[2025 Xinyuan Stay] Travel Guide for Trip.com Group Country Retreats (Nalati River Valley Grassland) (Updated May)

[Pushpin] Preliminary preparation [RoundNails] ID: Bring your Mainland China ID card and other IDs you may need, such as student ID, senior citizen ID, etc. [RoundNails] Clothing: Prepare clothes for all four seasons, such as short-sleeved shirts and shorts for summer, coats for spring and autumn, thick down jackets, warm pants, hats, scarves, gloves, etc. for winter. Also prepare sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hats and other sun protection products. [RoundNails] Daily necessities: toiletries, skin care products, cosmetics, towels, etc. [RoundNails][Medicine]Medicine: Prepare cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine, anti-allergy medicine, anti-mosquito bite medicine, etc. [Pushpin] Traffic Guide [RoundNails][StopBoard]External transportation: You can first arrive at Urumqi Diwopu Airport, and then transfer to Yining Airport; you can also choose to take a train from Urumqi to Yining. [RoundNails] Internal transportation: Renting a car or chartering a car is a more convenient way to travel. You can also choose to take a long-distance bus or a scenic area shuttle bus. [Pushpin] Recommended attractions [RoundNails] Sailimu Lake: Known as the "last tear of the Atlantic Ocean", the lake water is azure blue, the lakeside grassland is vast, and it is surrounded by mountains. You can walk, cycle, take a boat, and camp along the lake.  [RoundNails] Kalajun Grassland: A typical mountain grassland with undulating terrain. The grassland and snow-capped mountains complement each other. It is a "five-color meadow" grassland with hundreds of high-quality forage grasses. You can experience horse riding across the grassland.  [RoundNails] Nalati Grassland: a subalpine meadow plant area that is one of the four largest grasslands in the world. It has snow-capped mountains, streams, forests, grasslands and other landscapes. You can choose to travel along the aerial grassland route or the river valley grassland route and experience activities such as horseback riding and hiking.  [RoundNails] Xiata Tourist Area: The ancient Silk Road in history allows you to get close to the snow-capped mountains. Along the way, there are grasslands, forests, rivers, glaciers and other landscapes. It is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts.  [RoundNails] Duku Highway: Like a giant dragon lying on the Tianshan Mountains, it is 561 kilometers long and connects southern and northern Xinjiang. It is open only from June to September. Along the way, you can enjoy the unique scenery of "different weather every ten miles and four seasons in one day".  [Pushpin] Food Recommendations [RoundNails] Wheat lung: After washing the sheep lung, squeeze the gluten, cooking oil, cumin powder, salt and other condiments into the lung lobes, seal it tightly and cook it. It can be served cold or stir-fried. [RoundNails] Narin is a delicacy from the pastoral areas of the Kazakh ethnic group. It is made by cooking meat or mutton and placing it in a large iron plate. After the noodles are cooked in broth, they are poured over the meat, sprinkled with onions and stirred. [RoundNails] Thin-skinned steamed buns: Beef or mutton mixed with onions, salt, cooking oil, pepper and other condiments as stuffing. The skin is thin and the stuffing is rich. It is usually eaten with steamed naan and pilaf. [Pushpin] Accommodation suggestions [RoundNails] Yining City: There are abundant accommodation options, including various star-rated hotels, budget hotels and characteristic B&Bs, such as the Four Seasons Hotel and Hanting Hotel. [RoundNails]Scenic area surroundings: There are resorts, farmhouses and homestays around scenic spots such as Nalati Grassland and Kalajun Grassland, such as Ctrip Holiday Farm (Nalati Valley Grassland Branch), which are convenient for visiting scenic spots.

Best Time to Travel Ili experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm. The best time to visit is from May to September. In May, visit Qiaxi and Kurdening to witness the first green shoots of the grasslands and the blooming wildflowers. June and July are ideal for exploring the lavender fields in Huocheng and the picturesque Nalati and Kalajun grasslands. From July to August, head to Zhaosu to admire the canola flower fields and experience a scenic drive along the Yizhao Highway. Must-Visit Attractions - Sailimu Lake: Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," this lake boasts crystal-clear waters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands. Enjoy cycling or hiking around the lake, taking in the stunning scenery, and even encountering swans. - Kalajun Grassland: Referred to as "a beautiful land suspended in the air," Kalajun features "five-flower meadows" where hundreds of varieties of high-quality pasture grasses thrive. The combination of grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and forests creates a fairytale-like landscape. - Nalati Grassland: Considered one of the "most beautiful grasslands in the world," Nalati offers the magnificent sight of "windswept grass revealing grazing cattle and sheep." Take a shuttle bus deep into the heart of the grassland to experience the harmony of nature. - Huocheng Lavender Fields: From June to August, the lavender blossoms paint the fields in vibrant purple, creating a Chinese version of Provence. The vast sea of purple flowers against the backdrop of blue skies and white clouds is incredibly romantic. - Xiata Ancient Trail: Located at the foot of Muzart Peak in the Tianshan Mountains, this trail is a pilgrimage site for hiking enthusiasts. Hike or ride a horse to the foot of the glacier, enjoying the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands along the way. Food Recommendations - Hand-Grabbed Mutton: A traditional Kazakh delicacy, this dish features tender and juicy mutton served with special spices and naan bread. - Naren Noodles: Wide noodles served in mutton broth with chunks of mutton, offering a rich and layered flavor. - Horse Sausage: Horse meat and intestines are marinated with special spices and then boiled or smoked, resulting in a savory and chewy delicacy. - Mian Feizi: Sheep's lungs are filled with batter and boiled, then served with gluten and cold noodles for a unique culinary experience. Accommodation Options - Luxury: Trip.com Farm Stay (Nalati River Valley Grassland), Trip.com Farm Stay (Nalati Forest Park Joint Venture), and Yining Tianyuan International Hotel offer excellent facilities and beautiful surroundings. - Family-Friendly: Trip.com Farm Stay (Nalati River Valley Grassland), Trip.com Farm Stay (Nalati Forest Park Joint Venture), and Tekes Tianyue Eco-Hotel are suitable for families with children. - Unique: Xinjiang Kalajun Flower Camp·Yunchigu offers exceptional views and location, nestled halfway up the grassland. Transportation Guide - External Transportation: The most convenient way to reach Ili is by air, flying directly to Yining Airport. Alternatively, you can fly to Urumqi and then transfer to a flight or bus to Ili. - Internal Transportation: Ili covers a vast area with considerable distances between attractions. Renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended for flexible and convenient travel.

