Bayinbuluk Grasslands and Swan Nature Reserve

Situated in the Uidus Basin of Tianshan Mountains in the northwest of Hejing County, the Bayinbuluk Grassland, covering an area of about 23,000 square kilometers and 2,500 above sea level, is the second largest grassland in China. Bayinbuluk means the “the abundant spring” in Mongolian language. When the summer comes, various flowers here are in blossom and contending in beauty. The grassland stretches vastly and smoothly, and is rich in water and grass. High quality fescue grasses grow all over this vast grassland which accommodates and feeds flocks and herds. The snow-capped mountains, verdant pine and cypress trees, wild flowers and grass mirrored in the blue waters of the lakes constitute a beautiful picture. There are 20 rivers here of which the famous Kaidu River found its source. More than 500 valleys run across each other, and the longest one reaches to 60 kilometers.

Bayinbuluk Swan Lake Natural Reserve lies in Bayinbuluk grassland, taking up 1,000 square kilometers. In 1986 it was listed by the State as the national nature reserve. It is a paradise of flocks of swan. The swans are like white sails wandering on the lake, carefee and contenting themselves. Therefore it is offered the name “Swan Lake”. This natural reserve is abundant in birds, particularly water birds of various kinds in large quantity. In spring flocks of great swans, little swans with prominent nose nest here to produce their offspring. According to investigation, the total number of great swans here are over 6,000-7,000. Mongolian herdsmen treat the swans as angels or happy birds. They take good care of them. The Swan Lake is not only a cool resort in summer but also a fascinating tourist attraction.

23 Days Xinjiang Pannoramic Tour