Balikun Kazak Autonomous County Travel

Hami, Xinjiang Balikun — Pearl of the Grassland, Kazak Flavor. Explore the beautiful scenery of Balikun Lake, visit the wonders of Strange Stone Mountain, and feel the unique charm of Kazak grassland culture.

2000+
Grassland Area (sq km)
25°C
Maximum Summer Temperature
1000 Years
Nomadic Cultural History
300+
Kazak Yurts
Panorama of Balikun Lake and Grassland
Balikun Lake and Grassland Landscape
Harmonious coexistence of lake and grassland

Balikun 3-Day 2-Night Highlight Tour

Explore lake beauty, stroll through strange rock wonders, experience grassland charm

Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Main Destinations
Balikun Lake, Strange Stone Mountain, Kazak Grassland
Suitable For
Nature lovers, cultural experiencers
Budget per Person
¥800-¥1200
01
Lake Exploration
Balikun Lake · Wetland Park
Highlights

Arrive in Balikun County, visit Balikun Lake Scenic Area, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. In the afternoon, tour the wetland park and observe rare birds.

Attractions
Balikun Lake
A famous alpine lake in Xinjiang, with crystal clear waters surrounded by grassland, known as the "Pearl of the Grassland".
Balikun Wetland Park
An important bird habitat, with large numbers of migratory birds stopping here each year — a paradise for birdwatchers.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Balikun Hotel
  • Lakeside Resort
  • Kazak Yurt
Food Recommendations
  • Hand-Grabbed Meat
  • Milk Tea
  • Baursak
Travel Tips
  • Windy by the lake, keep warm
  • Keep quiet while bird watching
  • Respect local ethnic customs
02
Strange Rock Wonders
Strange Stone Mountain · Hongshan Farm
Highlights

Spend the whole day touring the Strange Stone Mountain Scenic Area, admiring the peculiar rocks formed by wind erosion. In the afternoon, visit Hongshan Farm to learn about local agriculture and animal husbandry.

Attractions
Strange Stone Mountain
A unique wind-eroded landscape, with rocks in various shapes resembling animals and castles — truly breathtaking.
Hongshan Farm
A typical integrated farming and grazing area, where you can experience activities like milking cows and shearing sheep, and learn about the Kazak way of life.
Practical Info
Transportation Guide
  • County town to Strange Stone Mountain: ~40 min drive
  • Electric carts available in scenic area
  • Non-slip shoes recommended
Ticket Info
  • Strange Stone Mountain ticket: 50 yuan
  • Farm experience: 30 yuan
Travel Tips
  • No shelter at Strange Stone Mountain, use sun protection
  • Farm activities require advance booking
  • Agricultural products available for purchase
03
Grassland Charm
Kazak Grassland · Folk Village
Highlights

In the morning, head to the Kazak Grassland to experience traditional activities like horseback riding and archery. In the afternoon, visit the Folk Village to learn about Kazak culture. Depart in the evening.

Attractions
Kazak Grassland
Vast grassland scenery where you can experience the traditional Kazak lifestyle and feel the charm of nomadic culture.
Kazak Folk Village
Showcasing traditional Kazak culture, you can enjoy song and dance performances, taste specialty cuisine, and learn about ethnic handicrafts.
Practical Info
Experience Activities
  • Horseback Riding: 50 yuan/hour
  • Archery: 20 yuan/session
  • Milking Experience
  • Yurt Visit
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Kurut (Dried Cheese Curds)
  • Wool Products
  • Kazak Embroidery
Important Notes
  • Follow instructions when horseback riding
  • Respect ethnic customs
  • Practice environmental protection on the grassland

Must-Try Foods in Balikun Kazak Autonomous County

Hand-Grabbed Meat

A traditional Kazak delicacy, large chunks of lamb boiled and eaten by hand — pure and simple flavors reflecting the boldness of the grasslands.

Milk Tea

A daily Kazak drink made from brick tea and milk, savory and delicious — an essential beverage for entertaining guests.

Baursak

A traditional Kazak pastry, deep-fried small dough balls, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often enjoyed with milk tea.

Balikun Kazak Autonomous County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Best season for grasslands
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Pleasant cool climate
  • Winter: Experience snow-covered plains
Must-Try Experiences
  • Grassland Horseback Riding
  • Kazak Song & Dance Performance
  • Yurt Accommodation Experience
  • Stargazing
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx. 100 yuan
  • Accommodation: 200-300 yuan/night
  • Meals: 60-100 yuan/day
  • Transport: 100 yuan (car hire)
  • Total: 800-1200 yuan
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Is it cold on the grassland? → Large temperature difference, bring a jacket
  • Any taboos? → Do not enter herder yurts without permission
  • Essential gear? → Sunscreen, warm clothing
  • Best time for photography? → Early morning and evening

Explore Districts & Counties of Hami City