Traveling to Yili, Xinjiang during the May Day holiday is an excellent choice. At this time, the grasslands have started to turn green, and small yellow flowers bloom all over the mountains. With fewer people and beautiful scenery, it is perfect for taking photos. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
I. Must-Visit Attractions?
Sayram Lake: In May, Sayram Lake is in the ice-melting period, where you can witness the spectacular sight of blue, transparent ice pushing against each other, as well as dreamy white swans, feeling the winter-spring transition of the Atlantic Tears.?
Nalati Grassland: A must-visit here is the Aerial Grassland, where you can encounter snow-capped mountains, forests, lakes, sheep flocks, grasslands, wildflowers, and pine forests, experiencing the life of nomadic families.?
Guozigou Bridge: Leaving from the south gate of Sayram Lake, you will see the Guozigou Bridge. The snow-capped mountains, forests, and bridge frame a breathtaking picture together.?
Kalajun Scenic Area: The verdant grassland extends to the horizon, connecting with the azure sky as if it has no end. Snow-capped peaks shine with holy light under the sunshine, and wildlife runs freely on this land.?
Qiongkushitai: A place where you want to go just by hearing its name, and don’t want to leave after seeing the scenery. There are beautiful wild apricot flowers here, as if entering a world from an anime.?
II. Practical Tips?
Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car for self-driving, or charter a car or share a ride. Many homestays and youth hostels in Yining offer ride-sharing services. Renting a car in May should not be very expensive.?
Accommodation: As long as you avoid the peak tourist season, accommodation and food in Yili are not very expensive, especially the accommodation fees, which are similar to those in ordinary prefecture-level cities in the mainland.?
Clothing: Due to the large temperature difference between morning and night in Xinjiang, bring warm clothing to prepare for unexpected needs. Meanwhile, the ultraviolet radiation is intense, so remember to prepare sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, and sun hats.?
III. Recommended Routes?
Day 1: Arrive in Yining and stay there. You can visit Kazanqi or Liuxingjie, and then go to Yili River to watch the sunset in the evening.?
Day 2: Depart for Sayram Lake in the morning, passing by the Guozigou Bridge. You can choose to stay near Sayram Lake or continue to Tekes for the night.?
Day 3: Explore Qiongkushitai. It is recommended to stay at a homestay on the mountain behind the village for the best scenery and tranquility.?
Day 4: Depart from Qiongkushitai and head to Qiaxi Forest Park. You can choose to stay overnight in Qiaxi or the surrounding areas.?
Day 5: Visit Kalajun Scenic Area, arrive at Renti Grassland before sunset, and stay overnight in Tekes.?
In addition, you can also choose to visit other attractions such as Xiata and Kurdining based on your own schedule and preferences.?
. Hope this guide can help you better plan your May Day trip to Yili, Xinjiang!?