Kalajun Grassland
Located in Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, Kalajun Grassland is one of the most famous alpine grasslands in Xinjiang. Known for its rolling hills, vast meadows, snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, forests, and colorful wildflowers, Kalajun offers one of the most spectacular grassland landscapes in the region.
The name "Kalajun" means "black wilderness" in the Kazakh language. With its unique natural scenery and rich nomadic culture, Kalajun has become a popular destination for sightseeing, photography, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. In 2016, Kalajun was officially rated as a national 5A-level scenic area.
Located within the Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site, Kalajun is considered one of the areas with the richest biodiversity and highest aesthetic value in the Tianshan region. The combination of colorful flower meadows, green forests, deep valleys, traditional Kazakh yurts, grazing livestock, blue skies, and snow-covered peaks creates a breathtaking alpine landscape.
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
6 Days Xinjiang Horseback Travel: East Kalajun to Kurdening
Features
Chinese Name: 喀拉峻草原 [kālājùn cǎoyuán]
Location: about 30 kilometers away by car from the Tekes county
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, learning about Kazakh culture, staying in yurts
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 1-2 days
Best Time to Visit Kalajun Grassland
The best time to visit Kalajun Grassland is from June to September, when the grasslands are at their most beautiful. During this period, the meadows are covered with green grass and colorful wildflowers, while the pleasant weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
👍 June to July — Best Season for Flowers & Photography
June to July is considered the most beautiful period of Kalajun Grassland. During this time, the alpine meadows are covered with colorful wildflowers, creating a stunning contrast with the green hills, forests, and snow-capped mountains.
The famous Five Flower Meadow becomes especially attractive, with different kinds of flowers blooming across the rolling grasslands. The combination of flower fields, mountain scenery, and grazing animals creates one of the most iconic landscapes in Xinjiang.
Minor downside:
It is the peak tourist season, especially during weekends and public holidays.
🍂 August to October — Golden Grassland & Fewer Crowds
From August to October, the grassland gradually changes from green to golden. The autumn colors of the grass, forests, and surrounding mountains create a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere.
With fewer visitors and clearer views, this season is a great choice for travelers who prefer quiet scenery and photography.
Minor downside:
Temperatures become cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
🌱 April to May — Fresh Green Landscape
In spring, Kalajun begins to recover after winter. The grassland turns green gradually, and the fresh scenery creates a peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Minor downside:
Some high-altitude areas may still be cold, and flowers are not yet at their peak.
How to Get to Kalajun Grassland
Kalajun Grassland is located in Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Most travelers first need to reach Yining City, the transportation hub of the Ili Valley, and then continue to Kalajun Grassland.
From Urumqi to Yining
By Flight
Taking a flight from Urumqi to Yining is the fastest way to reach the Ili Valley. The flight takes about 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 614 kilometers.
By Train
Travelers can also take a train from Urumqi to Yining City. The journey takes around 7 hours, offering a more budget-friendly option.
From Yining to Kalajun Grassland
By Bus
During the tourist season, Kalajun Scenic Area operates direct buses from Yining to Kalajun Grassland for visitors' convenience. Travelers can take the direct bus at Yining Great World.
The bus usually departs at 9:00 AM and returns at 6:00 PM. The ticket price is about CNY 60 for a one-way trip and CNY 99 for a round trip.
By Car / Charter Car
For travelers who want more flexibility, taking a private car or chartering a car is also a convenient option. It allows visitors to explore Kalajun at their own pace and combine the trip with nearby attractions in the Ili Valley.
What to Explore in Kalajun Grassland
Kalajun is known for its rolling alpine meadows, colorful wildflowers, snow-capped mountains, forests, and deep valleys. As part of the Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site, it is one of the most scenic and biodiverse areas in the Tianshan Mountains.
The scenic area consists of several landscape zones, including East Kalajun, West Kalajun, Kuokesu Grand Canyon, the Zhongtian Mountain Snow Peaks, and the Forest of Teana. Each area offers a different perspective of the landscape.
Five Flower Meadow
The Five Flower Meadow is one of the most famous landscapes in Kalajun. The gently rolling hills are covered with alpine meadows and colorful flowers, while the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains rise in the distance.
From June to July, the grassland becomes a sea of flowers, with different colors spreading across the green hills. In autumn, the grass gradually turns golden and the surrounding forests take on warmer colors, creating a completely different landscape.
For photographers, the combination of flower-covered meadows, rolling hills, forests, grazing livestock, and snow-capped mountains makes Five Flower Meadow one of the best places to capture the beauty of Kalajun.
