highlights tour: Visitor Center → Sky Grassland → Nomadic Family lunch → Snow Lotus Valley → Heavenly Platform sunset Two-day in-depth tour: ✅️Day 1: Valley Grassland hiking + Kazakh home visit ✅️Day 2: Self-driving on Panlong Ancient Road + stargazing photography ✅️Photography route: ⏰️05:30 Heavenly Platform sunrise → 09:00 Sky Grassland → 16:00 Valley light and shadow → 22:00 Milky Way photography

One highway spanning 561 kilometers connects snow-capped mountains, grasslands, canyons, and deserts. Experience an epic travel adventure, stroll around Lake Sayram, explore Kazakh culture, venture into Snow Lotus Valley. This 8-day 7-night tour takes you deep into Ili's secret realms with a detailed itinerary—save it now! 🛬【Itinerary】: DAY1: Meet in Urumqi - Stay in Urumqi DAY2: Urumqi - Hundred-Mile Danxia Provincial Road 101 - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Kuytun DAY3: Kuytun - Duku Highway - Qiaerma - Nalati Prairie in the Sky - Snow Lotus Valley - Stay in Nalati DAY4: Nalati - Kurdening Spruce Forest - Afternoon Tea - Bagua City - Stay in Tekes DAY5: Tekes - Qiongkushitai (Horseback riding, Kazakh home visit) - Stay in Qiongkushitai DAY6: Stroll around Qiongkushitai - Kalajun Kuoksu Grand Canyon - Kazanqi - Stay in Yining DAY7: Yining - Sayram Lake - Lavender fields - Stay in Yining DAY8: Departure from Yining ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Crossing Duku: The Duku Highway, 561 kilometers long, runs from Dushanzi in the north to Kuqa in the south, crossing the Tianshan Mountains and condensing Xinjiang's most magnificent scenery. From gobi desert to snow-capped mountains, from grasslands to lakes, the views are endless. Light Hiking in Snow Lotus Valley: Get up close to snow-capped mountains where you can walk up and touch the snow. The melting snow flowing down the streams is absolutely stunning! Exploring Qiongkushitai: A hidden paradise in Ili, Xinjiang, where grasslands, snow mountains, forests, and rivers converge, like a world straight out of a fairy tale. 🍩【Must-Try Delicacies】: 1. 🍢Grilled Lamb Skewers: The champion of Xinjiang cuisine! Tender lamb sizzling over charcoal, sprinkled with cumin and chili powder, the aroma is simply irresistible 😍 2. 🍖Nang Pit Meat: Slow-cooked in a nang pit, with a crispy golden crust and juicy tender meat inside, incredibly satisfying~ 3. 🐐Spicy Lamb Trotters: Tender and chewy lamb trotters in rich spicy sauce, deliciously hot with plenty of collagen—your skin will thank you 😜 4. 🍗Hand-Pulled Meat: Large chunks of perfectly cooked lamb, tender without gaminess, eaten with your hands for an authentic flavor experience! 5. 🐟Bachu Grilled Fish: A unique grilling method that makes the fish crispy outside and tender inside, topped with special seasonings—absolutely delicious 👍 🏨【Photo Spots】: Sayram Lake Pine Tree Head: Climb up the trail to see fields of yellow flowers and a panoramic view of the entire Sayram Lake! From the top of Pine Tree Head, you can see Guozigou Bridge and the surrounding continuous mountain landscapes—an unmissable spectacular view Hundred-Mile Danxia Viewing Platform: The most colorful section of Provincial Road 101, where you can capture the seven-colored rocks; there's also a viewing platform to see the Camel Peak (highly recommended to bring a drone for aerial shots) Qimengde Viewing Platform: Here you'll find wooden cabins just like in "Heidi," dense spruce forests, and walking paths leading to meadows, valleys, herds of cattle and sheep, and cabins—every step immerses you in nature 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Duku Highway: Limited to vehicles with seven seats or fewer, RVs limited to 4 meters in height. Speed limit throughout is 40-60 km/h. The entire route is toll-free, except for a 20 yuan fee at Yanshuigou near Kuqa. Snow Lotus Valley: An extension of the Sky Prairie route, no self-driving allowed, requires an additional ¥60 for minibus transportation Kalajun: Self-driving is not permitted in Kuoksu Grand Canyon, must take the scenic area shuttle bus 🧡【Important Notes】: 🌏About Climate and Clothing Xinjiang's climate is changeable with large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, evenings can be quite cool. Be sure to bring a thick jacket 🧥 just in case. During the day, the sun is intense, so sun-protective clothing, sun hats 👒, sunglasses 🕶, and sunscreen are essential. 💃Cultural Customs Xinjiang is home to many ethnic groups, and it's very important to respect local religious beliefs and customs. When entering mosques and other religious sites, follow relevant regulations and avoid wearing revealing clothing 🙅‍♀️. 🏞Sightseeing Tips When visiting scenic areas, protect the environment and don't litter. Some scenic spots are at high altitudes, so be prepared for possible altitude sickness. If you plan to go horseback riding 🐎 or participate in adventurous activities, prioritize safety and follow staff instructions.

