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Sayram Lake & Nalati Grassland: Xinjiang's Hidden Wonders

China's BEST KEPT SECRET of Xinjiang 2024 | China Travel Vlog

Destination:ChinaProvince:XinjiangCity:Yining
China's BEST KEPT SECRET of Xinjiang 2024 | China Travel Vlog
Xiuren & Chelsea21 min

China's BEST KEPT SECRET of Xinjiang 2024. This was filmed by Xiuren & Chelsea. Watch the full journey and explore the filming details and destinations on this page.

We visited China's most northwestern treasures in this episode. First we went to Sayram Lake, also called The Last Tear of the Atlantic, because it is the farthest point where the Atlantic Ocean's warm, humid air currents reach. After that, we headed to the Nalati Grassland, known as the “Sky Grassland” due to its high altitude, which led to this spectacular view of snowcapped mountains right next to the grasslands. Both of these are located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region near the border with Kazakhstan.Join us in our adventure to explore the northwestern treasures of China, that we rarely get to see because it's just so difficult to get there, in this episode of our China Travel Vlog, in Yining, Xinjiang.

--- Xiuren & Chelsea
November 15, 2024, Autumn in China

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

Xiuren and Chelsea explore Xinjiang’s Sayram Lake and Nalati Grassland. They stay in a comfortable RV, watch sunrise over the lake and drive about 90 km around it before heading toward Nalati in snowfall. At a tourist-center food hall and a restaurant in Xinyuan county, they try local dishes including Mi Fen Jia Kuan Mian and Chao Mi Fen. A drive along cliffside mountain roads brings them to a guesthouse, where the owners provide breakfast even though it was not included. They also hike at high altitude, where the exertion affects their stamina.

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China's BEST KEPT SECRET of Xinjiang 2024 | China Travel Vlog

RV stay and sunrise at Sayram Lake

Xiuren and Chelsea begin their Xinjiang trip at Sayram Lake, also known as “The Last Tear of the Atlantic.” They stay in an RV that has more comforts than they expected in a remote location. In the morning, they watch sunrise over the lake and have coffee before setting out. They drive about 90 km around the water and walk along boardwalks, seeing the lake and surrounding mountains. They also look for swans, though the birds are elusive.

The sun feels strong even while the air is cool. The couple mention sun protection and choosing an easier boardwalk route if traveling with companions or anyone with mobility concerns. After spending time at the lake, they head toward Nalati. Snow begins during the drive, and the winding mountain roads make the trip more demanding.

Local food and a mountain drive

Near a tourist center, the couple look for food that is more affordable and local. In Xinyuan county, they try dishes including Mi Fen Jia Kuan Mian and Chao Mi Fen, discussing their spicy, sweet and sour flavors. A meal at a local restaurant gives them a taste of regional cuisine and a pause before continuing the route. They also receive extra food and hospitality from local hosts.

The drive toward Nalati follows cliffside roads that Xiuren and Chelsea find intimidating. At the guesthouse, the owners provide breakfast even though it was not included in their booking. This unexpected kindness becomes a warm moment in the trip. The couple stay in the area before visiting the grassland.

Nalati Grassland and altitude

At Nalati Grassland, they hike and take in views of the grassland and snow-capped mountains. The altitude makes physical effort more difficult, and the couple feel fatigue sooner than they would at lower elevations. The colors of the grass change from green to yellow and white, adding to the landscape.

For visitors, their experience suggests preparing for strong sun at Sayram Lake, taking the easier boardwalk route if needed, and allowing extra care on winding mountain roads. Local restaurants near tourist centers can offer more affordable meals, and smaller towns may feel less crowded. The trip combines a 90 km lake circuit, local food and a high-altitude hike, with hospitality from the guesthouse owners along the way.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What is Sayram Lake also called?
A: The couple call it “The Last Tear of the Atlantic,” a name associated with the lake in their travel account.
Q: How far did they drive around the lake?
A: They drove about 90 km around Sayram Lake and also walked along boardwalks.
Q: What was the guesthouse hospitality like?
A: The owners provided breakfast even though it was not included in the booking, which the couple appreciated.

Previous travel video:

Sayram Lake & Nalati Grassland: Xinjiang's Hidden Wonders

We visited China most northwestern treasures in this episode. First we went to Sayram Lake, also called The Last Tear of the Atlantic, because it is the farthest point where the Atlantic Ocean's warm, humid air currents reach. After that, we headed to the Nalati Grassland, known as the “Sky...

Xinjiang Adventure: Sayram Lake & Nalati Grassland

Explore the hidden gems of Xinjiang, China's northwestern region! This travel vlog unveils breathtaking Sayram Lake, known as the 'Last Tear of the Atlantic,' and the stunning Nalati Grassland, a high-altitude paradise with snow-capped mountains. Witness the beauty of these remote locations, rarely explored due to their inaccessibility. Experience the local culture through heartwarming encounters and delicious food. Join Xiuren & Chelsea on their unforgettable adventure!

Attractions in this video: Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland