Things To Do
in Narat

Narat, located in Xinjiang, China, is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural scenery and vibrant grassland. Surrounded by the majestic Tianshan Mountains, it offers a unique blend of ethnic culture and breathtaking landscapes. The region is particularly famous for its vast pastures, making it a popular destination for those interested in outdoor activities and photography.

Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, enjoy traditional cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the Uyghur and Kazakh communities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Narat's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Narat Grassland, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the stunning views of the mountains and vast pastures.

afternoon
:

Visit the Narat River, where you can relax by the water and enjoy a picnic lunch while observing local wildlife.

evening
:

Head back to town for a traditional Uyghur dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll through the main square to experience local music and dance performances.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Adventure
morning
:

Take a guided tour to a nearby Kazakh yurt, where you can learn about their traditional lifestyle and enjoy freshly made dairy products.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Narat National Park, hiking through its scenic trails and taking photographs of the vibrant flora and fauna.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local snacks before enjoying a bonfire under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
🛏️Budget hotel per night$20
🚌Local bus fare$1
🍵Cup of tea$1
🧥Local clothing item$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and traditional cuisine.
  • Friendly and hospitable local communities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barriers may pose a challenge for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Public amenities may be less developed in rural areas.
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里? (Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我想要这个 (Wǒ xiǎng yào zhège)" - I would like this
  • "多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Narat

Visit one of these nice places.

Narat Grassland

An expansive area filled with wildflowers and grazing livestock, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Tianshan Mountains

Stunning mountain vistas that provide a dramatic backdrop for landscape photography.

Narat River

A serene setting ideal for photographing reflections of the surrounding landscapes during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Narat

Narat offers a delightful culinary experience with flavors influenced by its diverse ethnic communities. Must-try local dishes include hearty meats, fresh dairy products, and unique grains that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.

Narat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lagman

A famous Uyghur noodle dish, stir-fried with vegetables and meat, often flavored with a rich sauce.

Must-Try!

Beshbarmak

A traditional Kazakh dish made with boiled meat served over flat noodles and topped with onion sauce.

Kurt

Dried yogurt balls that are a popular snack among locals, often enjoyed with tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Narat Street Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors offering delicious kebabs and dumplings.

Kazakh Food Stalls

Street vendors offering traditional Kazakh dishes like manti (dumplings) and various meat skewers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Narat experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them the best seasons for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter can drop below -10°C (14°F). Rainfall is minimal, and snow is common in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Traditions

Visitors should show respect for local customs, especially during religious events and cultural ceremonies.

Dress Modestly

While Narat is more liberal than other regions, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in rural areas.

Greeting Locals

A warm handshake and a smile are common when greeting locals, often followed by friendly conversation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Narat is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's also recommended to have travel insurance and to keep emergency contact numbers on hand.

Tipping in Narat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in restaurants; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, mobile payments are increasingly popular, so having a local payment app is handy.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make it a beautiful time to visit, perfect for hiking and photography.

Summer

Warm and sunny days attract tourists for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

The foliage changes to vibrant hues, creating a picturesque landscape, ideal for scenic drives and hikes.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow cover transform the area into a winter wonderland, attracting those interested in snow activities.

Nightlife Guide

Narat at Night

Narat's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a focus on cultural experiences rather than vibrant nightlife. Local cafes and restaurants may offer live music or traditional dance performances in the evenings. Social gatherings often take place around bonfires or in public squares where locals enjoy music and conversation.

Hiking in Narat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tianshan Mountain Trail

A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the Tianshan mountain range, suitable for experienced hikers.

Narat Valley Trail

An easier trail perfect for families, winding through lush valleys and offering picturesque scenery.

Airports

How to reach Narat by plane.

Narat Airport

Located approximately 20 km from the town center, Narat Airport offers limited domestic flights, primarily connecting to larger cities in Xinjiang.

Getting Around

Walkability

Narat is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally available, although some areas may require navigating uneven terrain. Walking is a great way to explore the local culture and engage with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Uyghurs

The predominant ethnic group in Narat, known for their vibrant culture, music, and cuisine.

Kazakhs

Another significant demographic, with a rich nomadic heritage and strong traditions in horsemanship and storytelling.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

A popular sport among locals, with informal matches often taking place in public parks.

Horse Racing

A traditional sport in the region, especially among the Kazakh community, where events are held during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Narat is light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, but services may be limited. Biking is also a popular way to get around, especially in the scenic areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Narat.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is a staple, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; just inquire about options.

Halal Food

Most food in Narat is halal, but it's good to confirm with the restaurant if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Narat are basic, with several clinics available for minor ailments. For serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Urumqi. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and access to emergency services.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide