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Located in Nileke County, Tangbula Grassland is a collective term for the grassland landscape in the upper Kashi River canyon. It takes its name from the Tangbula Grand Canyon, a large rock on the eastern ridge resembling a jade seal. It's named Tangbula (meaning seal in Kazakh) because it's 91 kilometers southeast of the county seat and connects to the Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway to the east.
The Tangbula Grassland, which is more than 100 kilometers long, is a narrow river valley grassland. The Kashgar River, a tributary of the upper reaches of the Ili River, runs across the entire area. On both sides are the beautiful Tianshan Mountains. Every step brings a new scene, and it is as beautiful as a poem and a painting. It is so beautiful that it is known as the "Hundred-Mile Painting Scroll".
Tangbula Grassland has the unique Arslang Stone Forest, spectacular grassland sunsets, ice peaks and snow-capped mountains reflected in the quiet and deep alpine lakes, warm and refreshing hot springs, blue sky and white clouds, lush grass, gurgling streams in Tangbula Valley, and tall and green spruce forests. The forest area in Tangbula Valley is beautiful, refreshing and pleasant. In summer, it is like a picturesque screen with layers of green mountains, giving people a beautiful enjoyment every moment.
The Tangbula Grassland is at its most beautiful in summer and autumn. June is the season for cattle and sheep to migrate, and along the way you'll encounter countless bleating and mooing birds.
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Tangbula Grassland is an important natural and cultural area in Yili, Xinjiang, reflecting the traditional nomadic lifestyle of Kazakh herders and offering a preserved grassland ecosystem.
Located in Yili Prefecture, Xinjiang. Accessible by taxi or private car from Yining city; local buses may connect nearby villages. Walking and horseback riding are ideal for exploring the grasslands.
Open year-round. Best visiting season is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) for lush greenery and mild weather.
Some areas may require a small entrance fee; tickets are generally purchased onsite at the entrance.
Booking is usually not required unless arranging guided tours or horseback riding activities.
Half a day to a full day, depending on activities like horseback riding or hiking.
Local guides may be available, mostly in Chinese; limited English services. Audio guides are not standard.
Start from the main entrance or village, explore central meadows, visit rivers and lakes, interact with nomadic families, and finish at panoramic viewpoints for sunset photography.
Night visits are uncommon; the focus is daytime exploration and cultural experiences.
Generally not crowded; weekdays and early mornings offer the most peaceful experience.
Basic facilities include small local eateries, rest areas, public toilets near village areas, and limited souvenir shops.
Partially accessible; grassland terrain may be challenging for elderly and disabled visitors. Children should be supervised, especially during outdoor activities.
Cash is recommended; mobile payments may be accepted in some local shops or guesthouses.
Small local restaurants in nearby villages serving Xinjiang and Kazakh cuisine; no large cafés are available.
Halal food is widely available; vegetarian options may be limited but possible at some local eateries.
Guesthouses, yurts, and small hotels are available in nearby villages and towns, offering basic comfort and local hospitality.
Limited souvenir options; typical items include Kazakh textiles, handicrafts, and local dairy products.
Taxis, private cars, or local buses to Yining city or other nearby scenic destinations.