The sky in Nalati is as blue as if it has been washed by water, and the snow-capped mountains in the distance quietly watch over this peaceful land. When we came here with our baby son, we seemed to have entered a paradise far away from the hustle and bustle of the world, and the Ctrip Holiday Farmhouse (Nalati Valley Grassland Store) is the warm little house in this fairy tale, waiting for every family to come. 🌄【Breathe with nature】Open the window, and the first ray of morning light and fresh air rush into the room, waking us up from our dreams. In front of us are rolling hills, cows and sheep grazing leisurely, and the snow-capped peaks in the distance, which make people feel relaxed and happy. The baby excitedly pointed out the window: "Mom, look! There are so many little sheep there!" At that moment, I felt the most beautiful gift that nature gave us - purity and tranquility. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦【Unlimited family time】The family room here is so thoughtful! Not only is the space spacious and bright, but it also specially prepares cute little beds and various toys for children, making the children happy as soon as they enter the room. Before going to bed at night, we read storybooks together, listening to the occasional sound of insects outside, feeling that the whole world has quieted down, leaving only the warm company between each other. 📸【Capture beautiful moments】Whether it's the first ray of sunshine in the morning or the gentle sunset in the evening, this farmhouse can become the most beautiful background board in your lens. Remember to bring your camera, find a corner and press the shutter, every photo is a memory worth cherishing. Especially those pictures of playing with children, recording their innocent smiles, and freezing the beautiful time of growing up together. 🌟【Thoughtful service like home】From the moment you check in, you can feel the enthusiasm and thoughtfulness of the staff. Every morning, there will be someone to clean the room to ensure that everything is in order; if you encounter any problems, you only need to make a phone call, and the friendly housekeeper will immediately appear to help solve them. What is even more surprising is that they also prepare towels and other daily necessities suitable for children, truly achieving "home away from home". This trip has been very rewarding for us. Not only did we appreciate the magnificent scenery of the Nalati Valley Grassland, but more importantly, in such a place full of love and care, we left precious and unforgettable experiences for our family of three. If you also want to give your heart a vacation, you might as well come here and have a look!

📍 Trip.com Group Country Retreats, Nalati River Valley Grassland, No. 011, Lane 1, Nalati Scenic Area Road, Xinyuan, Xinjiang, China Nestled in the heart of Xinjiang's Nalati Scenic Area, this hotel is a nature lover's dream! 🏞️ Surrounded by snowy peaks, dense forests, rolling hills, and serene meadows, it's like stepping into a picturesque Tianshan painting. With 40 rooms spread over a vast 40 acres and plans for tents and a children's playground, it perfectly blends the great outdoors with modern comforts. 🌳 Getting there is a breeze with train, plane, or car options. From Urumqi, take the G30 Lianhuo Expressway, Duku Highway, and National Highway 218 straight to paradise. 🚗✈️ The hotel's design is a tribute to nature, with wood tones and minimalist style that beckon you back to the wild. Wake up to sunlight streaming through your window and enjoy breathtaking valley views from your room's floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor terrace. 🌤️🛏️ Choose from a variety of room types like the deluxe double with lush grassland views or the presidential suite for a panoramic experience. 🌾🛌 Foodies, rejoice! The ground-floor café is a must-visit with its rich hand-brewed coffee and array of teas, snacks, and desserts. 🍰☕ Engage in unique activities like seasonal workshops, horseback riding, UTV off-roading, or indulge in a bespoke luxury picnic. 🏇🍽️ Families will love the planned children's park, kid-friendly breakfasts, and a pet-friendly policy that makes traveling with fur babies a breeze. 🐾👨‍👩‍👧 Embark on scenic drives through the grasslands or valleys, each route offering its own stunning views. 🚙🌾 Trip.com Group Country Retreats isn't just a place to stay; it's a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for families and couples alike. 🌟💑 Escape to this beautiful retreat, and while it's still polishing its edges, you'll find the scenery alone worth the stay. 🍃🏔️ #XinjiangEscapes #NalatiNirvana #NatureStaycation #FamilyFriendlyFinds #PetLoversParadise

