Jinmu Na Grassland Stone City is located in Jinmu Na County, Altay Prefecture, approximately 200 km from Altay City and 150 km from Burqin. Massive granite formations have been weathered into smooth, rounded boulders scattered across the meadows, resembling a herd of crouching animals when viewed from afar.
It's not on the standard Kanas-Heimu route, so it sees fewer tourists. Many visitors only discover it as a side trip while traveling the Altay West Line.
I. What to See & How to Get There
The core area features rolling grassy slopes with rocks of varying sizes—some standing alone as pillars, others forming continuous formations. Wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms have been installed throughout the scenic area. The full trail takes about two hours to complete and has a gentle gradient.
Grass and wildflowers grow in the rock crevices. The area is green from June to August, turning yellow by September. The rocks are rough and slippery to climb; use the boardwalk for safety.
- Distance from Altay City: approximately 200 km
- About 150 km from Burqin
- Duration: 2 hours, primarily on wooden boardwalks
- Best season: Months 6 to 9, grass turns yellow in late 9.
II. Why It's Worth Including
While Altay's standard routes focus on water and forests, Grassland Stone City offers a distinct geological experience. Its rock formations differ from those in Yunnan's Stone Forest and Inner Mongolia's rock clusters, representing a classic example of spherical weathering in granite.
If staying in Altay for more than five days, combine it with the Jimusaar Port route and Baisha Lake to avoid a long-distance return trip in one day.
3. Transportation and Accommodation
Approximately 2.5 hours from Burqin and 3 hours from Altay city center. Accommodation near the scenic area is limited; most visitors stay in Jeminay County or return to Burqin. Dining options in the county are primarily local home-style cuisine, with limited choices but affordable prices.
The grassland is windy; bring a windbreaker even in summer. Mobile signal is decent in the core area but weakens in the gullies.
IV. How did the stone egg landforms form?
Over long periods, weathering and freeze-thaw cycles cause the outer layer of granite to spall along joints. Rounded edges form as corners wear down, leaving a rounded core stone. This region experiences large day-night temperature fluctuations and frequent freeze-thaw events, accelerating weathering. As a result, stones are densely exposed on the surface.
The rocks vary in size; some resemble reclining oxen, others take human shapes. Locals have even named many of them. While such associations are fanciful, it's worth noting the boundary between the rocks and the meadow: grass growing through cracks indicates that weathering is still ongoing.
No large commercial facilities are available within the scenic area; please bring your own water and snacks. When it's windy, the wind chill can make temperatures feel much lower. Even in midsummer, we recommend bringing a jacket.
Dining in Jimunai County features home-style dishes at affordable prices. The road from the county to the scenic area is in good condition and accessible by standard sedans; the final stretch is within the scenic zone, so please follow signage.
If you take the Altay West Route, you can connect Grassland Stone City with the Jimunai Port area and Baisha Lake over two days, avoiding backtracking. For Altay route options, seeAltay RouteSee the arrangements for staying in Burqin.Pre-trip Arrangements for Burqin。
Weather on the grasslands changes quickly; rain can start with just a passing cloud. Carry rain gear at all times. After rain, stone paths become slippery, and grass beyond the boardwalks can be slick too—walk slowly.
There are two gas stations between the county town and the scenic area, spaced far apart—fill up before you leave. The Shicheng viewing platform is at the hilltop with strong winds; make sure your hat is secured. See below for combinations of routes in Altay.Browse All Tour PackagesSee regulations for the Baihaba direction atBaisha Ba Scenic Area。
Restrooms are located at the entrance; none are available in the core area, so please use them before entering. Mobile signal is strongest at the ridge top and weaker in the valley; meet your group near the viewpoint.
Ticket prices and operating hours are subject to the latest notices at the scenic area. The site may close in winter due to snow accumulation. For reference, see our combined itinerary options for the Western Altay route.Altay Route, see connection with BurqinAccommodation in Burqin。
