The Yili Loop has many attractions worth visiting. Here are some recommendations:?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati Grassland is renowned for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains, while in winter, it is cloaked in snow. Visitors can experience activities such as horseback riding and visiting Kazakh homes. The Aerial Grassland Viewing Platform is an excellent spot to overlook the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with the grassland.?
Sayram Lake: Located in Bortala Mongolia Autonomous Prefecture, this alpine lake is known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’. The lake water is clear and azure, changing colors from blue to green with the light, creating a mesmerizing beauty. Whether cycling around the lake or camping under the stars, it is an excellent experience. Additionally, the blooming golden lotus by the lake in June and the ice-push spectacle in winter are particularly awe-inspiring.?
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 Platform transforms into a colorful carpet, and from the Falcon Viewing Platform, one can overlook the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. Meanwhile, the Crocodile Bay in Kuokesu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder worth exploring.?
Xiata Ancient Path: This steep and perilous canyon, once traveled by Xuanzang in his quest for Buddhist scriptures, integrates glaciers, hot springs, and ancient paths. Taking the shuttle bus through the Spruce Corridor and hiking to the foot of the Muzart Glacier allows one to deeply feel the vicissitudes and grandeur of this thousand-year-old path.?
Qiongkushitai Village: This primitive village nestled deep in the Tianshan Mountains has wooden huts scattered like a fairy tale world. The grassland behind the village, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Path, and the Kurdai River Forest Trail together constitute a trio of this secret land, making it ideal for deep hiking and photography.?
In addition, the Duku Highway, as one of China’s most beautiful highways, spans 561 kilometers and crosses the Tianshan Mountains. The scenery along the way is magnificent and varied, making it a paradise for self-driving enthusiasts.?
The Yizhao Highway is equally picturesque, with towering mountains, forests, canyons, and flocks of horses and sheep along the way, all forming a beautiful picture scroll.?
In general, the Yili Loop has abundant natural landscapes and cultural customs. Whether tourists prefer natural scenery or cultural exploration, they can find their own fun here.?