Nanshan
Nanshan Pastureland is a beautiful natural scenic area located in Urumqi County, about 40 kilometers away from Urumqi City. Known for its snow-capped mountains, green grasslands, alpine forests, clear streams, and rich Kazakh nomadic culture, it is one of the most popular summer destinations near Urumqi.
Located in the extremely arid region of the heart of Asia and Europe, Nanshan offers a refreshing contrast with its lush forests, wide grasslands, and pleasant climate. The scenic area combines natural landscapes, alpine pastoral scenery, and ethnic cultural experiences, making it an ideal place for sightseeing, photography, hiking, horseback riding, and escaping the busy city life.
The snow peaks are towering, the mountains are rolling, the trees are lush, flowers and plants are everywhere, and springs flow through the valleys. Whether visiting in the warm summer months or enjoying the snowy winter scenery, Nanshan Pastureland is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of Xinjiang's nature and traditional nomadic life.
Features:
Chinese Name: 南山牧场 [ nán shān mù chǎng ]
Location: About 40 kilometers away from Urumqi
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, natural scenery, hiking, learn about Kazakh nomadic culture, horseback riding
Suited to: everyone
Time needed: more than 3 hours
Recommended Xinjiang tours:
10 Days North Xinjiang Photography Tour
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
Best Time to Visit Nanshan Pastureland
Nanshan Pastureland is suitable for visiting throughout the year, as each season offers a different landscape and experience.
☀️ Spring (April to May) — Flower Season
Spring is the season when Nanshan begins to wake up. The grass gradually turns green, and wild flowers, especially azaleas, bloom across the valleys. It is a beautiful time for visitors who enjoy flowers and peaceful mountain scenery.
Minor downside:
The temperature is still relatively low in spring, especially in the morning and evening, so warm clothing is recommended.
🌿 Summer (June to August) — Best Season for Escaping the Heat
Summer is considered one of the best times to visit Nanshan. The grasslands become green and lively, the weather is cool and comfortable, and visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, photography, and outdoor activities.
The average summer temperature is around 19°C, making Nanshan a popular summer retreat from the heat of Urumqi.
Minor downside:
The temperature difference between day and night can be large, so visitors should bring a light jacket or windproof clothing.
🍂 Autumn (September to October) — Colorful Mountain Scenery
In autumn, the forests and grasslands gradually turn golden, creating beautiful mountain scenery. The clear sky, colorful forests, and quiet valleys make it a great season for photography.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening, so warmer clothes are needed.
❄️ Winter (November to March) — Snowy Landscape
Winter transforms Nanshan into a snow-covered world. Visitors can enjoy snowy mountains, frozen landscapes, and winter activities.
Minor downside:
Some outdoor activities may be affected by cold weather, so proper winter clothing is necessary.
How to Get to Nanshan Pastureland from Urumqi
a. By Bus
Visitors can take a shuttle bus from Nanjiao Passenger Station on Huanghe Road, Urumqi.
The buses usually operate from 9:00 to 19:00, with departures approximately every hour. This is a convenient option for travelers without private transportation.
b. By Car
Driving is one of the most flexible ways to visit Nanshan Pastureland.
The scenic area is about 40 kilometers from Urumqi, and the journey usually takes around 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Driving allows visitors to stop at viewpoints along the way and enjoy the mountain scenery.
What to Explore in Nanshan Pastureland
With its combination of grasslands, forests, mountains, flowers, and Kazakh nomadic culture, Nanshan offers visitors a chance to enjoy peaceful natural scenery and experience the unique charm of Xinjiang's mountain pastures.
Alfalfa Platform — Wild Flowers and Mountain Views
The Alfalfa Platform is one of the most beautiful sightseeing areas in Nanshan. Located on a hilltop grassland platform, it is surrounded by mountains on three sides and offers wide views of the surrounding meadows.
From spring to autumn, more than ten kinds of wild flowers bloom here, including yellow, purple, light blue, red, and white flowers. The colorful grasslands, flowing springs, and distant mountains create a peaceful and picturesque landscape.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk, admire the flower fields, and take beautiful photos of the natural scenery. It is an ideal place to experience the beauty of Xinjiang's alpine grassland.
