Tangbula grassland tour

If you are planning an unforgettable trip in Ili, a Tangbula Grassland tour is an absolute highlight. Unlike other enclosed scenic areas, Tangbula is best experienced as a drive through the famous Hundred-Mile Gallery (Baili Hualang). This stunning stretch of highway runs from Qiaorma to Bee Town (Mifeng Town), offering a panoramic display of snow peaks, lush valleys, and alpine meadows.

🚗 How to Explore the Tangbula

The essence of Tangbula lies in its “Gous” (valleys). There are nearly a hundred small valleys branching off both sides of the main national highway. Here is your step-by-step itinerary:

1. Fairy Lake (Xiannu Hu)

  • Cost: 10 RMB entrance fee.
  • Activities: You can hike or take a horse ride (approx. 200 RMB round trip, 3 hours).
  • Tip: If you already have Sayram Lake on your itinerary, you might skip this one to save time for other valleys.

2. Hundred-Mile Gallery Observation Deck

  • Cost: Free.
  • Location: Located directly across from the Nihao Service Area.
  • Highlight: This is a “god-tier” photo spot. The view right after passing Fairy Lake offers the most breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the entire Tangbula Grassland.

3. Mengkete Old Road

  • Cost: 200 RMB/car + 30 RMB/person for the sightseeing bus.
  • Route: Visitor Center → Canyon Scrolls → Gate of Splendor → Alpine Meadows → Stone Forest Rapids → Snow Mountain Hot Springs → Tianhu Secret Realm.
  • Horse Riding: There is a racecourse nearby (80-100 RMB/hour). While the scenery is grand, many travelers find the value at Bulong Valley to be better.

4. Bulong Valley (Bulong Gou)

  • Cost: Free.
  • Access: Navigate to “Bulong Hot Spring Resort.”
  • Note: Be prepared for a steep uphill climb followed by a gravel road. It is highly recommended for those looking for a more “off-the-beaten-path” experience.

5. Bear Valley (Gouxiong Gou)

  • Cost: Free.
  • Access: Navigate to the “Nilka Tianshan Black Bee Manor Eco-hotel” and follow the sign for Bear Valley.
  • Highlight: This is a favorite local spot featuring iconic fallen trees crossing the river. It is the perfect place for a family picnic or camping.

6. Bee Town (Mifeng Town)

  • Cost: Free.
  • Highlight: The town is flanked by massive fields of yellow rapeseed flowers and golden wheat. It’s the best place to restock your supplies and enjoy the rural charm.

💡 Essential Tips for Your Tangbula Grassland Tour

  1. No Signal: There is almost no mobile signal in the mountains. Download offline maps and carry some cash just in case.
  2. Bring Food: There are very few places to eat along the Hundred-Mile Gallery. Pack plenty of water and snacks for a roadside picnic.
  3. Route Direction: Choose your driving direction (starting from Qiaorma or Bee Town) based on where your hotel is located for the night.
  4. Photography: The best lighting for the valleys is usually in the early morning or late afternoon when the shadows define the “3D” ridges of the Tangbula Grassland.