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Explore the vast, scenic grasslands by horseback or on foot. Visit traditional Kazakh yurts and learn about the local culture. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and enjoy hiking, photography, or simply relaxing in the peaceful natural setting.
With over 90% vegetation coverage, the Hemu Grassland serves as the primary summer and winter pastures for the surrounding area. As a result, you can see cattle and sheep grazing across the mountains and plains. The vast expanse of grassland is a breathtaking sight. Hemu Village is home to the Tuva people, who maintain the most complete ethnic traditions. Arriving here, you'll see rows of small wooden houses and herds of cattle, creating a unique natural and cultural landscape alongside snow-capped peaks, forests, grasslands, and blue skies. However, their culture has its own taboos, which should be respected. The Tuva people worship fire and are against spitting or throwing dirt into it. They also have a strong reverence for water and are against bathing, washing clothes, or taking out garbage in the river.
Best from June to September;
The climate is temperate continental, with cold winters and hot summers, large annual temperature differences, concentrated precipitation, and distinct four seasons.
It is recommended to play for 1 day;
Photography enthusiasts should definitely not miss this place, as it is a great place to take pictures and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
free
Open all day
Hemu Grassland is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and traditional Kazakh culture. The area has been inhabited by nomadic herders for centuries and remains an important part of Xinjiang's cultural and ecological landscape. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the lifestyle and traditions of the indigenous people.
Hemu Grassland is located in the Altai Mountains, in the northwestern part of Xinjiang. The nearest major city is Kanas, which is accessible by bus, taxi, or car rental. From Kanas, it’s a 2-hour drive to the grassland. There are no metro services in this area.
The grassland is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush. The autumn months (September to October) are also popular for enjoying the golden foliage and cooler temperatures.
Entrance fees vary depending on the season and activities. The average ticket price is around 60-100 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site in cash or via local travel agencies. It’s recommended to check availability and pricing in advance for peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended during the peak season (July to August). You can book through local travel agents or online platforms offering tours to Xinjiang.
To fully explore Hemu Grassland, 1-2 days is ideal. This will give you enough time to enjoy outdoor activities, visit the yurts, take photographs, and experience the local culture. If you’re planning to hike or do more in-depth exploration, you may want to extend your stay.
The must-see highlights include the vast grassy fields, traditional Kazakh yurts, and the surrounding Altai Mountains. The area near the Hemu Village offers spectacular views and great photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. These tours provide insight into the history, culture, and natural environment of the area. Audio guides are not typically available.
The best viewpoints are near the Hemu Village, where the grasslands meet the mountains. Sunset and sunrise offer spectacular photography opportunities. The Altai Mountains and surrounding lakes provide picturesque backdrops for nature photography.
Start with a visit to the Hemu Village, where you can interact with local Kazakh people. Then, take a scenic walk through the grasslands, followed by a visit to the surrounding hills for panoramic views. End the day with a sunset photography session near the lakeside.
Night visits are not typically offered. However, the grassland offers a peaceful atmosphere for stargazing, especially on clear nights. There are no light shows, but the natural beauty of the area at dusk and dawn is worth experiencing.
The grassland can be crowded during the peak summer months, especially in July and August. The least crowded times are in the spring (April to May) and late autumn (October to November). Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available, but amenities are limited compared to urban areas. Local food options are available, often in the form of small restaurants or food stalls near the village. It’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks for longer stays.
The terrain can be challenging, with uneven ground and limited paved paths. While elderly and children can visit, some areas may not be easily accessible for people with disabilities. It’s best to check with local guides about accessibility options.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in most places. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in some areas, but it's safer to carry cash for small transactions.
There are several local eateries in the nearby village, offering traditional Kazakh dishes such as mutton, milk tea, and bread. Larger towns in Xinjiang also offer more options, but the grassland area has a more rustic selection.
Halal food options are readily available, as the region is home to many Kazakh and Uyghur communities. Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, but you can find simple vegetable dishes and fruits in the local restaurants.
Accommodations near Hemu Grassland are limited to guesthouses, yurts, and a few small hotels in the nearby Hemu Village. For more comfortable stays, larger hotels in Kanas or Altai City may be a better option.
Nearby attractions include the Kanas Lake, which is a short drive away. The area is also home to other beautiful grasslands and mountains in the Altai range. These can easily be visited on a day trip from Hemu Grassland.
There are small souvenir shops in the nearby village selling traditional Kazakh crafts, including wool products, jewelry, and textiles. Handmade items such as rugs and ornaments are popular souvenirs.
After visiting Hemu Grassland, taxis or local buses can take you to Kanas or Altai City for further travel. Car rentals are a convenient option if you wish to explore the region at your own pace.
