For centuries, the Kazakhs have lived as seasonal nomads, migrating with their herds of sheep, horses, and yaks between summer mountain pastures (jailau) and winter valleys (qystau). Their traditional dwelling, the yurt—a portable, round felt tent—can be disassembled in hours and transported by camels or horses, perfectly adapted to their mobile lifestyle. Hospitality is sacred: guests are welcomed with koumiss (fermented mare’s milk), rich meat dishes, and warm milk tea inside the cozy yurt.

A Kazakh saying goes: “A Kazakh without a horse is like a bird without wings.” Expert horsemanship defines their culture—children learn to ride before age five, and horses are central to transportation, food, and celebration. Traditional equestrian games thrill spectators: Kokpar: A fierce horseback tug-of-war over a goat carcass. Kyz Kuu (“Girl Chase”): A playful race where a man chases a woman on horseback. Horse Racing: High-speed endurance races across the steppes. At Nalati Grassland, visitors can ride horses across the meadows and watch dazzling equestrian shows.

Ili: The Heart of Kazakh Nomadism Ili, with its rolling grasslands and snow-capped Tianshan peaks, is the cultural core of the Kazakh people. Nalati Grassland: Known as the “Sky Grassland,” it’s one of the world’s most stunning alpine meadows. Here, Kazakhs still graze livestock in summer. Visitors can stay in yurts, watch Aitys performances, and join horseback rides across the emerald expanse. Kanas Lake (Burqin): A mystical alpine lake surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains. Kazakh nomads roam the nearby valleys, offering a glimpse of their traditional way of life amid breathtaking scenery.

Stay in a Yurt: Experience authentic nomadic life with local Kazakh families (around 200 yuan per night). Enjoy Festivals: Visit during the Nadam Fair (summer) for horse races, wrestling, and Aitys competitions. Taste Cuisine: Savor hand-grabbed lamb, koumiss, and milk tea for genuine Kazakh flavors. Conclusion A journey through Kazakh lands in northern Xinjiang is an adventure into a world where the spirit of the steppe reigns supreme. From the thundering hooves of horses across Nalati Grassland to the witty, melodic duels of Aitys singers, the Kazakhs offer an unforgettable experience of nomadic freedom, equestrian prowess, and poetic artistry.