Tian Shan

These high ridges of the Tian Shan stand north of the Karashahr Basin and east of the Yulduz grasslands. Snow and glaciers feed the headwaters of the Kaidu River, which flows toward Bosten Lake on the southern side of the mountains. The range divides the dry Tarim country from the northern slopes, while narrow valleys provide access to pastures sheltered among the peaks.