If you plan to travel to Yili in summer, you can refer to the following guide:?
Firstly, Yili’s summer is undoubtedly the most popular time for traveling in Xinjiang, with particularly charming grassland scenery. I recommend visiting the following grassland attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: Here, snow-capped mountains, spruces, and grasslands intertwine, resembling a fairy tale world. The supporting facilities are mature and suitable for traveling with elders and children, but the cost of self-driving is high, and there are limited places where you can get off the shuttle bus.?
Kalajun Grassland: It features human-shaped grasslands in Koksu Canyon, with unique landscapes that amaze people. Facilities are complete, accommodation is convenient, and self-driving is now allowed. However, during peak seasons, it is overcrowded, and the scenic route is somewhat confusing, making it easy to get lost.?
Qiongkushitai: A quaint village hidden in the alpine forest and grassland, full of poetry. Free entry and accessible by car, but the winding mountain road has poor conditions, so those prone to carsickness should beware.?
Tangbula Grassland: The hundred-mile gallery is breathtakingly beautiful, and Fairy Lake is mysterious and charming. Free entry, good road conditions for self-driving, stunning starry skies, and excellent photo opportunities. However, to get to Fairy Lake, you can only ride a horse or hike, which is a test of physical strength.?
Sayram Lake: It is known as the?
Duku Highway: It coexists with beautiful scenery and steep terrain, and is hailed as a highway that must be traveled once in a lifetime. If you like adventure and challenges, then the Duku Highway is definitely not to be missed.?
Qiaxi Scenic Area: The valley bottom is flat with a gentle stream flowing, and the snow-capped mountains and grasslands complement each other beautifully. The scenery here is so enchanting that people are reluctant to leave.?
For itinerary planning, you can refer to the following suggestions:?
Planning a self-driving tour in Yili: You can choose a 7-day, 6-night itinerary starting from Yining, visiting lavender fields, Sayram Lake, Nalati Aerial Grassland, and other scenic spots. You can also adjust and extend based on your interests and time.?
Accommodation recommendations: At Sayram Lake, you can choose Muyunyeye Luxury Campsite to enjoy the tranquility and luxury by the lake. At Kruger Camp, you can get close to nature and feel surrounded by the forest.?
Lastly, don’t forget to taste the delicious foods in Yili. Such as baked stuffed bun, Xinjiang-style large plate chicken, Xinjiang-style roast meat, handmade yogurt, and Xinjiang-style hand-grabbed rice. These are authentic Xinjiang delicacies that will definitely satisfy your taste buds.?
I hope this summer travel guide to Yili can help you and wish you a pleasant journey!?