August is one of the best times to travel to Yili. At this time, the grasslands are lush and green, wildflowers bloom freely, and the climate is pleasant, making it a paradise for escaping the summer heat.
Must-visit Attractions
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine gem, with sapphire-blue lake water and scenery around it like a fairy tale. Driving around the lake can encounter different perspectives of the lakeside scenery, and camping by the lake is also an excellent choice for watching sunrises and sunsets.
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Aerial Grassland’, with snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands interwoven. You can come here to ride horses or hike to appreciate the beauty.
Kalajun Grassland: Combining grasslands, forests, and canyons, with breathtaking landscapes such as five-flower meadows. Hiking through it, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of the grassland.
Xiata Ancient Road: One of the top three hiking routes in Xinjiang, suitable for tourists who like to challenge themselves.
Guozigou Bridge: A magnificent modern bridge perfectly integrated with the beauty of mountains and rivers. Standing on the viewing platform, you can easily capture the full view of the bridge.
Itinerary Suggestions
Outfit: Due to the large temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang, it is recommended to dress in layers and bring a jacket to cope with the low temperatures in the morning and evening.
Food: When in Xinjiang, be sure to try authentic mutton skewers, roasted naan, and big plate chicken. Additionally, kang坑 meat, spicy chicken, and pilaf are also good choices.
Accommodation: You can choose special accommodations such as the Dianjiangtai Starry Sky Campground at Sayram Lake or Mushangguyue in Nalati to experience different grassland charm.
Notes: Remember to bring your ID card because there are many checkpoints; the signal in mountainous areas may be weak, so it is advisable to ask for directions frequently; meanwhile, in the dry climate, humidifiers and hydration are essentials.
Recommended Itinerary Arrangement
Day1: Urumqi – S101 Scenic Highway – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Kuitun
Day2: Kuitun – Sayram Lake – Guozigou Bridge – Lavender Field – Yining
Day3: Yining – Xiata Grassland – Zhaosu
Day4: Zhaosu – Human-shaped Grassland – Qiongkushitai – Tekes
Day5: Tekes – Qiaxi Forest Park – Nalati Town
Day6: Nalati – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Bayinbuluke Nine-Bend-Eighteen-Turn River – Bayin
Day7: Bayin – Middle Section of Duku Highway – Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery – Urumqi
This itinerary covers multiple classic attractions in Yili, while experiencing the seasonal changes along the Duku Highway. It is a great choice for traveling to Yili in August.