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Drive along the winding roads of the Bayinbuluke Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns, known for its scenic beauty. Stop at various viewpoints to take in the stunning landscapes of lush grasslands, mountains, and rivers. Take a hike or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the area. It's also a great spot for photography, capturing the meandering roads and picturesque surroundings.
Located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, the "Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns" (九曲八折) is within the Bayinbuluke Scenic Area and a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The name "Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns" refers to the Kaidu River, which winds its way through the Bayinbuluke grasslands. The winding, rugged waters of the river, like a dragon, weave their way through the water. The area is famous for its sunset scene, where the setting sun illuminates the river, creating a scene of nine floating suns. The vibrant sunset glow creates a vibrant scene that attracts numerous photography enthusiasts.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Bayinbuluke Grassland, 1-2 hours
free
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
The Bayinbuluke Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns are famous for their scenic road, which has become a symbol of the region’s natural beauty. This area is part of the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture and is historically significant for its connection to the local nomadic Mongol culture. The bends and turns represent both the challenges of travel in this rugged terrain and the beauty of the untouched landscape.
Located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang, the Bayinbuluke Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns can be accessed by road. The nearest city is Korla, from which you can travel by taxi or private car. Public transport options may be limited, so renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended.
The site is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the landscape is especially beautiful. Avoid the harsh winter months, as temperatures can drop significantly, and the summer months can be hot and crowded.
The entrance fee is typically free, as the area is a natural scenic spot. However, fees may apply for parking or specific guided tours. Tickets for organized tours can be purchased online or offline through tour operators or at local hotels.
Booking in advance is not strictly necessary, especially if you plan to visit independently. However, if you're joining a guided tour, it’s advisable to book at least a few days in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
You’ll need approximately 2-3 hours to explore the area fully, including driving along the winding road, stopping for photos, and enjoying the views. If you plan to hike or explore more, you may want to allocate an additional hour or two.
The main highlight is the scenic road with its famous nine bends and eighteen turns, offering stunning views at every twist. Additionally, the surrounding grasslands and mountains make for an unforgettable landscape. Stop at different viewpoints to enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available by request, though it’s recommended to book in advance for specific language preferences. Audio guides are not commonly offered, so a guide will enhance your experience.
The best viewpoints are located along the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns, where you can capture the curves of the road with the vast open landscape. Additionally, the top of the surrounding hills offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire area.
The recommended route is to start at one end of the winding road, stopping at key viewpoints to capture photos and enjoy the natural beauty. If you’re up for it, a short hike along the hills surrounding the road provides an even more dramatic view of the landscape.
Night visits and light shows are not available in this area. The best way to experience Bayinbuluke is during the day when you can fully appreciate the scenic road and surrounding landscape. Special tours may be available during festival seasons.
The area can get crowded during the summer months, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during the off-season (spring or autumn) or on weekdays.
There are basic facilities available, such as toilets and rest areas. However, there are no major restaurants or shops in the immediate area. It’s best to bring your own water, snacks, and supplies for the journey.
The road itself is accessible by car, but there may be limited accessibility for elderly or disabled visitors if you wish to explore the area on foot or hike. It’s best to check with local tour providers for specific accessibility information before visiting.
Cash is recommended, especially for small purchases along the way. Mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Xinjiang, though it’s best to carry cash just in case.
There are no major restaurants or cafes inside the attraction. However, you can find local dining options in nearby towns such as Korla, where you can enjoy Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb skewers, pilaf, and hand-pulled noodles.
Halal food is widely available in Xinjiang, including in Korla. Vegetarian and vegan options may be more limited but can still be found, particularly in larger towns and cities.
There are several hotels in Korla, ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular choices include the Korla Hotel and the Shuangxiu International Hotel. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a Mongolian yurt or guesthouse near Bayinbuluke.
Nearby attractions include the Lop Nur Wild Camel Nature Reserve, which is home to the rare wild camels of the region, and the Tian Shan Mountains. These can be easily combined into a day trip from Korla.
You can find small souvenir shops selling local crafts such as Mongolian rugs, ethnic jewelry, and traditional clothing. Local Xinjiang specialties, like dried fruits and nuts, are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis or private car rentals are the best options to continue your trip. For long-distance travel, buses and trains are available in Korla, which is the nearest major city.
