The Naraty (Nalati) grassland, in the heart of the Ili Valley, is one of Xinjiang's most beautiful alpine meadows — a sea of green framed by the Tianshan snow peaks, and home to the Kazakh herders and their yurts.
Naraty (also written Nalati) lies in the middle of the Ili Valley at about 1,800 meters, where the Tianshan opens into a vast, rolling meadow. It's one of the four great grasslands of the region, with a beauty that shifts through the seasons.
The grassland is home to Kazakh herders, who move with their flocks between the valleys. Visitors can stay in their yurts, taste the local dairy and meat dishes, and experience the hospitality of the steppe.
Ride a horse across the meadows, hike to the viewpoints above the valley, or simply picnic among the wildflowers (in summer). The sunset over the Tianshan peaks from the grassland is unforgettable.
June to September is the season, with the grass greenest in June-July and the wildflowers at their peak. August brings the local festivals. The meadow turns golden in September before the snows return.
Naraty is about 4-5 hours' drive from Yining city. Most visitors fly to Yining, then travel by private car. It's usually combined with the Kalajun grassland and the Duku Highway in a multi-day Ili itinerary.
The altitude (about 1,800m) is comfortable, but nights are cool — bring layers. Accommodation ranges from yurt camps to simple hotels. Book in advance during summer peak. A 4WD or private car is recommended for the access roads.