West Poplar Ditch — A Peaceful Valley Surrounded by Forests
West Poplar Ditch is one of the most famous scenic areas in Nanshan. The area gets its name from the large number of poplar trees growing along the valley.
Surrounded by green forests, grasslands, and mountain streams, West Poplar Ditch offers a cool and comfortable environment, especially during the hot summer months. The hidden Green Leaf Villa among the trees adds a peaceful and charming atmosphere to the valley.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and relaxing in nature while appreciating the beautiful scenery of forests, valleys, and grasslands.
Chrysanthemum Flowerbed — A Colorful Flower Paradise
The Chrysanthemum Flowerbed is another popular attraction in Nanshan. During the flowering season, wild chrysanthemums cover the grassland, and the fragrance spreads throughout the valley.
When sunlight shines through the clouds onto the green grass, the changing shadows create a beautiful natural scene. It is a perfect place for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts to capture the unique beauty of Nanshan.
Things to Do in Nanshan Pastureland
Hiking and Enjoy Beautiful Views & Photography
Nanshan Pastureland offers many scenic spots with beautiful natural landscapes, including Alfalfa Platform, West Poplar Ditch, East Poplar Ditch, and Chrysanthemum Flowerbed.
Visitors can enjoy hiking through green meadows, forests, and valleys while appreciating the peaceful alpine scenery. In spring and summer, wild flowers bloom across the grassland, while clear streams flow through the valleys and snow-capped mountains stand in the distance.
The combination of grasslands, forests, mountains, and flowers creates excellent photography opportunities. Whether you enjoy landscape photography or simply want to relax in nature, Nanshan provides many beautiful viewpoints to explore.
At Alfalfa Platform, visitors can walk through colorful flower fields and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. At West Poplar Ditch, the dense poplar forests, flowing streams, and green valleys create a quiet and refreshing atmosphere. The Chrysanthemum Flowerbed is especially attractive during the flowering season, making it a wonderful place for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Experience Traditional Kazakh Nomadic Life & Horseback Riding
One of the most special experiences in Nanshan is discovering the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakh people.
In areas such as West Poplar Ditch, visitors can experience horseback riding, listen to the sound of horse bells, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of grasslands and valleys. Riding a horse across the open pasture allows travelers to experience the traditional way of exploring Xinjiang’s grassland landscapes.
Visitors can also watch traditional Kazakh cultural activities, including horse racing, lamb grabbing competitions, and traditional performances, which provide a deeper understanding of local customs.
If you have enough time, you can visit a Kazakh yurt, taste local specialties such as kumiss, cheese, stewed mutton, and shish kebab, and experience the hospitality of local herdsmen. Staying or dining in a yurt is a great way to learn about the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Xinjiang.
What to Prepare:
Prepare Warm Clothing
Although Nanshan is close to Urumqi, the temperature is cooler due to its mountainous environment. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can feel cold. Visitors are recommended to bring a light jacket or warm clothing.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Nanshan covers a large area with walking paths, grasslands, and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes are recommended for exploring the scenic area.
Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight can be strong in mountainous areas. Visitors should prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially when spending a long time outdoors.
Respect Local Culture and Nature
Nanshan is home to local Kazakh communities and traditional grazing areas. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, avoid disturbing livestock, and protect the natural environment.
Travel Information
Opening Time: 09:00-19:00 (January 1 - December 31)
Customer Service Phone: 0991-5837888
Tickets:
Admission Fee: 45 CNY/person
Accommodation and Food
Stay Near Nanshan Pastureland
Since Nanshan Pastureland is close to Urumqi, most visitors choose to visit as a day trip from Urumqi and return to the city on the same day.
For travelers who want to enjoy a slower pace and experience the local atmosphere, staying near the scenic area is also a good option. There are some guesthouses, farm stays, and Kazakh yurts available around Nanshan, offering visitors a chance to experience local life.
