Bortala Prefecture: where the Atlantic’s last tear fell onto the silver grasslands

No worries if you’ve never been to Bortala, we offer you a detailed travel guide. Bortala means "Silver Grassland" in Mongolian, located in the northwest edge of Xinjiang, deep in the hinterland of Eurasia. Viewed as a whole, the prefecture is like a begonia leaf surrounded by mountains on three sides, with a trumpet-shaped valley plain at its center.

This remote and picturesque region blends magnificent natural scenery with unique Mongolian customs. Within the region lie some of China’s most impressive natural wonders: the crystal-blue Sayram Lake, the unique Strange Stone Valley, the wetlands of Ebinur Lake, and natural hot springs. Far from crowded tourist routes, Bortala owns its wild, unspoiled beauty. Its combination of snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, clear lakes and authentic ethnic culture makes it an extraordinary destination for travelers to explore the lesser-known wonders of western China. 

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Weather in Bortala

Bortala Prefecture has a temperate continental arid climate with distinct four seasons.

• Spring (Mar–May): Cool and windy, 3–20°C (37–68°F). Dry and sunny with occasional light rain.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm days and cool nights, 15–31°C (59–88°F ). Mostly sunny, with sudden showers sometimes.

• Autumn (Sep–Nov): Clear and crisp, 5–21°C (41–70°F). Dry and pleasant.

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Ave -26–-2°C (-15–28°F). Cold, long, snowy and foggy.

Why visit Bortala

Breathtaking and Diverse Natural Landscapes—Home to diverse landforms including Sayram Lake, Strange Stone Valley, Sharhili, Ebinur Lake and Wenquan County, it boasts alpine lakes, granite rock formations, pristine grasslands, border wetlands and geothermal hot springs. With varied natural scenery, every shot is a stunning picture.

Rich Mongolian and Multi-Ethnic Culture—As the only Mongolian autonomous prefecture in Xinjiang, it offers an in-depth experience of grassland culture. The summer Nadam Fair features the "Three Masculine Sports"—horse racing, wrestling and archery—along with bonfire parties and long-tune performances. Visitors can stay in yurts, drink salty milk tea, taste hand-grilled meat and kumis, and take part in traditional activities such as Aobao worship.

Unique Border and Silk Road Culture—Alashankou Port is a vital hub for China-Europe Railway Express and China-Kazakhstan trade. Tourists can visit the national gate and experience cross-border commerce, while the giant wind turbine array nearby forms a unique landscape blending industry and nature. Bozhou is also a key section of the ancient Northern Silk Road, preserving historical sites like Wusun ancient tombs and rock paintings.

Top Attractions

Sayram Lake

Sayram Lake is the highest and largest alpine cold-water lake in Xinjiang. As it lies on the windward slope, warm moist air currents from the Atlantic can travel all the way to this area and extend deep into the Ili River Valley. This brings abundant moisture, keeping the lake constantly clear and brilliantly blue. That is why it is known as “the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean”. Its scenery varies beautifully throughout the year. In summer, the lakeshore is covered with wildflowers and dotted with flocks of cattle and sheep; in winter, blue ice and ice bubbles form on the frozen surface. Different seasons bring you diverse beauty. Here you can drive around the lake, hike and watch swans, or experience nomadic grassland culture. It is an iconic scenic spot representing the natural scenery of northern Xinjiang.

Guozigou Bridge

Guozigou Bridge is the most popular route for many travelers to reach and leave Sayram Lake. As an iconic project on the Lianyungang–Khorgas Expressway, it is also known as "the most beautiful bridge in Xinjiang". Challenging people’s traditional impression of bridges, it is a double-tower cable-stayed bridge with its deck towering high in the valley, winding gracefully among snow-capped mountains and spruce forests. It has not only greatly improved transportation in the Ili region but also become a breathtaking man-made wonder. Driving across it, you can enjoy the spectacular canyon scenery to the fullest. Viewed from a distance, the bridge blends perfectly with green mountains, snow-capped peaks and pine forests, achieving a harmonious combination of natural beauty and modern infrastructure.

Sharhili National Nature Reserve

Sharhili is a remote and untouched primitive ecological reserve, known as “the last pure land of China”. With long-term strict protection and minimal human disturbance, it preserves intact landscapes of mountain forests, meadows, river valleys and snow-capped mountains. The area is rich in wild fauna and flora, providing habitats for rare species such as snow leopards and ibex. In summer, it is covered with blooming wildflowers and lush vegetation, offering pure and primitive scenery. It is highly recommended for those who enjoy original ecological landscapes and nature photography.

Natural Hot Spring

Wenquan County gets its name from its abundant natural geothermal springs. The term “hot spring” means "holy water" in the Turkic language. The county boasts three most renowned springs: Bogdar Hot Spring, Otoksail Hot Spring, and Alcati Hot Spring. Each spring bubbles continuously from the earth to the surface, with clear spring water that can be seen to the bottom. Rich in iodine, sulfur, phosphorus and other minerals, the water is particularly beneficial for relieving skin conditions. In summer, the grassland bursts into full bloom, accompanied by birdsong and the soft neighing of horses — a truly delightful scene.

