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.

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**🚗 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).

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**🌟 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.

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**🍖 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.

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**🏠 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.

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**📌 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.

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**✨ 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!**