An in-depth tour of Yili allows you to experience its rich natural landscapes and unique ethnic culture. Here are some recommended attractions and activities:?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati Grassland is famous for its three-dimensional landscape and rich activities. You can experience horseback riding and visiting Kazakh homes here. You can also climb up to the viewing platform on the Aerial Grassland to overlook the stunning scene where snow-capped firs and grasslands intertwine.?
Sayram Lake: This lake is a core attraction on the Yili loop route, with its water color changing with the light, displaying blue and green hues. In June, the golden lotus flowers blooming along the lakeside are even more breathtaking. It is recommended to go cycling around the lake or camping under the stars, enjoying close contact with nature.?
Guozigou Bridge: Known as the "Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang", Guozigou Bridge coils like a huge dragon above the canyon. Standing on the viewing platform, you can capture stunning photos of the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains. Whether it’s the colorful mountain flowers in spring or the colorful forests in autumn, they all make people feel refreshed and happy.?
Kalajun Grassland: Certified by the United Nations as a "World Natural Heritage", it is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Platform seems to turn into a colorful carpet, while Falcon Platform offers a distant view of the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. Additionally, the Crocodile Bay in Kuokesu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder worth exploring.?
Duku Highway: A self-drive on the Duku Highway is a major highlight of an in-depth tour of Yili. This highway crosses the Tianshan Mountains, connecting northern and southern Xinjiang, with magnificent and varied scenery along the way. You can enjoy various landscapes such as canyons, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains along the way, experiencing an unforgettable self-drive journey.?
Huocheng Lavender Field: From June to July, the lavenders in Huocheng bloom, instantly transforming the place into China’s "Provence". The vast purple sea of flowers is romantic and charming, making it an excellent spot for taking photos. You can also experience flower field photography and essential oil production here, feeling the unique charm of lavender.?
Qiongkushitai Village: This primitive village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains is like a fairy tale world. Wooden huts are scattered around, and the triple secrets are composed of the grassland in the back mountain, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Road, and the Kuerdai River Forest Trail. It is suitable for in-depth hiking and photography, allowing you to explore the mysteries of nature to your heart’s content.?
When taking an in-depth tour of Yili, you can also taste the local cuisine, such as the ethnic-flavored roast meat and stir-fried three delicacies at the night market of Dabazha, as well as the fried rice noodles with Xinjiang characteristics. Additionally, Yili’s folk customs are also unique, such as the mysterious layout of Tekes Bagua City and the vibrant ecology of the Yili River Scenic Area, which are all worth exploring and experiencing.?