There are many places worth visiting for tourism in Yili. Here are some main recommendations:?
Sailimu Lake: This is a typical alpine lake, with its water presenting layers of blue and green hues as the light changes. In June, the golden lotus flowers bloom by the lake, creating a breathtaking scene. Cycling around the lake and camping under the stars are also excellent experiences.?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains; in winter, it is dressed in white. You can experience horseback riding, visit Kazakh homes, and overlook the stunning panorama of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands from the observation deck in the Aerial Grassland.?
Kalajun Grassland: Certified by the United Nations as a "World Natural Heritage Site", it is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Terrace transforms into a colorful carpet, and the Falcon Viewing Terrace offers a distant view of the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. The Crocodile Bay in Kuokesu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder.?
Qiongkushitai Village: This is an original village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains. Wooden huts are scattered around like a fairy tale world. The grassland in the back mountain, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Road, and the Kurdai River forest trail constitute a trio of secret scenic spots, making it ideal for in-depth hiking and photography.?
Qiaxi Scenic Area: Located in the southeastern mountainous region of Gongliu County, it is a national-level forest park and also a resort for summer vacation, recuperation, and grassland folklore tourism. The scenic area is backed by snow-capped mountains, surrounded by mountains, adorned with ancient trees, and encircled by clear water. It has four distinct seasons and varied scenery.?
Xiata Ancient Road: This is the perilous gorge that Xuanzang traveled through on his pilgrimage to obtain Buddhist scriptures. It integrates glaciers, hot springs, and ancient roads. You can take a shuttle bus to traverse the Spruce Corridor and hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier to feel the vicissitudes of the thousand-year-old ancient road.?
Guozigou Bridge: Praised as the "Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang", it resembles a huge dragon coiled in the valley. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of the bridge framed with snow-capped mountains. In spring, wildflowers bloom everywhere; in autumn, the forests are dyed in layers of colors; and in winter, rime glistens.?
In addition, the Duku Highway, which "stretches across towering mountains and crosses valleys", is also an excellent choice for self-drive travel enthusiasts.?
The Yili River Scenic Area runs through the city, and the sunset over the Yili River Bridge is praised as the "Most Beautiful Dusk in the Western Regions". Bird watching in the Wetland Park, ethnic dances by the river, and winter swan habitat also showcase the beauty of vibrant ecology.?
The above is just a part of the recommendations for tourism in Yili. In fact, every corner of Yili hides endless beautiful scenery and stories, waiting for you to explore and discover.?