Nanshan Pasture in Urumqi

Nanshan Pasture (West Baiyanggou Scenic Area) is located on the northern foothills of the Karawucheng Mountains in Urumqi County, approximately 70 km from downtown Urumqi. It is one of the best-known alpine grassland destinations on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains. The area was once a royal hunting ground and has been a traditional homeland for generations of Kazakh nomadic communities.

The scenic region covers a large area and includes several distinct sections, such as West Baiyanggou, Juhuatai, and Wulastai Alpine Grassland. Together, they offer a combination of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, snow ridge spruce forests, mountain valleys, streams, and waterfalls.

With elevations ranging from approximately 1,800 to 2,200 meters, Nanshan enjoys pleasantly cool summers and is one of the most popular nearby summer retreats from Urumqi. Compared with Tianshan Grand Canyon, Nanshan offers broader grassland views and a stronger atmosphere of traditional Kazakh pastoral and nomadic culture.

Main Highlights

Shenbulak Waterfall in West Baiyanggou

Shenbulak Waterfall is the main attraction in the West Baiyanggou section. A wooden boardwalk follows the valley uphill, while dense spruce forests on both sides provide natural shade. Clear streams wind through the mountain valley before the waterfall plunges down from the cliffs.

The cool spray around the waterfall makes this one of the most popular summer hiking spots in the area. The combination of forest, flowing water, cliffs, and alpine scenery also provides plenty of opportunities for nature photography.

Wulastai Alpine Grassland

The Wulastai Alpine Grassland is characterized by broad, gently rolling terrain and expansive views. Green meadows stretch toward the horizon, with cattle and sheep grazing across the landscape. On clear days, snow-capped mountains can be seen in the distance.

The open terrain makes Wulastai an excellent location for photographing panoramic grassland scenery and watching the sunset. The contrast between the green pasture, scattered livestock, and distant snow peaks creates one of the most classic pastoral landscapes around Urumqi.

Juhuatai

Juhuatai is famous for its extensive gently sloping meadows. From July to August, the hillsides are covered with colorful wildflowers, while large areas of golden wild chrysanthemums create a particularly beautiful seasonal landscape.

The surrounding scenery offers views toward Tianger Peak, and the broad, softly contoured grassland slopes are especially suitable for portrait photography and relaxed walks.

Kazakh Nomadic Culture and Grassland Experiences

Traditional Kazakh yurts can be found throughout the scenic area. Visitors can sample local pastoral foods such as hand-grabbed meat, milk tea, and naan, offering an opportunity to experience the flavors of traditional grassland life.

Horse riding is another popular activity, allowing visitors to explore the open meadows from a more traditional perspective. Depending on the season and local arrangements, you may also have the chance to watch traditional Kazakh activities such as horse racing and the “Girl Chasing” game (Kyz Kuu), a traditional equestrian custom in which young men and women ride horses together.

Practical Information

Tickets and Opening Hours

During the peak season from April to October, adult admission is CNY 45. Full-time undergraduate students and students below undergraduate level can receive 50% off with valid identification. Children under 1.2 meters and seniors aged 65 and above are admitted free to the main scenic area with valid identification.

The sightseeing vehicle to the West Baiyanggou waterfall area requires a separate fee of CNY 38. Horse riding and meals or other services provided at yurts are additional expenses.

The scenic area is open from 09:00 to 19:00, with last admission at 18:00. Allow approximately 4–5 hours for sightseeing, and a full-day round trip from Urumqi is recommended.

Transportation

The various scenic sections are relatively far apart, so self-driving is strongly recommended. The journey from downtown Urumqi takes approximately 1.5 hours by car.

Dedicated shuttle buses operate from the Nan Jiao Passenger Transport Station in Urumqi, but departures are limited and the last return bus may leave relatively early, so visitors relying on public transportation should plan carefully.

For a fuller Nanshan experience, West Baiyanggou can be combined with Yinggou and Mulutai to create a one-day sightseeing route through the southern mountain area of Urumqi.

Travel Tips

Mountain Weather and Sun Protection

Mountain weather can change rapidly. Even during summer, temperatures at higher elevations can be noticeably cool, so bring a windproof jacket. Sudden afternoon showers are common, making a raincoat or other rain gear essential.

Ultraviolet radiation is strong at high elevations. Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses. Mosquitoes and other insects can also be common around the grasslands and streams, so insect repellent is recommended.

Grassland and Horse-Riding Safety

When hiking across the grasslands, stay on existing trails and avoid trampling the meadows or entering fragile areas without permission. Protecting the native vegetation is particularly important in this alpine environment.

Before going horse riding, confirm the route, duration, and price with the local herders in advance. Follow the herder's instructions throughout the ride and prioritize safety, particularly if you have little previous riding experience.

Driving, Supplies, and Environmental Protection

Mobile phone reception can be unstable in the mountains, so downloading an offline map before departure is advisable. Mountain roads contain numerous bends, so drive slowly and carefully, and give way to cattle and sheep when they appear on the road.

Food options inside the scenic area are relatively limited, so bringing sufficient drinking water and a simple meal or snacks is recommended.

Open flames are prohibited in the grassland areas. Camping must follow the scenic area's management regulations, and all visitors should take their rubbish with them. Help protect the fragile grassland, forests, streams, and other natural environments.