Tuolehaite Grassland in Altay, Xinjiang

The Tuolehaite Grassland (托勒海特草原) is located in Ala Hake Town (阿拉哈克镇), Altay City (阿勒泰市), Xinjiang, about 138–150 km from the city center and close to the China–Mongolia border. Sitting at an elevation of 1,400–2,000 meters, it is widely recognized as the largest summer pasture in Northern Xinjiang and one of the most pristine alpine ecosystems in the Altay Mountains (阿尔泰山脉).

The name “Tuolehaite (托勒海特)” carries poetic meaning in both Mongolian and Kazakh languages, referring to a place where cranes rest and birds gather, reflecting the area’s untouched wetland ecology and rich biodiversity.

Tuolehaite Grassland Natural Landscape – Meadows, Wetlands & Snow Mountains

A Living Alpine Ecosystem

The landscape of Tuolehaite Grassland (托勒海特草原) is a rare combination of wetlands, rolling grasslands, rivers, and forested valleys. It is part of a high-altitude basin system surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Altay Mountains (阿尔泰山脉).

In early summer, especially from June onward, the grassland transforms into a sea of wildflowers. Golden blossoms of wildflowers spread across the valley, while morning mist often covers more than half of the landscape, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

By midday, herds of horses, cattle, and sheep move freely across the plains. At night, the sky opens into a clear, unpolluted canvas filled with stars—making it one of the best astrophotography locations in Xinjiang.

Unique Weather & Seasonal Beauty

• Summer temperature: 18–22°C
• Best travel season: May to September
• Morning phenomenon: mist, cloud sea, and occasional “Buddha light” optical effect
• Autumn scenery: golden grasslands with red and yellow birch forests

The combination of altitude and humidity creates rapid weather changes, allowing travelers to experience four seasons in one day.

Wildlife & Ecology of Tuolehaite Grassland 

A Protected Alpine Habitat

Tuolehaite is a key ecological zone in Northern Xinjiang, with forest coverage reaching over 65%. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including:

• Brown bear
• Red deer (马鹿)
• Lynx (猞猁)
• Marmot (旱獭)
• Snow cock (雪鸡)
• Squirrel species and forest frogs

The grassland is also an important breeding and resting site for the Demoiselle crane (蓑羽鹤 / 灰鹤), a nationally protected bird species in China. Every June, flocks of cranes gather in the wetlands, creating one of the most spectacular natural scenes in Altay.

Wild edible plants such as wild strawberries and forest mushrooms grow naturally here. After rain, mushroom picking becomes a popular eco-travel experience.

Cultural Heritage of Tuolehaite 

Legends, Nomadic Life & Living Traditions

Local Mongolian and Kazakh communities believe Tuolehaite is a sacred migration stop for cranes. In Mongolian folklore, it is described as a place where celestial cranes descend to rest.

A local legend tells of a fairy whose hair turned into grasslands, her jewelry became flowers, and her arms transformed into surrounding mountains.

Kazakh pastoral traditions remain active here. Travelers may still witness nomadic lifestyle activities such as:

• Making fermented mare’s milk (kumis / 马奶酒)
• Preparing dried meat (风干肉)
• Traditional horse games and festivals

In recent years, cultural events featuring folk music, dance performances, and handicraft exhibitions have enriched the visitor experience.

The area also gained popularity after the TV drama “My Altay (我的阿勒泰)” used Tuolehaite as a filming location, making its wooden cabins and grassland scenery iconic among travelers.

Things to Do in Tuolehaite Grassland 

Eco-Travel & Photography

• Wildflower photography in June–July
• Sunrise mist photography over alpine valleys
• Stargazing in unpolluted night skies
• Birdwatching of cranes and rare species

Adventure & Cultural Experiences

• Horseback riding across open grasslands
• Staying in traditional yurts (毡房)
• Exploring wetland trails along the Altay ecological corridor
• Participating in seasonal nomadic festivals

Travel Information for Tuolehaite Grassland 

Access Routes

Tuolehaite is part of the Ahe Highway (阿禾公路 / Altay–Hemu Scenic Road):

• Eastern route: asphalt road through valleys and villages
• Western route: scenic off-road route via lakes, stone forests, and reservoirs (requires 4WD)

Public transport is available to Ala Hake Town (阿拉哈克镇), followed by local shuttle services or guided tours.

Accommodation Options

• Grassland eco-camps (野奢营地)
• Starry sky wooden cabins (星空木屋)
• Traditional Kazakh yurts (毡房)

Travel Tips

• Weather changes quickly—bring warm layers even in summer
• Mobile signal may be weak in some areas
• Carry cash for remote regions
• Follow ecological protection rules and avoid disturbing wildlife
• Best photography time: sunrise and sunset

Why Visit Tuolehaite Grassland 

The Tuolehaite Grassland in Altay (阿勒泰托勒海特草原) offers one of the most untouched alpine landscapes in China. With its combination of wetlands, wildlife, nomadic culture, and snow mountains, it is a rare destination where nature and tradition still coexist in their purest form.

For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path Xinjiang travel, ecological tourism, and authentic nomadic culture, Tuolehaite is one of the most unforgettable stops in Northern Xinjiang.