When traveling in Ili, Xinjiang, you can experience rich natural landscapes and unique national cultures. 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. In summer, wildflowers bloom all over the mountains. You can ride a horse across the grassland to experience the customs of the Kazakhs, and also overlook the stunning scenery of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with the grassland from the Aerial Grassland Viewing Platform.?
Sailimu Lake: Although belonging to Bozhou, Sailimu Lake is a core attraction on the Ili loop route. The color of the lake water changes with the light, presenting layers of blue and green, which are very charming. In June, the golden lotus by the lake blooms, making it even more beautiful. The ice pushing wonder in winter is also worth seeing. You can choose to cycle around the lake or camp under the stars to enjoy close contact with nature.?
Karajun Grassland: Certified by the UN as a "World Natural Heritage", it is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Platform resembles a colorful carpet, while Falcon Viewing Platform offers a distant view of the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. In addition, the Crocodile Bay in Kuokesu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder that should not be missed.?
Xiata Ancient Road: This is the perilous gorge passed by Xuanzang on his pilgrimage to fetch Buddhist scriptures, integrating glaciers, hot springs, and ancient roads. You can take a shuttle bus to cross the Spruce Corridor, then hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier to feel the vicissitudes and mystery of the thousand-year-old ancient road.?
Qiongkushitai Village: A primitive village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden houses scattered like a fairy tale world. The grassland in the back mountain, the starting point of the Ancient Wusun Road, and the Kurdai River forest trail form a trio of secret scenic spots, suitable for tourists who love deep hiking and photography.?
Other recommended attractions:?
Guozigou Bridge: Praised as the "Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang", the viewing platform offers stunning shots of the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains.?
Huocheng Lavender: In mid-to-late June, tens of thousands of acres of purple flowers bloom, filling the air with a romantic fragrance, as if you are in Provence.?
Tekes Bagua City: The world’s largest ancient city laid out in the shape of a bagua, a mysterious city without traffic lights. Ride the Ferris wheel to overlook the streets arranged in the pattern of the I Ching.?
Ili River Scenic Area: The Central Asian river flows through the city. The sunset at Ili River Bridge is praised as the "Most Beautiful Sunset in the Western Regions". Activities such as bird watching in the wetland park and folk dances by the river are also colorful.?
In addition, if you visit Ili in winter, you can also experience the ice and snow fun at the Ilegedai International Ski Resort in Gongliu County. The ski resort is fully equipped and provides attentive service. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced skier, you will find suitable ski runs.?
In short, when traveling in Ili, Xinjiang, you will be able to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery and the profound national cultural heritage. Whether you prefer natural landscapes or cultural attractions, you will find suitable tourism projects.?