#discoverchina Xuelian Valley, located in Xinjiang, China, is a beautiful gorge known for its stunning mountain landscapes and eco-tourism. It is named after the rare alpine plant, the snow lotus, which symbolizes purity and resilience, making it truly unique. With its high altitude and cool climate, the valley offers distinct scenery throughout the seasons—lush green grass in the summer and a winter wonderland covered in snow, resembling a fairytale world. It is a perfect place to visit, relax, and immerse oneself in nature.

**Nalati Travel Guide** ❤️**1. Tickets and Transportation** Nalati Scenic Area offers two ways to explore: self-driving or taking the shuttle bus. * Self-driving ticket: CNY 300/person. No need to buy an entrance ticket, but you must book in advance on the official WeChat public account. * Shuttle bus: Requires an entrance ticket, CNY 95/person. Shuttle bus tickets are purchased based on the chosen route. Tickets are valid for 48 hours, allowing unlimited entry to the scenic area during that time. ❤️**2. Recommended Routes** 1. **Aerial Grassland**: Round trip 45 km, approx. 3.5 hrs. At a higher altitude, this area offers magnificent views, perfect for flower viewing, photography, and experiencing local ethnic culture. Take the shuttle bus from the Tourist Service Center to Tianjietai, then to Nomadic Family (return from the terminal). It is recommended to spend more time at "Nomadic Family," where you can enjoy various activities such as grassland exploration, local cuisine, horseback riding, admiring snow-capped mountains, and even taking photoshoots. 2. **River Valley Grassland**: Round trip 36 km, approx. 1.5 hrs. With flatter grasslands, this area is suitable for various recreational activities such as helicopter sightseeing and river valley rafting. The route is: Tourist Service Center → Grassland Tribe → Tawusani → Wusun Ancient Ruins → Yitigensai → East Gate → Racecourse → Resort (return from the terminal). 3. **Panlong Ancient Road**: Round trip 37 km, approx. 3 hrs. This is a less-traveled route, rich in flora and fauna, with pleasant scenery, making it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts. 4. **Wolta Jiaota Line**: Round trip 30 km, approx. 2 hrs. Suitable for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, this is a hiking route with a love theme. ❤️**3. Special Tips** * The popular "internet-famous" bridge can get crowded. If you don't want to queue for photos, walk further inside to another bridge with equally beautiful scenery and fewer people. * If you have time, consider extended routes like Xuelian Valley (additional CNY 60/person) and Hongerta Jiaota Line (additional CNY 120/person). * Please respect local customs and the ecological environment. Do not damage the natural landscape. ❤️**4. Food Recommendations** Nalati is known for its unique grassland scenery and cuisine. You can savor local specialties such as lamb, horse meat, and dairy products. Also, try local snacks like roasted whole lamb, hand-pulled lamb, and milk tea. ❤️**Helpful Tips:** 1. If time permits, explore the Aerial Grassland first, then the River Valley Grassland. The Aerial Grassland has a fairytale forest feel, offering better photo opportunities. 2. Xuelian Valley offers close-up views of snow-capped mountains. It's recommended to visit early in the morning when there are fewer people and the mountains are clearer. However, round trips are not recommended due to the long travel time and discomfort. 3. Each time you get off the bus, don't just stay at the viewing platform. Be sure to walk deeper into the grassland. 4. At the end of the River Valley Grassland route, you can only choose to hike or take in the panoramic view. 5. The scenic area is vast and lacks restaurants. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and dry food. 📍**Detailed Address:** Nalati Grassland is located in Nalati Town, Xinyuan County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The specific address is 100 meters east of the Nalati Scenic Area Management Committee Tourist Service Center. Follow this guide, and you're sure to have an unforgettable trip to Nalati!

