The core suggestions for self-guided tours in Yili include planning your itinerary, selecting attractions, and experiencing local culture and cuisine.?
Plan your itinerary:?
You can choose a suitable itinerary length based on personal time and interests, such as a 4-day 3-night trip or a 7-day tour.?
It is recommended to start from Yining and visit classic attractions such as Kazanqi, Guozigou Bridge, and Sayram Lake in sequence, before heading to Zhaosu, Tekes, and other places to explore natural scenery and cultural landscapes.?
Select attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Sky Grassland’, it is a place where snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands intertwine, suitable for horse riding or hiking to admire the scenery.?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake with sapphire-blue water and surrounding scenery resembling a fairy tale, suitable for self-driving tours around the lake.?
Guozigou Bridge: A magnificent modern bridge that perfectly blends with the beautiful mountains and rivers, making it a great place for photos.?
Kalajun Grassland, Qiongkushitai, Tangbula Grassland, and other attractions are also worth visiting, each with its own unique characteristics.?
Experience local culture and cuisine:?
During your tour, you can taste Xinjiang’s specialty foods, such as big plate chicken, grilled mutton skewers, pilaf, and lung noodles.?
Visit local villages and folk attractions, such as Qiongkushitai Ancient Village, to experience the ancient village culture and natural scenery.?
Other suggestions:?
Self-driving is a good way to travel in Yili, but attention should be paid to driving safety and road conditions.?
The best season to visit Yili is from June to August, when the grasslands are lush and wildflowers bloom freely, and the climate is particularly pleasant.?
In summary, self-guided tours in Yili require comprehensive consideration of itinerary planning, attraction selection, local culture, and food experiences to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.?