Experience a Kazakh Yurt Stay
Staying in a Kazakh yurt is one of the unique experiences in Nanshan. Visitors can enjoy the traditional grassland lifestyle, taste local food, and communicate with local herdsmen.
Traditional foods such as kumiss, roasted meat, hand-pulled noodles, and dairy products are popular choices for travelers who want to experience Xinjiang's ethnic cuisine.
Food and Dining
There are restaurants and local dining options near the scenic area. Visitors can try Kazakh specialties and Xinjiang-style dishes while enjoying the mountain scenery.
Since there are limited shops in some parts of the scenic area, it is recommended to prepare drinking water and snacks before entering the scenic area, especially for visitors planning hiking activities.
Nearby Attractions
Urumqi
Located at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, Urumqi is the capital city of Xinjiang and an important gateway for exploring northern Xinjiang.
Visitors can experience the city's unique combination of modern urban life, Xinjiang ethnic culture, local cuisine, and historical attractions. Popular places include the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, museums, and local food streets.
Nanshan Pastureland is often visited together with Urumqi as a relaxing nature escape from the city.
International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi
Tianshan Grand Canyon
Tianshan Grand Canyon is another famous natural attraction near Urumqi. It features spectacular canyon landscapes, snow-capped mountains, forests, and alpine lakes.
Compared with the open grassland scenery of Nanshan, Tianshan Grand Canyon focuses more on mountain landscapes and geological formations, making it a great choice for travelers who enjoy hiking and nature photography.
Tianchi Lake (Heaven Lake of Tianshan)
Located in the eastern Tianshan Mountains, Tianchi Lake is one of the most famous scenic spots in Xinjiang.
Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and forests, the clear blue lake creates a beautiful alpine landscape. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing, photography, and views of the magnificent Tianshan Mountains.
Together with Nanshan Pastureland, Tianchi Lake offers travelers a chance to experience different types of natural scenery around Urumqi — from grasslands and forests to alpine lakes and snowy mountains.
Nanshan Pastureland is a beautiful natural scenic area located in Urumqi County, about 40 kilometers away from Urumqi City. Known for its snow-capped mountains, green grasslands, alpine forests, clear streams, and rich Kazakh nomadic culture, it is one of the most popular summer destinations near Urumqi.
Located in the extremely arid region of the heart of Asia and Europe, Nanshan offers a refreshing contrast with its lush forests, wide grasslands, and pleasant climate. The scenic area combines natural landscapes, alpine pastoral scenery, and ethnic cultural experiences, making it an ideal place for sightseeing, photography, hiking, horseback riding, and escaping the busy city life.
The snow peaks are towering, the mountains are rolling, the trees are lush, flowers and plants are everywhere, and springs flow through the valleys. Whether visiting in the warm summer months or enjoying the snowy winter scenery, Nanshan Pastureland is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of Xinjiang's nature and traditional nomadic life.
Features:
Chinese Name: 南山牧场 [ nán shān mù chǎng ]
Location: About 40 kilometers away from Urumqi
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, natural scenery, hiking, learn about Kazakh nomadic culture, horseback riding
Suited to: everyone
Time needed: more than 3 hours
Recommended Xinjiang tours:
10 Days North Xinjiang Photography Tour
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
Best Time to Visit Nanshan Pastureland
Nanshan Pastureland is suitable for visiting throughout the year, as each season offers a different landscape and experience.
☀️ Spring (April to May) — Flower Season
Spring is the season when Nanshan begins to wake up. The grass gradually turns green, and wild flowers, especially azaleas, bloom across the valleys. It is a beautiful time for visitors who enjoy flowers and peaceful mountain scenery.
Minor downside:
The temperature is still relatively low in spring, especially in the morning and evening, so warm clothing is recommended.
🌿 Summer (June to August) — Best Season for Escaping the Heat
Summer is considered one of the best times to visit Nanshan. The grasslands become green and lively, the weather is cool and comfortable, and visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, photography, and outdoor activities.
