1. Overview
Bayinbuluk Grassland (巴音布鲁克草原, Bāyīnbùlǔkè Cǎoyuán), located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, is a 2,500-meter-high plateau spanning 23,835 km². Named "Abundant Springs" in Mongolian, it’s a AAAAA-rated scenic area and UNESCO World Heritage Site (2013), celebrated for its:
- Unique Hydrology: Fed by 13 springs, 7 lakes, and the Kaidu River (a Silk Road landmark).
- Biodiversity: Home to 700+ plant species and 145 vertebrate species, including China’s largest wild swan population.
- Cultural Legacy: A historic settlement for Torgut Mongols who migrated here in the 18th century.
2. Natural Wonders
- Kaidu River’s "Nine Bends": The serpentine river creates a surreal "nine suns" reflection at sunset, revered in Journey to the West as "Heavenly River."
- Swan Lake Nature Reserve: China’s first swan sanctuary (1980), hosting 10,000+ migratory swans (March–October) from India and Africa.
- Alpine Ecosystems:
- Summer (June–August): A sea of wildflowers (Poa pratensis, Iris lactea) and grazing herds.
- Autumn (September–October): Golden grasslands under snow-capped peaks.
3. Cultural & Historical Significance
- Torgut Mongol Heritage: In 1771, 17,000 Torgut Mongols fled Russian oppression to settle here under Qing Dynasty protection. Their "Eastward Return" saga is reenacted in annual festivals.
- Nomadic Traditions:
- Naadam Festival: Horse racing, wrestling, and throat-singing (June–July).
- Mobile Temples: The Barenre Temple is the last surviving nomadic Buddhist shrine.
- Silk Road Crossroads: Ancient trade routes connected China to Persia via the Yanqi Basin.
4. Key Attractions
- Nine-Bend Viewpoint: A photography hotspot at Brazilik Platform, accessible via electric shuttle (¥31).
- Gongnaisi Forest Park: A cool retreat with Tianshan spruce forests and medicinal hot springs.
- Aerxia Scenic Area: Marshes and lakes ideal for birdwatching.
5. Travel Essentials
- Best Time to Visit: June–September for wildflowers; April–May for swan migrations.
- Entry Fees: ¥65 (adults), ¥31 for shuttles; ¥310 for private vehicles (limited to 50/day).
- Transport:
- Flights: Ürümqi → Korla Airport → 5-hour drive via G217 Highway.
- Road Trip: Part of the Duku Highway route (open June–October).
- Stay: Mongol yurts (¥200–500/night) or Bayinbuluk Town hotels.
6. Why Visit?
Bayinbuluk is a harmony of nature and culture—where Silk Road history, alpine ecology, and living Mongol traditions converge. As UNESCO notes, it’s "a masterpiece of Earth’s evolutionary history."