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Southern Mountain
Located about 75 kilometers south of Urumqi at the northern foothills of Karawuquntag Mountain, a branch of the Tianshan Mountains, Southern Pasture is one of the most popular natural escapes near the city. Known for its alpine meadows, forested valleys, clear streams, and traditional Kazakh culture, Southern Pasture offers visitors a refreshing contrast to the dry landscapes of Xinjiang.
The scenic area, also known as West White Poplar Gully (Xibaiyanggou), is an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to experience mountain scenery, horseback riding, and authentic nomadic traditions.
Natural Scenery of Southern Pasture
Situated at an average elevation of around 1,600 meters, Southern Pasture enjoys a cool climate during summer and is often regarded as the nearest summer resort from Urumqi. The journey from downtown Urumqi takes approximately two hours by car.
Surrounded by magnificent mountains, the pasture features vast green grasslands, dense forests, flowing streams, and snow-covered peaks. The most distinctive landscape is White Poplar Gully, where the graceful mountain scenery, evergreen forests, and year-round snow-capped peaks create a peaceful alpine environment.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including:
* Horseback riding through mountain valleys with local Kazakh guides
* Hiking through forests and meadows
* Mushroom picking in woodland areas
* Photographing alpine landscapes and grazing animals
During summer, Kazakh herders traditionally bring their livestock to the pasture. Travelers can visit traditional yurts and experience local hospitality with milk tea, fermented mare’s milk, cheese, and roasted lamb.
History and Culture
Southern Mountain has long been an important recreational area in Xinjiang. During the Tang Dynasty (618–907), the region was known as a hunting ground, while during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911), it became a famous imperial ranch and summer retreat.
After the founding of modern China, the area was further developed as a scenic destination. In 1989, Southern Mountain Scenic Area was officially approved as a regional-level scenic attraction by the Xinjiang government.
Today, local residents provide traditional yurt accommodations and cultural experiences for visitors. Travelers can stay in yurts, enjoy Kazakh cuisine, and learn about the traditional lifestyle of local pastoral communities.
Main Scenic Areas of Southern Pasture
Southern Pasture is divided into three main scenic areas, each offering different landscapes.
1. Cheuch Scenic Area
The first scenic area is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and dense forests. Clear streams flow through the area, creating a peaceful environment.
Visitors can explore traditional Kazakh yurts, experience pastoral life, and taste local specialties. A famous waterfall formed millions of years ago is located about 2 kilometers from the valley and attracts many visitors.
2. West White Poplar Gully (Xibaiyanggou)
The second scenic area features a mixture of coniferous and broad-leaved forests. The valley contains unusual rock formations shaped by flowing water over thousands of years.
The combination of forests, streams, and mountain cliffs makes this area one of the most scenic parts of Southern Pasture.
3. Willow Gully
The third scenic area is known for abundant water resources, lush vegetation, quiet valleys, and impressive mountain peaks.
Clouds often surround the mountains, creating constantly changing scenery and a dreamlike atmosphere. It is one of the best places in Southern Pasture for enjoying peaceful mountain views and photography.
With its cool summer climate, spectacular Tianshan scenery, and rich Kazakh traditions, Southern Pasture is one of the best places to experience nature and nomadic culture near Urumqi.
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