Bayinbuluke Grassland
Bayinbrook Grassland, meaning "Rich Spring" in Mongolian, is China’s second-largest alpine grassland, covering 23,835 square kilometers in Xinjiang’s Tianshan Mountains. Situated at 2,500 meters above sea level, it features rolling meadows, winding rivers like the Kaidu River, and wetlands that sustain over 120 bird species. Designated a national nature reserve in 1980, the grassland is renowned for its "Nine Sunsets" phenomenon—where the sun reflects nine times on river bends at dusk—and Swan Lake, a winter haven for rare birds. It also preserves the legacy of the Torgut Mongols, who migrated here after their 1771 eastward return from Russia.
Historical Overview
The grassland has been inhabited by Mongolian nomads for centuries. Its modern significance dates to 1771, when the Torgut Mongols, led by Ubashi Khan, returned to China after 140 years in Russia, settling in Bayinbrook. The area became a key military pasture during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). In the 1950s, it was developed into a state-owned sheep farm, later transitioning to ecological conservation. In 2013, it was listed as a national wetland park, emphasizing its role in protecting the endangered swan population.
Structural Layout
The grassland is divided into three zones:
- Highland Meadow Zone: The core area (15,000 sq km) with lush pastures and nomadic camps.
- River Wetland Zone: Features the Kaidu River’s "Nine Sunsets" bend and Swan Lake.
- Forest-Steppe Zone: Mountainous regions with spruce forests and wildlife corridors.
Key landmarks include the Bayinbrook Town (administrative center), Hongzhu Temple (Buddhist site), and Haotengsala Waterfall.
Major Attractions
- Nine Sunsets River Bend: A 60-km stretch of the Kaidu River where sunlight creates nine golden reflections at sunset.
- Swan Lake: A 1,200-acre wetland hosting whooper swans, graylag geese, and ruddy shelducks from September to April.
- Bayinbrook Town: The grassland’s hub, offering yurt stays, Mongolian cuisine, and horseback riding.
- Hongzhu Temple: A 19th-century lama temple with Tibetan Buddhist murals.
- Haotengsala Waterfall: A 40-meter cascade fed by glacial meltwater.
- Torgut Nomadic Village: Experience traditional yurts, dairy product-making, and eagle hunting demonstrations.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Classic Route (4 Hours):
Bayinbrook Town → Nine Sunsets Viewpoint → Swan Lake → Hongzhu Temple
Highlights: Iconic river reflections and swan sightings. -
Extended Route (6 Hours):
Bayinbrook Town → Haotengsala Waterfall → Torgut Nomadic Village → Nine Sunsets → Swan Lake → Sunset at Braid Hill
Highlights: Cultural immersion, waterfall hike, and photography. -
Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Bayinbrook Town → Torgut Village → Haotengsala Waterfall → Nine Sunsets → Swan Lake → Hongzhu Temple → Braid Hill Sunset → Night Yurt Stay
Highlights: Full ecosystem exploration, cultural interaction, and stargazing.
Ticket Purchase
- Entrance Fee: ¥65 (peak season: May–Oct), ¥40 (off-season: Nov–Apr).
- Shuttle Bus: ¥75 (mandatory for core zones; includes Nine Sunsets/Swan Lake access).
- Discounts: 50% off for students/seniors; free for children under 1.2m.
Purchase: Book via the official WeChat platform "Bayinbrook Grassland" or buy on-site.
Transportation
- From Ürümqi: Fly to Korla Airport (1.5 hours), then 5-hour bus to Bayinbrook Town.
- From Korla: Take bus route 2 (4 hours) or taxi (¥300, 3.5 hours).
- Self-Drive: Follow the G218 National Road from Korla to Bayinbrook (260 km, 4 hours).
- Local Transport: Electric carts (¥30/hour) and horse rentals (¥80/hour) available at major sites.
Best Time & Tips
- Ideal Season: June–September for green meadows and swan migrations.
- Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends host tourism groups.
- Essentials:
- Warm clothing (temperatures drop sharply after sunset).
- Binoculars for birdwatching.
- Cash for remote yurt purchases.
- Prohibited Items: Drones (require permit), littering, and off-trail hiking.
- Photography Tip: Use a polarizing filter to enhance river reflections at sunset.