Kuokesu Grand Canyon
The Kuokesu Grand Canyon offers a different landscape from the open grasslands. Deep valleys, green hills, forests, and rivers create a dramatic contrast with the gentle alpine meadows.
The canyon is especially beautiful when viewed from higher elevations, where the winding valleys and vast grasslands stretch toward the distant mountains.
Qiongkushitai Village
Located near Kalajun, Qiongkushitai National Historical and Cultural Village is a good place to experience traditional Kazakh culture and rural life.
The village has preserved elements of the traditional lifestyle of local Kazakh people, including wooden houses, yurts, traditional food, and pastoral culture. It can be combined with a Kalajun trip for travelers interested in both natural scenery and local culture.
Things to Do in Kalajun Grassland
Take a Sightseeing Bus and Explore the Grasslands
Because Kalajun covers a vast area, sightseeing buses are one of the most convenient ways to explore the scenic area. The routes pass through grasslands, valleys, forests, and mountain viewpoints, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing scenery without walking long distances.
The combination of green meadows, blooming flowers, forests, snow-capped peaks, and grazing animals creates a spectacular landscape throughout the journey.
Photography
Kalajun is an excellent destination for landscape photography, especially from June to July, when the alpine meadows are covered with colorful wildflowers.
The scenery changes throughout the day. Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and beautiful shadows across the rolling hills, while clear days provide excellent views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Autumn is also a good time for photography, when the grasslands turn golden and the forests add warm colors to the landscape.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a natural way to experience the vast grasslands and traditional pastoral lifestyle. Visitors can ride across the meadows and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace, surrounded by mountains, flowers, and grazing livestock.
Enjoy Kazakh Food
Visitors can try traditional Kazakh food at local herdsmen's homes or camps. Popular dishes and drinks include noodles, baursak, hard sour cheese, and Kazakh milk tea.
Trying local food while staying in a traditional yurt is a great way to experience the everyday culture of Kazakh herders.
Experience Kazakh Nomadic Culture
Kalajun is not only a destination for natural scenery but also an important area for experiencing the traditional nomadic culture of the Kazakh people.
The name "Kalajun" means "black wilderness" in Kazakh. The area has a long history of pastoralism and was once associated with the Wusun, an important ancient nomadic kingdom in the Western Regions.
Today, local Kazakh herders still use traditional yurts during the summer grazing season. Some yurts are decorated with colorful rugs, quilts, and traditional wall hangings, offering visitors an opportunity to experience a traditional nomadic lifestyle.
For travelers interested in culture, staying in a Kazakh yurt, tasting local food, and interacting with local herders can make the trip more memorable.
Accommodation in Kalajun Grassland
Many visitors choose to stay overnight in or around the grassland rather than visit only as a day trip.
Stay in a Traditional Kazakh Yurt
Traditional Kazakh yurts are one of the most distinctive accommodation options in Kalajun. Although facilities are relatively simple compared with city hotels, staying in a yurt allows travelers to experience the local pastoral lifestyle and enjoy the grassland after most day-trippers have left.
Yurt camps usually provide basic sleeping facilities and local meals. Warm clothing is recommended, as temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer.
Stay in Tekes County
For travelers who prefer more comfortable accommodation, staying in Tekes County is another option. It offers easier access to restaurants, hotels, and other facilities, while Kalajun can be visited as a day trip.
Travel Tips for Kalajun Grassland
Prepare for Cool Nights
Kalajun is located at a relatively high altitude, and temperatures can change quickly. Even during the summer, mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring a light jacket or warm outer layer.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grassland is extensive, and visitors may need to walk on uneven trails and grassland paths. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main viewpoints.
Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight can be strong in the alpine environment. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, particularly during June to August.
Allow at Least One Full Day
Kalajun is very large, and trying to visit all of its scenic areas in a few hours can feel rushed. One full day is recommended, while staying overnight allows you to experience the grassland at a more relaxed pace.
Book Accommodation in Advance in Summer
June to August is the busiest travel period. If you plan to stay in a yurt or nearby accommodation, especially during weekends and public holidays, booking in advance is recommended.
Respect the Grassland and Local Culture
Please avoid littering, damaging flowers or vegetation, and disturbing grazing animals. When visiting yurts or herders' homes, respect local customs and ask before taking close-up photographs of people.
Travel Information
Opening Time: Year-round 08:00-20:00
Customer Service Phone: 0999-7765295/0999-7765111/0999-7765293
Admission fee
80CNY/PP
Scenic tour car (round-trip)
90CNY/PP
Located in Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, Kalajun Grassland is one of the most famous alpine grasslands in Xinjiang. Known for its rolling hills, vast meadows, snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, forests, and colorful wildflowers, Kalajun offers one of the most spectacular grassland landscapes in the region.