The average summer temperature is around 19°C, making Nanshan a popular summer retreat from the heat of Urumqi.
Minor downside:
The temperature difference between day and night can be large, so visitors should bring a light jacket or windproof clothing.
🍂 Autumn (September to October) — Colorful Mountain Scenery
In autumn, the forests and grasslands gradually turn golden, creating beautiful mountain scenery. The clear sky, colorful forests, and quiet valleys make it a great season for photography.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening, so warmer clothes are needed.
❄️ Winter (November to March) — Snowy Landscape
Winter transforms Nanshan into a snow-covered world. Visitors can enjoy snowy mountains, frozen landscapes, and winter activities.
Minor downside:
Some outdoor activities may be affected by cold weather, so proper winter clothing is necessary.
How to Get to Nanshan Pastureland from Urumqi
a. By Bus
Visitors can take a shuttle bus from Nanjiao Passenger Station on Huanghe Road, Urumqi.
The buses usually operate from 9:00 to 19:00, with departures approximately every hour. This is a convenient option for travelers without private transportation.
b. By Car
Driving is one of the most flexible ways to visit Nanshan Pastureland.
The scenic area is about 40 kilometers from Urumqi, and the journey usually takes around 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Driving allows visitors to stop at viewpoints along the way and enjoy the mountain scenery.
What to Explore in Nanshan Pastureland
With its combination of grasslands, forests, mountains, flowers, and Kazakh nomadic culture, Nanshan offers visitors a chance to enjoy peaceful natural scenery and experience the unique charm of Xinjiang's mountain pastures.
Alfalfa Platform — Wild Flowers and Mountain Views
The Alfalfa Platform is one of the most beautiful sightseeing areas in Nanshan. Located on a hilltop grassland platform, it is surrounded by mountains on three sides and offers wide views of the surrounding meadows.
From spring to autumn, more than ten kinds of wild flowers bloom here, including yellow, purple, light blue, red, and white flowers. The colorful grasslands, flowing springs, and distant mountains create a peaceful and picturesque landscape.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk, admire the flower fields, and take beautiful photos of the natural scenery. It is an ideal place to experience the beauty of Xinjiang's alpine grassland.
West Poplar Ditch — A Peaceful Valley Surrounded by Forests
West Poplar Ditch is one of the most famous scenic areas in Nanshan. The area gets its name from the large number of poplar trees growing along the valley.
Surrounded by green forests, grasslands, and mountain streams, West Poplar Ditch offers a cool and comfortable environment, especially during the hot summer months. The hidden Green Leaf Villa among the trees adds a peaceful and charming atmosphere to the valley.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and relaxing in nature while appreciating the beautiful scenery of forests, valleys, and grasslands.
Chrysanthemum Flowerbed — A Colorful Flower Paradise
The Chrysanthemum Flowerbed is another popular attraction in Nanshan. During the flowering season, wild chrysanthemums cover the grassland, and the fragrance spreads throughout the valley.
When sunlight shines through the clouds onto the green grass, the changing shadows create a beautiful natural scene. It is a perfect place for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts to capture the unique beauty of Nanshan.
Things to Do in Nanshan Pastureland
Hiking and Enjoy Beautiful Views & Photography
Nanshan Pastureland offers many scenic spots with beautiful natural landscapes, including Alfalfa Platform, West Poplar Ditch, East Poplar Ditch, and Chrysanthemum Flowerbed.
Visitors can enjoy hiking through green meadows, forests, and valleys while appreciating the peaceful alpine scenery. In spring and summer, wild flowers bloom across the grassland, while clear streams flow through the valleys and snow-capped mountains stand in the distance.
The combination of grasslands, forests, mountains, and flowers creates excellent photography opportunities. Whether you enjoy landscape photography or simply want to relax in nature, Nanshan provides many beautiful viewpoints to explore.