Strange Stone Valley 

It is one of the world’s largest granite porphyry natural rock formations shaped by nature. After hundreds of millions of years of wind and water erosion, the reddish-brown granite has formed shaped rocks such as the Hound Gazing at the Moon, the Sphinx, and the Peacock Spreading Its Tail. Ancient rock paintings and Kalun frontier ruins are preserved here, recording the lives of ancient nomadic people. Lush in summer and colorful sunlight during autumn, it is a popular spot for geological study and outdoor photography, as well as a distinctive natural wonder on the northern Xinjiang loop route.

Best Travel Time in Bortala

From June to August is the best sightseeing season. During this period, the bank of Sayram Lake is covered with green grass and lush flowers. The water is clear and blue. In the far, snow-capped peaks decorate summer by their layers. Better not miss Nadam Convention in Sayram Lake every summer. In Winter, you probably see the ice-bubble wonders of Sayram Lake. The ice blocks stand upright dot by dot, like men's eyes. Of course, it is relaxing to come to hot springs.

• For sightseeing (June to August)

The weather is mild and comfortable. Grasslands are lush, wildflowers are in full bloom, and Sayram Lake is at its most beautiful blue. Roads and attractions are fully open, making it perfect for easy trips and family travel.

• For photographers (Summer & Autumn) 

-Summer: blooming flowers by the lake and fresh green meadows.

-Autumn: golden grasslands, clear skies, and high-contrast mountain-lake scenery with fewer tourists.

• For winter & nature lovers (December to February)

Sayram Lake shows amazing blue ice and ice bubbles. You can also enjoy hot springs in Wenquan County. It’s quiet, unique, and ideal for special winter scenery.

• For hikers & backpackers (June to September) 

Temperatures are stable and suitable for outdoor activities. Alpine meadows and mountain trails are accessible, with less rain and more stable weather.

• For cultural experience travelers (July to August)

Local festivals, Mongolian customs, and grassland events are mostly held in summer. You can experience authentic local culture and folk activities.

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How to get Bortala

There are no direct trains from inland Chinese cities to Bortala, so a transfer in Urumqi is required. Most travelers choose direct flights from Urumqi, Xi’an or Chengdu for efficiency. The following are direct transportations to Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture (often arrive at Bole Alashankou Airport & Bole Train Station)

By Flight

-Urumqi: Direct flights available daily (1h5min).

-Xi’an: 1 direct flight daily (4h5min).

-Chengdu: 1 direct flight daily (4h).

-Wuhan: 2 to 3 direct flights per week (4h5min).

By Train

-Urumqi: Direct intercity trains available daily (4h20min).

-Yining: Direct trains available daily (3h40min).

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Transportation in Bortala

Transportation in Bole

• Bus：The fare is only ¥1/ride, with service hours roughly from 8:00 to 21:00, making it ideal for visitors traveling short distances within the city.

• Taxi & Ride-hailing: The fare is ¥6 for first 2 km and around ¥1.8/km for extra distance. Trips inside Bole usually cost ¥10–20. Convenient and reliable for city travel.

• Shared e-scooters: It costs ¥2–3 per 15 minutes and is a good choice for deep exploration in the city.

Intercity & Scenic Area Transportation

Attractions in Bortala are widely spread out. If you plan to visit multiple scenic spots, you can take intercity buses or rent a car. Here are some references for your trip.

• Tourist and intercity buses connect Bole with Sayram Lake, Wenquan County and Alashankou at low fares, taking around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.

• Chartering a private 5-seat car for a round trip to Sayram Lake costs ¥300–500, or ¥500–800 for a full-day tour, with flexible schedules great for groups and photographers.

• For self-drive travelers, rental cars are available from ¥1300–1500/day for a sedan and ¥1400–1600/day for an SUV.

Transportation in Sayram Lake Scenic Area

• Shuttle Bus: ¥60/person; you can stop at major viewing spots; hop-on and hop-off.

• Self-driving Access: Vehicle admission fee applies; all passengers need entrance tickets. 

• Bicycle Rental: ¥50–80/hour; suitable for short, scenic sections.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Bortala is mainly found in Bole, Sayram Lake and Wenquan County, covering various budgets. Bole has the most choices from budget to high-end hotels, with convenient transport and dining. Sayram Lake offers star-view camps, lake-view hotels and guesthouses for enjoying sunrise, sunset and stargazing, though prices are higher and booking ahead is advised in peak season. Wenquan County features hot spring resorts for relaxation. Basic hotels are also available in Jinghe and Alashankou for short transit stays.

Maps of Bortala Prefecture you might need