Hailed as "Tianshan’s most beautiful hiking and photography route," Kalajun Grassland in Ili, Xinjiang, stretches 120 kilometers across northern and southern Tianshan, encompassing grasslands, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and lakes. Every summer, when the alpine meadows burst into bloom, hikers can cross five major grasslands in one journey, savoring unparalleled beauty. Suitable for beginner hikers, the optimal time to visit is from May to August.

Kalajun Grassland Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights (From Urumqi)

Trip Overview

Kalajun Grassland in Xinjiang offers vast alpine meadows, rolling hills, rivers, and Kazakh nomadic culture. This 4-day trek is ideal for travelers looking for moderate hiking, photography, and cultural immersion without long high-altitude trekking.

Itinerary

Day 0 – Arrival & Group Gathering in Urumqi

• Arrive at Urumqi International Airport.
• Meet the guide and fellow travelers.
• Briefing about the trek, safety instructions, and itinerary review.
• Overnight in Urumqi hotel.
  Meals: Dinner (optional)
  Accommodation: Hotel in Urumqi

Day 1 – Urumqi → Tekes → Kalajun Grassland

• Breakfast at hotel.
• Transfer by private vehicle from Urumqi to Tekes County, Ili Valley (~6–7 hours).
• Stop for lunch en route.
• Evening arrival at Tekes, short walk to nearby viewpoints if time allows.
• Overnight at local guesthouse or yurt.
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Guesthouse / Yurt

Day 2 – Trekking in Kalajun Grassland

• Breakfast at guesthouse.
• Full-day trekking in the grassland (~6–8 km).
• Explore rolling hills, wildflower meadows, rivers, and forests.
• Visit nomadic yurts, interact with Kazakh herders.
• Picnic lunch on the trail.
• Sunset photography and relaxation on the grasslands.
• Overnight at yurt or local guesthouse.
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  Accommodation: Yurt / Guesthouse

Day 3 – Kalajun Grassland → Tekes → Urumqi

• Early morning sunrise walk for photography.
• Short trek to scenic viewpoints.
• Return to Tekes for lunch.
• Transfer back to Urumqi (~6–7 hours).
• Trip ends at Urumqi hotel or airport depending on departure.
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  Accommodation: Hotel in Urumqi (optional if flight same day)