Stop Being Misled! The Truth About My Bayanbulak Experience in Xinjiang

Recently, I came across numerous travel guides about Bayanbulak online, which piqued my curiosity and prompted me to visit in person. After this trip, I have so many thoughts to share. Today, I’ll reveal my real experience to help you avoid pitfalls! **Pre-Trip Preparation** - **Clothing**: Bayanbulak is a high-altitude grassland, and even in midsummer, the temperature fluctuates drastically between day and night. A thick jacket is a must. When I visited in July, it was warm under the sun during the day, but by evening, I felt chilly even in a heavy windbreaker. If you plan to watch the sunset, pack extra warm layers. - **Sun Protection**: UV rays are extremely strong in high-altitude areas. Don’t skimp on sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, or a UV-protective jacket. I neglected proper sunscreen and ended up several shades darker. - **Medication**: Bring altitude sickness pills (though the elevation isn’t extreme, it’s better to be safe), stomach medicine, cold medicine, etc., to handle potential discomfort. **Transportation** - **Self-Driving**: Highly recommended! From Ürümqi, take the Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway (DuKu Highway), a ~460km, 6–7 hour drive with breathtaking scenery—snow-capped mountains, canyons, and grasslands—all in one day. Note: The DuKu Highway is only open from June to October, and the road conditions can be challenging, so drive carefully. - **Public Transport**: Take a train or bus from Ürümqi to Hejing County, then transfer to a shuttle (¥58) to the scenic area. This option is time-consuming and skips the stunning views along the DuKu Highway. **Scenic Area Experience** - **Tickets & Shuttle**: Entrance fee: ¥65/person; shuttle ticket: ¥75/person. Private cars are prohibited; only shuttle buses are allowed. The route: Visitor Center → Swan Habitat → Barun Temple → Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns Viewing Platform. - **Swan Habitat**: The first stop. This is Asia’s largest and China’s only wild swan reserve. During my visit, I saw few swans but flocks of red-billed gulls. May–June is the best time to spot swans, but it’s luck-dependent. The grassland along the boardwalk, dotted with cattle, sheep, horses, and camels, makes for great photos. - **Barun Temple**: The second stop, less crowded. This is the only surviving "mobile temple." History buffs can spin prayer wheels for blessings and enjoy the stunning snow-capped mountain views opposite the temple. - **Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns Viewing Platform**: The highlight! But witnessing the legendary "Nine Suns" sunset is incredibly rare—it requires perfect weather, timing, and solar angles. The best chance is one week after the Lunar August 15th. Even without the "Nine Suns," the sunset over the winding river and wetlands is spectacular. From the shuttle drop-off, you can take a transfer bus (¥10 one-way, ¥20 round-trip), ride a horse (~¥80 round-trip), or hike to the platform. - **Best Time to Visit**: June–September, when the grassland is lush and the weather is pleasant. Allocate a full day; arrive 2–3 hours early for sunset photography. **Accommodation** Stay in Bayanbulak Town (~3km from the scenic area), with many hotels and guesthouses. I stayed at Korla Bayan Hotel—good value, clean rooms, and attentive service. Book early in peak season! **Pitfalls to Avoid** - **Unpredictable Weather**: Bayanbulak’s weather changes rapidly. On my trip, it was sunny in the morning but rained by afternoon. Check forecasts and pack rain gear. - **Long Shuttle Rides**: Each shuttle ride takes ~1.5 hours. The last bus adjusts to sunset times, so expect long waits after sunset. - **Driving Restrictions**: Even when self-driving is allowed, routes and stops are limited. For example, near Nine Bends, you must switch to the shuttle. Bayanbulak’s landscapes are uniquely majestic, but there are lesser-known challenges. I hope this guide helps you plan a smoother, more enjoyable trip!