🌟1. Pre-Trip Tips🌟 1. Choosing the Right Season and Weather🌈 • Best time to visit: June-August for lush greenery and wildflowers; September-October for golden autumn hues and fewer crowds. • Things to avoid: ❌ Avoid the peak season (July-August) due to large crowds and soaring accommodation prices. ☁️ Check the weather forecast in advance, as grassland weather is unpredictable. Overcast or rainy days can significantly diminish the scenery and may lead to temporary closures. 2. Transportation🚗 • Self-driving: Highly recommended! The drive from Xinyuan County to Nalati takes about 1 hour, offering picturesque views along the way. However, be mindful of speed limits and winding mountain roads. • Public transport: Buses are available from Yining/Xinyuan County, but schedules are limited. Confirm timetables in advance. • Things to avoid: ❌ For non-self-drive travelers, avoid "unofficial private cars" to prevent price gouging or forced shopping. 🎟️ Purchase shuttle bus tickets within the scenic area. Self-drive vehicles require an additional fee of CNY 300/person for entry + vehicle fee. 🌟2. Scenic Area Tips🌟 1. Tickets and Route Selection🎟️ • Tickets: Peak season (May-October) CNY 95/person, off-season CNY 75/person; shuttle bus CNY 40-60 per route. • Classic routes: • Aerial Grassland Route: A popular spot, but overcrowded during peak season. Arrive early if possible. • River Valley Grassland Route: More tranquil, suitable for those who prefer untouched nature. • Snow Lotus Valley Route: May be closed before July due to snow. Inquire with the scenic area beforehand. • Things to avoid: ❌ Don't blindly follow popular attractions. Places like "Nomad Family" have long queues. Venturing further often leads to less crowded, more beautiful scenery. 🐎 Horse riding is a fixed price of CNY 80/hour. Negotiate the time and route beforehand to avoid disputes. 2. Accommodation Traps🛌 • Inside the scenic area: Expensive (yurts can cost CNY 500+/night during peak season), but convenient for sunrise and sunset viewing. • Outside the scenic area: Nalati Town offers more accommodation options, but book at least 1 month in advance during peak season to avoid last-minute price hikes or cancel bookings. • Things to avoid: ❌ Be cautious of cheap guesthouses, which may have poor hygiene or inconvenient locations. 🛌 Yurts offer a unique cultural experience, but they lack soundproofing and private bathrooms. Those sensitive to these factors should choose carefully. 🌟3. Spending and Safety Precautions🌟 1. Dining and Shopping Tips🍽️ • Food prices within the scenic area are high (a bowl of noodles can cost CNY 40-50). Bring your own snacks or dine in Nalati Town. • When buying local products like honey and dairy, be wary of counterfeit goods. Reputable supermarkets are available in town. • Things to avoid: ❌ Inquire about prices before participating in Kazakh family visits, as activities like tea drinking and photography may incur extra charges. 2. Safety and Health💪 • The grassland has strong UV rays. Take sun protection measures (sunglasses, hats, SPF 50+ sunscreen). • There are significant temperature differences between day and night. Bring a windproof jacket even in summer. • Respect local customs: 🚫 Do not photograph herders, livestock, or the interiors of yurts without permission. 🚫 Drones are prohibited on the grassland (prior registration required). 🌟4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Recommendations🌟 1. Avoiding Crowds🚶‍♂️ • Drive along Panlong Valley Road (west section) for stunning scenery and fewer crowds—a photographer's paradise. • Visit Tawusani Village for an authentic Kazakh experience. 2. Immersive Experiences🧳 • Witness the nomadic migration (spring: March-April/autumn: September-October) to experience the charm of nomadic culture. • Wait for the sunset on the grassland in the evening. Stargazing conditions are excellent (away from light pollution). ✨---✨Summary✨---✨ Nalati's beauty lies in the fusion of nature and culture. Advance planning, off-season travel, and sensible spending can help you avoid most pitfalls. Spending time strolling through the grasslands and interacting with locals is more rewarding than simply taking photos!🌄🌅

