Tangbula Grassland Gallery
唐布拉
A grassland gorge stretching over a hundred kilometers along the upper Kashi River, with snowy peaks, spruce forests and Kazakh yurts along the S315 highway. It is a must-see scenic stretch between Yining and the northern section of the Duku Highway.
Tangbula lies in the upper reaches of the Kashi River in eastern Nilka County. The valley stretch of more than 100 kilometers from Qiaoerma to the Nilka county seat along Provincial Highway S315 is known as the 'Hundred-Li Gallery'. The riverbed of the Kashi River is swift and clear. The slopes on either side are covered with spruce forests and alpine meadows, and snow-capped Tianshan peaks stand in the distance. In summer, Kazakh herders' yurts and flocks are scattered along the route. In Kazakh, 'Tangbula' means 'seal', named after a seal-shaped boulder on the mountain. The route itself has no unified scenic admission fee. Along the way you'll find viewing platforms, guesthouses and herder's homestays, where you can stop to take photos, ride horses or stay in yurts. Some hot springs and side-valley attractions charge separate fees. A common itinerary starts from Yining or Nalati and passes through Qiaoerma when entering or leaving the northern section of the Duku Highway. Note: mountain roads have many bends and livestock on the road, so drive slowly. Afternoon showers are common in summer, and there are few gas stations along the way.
Opening hours
Open all day (scenic road)