Nanshan Pasture Urumqi: Day Trip Guide 2024

Why You Can Trust This Guide

Our team has personally visited Nanshan Pasture multiple times across different seasons. We’ve tested various hiking routes, stayed in Kazakh yurts, and interviewed local herders to bring you accurate, first-hand information. This guide is regularly updated based on recent visitor feedback and on-the-ground research.

Quick Reference: Nanshan Pasture at a Glance

Our Experience: A Perfect Escape from the City

When we first visited Nanshan Pasture in July 2023, we were amazed by how quickly the landscape transforms after leaving Urumqi’s urban sprawl. Within 90 minutes, you leave behind the desert climate and find yourself in lush green meadows surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We arrived at 10 AM to avoid the midday heat and were greeted by Kazakh herders setting up their morning milk tea.

We spent the morning hiking along the grassland trails, where wildflowers blanket the hillsides in July and August. The air was crisp and clean—a stark contrast to the city. We stopped at a Kazakh yurt for lunch and were treated to authentic hand-pulled noodles and freshly milked yak yogurt. The herder’s family was incredibly welcoming, explaining their nomadic traditions and even letting us try on traditional Kazakh clothing for photos.

One of the highlights was horse riding. For ¥80-120 per hour, you can explore areas that are inaccessible by car. We rode to a viewpoint overlooking the entire pasture—the panoramic view of rolling green hills against the Tianshan Mountains was breathtaking. If you’re visiting Urumqi attractions, Nanshan is the perfect half-day escape.

How to Get to Nanshan Pasture from Urumqi

Option 1: Private Car or Taxi (Recommended)

Distance: 60-75 km from Urumqi city center

Travel time: 1.5-2 hours (depending on traffic)

Cost: ¥200-300 one way by taxi (negotiate round trip ¥400-500)

Route: Take National Highway G216 south from Urumqi, follow signs for “Nanshan Pasture” (南山牧场)

Tip: Ask your hotel to arrange a driver for the day. Many drivers wait at the pasture and can bring you back in the afternoon.

Option 2: Public Bus (Budget Option)

Where to catch: Urumqi South Bus Station (乌鲁木齐南郊客运站)

Bus number: Look for buses to “Nanshan” or “Banfanggou” (板房沟)

Departure times: Usually 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM (morning only)

Cost: ¥15-20 per person

Return: Buses return in the afternoon (ask driver for schedule)

Note: Buses may drop you at the entrance, requiring a 2-3 km walk or hiring a local minivan (¥10-20 per person)

Option 3: Tour Group

Many Urumqi day tour operators include Nanshan Pasture in their itineraries. This is a hassle-free option that includes transportation, lunch, and a guide. Expect to pay ¥200-400 per person depending on group size and inclusions.

Option 4: Self-Drive

Car rental: Available in Urumqi for ¥200-400/day

Parking: Available at the main entrance (¥10-20)

Road conditions: Paved roads all the way, suitable for all vehicles

Note: Some sections are winding mountain roads—drive carefully, especially in rain or fog

Best Time to Visit Nanshan Pasture

Peak Season: June to September

June: Grass turns green, wildflowers start blooming, fewer tourists

July-August: Best time! Wildflowers in full bloom, perfect weather (15-25°C), all facilities open

September: Autumn colors begin, cooler weather, good for hiking

Shoulder Season: May and October

May: Grass just turning green, some facilities may be closed, very few tourists

October: Golden autumn colors, cold at night (below 0°C), some yurts closed

Off-Season: November to April

Not recommended for most visitors. Snow covers the ground, most yurts and restaurants are closed, access may be difficult. However, if you’re interested in winter photography or solitude, the snow-covered landscape can be beautiful.

Best Time of Day

Arrive by 9-10 AM: Avoid afternoon heat in summer, have time for hiking

Avoid 2-4 PM: Strong sunlight for photography, hottest part of the day

Golden hour: 6-8 PM in summer for the best photography light

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Option 1: Kazakh Yurt Stay (Authentic Experience)

Cost: ¥100-200 per person (including dinner and breakfast)

What to expect: Traditional felt yurts with basic bedding, shared toilets, no shower

Pros: Authentic cultural experience, stunning starry skies at night, included meals

Cons: Basic facilities, can be cold at night even in summer, noise from other guests

Booking: Usually arranged on-site or through homestay platforms

Option 2: Return to Urumqi (Recommended for Most)

Since Nanshan is only 1.5-2 hours from Urumqi, most visitors do a day trip and return to the city. This gives you access to better Urumqi hotels and more dining options.

Option 3: Guesthouses Near the Entrance

There are a few basic guesthouses (¥150-300/night) near the pasture entrance. These offer slightly better facilities than yurts (private rooms, showers) but are still quite basic. Book in advance during peak season (July-August).

Food and Dining: What to Eat

Local Specialties You Must Try

1. Hand-Pulled Noodles (拉面): Fresh noodles served with mutton and vegetable sauce. ¥15-25 per bowl.

2. Kazakh Milk Tea (奶茶): Salty tea with milk and herbs. Perfect for the cool mountain air. ¥5-10 per cup.

3. Grilled Mutton (烤羊肉): Skewers of fresh mutton grilled over open fire. ¥5-8 per skewer.

4. Yogurt (酸奶): Thick, tangy yak yogurt. Often served with honey. ¥10-15 per bowl.

5. Naan Bread (馕): Flatbread baked in traditional clay ovens. ¥5-10 per piece.

Where to Eat

Restaurants near entrance: Basic Chinese and Uyghur dishes, ¥30-50 per person

Yurt restaurants: More authentic, often included if you’re staying in a yurt, ¥40-60 per person

Bring your own: Several visitors bring picnic food from Urumqi. There are beautiful spots to have a picnic with a view.

