Nalati Grassland in Northern Xinjiang, NW China
The Nalati Grassland is the sub-alpine meadow of the Gongnaisi Grassland that is one of the four largest grasslands of the world. Owing to its high altitude and steep terrain, it is also called ‘The Sky Grassland’. A beautiful story is associated with the grassland. Genghis Khan made a west expedition to Ili in midsummer. However, it was very cold in the mountains, further exhausting the already hungry soldiers. To their surprise, after crossing a mountain, they saw a boundless stretch of grassland. Dainty flowers were in full bloom and clear streams murmured over the lush green grass. It looked like a marvelous wonderland, so soldiers shouted happily ‘Nalati, Natati’.