Visiting Yili at the end of August allows you to appreciate stunning natural scenery, experience rich ethnic cultures, and enjoy local cuisine. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
I. Recommended Attractions?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine jewel, with lake water as blue as a gem and surrounding scenery like a fairy tale. You can drive around the lake to encounter lake and mountain scenery from different angles, or camp by the lake to watch sunrises and sunsets.?
Guozigou Bridge: A majestic and spectacular modern bridge perfectly integrated with the beautiful mountain and river scenery. Standing on the viewing platform, you can easily capture a panoramic view of the bridge.?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Air Grassland,’ with snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands intertwined. You can come here to ride horses or hike to appreciate the beautiful scenery.?
. This is also an excellent photography location for photography enthusiasts. The grassland is lush and green, and the sky is blue as washed at the end of August.?
Huocheng Lavender Field: Although lavender may have passed its peak bloom at the end of August, the remaining purple sea of flowers is still romantic and charming, worth a visit.?
Karajun Grassland: Integrating grassland, forest, and canyon landscapes, with breathtaking views such as colorful meadows. You can hike among them and overlook the magnificent scenery of the grassland.?
II. Itinerary Arrangement?
Here is a suggested 6-day itinerary:?
Day 1: Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining?
Day 2: Yining – Lavender Field (if past peak bloom, can be replaced with other attractions) – Xiata – Zhaosu/Tekes?
Day 3: Tekes – Kuerding Self-driving Tour – Nalati Town?
Day 4: One-day tour of Nalati Grassland, overnight stay in Nalati Town?
Day 5: Nalati Town – Duku Highway (partial sections) – Bayinbrook Grassland (if time allows).?
Day 6: Bayinbrook Grassland – Urumqi, end of the trip?
III. Accommodation and Food?
Accommodation: There are various types of hotels in the Yili region, and suitable accommodations can be selected according to individual needs. Near major attractions, such as Yining City and Nalati Town, there are many high-quality hotels and homestays for tourists to choose from.?
Food: The Yili region boasts a rich and diverse culinary landscape, mainly featuring Kazakh and Uyghur cuisine. It is recommended to try local specialties such as hand-grabbed mutton, roast whole sheep, and mutton kebabs. Fresh fruits and dried fruits, such as cantaloupes and grapes, are also available.?
IV. Precautions?
Climate and Attire: The temperature difference between day and night in Yili at the end of August is large, so it is recommended to dress in layers. Additionally, the climate is dry, so attention should be paid to hydration and moisturizing.?
Transportation and Navigation: The Yili region has convenient transportation options, including airplanes, trains, or self-driving. However, signals may be weak in mountainous areas, so please ask for directions frequently when navigating.?
Tickets and Shopping: Learn about the ticket information and purchase channels of various attractions in advance. The Yili region has many specialty goods and handicrafts, such as traditional Kazakh crafts and local specialty dried fruits. Souvenirs and specialties can be purchased at local markets or specialty stores.?
Safety and Respect: During your visit, please be sure to abide by local laws and regulations, respect local customs and traditions, and pay attention to personal and property safety.?