The Yili travel plan can be arranged from 6 to 10 days according to personal time and preferences, covering major attractions and unique experiences. Below is an example of an 8-day in-depth tour plan of Yili based on multiple guides and itineraries.?
8-Day In-depth Tour Plan of Yili.?
Day 1: Departure point to Urumqi.?
Depart from your departure point, arrive in Urumqi, free activities, recommended to visit the Autonomous Region Museum to understand the history and culture of Xinjiang.?
Day 2: Urumqi to Yining, Sayram Lake.?
Depart from Urumqi, pass by Sayram Lake to admire the scenic beauty of this lake known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean", go cycling or take photos around the lake, and stay overnight in Yining.?
Day 3: Yining to Zhaosu, Lavender Base, Xiata.?
Depart from Yining, visit Huocheng Lavender Manor (best time is from June to July) to experience lavender picking and DIY sachets, then head to Xiata to feel the mysterious staircase leading to the snowy mountains, staying overnight in Zhaosu.?
Day 4: Zhaosu to Tekes, Qiongkushitai.?
Depart from Zhaosu, visit Qiongkushitai, a picturesque little village that feels like a fairy tale world, stay overnight in Tekes, and experience this city built according to the Eight Trigrams of the I Ching.?
Day 5: Tekes to Nalati, Qiaxi.?
Depart from Tekes, visit Qiaxi Forest Park to feel the beautiful scenery of Jiangnan (south of the Yangtze River) beyond the Great Wall, then head to Nalati Aerial Grassland to enjoy the lush green meadows and wildflowers in bloom, staying overnight in Nalati.?
Day 6: Nalati to Yining, Liuxing Street.?
Depart from Nalati, visit Liuxing Street to experience the ethnic flavor of Yining, stroll through Hanbin Night Market to taste authentic local cuisine, and stay overnight in Yining.?
Day 7: Yining to Urumqi, Dushanzi Grand Canyon.?
Depart from Yining, visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon to admire its magnificent scenery, and then return to Urumqi.?
Day 8: Return to departure point from Urumqi.?
Return to your departure point from Urumqi, ending your pleasant journey to Yili.?
Practical Tips?
Itinerary Preparation: Before departure, understand the climate. Xinjiang’s climate is changeable, especially during spring and summer when the temperature difference between morning and evening is large. Prepare thick clothing and sunscreen products.?
Dress Code Suggestions: Lightweight and comfortable clothing is key. It is recommended to pair thin clothing with a warm jacket, as well as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect against UV rays.?
Transportation Options: Self-driving and joining a tour group each have their advantages. Self-driving is freer and more flexible, suitable for in-depth tours; joining a tour group is more worry-free and effortless, suitable for travelers with limited time or who do not want to be bound by the itinerary.?
Accommodation Recommendations: The homestays in Tekes, such as Jiujuyizhai and YanyuXingkong, are good choices. Hotels and homestays in other areas can also be selected according to actual situations.?
This plan is for reference only. The specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal time, preferences, and actual situations. During the trip, please ensure safety and respect local culture and customs.?