Food Safety Tips

Stick to hot, freshly cooked food. Avoid raw vegetables unless you can wash them yourself. Bring wet wipes and hand sanitizer. If you have dietary restrictions, consider bringing your own food.

Practical Tips for Visiting Nanshan Pasture

What to Bring

1. Layers of clothing: Temperature can vary 10-15°C between day and night. Bring a warm jacket even in summer.

2. Sunscreen and sunglasses: High altitude means stronger UV radiation. SPF 50+ recommended.

3. Comfortable hiking shoes: Trails can be muddy or rocky. Avoid sandals or dress shoes.

4. Cash: Many vendors don’t accept cards or mobile payment. Bring ¥200-500 in cash.

5. Water and snacks: At least 1-2 liters of water per person, plus energy bars or nuts.

6. Power bank: You’ll be taking lots of photos. Cold weather drains phone batteries faster.

7. Altitude sickness medication: If you’re sensitive to altitude (pasture is 1,600-2,200m), consider bringing medication.

Photography Tips

Best spots: Viewpoint near the main yurt area, hiking trail to the waterfall, wildflower meadows in July-August

Best light: Early morning (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (6-8 PM)

Etiquette: Ask permission before photographing Kazakh herders or their livestock. Some may ask for a small fee (¥5-10).

Respecting Local Culture

Dress modestly: This is a conservative area. Avoid revealing clothing.

Remove shoes: When entering a yurt, always remove your shoes.

Accept food offerings: It’s polite to at least taste what’s offered to you.

Don’t touch religious items: Unless invited to do so.

Suggested Itinerary: One-Day Trip from Urumqi

08:00 – Depart from Urumqi

Start early to avoid traffic and have the full day. Stop at a supermarket to buy water and snacks if needed.

09:30 – Arrive at Nanshan Pasture

Buy entrance tickets, use the restroom, apply sunscreen. Take a few photos at the entrance.

10:00 – Hike to Wildflower Meadows

Follow the main trail (well-marked) to the wildflower area. This is an easy 2-3 km hike (1 hour one way). Enjoy the views and take photos.

12:00 – Lunch at a Kazakh Yurt

Try the hand-pulled noodles or dumplings. Drink some milk tea. Chat with the herders (they may speak some English or use translation apps).

13:30 – Horse Riding

Rent horses for 1-2 hours. A guide will lead you to scenic viewpoints. This is the highlight for many visitors.

15:30 – Visit the Waterfall

A short hike (30-45 minutes) to a small waterfall. The trail is shaded and pleasant on hot days.

17:00 – Tea and Rest

Relax at a yurt, drink more milk tea, enjoy the scenery. This is a good time for portraits or group photos.

18:30 – Start Return Journey

Begin driving back to Urumqi. The sunset on the drive back can be spectacular.

20:00 – Arrive in Urumqi

Have dinner at a Urumqi restaurant to complete your day.

Alternative: Overnight Itinerary

If you prefer a slower pace, stay in a yurt. After dinner, enjoy stargazing (the night sky is incredible due to low light pollution). Wake up early for sunrise, have breakfast with the herders, and return to Urumqi by noon the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nanshan Pasture worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you’re spending a few days in Urumqi and want a break from the city. It’s one of the most accessible natural areas near Urumqi and offers a glimpse into Kazakh nomadic culture. However, if you’re short on time and have to choose between Nanshan and Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), Tianchi is more spectacular (but also more touristy).

Can I visit Nanshan Pasture independently without a tour?

Absolutely. The area is safe and well-marked. You can take a public bus or hire a taxi for the day. English signage is limited, so having a translation app helps.

Is it suitable for children and elderly?

Yes, but with caveats. The main areas near the entrance are flat and suitable for all ages. However, hiking trails can be steep or muddy. For elderly visitors or young children, stick to the areas near the yurts and avoid long hikes. Horse riding is suitable for children (with a guide), but check with the operator about age/weight limits.

Are there mosquitoes or insects?

Yes, especially in July and August. Bring insect repellent. The mosquitoes are not severe but can be annoying, especially near water.

Can I camp at Nanshan Pasture?

Technically, camping is not officially permitted, but many visitors do it. If you choose to camp, be discreet, leave no trace, and ask a local yurt owner for permission. Staying in a yurt is a better (and legal) option.

Is there mobile phone signal?

Yes, but it can be spotty. China Mobile has the best coverage. Don’t rely on having internet access for maps or translation—download offline maps before you go.

What’s the difference between Nanshan Pasture and other Urumqi day trips?

Nanshan is closer (1.5 hours vs 2+ hours for Tianchi), less touristy, and offers more cultural immersion (staying in yurts, meeting Kazakh herders). Tianchi is more scenic but also more commercialized. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Nanshan is better.

Disclaimer

This guide is based on our personal experiences and research. Prices, opening hours, and facilities may change without notice. We recommend verifying critical information (such as transportation schedules and accommodation availability) before your trip. We are not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience resulting from the use of this information.

Travel conditions in Xinjiang can change. Check the latest travel requirements and weather forecasts before your visit. Respect local customs and regulations at all times.

About the Author

Xinjiang Attractions Travel Team

We are a team of travel writers and photographers dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date information about Xinjiang. We’ve collectively spent over 10 years exploring Xinjiang’s attractions, from the bustling bazaars of Kashgar to the remote mountains of the Pamirs.

Our credentials:

• All team members have traveled extensively in Xinjiang
• We speak Mandarin, English, and some Uyghur
• We regularly update our guides based on recent visits
• We prioritize sustainable and culturally respectful tourism

Have questions about traveling in Xinjiang? Contact us or leave a comment below. We respond to every inquiry personally.