Summary: Kalajun is one of Xinjiang's most photogenic grasslands, nicknamed the 'Human-Body Grassland' for its rolling hills that echo a human figure in the light. This guide covers the East-West routes, Flower Platform, Falcon Platform, horse riding, and the best season.

  • Spot Guides
  • Author: RoamFun Senior Travel Consultant
  • 8/13/2026

How to Enjoy Kalajun Grassland: Human-Body Grassland + Flower Platform + Falcon Platform

Kalajun is one of the most beautiful grasslands in the Yili region, dubbed "China's finest 3D grassland." Its most famous feature is how the rolling hill curves echo a reclining human body under certain light — hence the name "Human-Body Grassland."

This guide tells you how to see the highlights efficiently.

🌿 About Kalajun

  • Location: Tekes County, Yili Prefecture, about 20–30 km from Tekes county town
  • Ticket: West + East Kalajun + shuttle bus combo, ~170–220 CNY (subject to year)
  • Best season: June–August, green grass and wildflowers; most flowers in June, richest grass in August
  • Highlights: 3D grassland, Human-Body Grassland, Flower Platform, Falcon Platform, Kuokesu Grand Canyon

🗺️ Route Planning (Shuttle + Walking)

Kalajun splits into East and West sections, usually linked by scenic shuttles:

East Kalajun (core)

  • Flower Platform: vast flower meadows, best in June–July for wildflowers; great for photos and picnics
  • Falcon Platform: one of the best viewpoints; see the distant Tianshan snow peaks and vast grassland
  • Five-Flower Meadow: purple and yellow wildflowers covering the slopes

West Kalajun (Kuokesu Grand Canyon)

  • Kuokesu Grand Canyon: a deep gorge at the grassland edge, spectacular
  • Human-Body Grassland viewpoint: at sunset, the hill curves show the best light-and-shadow "human body" effect

Suggested route: take the shuttle to East Kalajun first (Flower → Falcon Platform), then head to West Kalajun in the afternoon for the canyon and the Human-Body Grassland light.

📷 Where to See the Human-Body Grassland

The "Human-Body Grassland" is actually the rolling slopes of the Tekes/Kuokesu area; best viewing:

  • Kuokesu viewpoint in West Kalajun: in the late-afternoon oblique light, the hill light-shadow contrast is strongest and the curves most visible
  • Tip: use a telephoto to compress the distance and wait for side light to create the "reclining figure" illusion

Best time: after 5 PM, under side/backlight; flat midday light hides the curves.

🐎 Grassland Activities

  • Horse riding: ~100–200 CNY/hour (with guide); ride deep into the grassland
  • Walking: boardwalks and grass paths from Flower Platform to Falcon Platform for those with energy
  • Camping: some areas allow camping (confirm policy), for stargazing and sunrise

🚗 Getting There

Self-drive / charter:

  • From Tekes county town, about 30–40 minutes to the entrance
  • Switch to scenic shuttles inside; private cars can't enter the core grassland (some areas excepted)

Group / carpool: Tekes has shared rides and day tours to Kalajun for non-drivers

📌 Practical Tips

  1. Grassland elevation ~2,000 m, big temperature swings; bring a warm layer
  2. Sunscreen: strong highland UV; hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  3. Shoes: grass paths + boardwalks, wear comfortable non-slip shoes
  4. Supplies: limited dining inside; bring snacks and water
  5. Respect local herders and private pastures; don't trample

Kalajun's beauty is a 3D experience cameras struggle to capture. Pick the right season and viewpoint, and this grassland will leave a lasting memory.