Just returned from Bayanbulak Grassland, and I really don't recommend visiting in July-August because...

**Bayanbulak Grassland Travel Guide: Routes, Attractions & Highlights** **📍 Best Time to Visit: June-September** In summer, the grassland turns lush green with wildflowers in full bloom, and the climate is pleasant. Autumn (September-October) offers golden grasslands, perfect for photography. --- **🚗 Transportation** 1. **By Air**: Fly to Korla Airport, then take a chartered car or bus (about 4-5 hours). 2. **Self-Drive**: Depart from Urumqi via the Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway (G217), with stunning scenery along the way (open only from June to September). 3. **Scenic Area Transport**: Requires a transfer to a sightseeing bus (ticket + shuttle ≈ ¥140/person). Self-driving tours will be available starting July 2025 (¥127/person, including entrance fee). --- **🌟 Must-Visit Attractions** 1. **Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns** - The Kaidu River meanders like a golden ribbon, and at sunset, you can witness the "Nine Suns" reflection phenomenon. The best photo spot is at the Brazilik Viewing Platform. - **Tips**: Arrive before 6 PM to secure the best vantage point. 2. **Swan Lake** - China's largest swan nature reserve, where flocks of swans gather from June to September. The misty mornings are the most picturesque. 3. **Bayanbulak Grassland** - The second-largest grassland in China, with herds of cattle and sheep grazing. Experience horseback riding (¥100-200/hour) or nomadic life. 4. **Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway (Bayanbulak Section)** - Known as "Xinjiang's Most Beautiful Highway," it features snow-capped mountains, canyons, and grasslands along the way. --- **🍖 Local Delicacies** - **Hand-Grabbed Lamb**: Tender and non-gamey, served with wild leek flower sauce. - **Baked Buns**: Crispy pastry filled with minced lamb, best enjoyed hot. - **Milk Tea with Naan**: A traditional Mongolian breakfast, savory and warming. --- **🏠 Accommodation Recommendations** - **Grassland Yurts**: Experience nomadic life and stargazing at night (¥200-400). - **Hotels in Bayanbulak Town**: Better facilities, but book early during peak season. --- **📌 Travel Tips** - **Warmth & Sun Protection**: Large temperature differences (27°C daytime/10°C nighttime), bring a windbreaker + sunscreen. - **Bug Prevention**: Mosquitoes are abundant—wear long sleeves and bring repellent. - **Eco-Friendly Travel**: Avoid trampling on grasslands and take your trash with you. --- **✨ Summary:** Bayanbulak combines grasslands, lakes, rivers, and snow-capped mountains, making it a paradise for photography and road trips. Seize the summer for an unforgettable grassland adventure!**