Taking a self-guided tour to Yili is an excellent experience, allowing you to deeply appreciate the natural scenery and cultural customs of Xinjiang. Here is a detailed self-guided tour guide for Yili:?
Itinerary Recommendations?
Classic Circular Route Itinerary (8 Days)?
Urumqi-Anjihai Grand Canyon-Kuitun: Begin your Yili tour by visiting the spectacular Anjihai Grand Canyon, then proceed to Kuitun for rest.?
Kuitun-Sayram Lake-Yining City: Admire the clear lake water of Sayram Lake and feel the charm of the "last tear of the Atlantic Ocean", then proceed to Yining City.?
Yining-Jade Lake-Zhaosu: Visit the mysterious beauty of Jade Lake, then proceed to Zhaosu to experience the vastness of the grassland.?
Zhaosu-Qiongkushitai-Tekes: Feel the tranquility of the primitive village in Qiongkushitai, then proceed to Tekes.?
Tekes-Qiaxi Forest-Gongliu: Walk through Qiaxi Forest and enjoy the fresh air of nature, then proceed to Gongliu.?
Gongliu-Nalati-Nalati Town: Gallop freely on the Nalati Grassland and feel the grandeur of the grassland, then proceed to Nalati Town.?
Nalati-Kumtag Desert-Shanshan: Experience the desert scenery of Kumtag Desert, then proceed to Shanshan.?
Shanshan-Mazacun-Urumqi: Finally visit Mazacun to experience the unique culture of Xinjiang, then return to Urumqi.?
7 Days and 6 Nights Itinerary?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi and have free activities.?
Day 2: Go to Yining and visit Sayram Lake.?
Day 3: Visit Qiongkushitai and feel the charm of the primitive village.?
Day 4: Visit Tangbula and enjoy the romantic scenery of Fairy Lake.?
Day 5: Experience local activities such as horse riding and butter making.?
Day 6: Continue exploring other attractions in Yili, such as Nalati Grassland.?
Day 7: Return to Urumqi and end the trip.?
Must-Visit Attractions?
Sayram Lake: The lake water is clear and bottomless, with swans swimming freely. It’s a sacred place for photography.?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the "Pearl of Tianshan", the scenery is so enchanting that people are reluctant to leave.?
Qiongkushitai: A primitive village located in the depths of the Tianshan Mountains, with unforgettable sunrise, sunset, and starry sky views.?
Qiaxi Forest: Dense forests and fresh air make it a great place for hiking adventures.?
Kumtag Desert: Experience the desert scenery and feel the grandeur of nature.?
Food Recommendations?
Nang Series of Delicacies: Xinjiang’s specialty food with a unique taste.?
Lagetian Noodles: Authentic Xinjiang noodles with delicious flavor.?
Big Plate Chicken: Xinjiang’s signature dish, with tender chicken and spicy flavor.?
Mutton Kebabs: Xinjiang’s grilled delicacies, with delicious meat and a unique taste.?
Travel Tips?
Weather and Clothing: Xinjiang has a large temperature difference in summer, so it’s recommended to bring a jacket. At the same time, the ultraviolet rays are intense, so be sure to take adequate sun protection measures.?
Essential Items: Prepare hiking poles, vacuum flasks, lip balm, sunscreen, skincare products, and other essentials. Bring quick-drying clothes, sunglasses, fleece hats, sun hats, windbreakers, down jackets, sports shoes, and other outdoor equipment.?
Safety Precautions: Security checks in Xinjiang are strict, please carry your ID card with you.?
Hope this guide can help you better plan your self-guided tour of Yili and enjoy the beauty and charm of Xinjiang!?