Bayanbulak, a paradise hidden in the mountains of NW China
Having watched the film Pegasus, many would be shocked by the exciting and thrilling car race scene in the movie. The racing-themed movie showed during the Spring Festival holiday has unintendedly brought public attention to the Bayanbulak Grassland, where the race scenes were filmed.
Bayanbulak Grassland National Nature Reserve
Located in the Bayanbulak Basin of Tianshan Mountains in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Bayanbulak Grassland National Nature Reserve is a hidden paradise and is the second largest grassland in China. Bayanbulak means “abundant spring” in Mongolian. Being mostly flat and surrounded by snow mountains, the prairie abounds in grass and is studded with seven lakes and 20 rivers.
Swan Lake
Sitting at an altitude of 2,000 to 2,500 meters, the Swan Lake on the reserve is an important breeding ground for birds and waterfowl, and it is the only breeding ground for swans in China. Swans and other rare birds would return to the lake, a connected series of wetlands, from the south to live and breed here for eight months from April each year.
'Nine turns and eighteen bends'
The Kaidu River in the reserve is famous for its "nine turns and eighteen bends" view and is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. It's said that if lucky enough, one can see nine suns in the river at one time. The best opportunity falls around the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Nadam Fair
Nadam Fair is a big event held on June 4 in the lunar calendar every year. Locals and tourists are entertained by various activities such as horse racing, wrestling, dancing, and archery. It is a good opportunity to experience local customs.
Food
Roasted lamb, barbecue, pilaf, noodles, baked buns, and Bayanbulake tea are some of the must-try foods when you visit the Bayanbulak Grassland. And it's always nice to drink a bowl Kumiss after dinner.
Roasted lamb. /VCG Photo
Tips：
1. Transportation: Tourists can arrive at Hejing County from Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region by car or from Turpan by train. Shuttle buses are available from Hejing County to Bayanbulak government every other day.
2. Bring warm clothes as the temperature difference on the grassland in quite large between day and night.
3. Best visiting time: June to September
4. Entrance fee: 65 yuan (9.6 U.S. dollars)
(Cover: View of Bayanbulak Town in Hejing County in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. /VCG Photo)