1. Ski Resort Location: Nalati International Ski Resort is located within the Nalati Scenic Area in Ili Prefecture, with a total planned area of 7.5 square kilometers and a maximum vertical drop of 600 meters. There are currently 2 intermediate ski runs, 2 beginner ski runs, and 1 advanced ski run. The longest advanced run (Chasing Wind Avenue) is 5200 meters long, a brand-new natural ski run with an altitude of 2024-1424 meters, a vertical drop of 600 meters, and a maximum slope of 46.2%. 2. Ski Resort Introduction: Nalati International Ski Resort is located within the Nalati Scenic Area in Ili Prefecture, with a total planned area of 7.5 square kilometers and a maximum vertical drop of 600 meters. There are currently 2 intermediate ski runs, 2 beginner ski runs, and 1 advanced ski run. The longest advanced run (Chasing Wind Avenue) is 5200 meters long, a brand-new natural ski run with an altitude of 2024-1424 meters, a vertical drop of 600 meters, and a maximum slope of 46.2%. 3. Ticket and Discount Policy: The ticket prices for Nalati International Ski Resort may vary depending on the season and activities. It is recommended to check the official website or consult the scenic area staff for the latest ticket information before you go. 4. Business Hours: From January 1 to March 31, 2024, the opening hours of Nalati International Ski Resort are from 10:30 to 18:00. 5. Dining Recommendations: ● Nalati Cattle Bar: The beautiful scenery outside the window makes this place cozy, with a unique ambiance. Here you can taste prairie beef steak, dried meat pilaf, hand-grabbed meat, mountain mushroom chicken, and other delicacies. ● Nalati Book House: You can enjoy the snow scenery of the river valley prairie while savoring aromatic coffee and a plate of dried fruits, feeling the fairy-tale-like comfort of winter. ● Nalati Tianmutai: If you are also keen on integrating into the local culture, you must come to Tianmutai. Here you can taste local Nawruz porridge, horse meat sausage, dried yak meat, dried lamb, special cold horse tripe, and other delicacies. ● Lovely Nalati Restaurant: This place gathers Xinjiang specialty foods, with Nalati Big Plate Chicken being the main attraction, paired with deer antler mushroom fried beef, which is incredibly fragrant. 6. Accommodation Recommendations: ● Xinyuan Sanshan Homestay (Nalati Ski Resort Branch): Located within Nalati Ski Resort, 6.1 kilometers from Nalati Airport, about a 9-minute drive. Opened in 2023, the rooms offer free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk service, and free airport pickup service. ● Hotels within Nalati Scenic Area: Concentrated in the river valley prairie, you can enjoy the magnificent snow mountain scenery right outside your window. Recommended options include Jinling Mountain Villa, Ctrip Farmhouse, Muxing Valley Hotel, Linyin Hotel, Xinjiang Cultural Tourism Nalati Resort Hotel, and Wansen Hotel. 7. Transportation Guide: ● Airplane: ● Direct flight from Urumqi to Nalati Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car. Urumqi ⇌ Nalati (Tianjin Airlines GS7527), flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, time 11:55-13:15 (only one flight per day), total duration 1h20m, price around 500 yuan/person. ● Direct flight from Koktokay to Nalati Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car. Koktokay ⇌ Nalati (Chengdu Airlines EU1920), flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, time 15:25-16:45 (only one flight per day), total duration 1h20m, price around 109 yuan/person. ● Flight from Urumqi to Yining Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car, bus station shuttle, or route car. Urumqi ⇋ Yining flights, Monday to Sunday, direct flights available from 7:45 to 23:50, total duration 1h15m, price around 300 yuan/person. ● Train, High-speed Train: ● High-speed train from Urumqi Station to Yining Railway Station: After exiting the station, you can take a route car or chartered car at the bus station. Urumqi Station ⇋ Yining Station (high-speed train), five trains daily (C841, C843, C845, C847, C849), departure times 08:26, 09:06, 09:40, 17:20, 17:32, travel time as fast as 4 hours 47 minutes, price 128 yuan/person. ● Train from Urumqi Railway Station to Yining Railway Station: After exiting the station, you can take a route car or chartered car at the bus station. Urumqi Station ⇋ Yining Station (train), two trains daily (K9759, K9789), departure times 20:51, 21:50, travel time around 10 hours, price 81 yuan/person. ● Self-driving: From Urumqi to Nalati International Ski Resort, there are three routes to choose from. ● Urumqi ⇋ Nalati (highway): The route is Urumqi—Lianhuo Highway—Qingyi Highway—Yidun Highway—Gaoyi Highway—Nalati, a distance of 934 kilometers, taking about 10 hours and 2 minutes.