Kalajun Grassland

Historical Overview

Kalajun (Kazak for “Fertile Land”) has been a summer pasture for Kazak nomads since the 3rd century BCE, when Saka tribes grazed livestock here. It flourished under the Uyghur Khaganate (744–840 CE) as a trade hub on the Northern Silk Road. Modern conservation began in 1982 with the establishment of the Tianshan Forest Park, which protects its alpine ecosystems. Today, it balances eco-tourism with traditional pastoralism, offering a glimpse into Central Asia’s nomadic heritage.

Structural Layout

The grassland is divided into three zones:

1. Eastern Meadow: Gentle slopes dotted with yurts, wildflower fields, and the “Eagle Viewpoint.”
2. Western Canyon: A dramatic gorge with limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and the “Crooked River Trail.”
3. Alpine Zone: Above 3,000 meters, featuring glacial lakes, edelweiss colonies, and the “Snow Leopard Observatory.”
   Key infrastructure includes 30km of horse trails, 5 yurts camps, and the “Sky Ladder” suspension bridge.

Major Attractions

1. Flower Platform: A 2km² meadow ablaze with purple lupines and yellow potentillas (June–July).
2. Hunters’ Eagle Platform: A cliff where Kazak falconers demonstrate golden eagle hunting.
3. Nine-Curved Glacier: A 3km-long ice field accessible via a 4-hour trek from the “Ice Lake Trailhead.”
4. Nomad Yurt Camp: Traditional Kazak yurts offering kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and horseback riding.
5. Stone Man Valley: A field of 1,000+ rock cairns erected by nomads for good luck.
6. Crooked River: A turquoise stream meandering through 8km of birch forests.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (Half-Day):
   Visitor Center → Flower Platform → Hunters’ Eagle Platform → Return.
   Highlights: Wildflowers and cultural demonstrations in 4 hours.

2. Adventure Route (Full-Day):
   Visitor Center → Crooked River → Nine-Curved Glacier → Nomad Yurt Camp → Return.
   Highlights: Glacier trekking and rural immersion.

3. Nomadic Experience (2 Days):
   Day 1: Stone Man Valley prayer rituals and yurt stay.
   Day 2: Horseback journey to remote pastures and stargazing.
   Highlights: Cultural immersion and alpine camping.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Tianshan Park WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets available at the Visitor Center; arrive early for horse rentals.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (June–August): ¥140 (adults), ¥70 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (September–May): ¥90 (adults), ¥45 (students/seniors).
  • Combo Pass (Grassland + Glacier Trek): ¥220 (adults).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • Yining Bus Station → Tekes County (2 hours, ¥30) → Local shuttle to Kalajun.
• By Taxi:
  • Direct from Yining Airport (2.5 hours, ¥200).
• By Tour:
  • Group tours from Ürümqi/Kashgar include Sayram Lake and Kazak villages.
• Departure: Shuttle buses depart hourly to Tekes/Yining.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: June–July (wildflowers), September–October (autumn colors).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
• Weather: Pack layers (5–25°C at altitude) and rain gear (June–September).
• Essentials:
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots (uneven terrain).
  • Carry oxygen cans (altitude sickness common above 3,000m).
  • Respect Kazak customs (no photography inside yurts without permission).
• Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and off-trail hiking.