Sayram Lake in Yili, Xinjiang, is a great place for tourism. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
1. Basic Introduction to Sayram Lake?
Sayram Lake is known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean" and is the highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang. It is located 160 kilometers away from Yili City. The lake water is clear and blue like a jewel, backed by snow-capped mountains, creating a picturesque scenery. The flowering season is from June to July, which is the best time to view wildflowers and take photos.?
2. Tickets and Transportation?
Tickets: A one-day self-drive ticket costs 145 yuan, and a two-day ticket costs 190 yuan; for non-self-drive visitors, it costs 70 yuan plus a 75 yuan shuttle bus ticket for a full circumnavigation.?
. Another option is a ticket price of 70 yuan per person, with a shuttle bus costing 45 yuan for a half-circumnavigation and 75 yuan for a full circumnavigation per person.?
Transportation: It is recommended to drive around the lake yourself, entering from the East Gate and exiting through the South Gate, where you can encounter lake and mountain scenery from different angles.?
. If you rent a car or bring your own, your visit will be more enjoyable.?
3. Accommodation Options?
RV Campgrounds: Prices are higher, and accommodation is tight, so reservations are required in advance.?
Felt Tents: The living conditions are limited, with inconvenient washing facilities, but the price is cheap.?
Homestays: There are homestays near the scenic area that can be booked in advance for a more comfortable stay.?
4. Recommended Photo spots?
Moon Bay: Entering from the East Gate and walking along the plank path, you can see snow-capped mountains, meadows, and windmills, making it an excellent spot for photos.?
S-shaped Road: The road, snow-capped mountains, lakes, and wildflower meadows complement each other, creating a vast and picturesque scene.?
Other Attractions: Scenic spots such as Keqinyongzhu and the Guozigou Bridge are also worth capturing with a camera.?
5. Travel Time and Routes?
Best Travel Time: June to August is the peak period for Yili’s beauty, with lush grasslands, wildflowers blooming freely, and pleasant weather.?
Recommended Route: You can choose the 6-day Yili Loop Route, which includes attractions such as Urumqi, Sayram Lake, Yining, Lavender Fields, Nalati Grassland, and more.?
. You can also choose an in-depth tour of Sayram Lake, such as a 6-day, 5-night itinerary that includes activities like circumnavigating the lake, light hiking, winter fishing, and various other experiences.?
6. Other Precautions?
The weather at Sayram Lake is unstable and can change suddenly, so tourists are advised to bring appropriate cold-weather clothing and rain gear.?
If you are traveling by car or chartered bus, it is recommended to plan your route and accommodation in advance to avoid unnecessary troubles.?
I hope this travel guide can help you better plan your trip to Sayram Lake in Yili, Xinjiang.?