The
Nanshan Grasslands (Baiyang gou) are a natural paradise, with
scenery and surroundings similar to that at Heaven's Lake.
This area, 75km south of Urumqi city is
located at the base of the Tian Shan mountain range.
This is great land for hiking with
gushing valleys and waterfalls falling down the hillsides and the
ginseng herb growing on the hillside. The Kasakh people like to spend
their summers here and travelers can take a horseback tour with a
Kasak guide, over the mountains and stay in a traditional yurt.
How to get there: Transport to
this area can be a problem. There are some buses from the north end of
Renmin Park off Guangming Lu.
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Red
Mountain (Hongshan) is a pleasant spot to visit to get your bearings
when you first arrive in this modern city. The views from the top of
the mountain of the surrounding countryside and breathtaking
mountains, make the steep (but short) climb worthwhile.
The mountain peak stands 1391 meters
above sea level. Climb up to the top, where you can stop and sit down
for a drink and enjoy fabulous views over the city with the snow
capped mountains behind. Numerous legends are associated with the
mountain, including a few scary tales about a dragon that inhabits the
hillside!
A Qing pagoda (Zhenlong Ta) can be found
half way up the mountain. This was built by one of the emperors to
ward off the evil dragon and his spirits! There are also a few
fairground rides within the grounds here, and a lake to boat on. This
is a popular spot with local families who come here to get out of the
city for the day.
How to get there: Walk for 45
minutes north from the Holiday Inn to Hongshan gongyuan. Alternately
take a taxi. This should cost about RMB10.
Cost: RMB20 excluding the
fairground rides.
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The
Swan Lake of Bayinburuke, a State-level Nature Reserve, is situated in
the basin between the Urdus Mountain and along the upper reaches of
the Kaidu River. "Bayinburuke" means "rich
springs" in Mongolian language. The Swan Lake area is
marsh-like with numerous interconnecting small lakes. The
area is around 2400 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush
pastures and lakes filled with beautiful birds and wildlife.
Every Spring around April, swans, terns
and other varieties of birds gather around the lake area. The birds
number into the thousands and there are viewing stands set up here for
visitors to watch the birds.
There are various famous springs in the
area, including the Aerxia Spring where the water is said to have
healing powers (the name means "Curing Spring" in
Mongolian). There are hotels and hot spring spas built for
travelers nearby too. A small zoo known as "Snowy Mountain
Zoo", is home to more than 20 types of rare animals here,
including snow cocks, snow panthers and red deer.
Entrance Fee: RMB30
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Sightseeing
Index
