A trip to Xiata in Yili, Xinjiang is an excellent journey combining natural scenery, historical culture, and adventure experiences. Xiata, meaning ‘ladder’ in Mongolian, is located more than 70 kilometers southwest of Zhaosu County in Yili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. It was once a transportation station on the ancient route from Yili to Aksu and now attracts numerous tourists with its unique natural landscapes and rich historical and cultural sites.?
I. Transportation Guide?
To travel to Xiata, there are various transportation options. Tourists can first arrive in Yining, the capital of Yili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, and then take a bus to Zhaosu County from Yining. From there, they can rent a car or carpool to Xiata scenic area. If choosing to self-drive, you can travel along the picturesque Yizhao Highway, but note that the opening hours of the Yizhao Highway are limited and should be checked in advance.?
II. Main Attractions?
Magnificent Snow-capped Mountains: Within the Xiata scenic area, you can closely admire the Muzart Snow Peak, which shines with holy light under the sunshine, its majestic presence awe-inspiring.?
Mysterious Ancient Road: The Xiata Ancient Road carries a rich historical culture, as if you can see the shadows of camel caravans from the past and feel the vicissitudes of history. It is also one of China’s top ten classic hiking routes, attracting numerous hiking enthusiasts.?
Grassland Flower Sea: In summer, the grassland is adorned with a sea of flowers, contrasting beautifully with the blue sky, white clouds, and snow-capped mountains, like a hidden paradise. Tourists can wander through the flower sea and enjoy the bounty of nature.?
Xiata River: Strolling along the Xiata River, you will find the water clear and transparent, with the sound of flowing water like a symphony of nature. The riverside is a great place for photos, with snow-capped mountains and forests as the backdrop, making for stunning pictures.?
Grassland Viewing Platform: After a short hike, you will arrive at the viewing platform, where you can take in a panoramic view of the grassland. It’s an excellent spot to admire the sunset.?
III. Travel Suggestions?
Recommended Duration: It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day here, arranged reasonably according to personal interests and physical condition.?
Accommodation Options: To deeply experience the beauty of the Xiata Ancient Road, you can choose to stay overnight within the scenic area, enjoy the beautiful and pure night sky, and wait for the magical moment of sunrise illuminating the golden mountains.?
Notes: The shuttle buses within the Xiata scenic area are not official buses but privately-owned vehicles temporarily requisitioned by the scenic area. Tourists need to gather four people and call the driver to pick them up. Meanwhile, tourists should pay attention to protecting the natural environment within the scenic area and not litter randomly.?
In short, a trip to Xiata in Yili, Xinjiang is an unforgettable journey. Whether it’s the natural scenery or historical culture, it’s captivating. I hope this guide can help you better plan your itinerary and enjoy the beauty of Xiata.?