The name "Kalajun" means "black wilderness" in the Kazakh language. With its unique natural scenery and rich nomadic culture, Kalajun has become a popular destination for sightseeing, photography, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. In 2016, Kalajun was officially rated as a national 5A-level scenic area.
Located within the Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site, Kalajun is considered one of the areas with the richest biodiversity and highest aesthetic value in the Tianshan region. The combination of colorful flower meadows, green forests, deep valleys, traditional Kazakh yurts, grazing livestock, blue skies, and snow-covered peaks creates a breathtaking alpine landscape.
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
6 Days Xinjiang Horseback Travel: East Kalajun to Kurdening
Features
Chinese Name: 喀拉峻草原 [kālājùn cǎoyuán]
Location: about 30 kilometers away by car from the Tekes county
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, learning about Kazakh culture, staying in yurts
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 1-2 days
Best Time to Visit Kalajun Grassland
The best time to visit Kalajun Grassland is from June to September, when the grasslands are at their most beautiful. During this period, the meadows are covered with green grass and colorful wildflowers, while the pleasant weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
👍 June to July — Best Season for Flowers & Photography
June to July is considered the most beautiful period of Kalajun Grassland. During this time, the alpine meadows are covered with colorful wildflowers, creating a stunning contrast with the green hills, forests, and snow-capped mountains.
The famous Five Flower Meadow becomes especially attractive, with different kinds of flowers blooming across the rolling grasslands. The combination of flower fields, mountain scenery, and grazing animals creates one of the most iconic landscapes in Xinjiang.
Minor downside:
It is the peak tourist season, especially during weekends and public holidays.
🍂 August to October — Golden Grassland & Fewer Crowds
From August to October, the grassland gradually changes from green to golden. The autumn colors of the grass, forests, and surrounding mountains create a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere.
With fewer visitors and clearer views, this season is a great choice for travelers who prefer quiet scenery and photography.
Minor downside:
Temperatures become cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
🌱 April to May — Fresh Green Landscape
In spring, Kalajun begins to recover after winter. The grassland turns green gradually, and the fresh scenery creates a peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists.
Minor downside:
Some high-altitude areas may still be cold, and flowers are not yet at their peak.
How to Get to Kalajun Grassland
Kalajun Grassland is located in Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Most travelers first need to reach Yining City, the transportation hub of the Ili Valley, and then continue to Kalajun Grassland.
From Urumqi to Yining
By Flight
Taking a flight from Urumqi to Yining is the fastest way to reach the Ili Valley. The flight takes about 1 hour, covering a distance of approximately 614 kilometers.
By Train
Travelers can also take a train from Urumqi to Yining City. The journey takes around 7 hours, offering a more budget-friendly option.
From Yining to Kalajun Grassland
By Bus
During the tourist season, Kalajun Scenic Area operates direct buses from Yining to Kalajun Grassland for visitors' convenience. Travelers can take the direct bus at Yining Great World.
The bus usually departs at 9:00 AM and returns at 6:00 PM. The ticket price is about CNY 60 for a one-way trip and CNY 99 for a round trip.
By Car / Charter Car
For travelers who want more flexibility, taking a private car or chartering a car is also a convenient option. It allows visitors to explore Kalajun at their own pace and combine the trip with nearby attractions in the Ili Valley.
What to Explore in Kalajun Grassland
Kalajun is known for its rolling alpine meadows, colorful wildflowers, snow-capped mountains, forests, and deep valleys. As part of the Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage Site, it is one of the most scenic and biodiverse areas in the Tianshan Mountains.
The scenic area consists of several landscape zones, including East Kalajun, West Kalajun, Kuokesu Grand Canyon, the Zhongtian Mountain Snow Peaks, and the Forest of Teana. Each area offers a different perspective of the landscape.
Five Flower Meadow
The Five Flower Meadow is one of the most famous landscapes in Kalajun. The gently rolling hills are covered with alpine meadows and colorful flowers, while the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains rise in the distance.
From June to July, the grassland becomes a sea of flowers, with different colors spreading across the green hills. In autumn, the grass gradually turns golden and the surrounding forests take on warmer colors, creating a completely different landscape.
For photographers, the combination of flower-covered meadows, rolling hills, forests, grazing livestock, and snow-capped mountains makes Five Flower Meadow one of the best places to capture the beauty of Kalajun.