At Alfalfa Platform, visitors can walk through colorful flower fields and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. At West Poplar Ditch, the dense poplar forests, flowing streams, and green valleys create a quiet and refreshing atmosphere. The Chrysanthemum Flowerbed is especially attractive during the flowering season, making it a wonderful place for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Experience Traditional Kazakh Nomadic Life & Horseback Riding
One of the most special experiences in Nanshan is discovering the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakh people.
In areas such as West Poplar Ditch, visitors can experience horseback riding, listen to the sound of horse bells, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of grasslands and valleys. Riding a horse across the open pasture allows travelers to experience the traditional way of exploring Xinjiang’s grassland landscapes.
Visitors can also watch traditional Kazakh cultural activities, including horse racing, lamb grabbing competitions, and traditional performances, which provide a deeper understanding of local customs.
If you have enough time, you can visit a Kazakh yurt, taste local specialties such as kumiss, cheese, stewed mutton, and shish kebab, and experience the hospitality of local herdsmen. Staying or dining in a yurt is a great way to learn about the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Xinjiang.
What to Prepare:
Prepare Warm Clothing
Although Nanshan is close to Urumqi, the temperature is cooler due to its mountainous environment. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can feel cold. Visitors are recommended to bring a light jacket or warm clothing.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Nanshan covers a large area with walking paths, grasslands, and uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes are recommended for exploring the scenic area.
Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight can be strong in mountainous areas. Visitors should prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially when spending a long time outdoors.
Respect Local Culture and Nature
Nanshan is home to local Kazakh communities and traditional grazing areas. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, avoid disturbing livestock, and protect the natural environment.
Travel Information
Opening Time: 09:00-19:00 (January 1 - December 31)
Customer Service Phone: 0991-5837888
Tickets:
Admission Fee: 45 CNY/person
Accommodation and Food
Stay Near Nanshan Pastureland
Since Nanshan Pastureland is close to Urumqi, most visitors choose to visit as a day trip from Urumqi and return to the city on the same day.
For travelers who want to enjoy a slower pace and experience the local atmosphere, staying near the scenic area is also a good option. There are some guesthouses, farm stays, and Kazakh yurts available around Nanshan, offering visitors a chance to experience local life.
Experience a Kazakh Yurt Stay
Staying in a Kazakh yurt is one of the unique experiences in Nanshan. Visitors can enjoy the traditional grassland lifestyle, taste local food, and communicate with local herdsmen.
Traditional foods such as kumiss, roasted meat, hand-pulled noodles, and dairy products are popular choices for travelers who want to experience Xinjiang's ethnic cuisine.
Food and Dining
There are restaurants and local dining options near the scenic area. Visitors can try Kazakh specialties and Xinjiang-style dishes while enjoying the mountain scenery.
Since there are limited shops in some parts of the scenic area, it is recommended to prepare drinking water and snacks before entering the scenic area, especially for visitors planning hiking activities.
Nearby Attractions
Urumqi
Located at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, Urumqi is the capital city of Xinjiang and an important gateway for exploring northern Xinjiang.
Visitors can experience the city's unique combination of modern urban life, Xinjiang ethnic culture, local cuisine, and historical attractions. Popular places include the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, museums, and local food streets.
Nanshan Pastureland is often visited together with Urumqi as a relaxing nature escape from the city.
International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi
Tianshan Grand Canyon
Tianshan Grand Canyon is another famous natural attraction near Urumqi. It features spectacular canyon landscapes, snow-capped mountains, forests, and alpine lakes.
Compared with the open grassland scenery of Nanshan, Tianshan Grand Canyon focuses more on mountain landscapes and geological formations, making it a great choice for travelers who enjoy hiking and nature photography.
Tianchi Lake (Heaven Lake of Tianshan)
Located in the eastern Tianshan Mountains, Tianchi Lake is one of the most famous scenic spots in Xinjiang.
Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and forests, the clear blue lake creates a beautiful alpine landscape. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing, photography, and views of the magnificent Tianshan Mountains.
Together with Nanshan Pastureland, Tianchi Lake offers travelers a chance to experience different types of natural scenery around Urumqi — from grasslands and forests to alpine lakes and snowy mountains.
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