Xinyuan County Travel

Xinyuan, Xinjiang — Pearl of the Grasslands, Jiangnan Beyond the Pass. Explore Nalati, one of the world's four major grasslands, encounter the spring romance of Turgeng Apricot Flower Valley, and feel the Kazakh spirit on horseback.

1800 m
Average Grassland Elevation
April
Best Apricot Blossom Season
300+
Wild Plant Species
70%
Kazakh Population Ratio
Xinyuan County Natural Scenery
Nalati Grassland & Turgeng Apricot Flower Valley
A symphony of the grandeur of the sky grassland and the soft beauty of apricot blossoms like snow

Xinyuan County 3-Day 2-Night Grassland Culture Tour

Gallop across the sky grassland, immerse in apricot blossom mist, experience nomadic life

Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Nalati Grassland, Apricot Flower Valley, Kazakh First Village
Suitable For
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, culture seekers
Budget per Person
¥1800 - ¥2500
01
Sky Grassland
Nalati Grassland · River Valley Grassland · Panlong Valley Trail
Highlights

Arrive in Xinyuan County, spend the whole day exploring Nalati Grassland in depth, experience horseback riding and hiking, and capture the grassland sunset.

Attractions
Nalati Grassland
One of the world's four major alpine meadows. From June to September, various wildflowers bloom in succession, with Kazakh yurts dotting the landscape, creating a three-dimensional grassland painting.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Grassland Starry Sky Tent
  • Kazakh Yurt
  • Nalati Town Hotel
Special Experiences
  • Grassland Horseback Riding (80 yuan/hour)
  • Home Visit for Milk Tea
  • Stargazing Photography
02
Apricot Blossom Mist
Turgeng Apricot Flower Valley · Wild Fruit Forest
Highlights

Head to Turgeng Apricot Flower Valley to capture the spring apricot blossom scenery. In the afternoon, explore the medieval wild fruit forest.

Attractions
Turgeng Apricot Flower Valley
The world's most concentrated wild apricot forest distribution area. Every early April, 30,000 mu of wild apricot trees bloom simultaneously, creating a striking visual contrast between pink-white flower seas and green grasslands.
Practical Info
Photography Tips
  • Prepare a telephoto lens
  • Drone requires prior approval
  • Best around sunrise
Bloom Period Notice
  • Inquire about bloom status from late March
  • Peak bloom lasts only 7-10 days
  • Avoid weekend crowds
03
Nomadic Culture
Kazakh First Village · Return Journey
Highlights

Experience Kazakh folk activities at the First Village in the morning, shop for specialty handicrafts in the afternoon, then depart.

Attractions
Kazakh First Village
A living museum showcasing traditional Kazakh culture. Watch eagle hunting performances and girl-chasing games, participate in yurt building and embroidery experiences.
Practical Info
Cultural Experiences
  • Horseback sheep snatching performance
  • Dombra singing
  • Hand embroidery experience
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Handmade horsewhip
  • Wool felt products
  • Wild black honey

Must-Try Foods in Xinyuan County

Hand-Grabbed Meat

A traditional Kazakh dish made with grass-fed lamb boiled in plain water, eaten by hand dipped in salt. The pure flavors embody the bold nomadic culinary culture.

Baursak

A traditional Kazakh fried pastry, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often enjoyed with milk tea. It represents the highest hospitality.

Mare's Milk

A traditional Kazakh fermented beverage made from mare's milk. Sweet and tangy, it aids digestion and boosts immunity.

Xinyuan County Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • April: Apricot blossom season (7-10 days optimal viewing)
  • June-August: Grassland blooming season
  • September: Autumn landscape photography
Must-Try Experiences
  • Galloping across the grassland on horseback
  • Picnic in Apricot Flower Valley
  • Kazakh folk performances
  • Stargazing camping
Packing List
  • Sunscreen (strong UV)
  • Windbreaker jacket (large temperature difference)
  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Extra camera batteries
FAQs
  • Will there be altitude sickness? → At 1800m, generally no issues
  • Exact apricot bloom time? → Inquire locally from late March
  • Accommodation conditions? → Options include yurts and standard hotels
  • Is it safe? → Very safe, but be careful with horseback riding

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