July is the peak period of beauty in Yili, Xinjiang. The grasslands are lush and green, wildflowers bloom freely, and the climate is pleasant, making it a paradise for escaping the summer heat. Below is a detailed travel guide for Yili in July:?
I. Must-visit Attractions?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake, with sapphire-blue waters and scenery around it resembling a fairy tale. You can take a self-driving tour around the lake to encounter different views of the lake and mountains. Camping by the lake to watch sunrises and sunsets is also an excellent choice.?
Huocheng Lavender Fields: In June and July, when the lavender blooms, this place instantly transforms into China’s Provence, with large fields of purple flowers creating a romantic and charming atmosphere. It is an excellent spot for taking photos.?
Nalati Grasslands: Known as the ‘aerial grasslands’, with snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands intertwined. You can ride horses or hike to appreciate the beautiful scenery.?
Karajun Grasslands: A combination of grasslands, forests, and canyons, with breathtaking landscapes such as colorful meadows. It is suitable for hiking exploration.?
Guozigou Bridge: A magnificent modern bridge that perfectly blends with the natural scenery of mountains and rivers. You can easily capture a panoramic view of the bridge from the observation deck.?
II. Recommended Routes?
Route 1: 6-day Yili loop?
Day 1: Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining?
Day 2: Yining – Lavender Fields – Xiata – Zhaosu/Tekes?
Day 3: Zhaosu/Tekes – Qiongkushitai – Gongliu/Xinyuan?
Day 4: Gongliu/Xinyuan – Nalati Grasslands?
Day 5: Nalati – Tangbula – Duku Highway – Urumqi?
Day 6: Return trip from Urumqi?
Route 2: 7-day loop?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, free activities?
Day 2: Urumqi – Sayram Lake, enjoy the sunrise scenery, and take a self-driving tour around the lake?
Day 3: Watch the sunrise at Sayram Lake, cross the Guozigou Bridge, and arrive at Qiongkushitai Village?
Day 4: Depart from Qiongkushitai, and visit the Qiaxi Grasslands?
Day 5: Depart from Gongliu/Xinyuan, and enjoy a leisurely visit to the Nalati Grasslands?
Day 6: Depart from Nalati, cross the Duku Highway, and experience the four seasons in one day?
Day 7: Return trip from Urumqi?
III. Precautions?
Transportation: More than one-third of your travel time in Yili will be spent in the car, so be prepared for long periods of sitting. Also, remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from heatstroke, as the distances between attractions are far and travel times are long.?
Climate: Yili has pleasant weather in July, but the ultraviolet rays are strong. It is recommended to bring sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, sunglasses, hats, and other sun protection items. Meanwhile, the climate is dry, so girls should prepare lip balm, face masks, and other moisturizing products.?
Customs: Respect the customs of ethnic minorities, such as Muslims’ prohibition on pork. Try to be friendly when shopping and don’t haggle casually for items you’re not sure you want.?
Safety: Xinjiang has strict security checks, so pay attention to the items you carry and be prepared to remove your shoes for inspection. Meanwhile, there are many military restricted areas in Xinjiang where visiting and taking photos are prohibited. Make sure to remember this clearly.?
I hope this guide can help you have an unforgettable journey in Yili in July!?
