Here is a detailed recommendation for Yili’s tourism planning:
I. Itinerary Arrangements
The attractions in Yili are scattered. Here is an example of a 7-day and 6-night itinerary:
Day1: Urumqi → S101 National Defense Highway → Anjihai Grand Canyon → Jinghe County/Shuanghe
Day2: Jinghe County/Shuanghe → Sayram Lake → Guozi Gorge → Lavender Garden → Yining Six-Star Street
Day3: Yining → Yizhao Highway → Xiata → Zhaosu
Day4: Zhaosu → Qiongkushitai
Day5: Qiongkushitai → Karakun → Tekes
Day6: Tekes → Bayanbulak Grassland → Nine-Bend and Eighteen-Turn Sunset
Day7: Bayanbulak → Middle Section of the Duku Highway → Nalati Aerial Grassland → Urumqi
II. Scenic Spot Recommendations
Nalati Grassland: A 5A scenic area with beautiful grassland scenery. You can camp here and enjoy the starry sky campground, making it an excellent place to experience the charm of the grasslands.
Qiaxi Grassland Scenic Tourism Area: It is picturesque and suitable for leisurely walks to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Yili River Scenic Tourism Area: A 4A scenic area that is open 24 hours a day, suitable for visits at any time to enjoy the beauty of the Yili River.
Sayram Lake: Known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean", it boasts clear lake water surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a magnificent scenery.
Karakun Grassland: A 5A scenic area where grasslands and snow-capped mountains complement each other, making it a paradise for photographers.
III. Accommodation Recommendations
There are various types of accommodation options in Yili, ranging from luxury hotels to homestays. Here are some recommendations:
Qiongkushitai Mountain Self-leisure: Although the price is higher, the room facilities and public areas are very cozy and comfortable, making it suitable for tourists who pursue high-quality accommodation experiences.
Traveler’s Camp: It is moderately priced, with different rooms offering different views. The facilities are complete, making it suitable for tourists who enjoy outdoor activities.
Yinan Li Saiwai: The newly renovated rooms are spacious and bright, with mountain-view rooms offering a panoramic view. You can also take photos in national costumes to experience the local culture.
IV. Food Recommendations
The cuisine in Yili is mainly based on beef and mutton, with a heavy taste. It is recommended to try local specialties such as "Pilaf with Lamb", "Red Willow Barbecue", and "Oil-Fried Meat with Noodles". Additionally, "Jiang Jianmian Yili Weidao" is a popular local noodle restaurant that offers authentic Yili noodles.
V. Precautions
Driving Safety: The attractions in Yili are scattered, so self-driving is a good choice. However, please pay attention to driving safety and abide by traffic rules.
Climate Change: The climate in Yili is changeable, so it is recommended to bring clothing for all seasons, especially a thin down jacket to cope with possible low temperatures.
Signal Coverage: Some areas may not have mobile phone signal coverage, please prepare in advance.
Ticket Reservation: It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions such as the Karakun Scenic Area and the Nalati Tourist Scenic Area to avoid queuing.
Through the above planning, I believe you can fully experience the natural scenery and cultural charm of Yili. Wish you a pleasant journey!