Address: Bayinbuluke

🌄 **Bayinbuluke | Xinjiang's Cloud Prairie, a Breathtaking Paradise You Must Visit in This Lifetime** 🌄

Located in Hejing County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, Bayinbuluke is a high-altitude prairie nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, with an average elevation of 2,500 meters. Known as one of "China's Most Beautiful Wetlands," it served as a filming location for *Pegasus*. The winding Kaidu River and the elegant swans of Swan Lake create a living masterpiece.

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1️⃣ **Sunset at the Nine-Bend Eighteen-Turn River**
📸 At dusk, the Kaidu River resembles a golden ribbon meandering across the prairie. If you're lucky, you might witness the rare spectacle of "nine suns"! The best viewing spot is at the Balik Observation Deck—arrive early to secure a good spot.

2️⃣ **Encounter Rare Birds at Swan Lake**
🦢 China's largest swan nature reserve comes alive from May to September during the breeding season, with flocks of egrets and gray cranes. Don’t forget your binoculars and telephoto lens!

3️⃣ **Gallop Across the Prairie on Horseback**
🐎 Local herders offer horseback riding experiences (approx. 100–200 RMB/hour), taking you through flower-filled meadows and streams for a taste of nomadic freedom.

4️⃣ **Drive Along the Duku Highway**
🚗 If traveling from Ürümqi or Yining, don’t miss the Duku Highway (open only June–September). This "Most Beautiful Road in Xinjiang" winds through canyons, snow-capped peaks, and prairies.

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**📅 Best Time to Visit**
- **June–August**: Lush green prairies, wildflowers in full bloom, and pleasant temperatures (10–25°C).
- **September**: Autumn hues paint the golden prairie with a unique charm.
⚠️ Heavy snowfall closes some attractions in winter.

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**🚗 Transportation Guide**
- **Flight + Private Car**: Fly to Korla or Nalati Airport, then hire a car (approx. 4–5 hours).
- **Self-Drive**: From Ürümqi via the Duku Highway (approx. 8 hours; SUV recommended). Stunning scenery along the way!
- **Within the Scenic Area**: Shuttle buses are required (ticket + shuttle fee ~140 RMB). No private vehicles allowed in core zones.

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🏠 **Accommodation Recommendations**
- **Prairie Yurts**: Experience nomadic life and stargazing (basic conditions; 200–400 RMB).
- **Town Hotels**: Comfortable options like Western Sentiment Hotel in Bayinbuluke Town. Book early during peak season!

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🍖 **Must-Try Local Food**
- **Hand-Grabbed Lamb**: Tender, free-range local mutton with no gaminess.
- **Baked Buns**: Crispy pastry filled with savory lamb—best enjoyed hot!
- **Milk Tea with Naan**: Salty milk tea is a traditional Mongolian breakfast.

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Bayinbuluke is a paradise for photographers, a dream for road-trippers, and a sanctuary to escape the hustle. Every frame feels like a Windows wallpaper, and every breath tastes of freedom!

✨ **When Will You Set Off?** ✨
(Guide updated regularly—save it for later!)

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