Kalajun Grassland
Kalajun Grassland, nestled in the Xinjiang Tianshan Mountains, is China’s premier “alpine meadow in the sky,” renowned for its undulating pastures, snow-capped peaks, and nomadic traditions. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 as part of the Xinjiang Tianshan Natural Heritage Cluster, it spans 2,800 square kilometers, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 meters. Nicknamed “The Body of Heaven,” it offers a surreal landscape where wildflowers blanket the terrain, and Kazak eagles soar above yurts.
Historical Overview
Kalajun (Kazak for “Fertile Land”) has been a summer pasture for Kazak nomads since the 3rd century BCE, when Saka tribes grazed livestock here. It flourished under the Uyghur Khaganate (744–840 CE) as a trade hub on the Northern Silk Road. Modern conservation began in 1982 with the establishment of the Tianshan Forest Park, which protects its alpine ecosystems. Today, it balances eco-tourism with traditional pastoralism, offering a glimpse into Central Asia’s nomadic heritage.
Structural Layout
The grassland is divided into three zones:
- Eastern Meadow: Gentle slopes dotted with yurts, wildflower fields, and the “Eagle Viewpoint.”
- Western Canyon: A dramatic gorge with limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and the “Crooked River Trail.”
- Alpine Zone: Above 3,000 meters, featuring glacial lakes, edelweiss colonies, and the “Snow Leopard Observatory.”
Key infrastructure includes 30km of horse trails, 5 yurts camps, and the “Sky Ladder” suspension bridge.
Major Attractions
- Flower Platform: A 2km² meadow ablaze with purple lupines and yellow potentillas (June–July).
- Hunters’ Eagle Platform: A cliff where Kazak falconers demonstrate golden eagle hunting.
- Nine-Curved Glacier: A 3km-long ice field accessible via a 4-hour trek from the “Ice Lake Trailhead.”
- Nomad Yurt Camp: Traditional Kazak yurts offering kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and horseback riding.
- Stone Man Valley: A field of 1,000+ rock cairns erected by nomads for good luck.
- Crooked River: A turquoise stream meandering through 8km of birch forests.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Classic Route (Half-Day):
Visitor Center → Flower Platform → Hunters’ Eagle Platform → Return.
Highlights: Wildflowers and cultural demonstrations in 4 hours. -
Adventure Route (Full-Day):
Visitor Center → Crooked River → Nine-Curved Glacier → Nomad Yurt Camp → Return.
Highlights: Glacier trekking and rural immersion. -
Nomadic Experience (2 Days):
Day 1: Stone Man Valley prayer rituals and yurt stay.
Day 2: Horseback journey to remote pastures and stargazing.
Highlights: Cultural immersion and alpine camping.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Tianshan Park WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at the Visitor Center; arrive early for horse rentals.
- Prices:
- Peak Season (June–August): ¥140 (adults), ¥70 (students/seniors).
- Off-Season (September–May): ¥90 (adults), ¥45 (students/seniors).
- Combo Pass (Grassland + Glacier Trek): ¥220 (adults).
- Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.
Transportation
- By Bus:
- Yining Bus Station → Tekes County (2 hours, ¥30) → Local shuttle to Kalajun.
- By Taxi:
- Direct from Yining Airport (2.5 hours, ¥200).
- By Tour:
- Group tours from Ürümqi/Kashgar include Sayram Lake and Kazak villages.
- Departure: Shuttle buses depart hourly to Tekes/Yining.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Season: June–July (wildflowers), September–October (autumn colors).
- Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
- Weather: Pack layers (5–25°C at altitude) and rain gear (June–September).
- Essentials:
- Wear sturdy hiking boots (uneven terrain).
- Carry oxygen cans (altitude sickness common above 3,000m).
- Respect Kazak customs (no photography inside yurts without permission).
- Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and off-trail hiking.