Kuokesu Grand Canyon
The Kuokesu Grand Canyon offers a different landscape from the open grasslands. Deep valleys, green hills, forests, and rivers create a dramatic contrast with the gentle alpine meadows.
The canyon is especially beautiful when viewed from higher elevations, where the winding valleys and vast grasslands stretch toward the distant mountains.
Qiongkushitai Village
Located near Kalajun, Qiongkushitai National Historical and Cultural Village is a good place to experience traditional Kazakh culture and rural life.
The village has preserved elements of the traditional lifestyle of local Kazakh people, including wooden houses, yurts, traditional food, and pastoral culture. It can be combined with a Kalajun trip for travelers interested in both natural scenery and local culture.
Things to Do in Kalajun Grassland
Take a Sightseeing Bus and Explore the Grasslands
Because Kalajun covers a vast area, sightseeing buses are one of the most convenient ways to explore the scenic area. The routes pass through grasslands, valleys, forests, and mountain viewpoints, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing scenery without walking long distances.
The combination of green meadows, blooming flowers, forests, snow-capped peaks, and grazing animals creates a spectacular landscape throughout the journey.
Photography
Kalajun is an excellent destination for landscape photography, especially from June to July, when the alpine meadows are covered with colorful wildflowers.
The scenery changes throughout the day. Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light and beautiful shadows across the rolling hills, while clear days provide excellent views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Autumn is also a good time for photography, when the grasslands turn golden and the forests add warm colors to the landscape.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a natural way to experience the vast grasslands and traditional pastoral lifestyle. Visitors can ride across the meadows and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace, surrounded by mountains, flowers, and grazing livestock.
Enjoy Kazakh Food
Visitors can try traditional Kazakh food at local herdsmen's homes or camps. Popular dishes and drinks include noodles, baursak, hard sour cheese, and Kazakh milk tea.
Trying local food while staying in a traditional yurt is a great way to experience the everyday culture of Kazakh herders.
Experience Kazakh Nomadic Culture
Kalajun is not only a destination for natural scenery but also an important area for experiencing the traditional nomadic culture of the Kazakh people.
The name "Kalajun" means "black wilderness" in Kazakh. The area has a long history of pastoralism and was once associated with the Wusun, an important ancient nomadic kingdom in the Western Regions.
Today, local Kazakh herders still use traditional yurts during the summer grazing season. Some yurts are decorated with colorful rugs, quilts, and traditional wall hangings, offering visitors an opportunity to experience a traditional nomadic lifestyle.
For travelers interested in culture, staying in a Kazakh yurt, tasting local food, and interacting with local herders can make the trip more memorable.
Accommodation in Kalajun Grassland
Many visitors choose to stay overnight in or around the grassland rather than visit only as a day trip.
Stay in a Traditional Kazakh Yurt
Traditional Kazakh yurts are one of the most distinctive accommodation options in Kalajun. Although facilities are relatively simple compared with city hotels, staying in a yurt allows travelers to experience the local pastoral lifestyle and enjoy the grassland after most day-trippers have left.
Yurt camps usually provide basic sleeping facilities and local meals. Warm clothing is recommended, as temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer.
Stay in Tekes County
For travelers who prefer more comfortable accommodation, staying in Tekes County is another option. It offers easier access to restaurants, hotels, and other facilities, while Kalajun can be visited as a day trip.
Travel Tips for Kalajun Grassland
Prepare for Cool Nights
Kalajun is located at a relatively high altitude, and temperatures can change quickly. Even during the summer, mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring a light jacket or warm outer layer.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grassland is extensive, and visitors may need to walk on uneven trails and grassland paths. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main viewpoints.
Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight can be strong in the alpine environment. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, particularly during June to August.
Allow at Least One Full Day
Kalajun is very large, and trying to visit all of its scenic areas in a few hours can feel rushed. One full day is recommended, while staying overnight allows you to experience the grassland at a more relaxed pace.
Book Accommodation in Advance in Summer
June to August is the busiest travel period. If you plan to stay in a yurt or nearby accommodation, especially during weekends and public holidays, booking in advance is recommended.
Respect the Grassland and Local Culture
Please avoid littering, damaging flowers or vegetation, and disturbing grazing animals. When visiting yurts or herders' homes, respect local customs and ask before taking close-up photographs of people.
Travel Information
Opening Time: Year-round 08:00-20:00
Customer Service Phone: 0999-7765295/0999-7765111/0999-7765293
Admission fee
80CNY/PP
Scenic tour car (round-trip)
90CNY/PP
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