7 Days Xinjiang Kalajun Grassland Trekking and Camping Tour

Scenic Drive to Kalajun

After breakfast, depart from Yining (伊宁) and begin your journey toward the stunning Kalajun Grassland (喀拉峻草原). Along the way, you will pass through Tekes County (特克斯县), home to the famous Bagua City (八卦城)—a unique city layout based on ancient Chinese cosmology, known as the only city in China without traffic lights.

You will stop here for lunch and a brief exploration, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

Entering the Grassland

Upon arrival at Kalajun, take the scenic shuttle bus into the core area. The landscape quickly transforms into rolling green hills, alpine meadows, and distant snow-capped peaks, offering your first real taste of Xinjiang’s wild beauty.

Trekking from Flower Terrace (鲜花台)

Your trekking adventure begins at Flower Terrace (鲜花台)—one of the most picturesque starting points in the grassland. Here, you will walk through wide-open meadows dotted with seasonal wildflowers, with panoramic views stretching across the horizon.

This initial trek is designed to be light and enjoyable, allowing you to ease into the experience while taking in the scenery and capturing photos.

Luxury Camping Experience

By late afternoon, arrive at Yuxibulak Campsite (玉希布拉克营地). After settling in, enjoy a highlight of the day: a Xinjiang-style mountain hot pot dinner (新疆火锅) made with fresh local ingredients.

Spend the night under the stars in a comfortable grassland campsite, surrounded by silence and vast open skies.

Accommodation: Luxury campsite (Yuxibulak)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: ~3 km (1.5 hours)
Altitude: ~2000m

Morning on the Grassland

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of nature in Kalajun Grassland (喀拉峻草原). The morning light over the rolling hills creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

After breakfast, begin a full day of trekking deeper into the grassland.

Expansive Meadow Trekking

Today’s route takes you across vast alpine meadows, where you will experience the true scale and beauty of Kalajun. Expect to see:

• Endless green hills stretching into the distance
• Grazing horses and sheep
• Occasional encounters with local Kazakh herders (哈萨克牧民)

The terrain is gentle, making it suitable for most travelers while still offering a rewarding sense of adventure.

Picnic Lunch in Nature

Midway through the trek, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by untouched landscapes. This is a perfect moment to relax, take photos, and fully absorb the tranquility of the grassland.

Arrival at Guli Campsite (古丽营地)

In the afternoon, arrive at Guli Campsite (古丽营地), where a light luxury afternoon tea awaits you—an elegant touch in the middle of nature.

Overnight in Traditional Kazakh Yurts (毡房)

Tonight, you will stay in traditional Kazakh yurts (毡房), offering a unique cultural experience. Enjoy a warm dinner and the peaceful ambiance of the grassland at sunset.

Accommodation: Guli Yurts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: ~10 km (5 hours)
Altitude: ~2000m

Into the Dramatic Canyon Landscapes

After breakfast at Guli Campsite (古丽营地), today’s journey takes you beyond open grasslands into more dramatic terrain—the stunning Kurdai Gorge (库尔代峡谷), one of the hidden natural gems within Kalajun Grassland (喀拉峻草原).

As you trek toward the gorge, the scenery gradually shifts from rolling meadows to forested slopes, rocky formations, and layered valleys, offering a completely different perspective of the region’s diverse ecosystem.

Descending into Kurdai Gorge

Upon arrival, you will descend into the canyon, where steep cliffs, winding streams, and lush vegetation create a striking contrast to the open grassland above. The air here feels cooler and more humid, adding to the refreshing atmosphere.

Purple Flower Slope (紫花坡)

One of today’s highlights is the beautiful Purple Flower Slope (紫花坡). During the blooming season, this hillside is covered in vibrant purple flowers, creating a picturesque landscape that is perfect for photography and relaxation.

Return to Guli Campsite

After soaking in the scenery and capturing unforgettable moments, you will trek back to Guli Campsite (古丽营地). The evening is yours to unwind—enjoy the peaceful grassland sunset, a warm dinner, and another night in your cozy Kazakh yurt (毡房).

Accommodation: Guli Yurts
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: ~10 km
Altitude: ~2000m

Final Trekking Through Forest Trails

Your last day of trekking offers a different experience as you explore a hidden forest path within Kalajun (喀拉峻森林小径). Surrounded by dense greenery, tall trees, and fresh mountain air, this section feels शांत and secluded—ideal for a slow, reflective walk.

The gentle trail allows you to fully enjoy the sounds of nature, from rustling leaves to distant bird calls, marking a peaceful conclusion to your Kalajun Grassland trekking adventure (喀拉峻草原徒步之旅).

Scenic Picnic in the Forest

Midway through the trek, you will stop for a picnic lunch in the forest, enjoying a quiet moment immersed in nature. This is a perfect time to relax, take photos, and appreciate the diversity of landscapes you’ve experienced over the past few days.

Return Journey to Yining

After completing your trek, you will transfer by vehicle back to Yining (伊宁). The journey offers one last look at the sweeping grasslands and distant mountains of the Ili River Valley (伊犁河谷).

Upon arrival in Yining, check into your hotel and enjoy the comfort of modern amenities after several days in nature.

Evening at Leisure

The rest of the evening is free for you to relax or explore the local city atmosphere—perhaps enjoy a casual walk or sample local Xinjiang cuisine.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Yining
Meals: Breakfast
Trekking Distance: ~3 km (1.5 hours)
Altitude: ~2000m

Lavender Sea in Huocheng (霍城薰衣草花海)

After breakfast in Yining (伊宁), begin a scenic drive toward Huocheng County (霍城县), home to China’s most famous Lavender Fields (薰衣草花海). Known as the “Purple Sea,” this region produces a large portion of China’s lavender and reaches peak bloom from June to July.

Stroll through endless rows of vibrant purple flowers, breathe in the soothing fragrance, and capture postcard-perfect photos against the backdrop of the Ili River Valley (伊犁河谷). This is one of the most romantic and photogenic stops of your Xinjiang journey (新疆之旅).

Journey to Sayram Lake (赛里木湖)

Continue your drive to the breathtaking Sayram Lake (赛里木湖), often referred to as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic.” Nestled at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains (天山山脉), this alpine lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vast open skies, and surrounding grasslands.

Lakeside Exploration

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the lakeshore, where you can:

• Admire wildflowers blooming across the grasslands
• Take in panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains
• Experience the peaceful atmosphere of one of the most beautiful lakes in Xinjiang

The contrast between the deep blue lake and the green meadows creates unforgettable scenery.

Return to Yining

In the late afternoon, return to Yining (伊宁). After checking into your hotel, enjoy a comfortable evening at leisure.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Yining
Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: ~150 km (2.5 hours)
Altitude: ~700m

Farewell to Xinjiang (新疆)

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Yining Airport (伊宁机场) for your departure flight.

As your Kalajun Grassland trekking and camping tour (喀拉峻草原徒步露营之旅) comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of:

• The vast beauty of Kalajun Grassland (喀拉峻草原)
• The serene waters of Sayram Lake (赛里木湖)
• The vibrant colors of the Lavender Fields (霍城薰衣草花海)
• The warmth of local Kazakh culture (哈萨克族文化)

End of the Journey

Your guide will assist with all departure arrangements, ensuring a smooth and stress-free conclusion to your trip.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: None