I unilaterally announced that I didn’t need to take the Xuelian Valley shuttle bus because I walked all the way there (saving 60 yuan!) 📍Route overview: Nomadic family → Tiancheng Terrace → Snow Lotus Valley → Flower sea opposite Tiancheng Terrace → Nomadic family (return along the original route) about 15km ⏰Round trip time: 5.5 hours - 7 hours (For reference only, the duration of hiking and the amount of photos taken vary from person to person) 🎒Baggage preparation: sunscreen, cold-proof jacket, water, dry food (you can bring more food and drinks if you are walking for more than 10km; nomadic families and the Xuelian Valley bus stop also sell food, but I get sick of beef and mutton when I exercise and it’s not cheap) Hiking Overview: 1⃣️Select the [Sky Grassland Route] at the Nalati Scenic Area Visitor Center and take the shuttle bus to the terminal [Nomadic Family] and start hiking from the plank road 2⃣️Walk along the green plank road, you will pass by a horse team on the way. The horse team route passes through the sea of ​​flowers at the foot of Tianshan Mountain and is a beautiful photo. 3⃣️In fact, you just need to walk slowly up along the horse team route or the Xuelian Valley shuttle route; after walking a short distance, you can go through the woods on the side of the road and sit under a tree to eat. You can also see birds fighting for food. 4⃣️Climb to the horse team terminal/inter-district bus stop, there is a viewing platform called [Tiancheng Terrace], you can already see the snow-capped mountains of Xuelian Valley, the spruce trees in the valley are very beautiful p4, the scenery in all directions is beautiful p5 5⃣️Continue to climb along the shuttle bus route, and gradually you can hear and see the streams formed by the melted water from the snow-capped mountains. The weather is good and the scenery is very layered p6. Pick up your camera 📷 and start shooting! 6⃣️On the way, you can see snow-capped mountains and winding mountain roads when passing through highlands, and you can also cross narrow streams p7. Various flowers blooming along the way are so beautiful (p8 is Nalati wild tulips)! 7⃣️After arriving at the bus stop for the Xuelian Valley shuttle, continue walking about 1 km towards the foot of the snow-capped mountain: you can still step on the snow in June, and the fewer tourists you go the further you go. In addition to wild grasses and flowers, you can also see wild Capybara and wild succulents... People also feel quite "lonely" p10 8⃣️Return to the small hill opposite Tianchengtai by the original route. The sun is setting, and the wild flowers are full of happiness...p11 (It's a bit messed up that I can't tell whose selfie it is🤳) 9⃣️When we were almost back to the nomadic family, we took photos of the vast grassland in the sky and the layers of spruce trees in the mottled cloud shadows. P12, the trip was perfect. 🏔️Summary: The road from Nomadic Home to Snow Lotus Valley is basically elevated and takes about 4 hours; the return journey is all downhill and is extremely easy and can be completed in 2 hours. 🎊I personally like the Snow Lotus Valley route very much. The scenery at the end of the Snow Lotus Valley is not very beautiful, but the changes in the sky and scenery along the way add endless fun to the hike; you can stop to take pictures whenever you want, lie down in the sea of ​​flowers when you want to rest, and stare at the clouds when you want to be in a daze... I am deeply moved to be accompanied by wild grasses and flowers and watching the creatures of nature. I feel free every time I look back at the photos!

Nalati Snow Lotus Valley, because the peak of the snow peak looks like snow lotus and the valley is full of snow, so the name of the snow lotus valley is about 2200 meters above sea level. The snowy peak is surrounded by mountain meadows and other landscapes. The best time for visitors to visit in July, August and September. Visitors can walk to the foot of Xuelian Valley Mountain, or take a sightseeing bus. If you go up the mountain for about two hours, if you have enough time and good physical strength, you can try test. Stand under the snowy mountains and enjoy the beauty. If you can meet with you in Nalati, I will lie with you under the blue sky and white clouds, bathe in the warm sunshine, the cool breeze, let the time pass, and stay silent. If you want to try your physical strength, you can learn this guy and see who is jumping higher, I am shocked by myself. I didn't expect my jumping power to be so good, I leaped to the Snow Lotus Valley. I often hear people talking about feelings. It has nothing to do with the wind and the moon, it has nothing to do with the chicken soup and the force, but does not try to hide its own contradictions and confusion, nor is it afraid of the impermanence of the world. I can chat with my lover under the stars, I feel that I spend a good month and I am full of life. Sleepy, sleep, sleep, and continue to do what you want tomorrow. I hope that you will be on the road, instead of rushing to the road, but walking and walking, you can stop and watch the flowers of a tree.

Snow Lotus Valley has a bonfire party at night, set up a shed and light a bonfire. The surrounding scenery is picturesque, let the sun go down. Blowing dandelion, rolling in the grass, time flies. The best mutton hot pot I have ever eaten, no one. A kind of sorrows rushed into my heart, and suddenly let go, why can't people be simpler? Still set up a tent, camp, watch the night sky and the Milky Way.

Because the shape of the peak of the snow peak resembles that of snow lotus, the snow lotus blooms all the year round. Therefore, it is named Snow Lotus Valley. The snow lotus valley is about 2200 meters above sea level. The mountain top is snow-capped all year round, composed of alpine meadows, canyons and other landscapes. In 6,7, August and September are great places for tourists to visit. (5 km from the nomads' home) There are wolves in the mountains, and there have been wolves going down! From the nomad's home, the car in the scenic area has passed, and it is not expensive to come back. The route is very long and the water is running. There are several small attractions on the way to . I like the Celestial Terrace, and the Golden Eagle can take a photo. The photo is usually charged 5-10 yuan, which is very cheap. Tianjietai is the "watershed" of the scenic valley grassland and the alpine grassland, taking the meaning of "the entrance to heaven on earth, the boundary between heaven and earth". Taniguchi can also ride to the top, 80 yuan an hour, riding up for 3-4 hours is still necessary.