The travel guide from Korla to Yili mainly includes the following multi-day itinerary:?
Day 1: Korla to Hejing County?
In the morning, depart from Korla and head northwest along G30 Expressway, passing through Bayingol Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, and finally arrive at Hejing County. This journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, with views of the unique desert and Gobi landscapes of southern Xinjiang along the way?
Upon arriving in Hejing County, you can visit the local museum or try local delicacies to recharge for the next part of your journey?
Day 2: Hejing County to Bayinbuluke Grassland?
Turn from Hejing County onto Provincial Highway S101, cross the Tianshan Mountains, pass through Baluntai Town, and finally arrive at Bayinbuluke Grassland. This journey takes approximately 4 hours, with stunning views of the Tianshan Mountains along the way?
Bayinbuluke Grassland is one of China’s larger alpine grasslands. The Swan Lake and the Nine-Bend and Eighteen-Turn natural landscape here are breathtaking and make it an excellent place for photography and relaxation?
Day 3: Bayinbuluke Grassland to Nalati or Yining?
There are two route options: The first is to head to Nalati Grassland to experience ethnic activities such as horse riding and archery, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Gongnais River?
; The second option is to go directly to Yining City to adapt to the plateau climate, stroll through the local night market, and experience the local customs?
Nalati Grassland is famous for its rich vegetation and diverse wildflowers, making it an ideal place for photographers; Yining City, on the other hand, has a strong Kazakh flavor and is a great place to experience the diverse cultures of Xinjiang?
Day 4: Yining or Nalati to Karakun Grassland or Sayram Lake?
If you choose Yining on the third day, you can head to Karakun Grassland on the fourth day. Here, the grassland stretches endlessly, with herds of cattle and sheep, fresh air, and picturesque scenery. It is suitable for activities such as horse riding and hiking?
If you choose Nalati on the third day, you can head to Sayram Lake on the fourth day, known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’. The lake water is azure and clear, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and the scenery is picturesque. You can take a walk or go boating by the lake?
Day 5: Return or continue exploration?
You can choose to return to Korla from Yining to end your pleasant journey, which is expected to take 6 hours?
Alternatively, if time permits, you can continue to explore other attractions in the Yili region, such as the Lavender Base in Huocheng?
During the trip, self-driving or renting a car is the most recommended method, as it allows for more flexible itinerary planning and the scenery along the way is also very charming. Meanwhile, take precautions against sunburn, carry necessary travel supplies and medications, and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey?