Self-guided Travel Guide to Yili, Xinjiang?
The Yili area of Xinjiang attracts many tourists with its magnificent natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. Here is a brief self-guided travel guide to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Yili, Xinjiang.?
Itinerary Planning:?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, rest, and prepare for the next day’s itinerary.?
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi and head to Sayram Lake, overnighting in Yining. Sayram Lake is a core attraction on the Yili loop route. The lake’s water changes colors from blue to green with the light, and cycling around the lake and camping under the stars are particularly recommended experiences.?
Day 3: Visit the Lavender Base in Yining, then proceed to Zhaosu, passing by Xiata on the way.?
Day 4: Depart from Zhaosu and visit Jongkushitai, a quaint village hidden under the alpine forest and grassland, full of poetry, free to enter, and accessible by car, saving money and being convenient.?
Day 5: Head to Tekes, visit Qiaxi Forest, and then proceed to Nalati. Nalati Grassland, one of the world’s four alpine valley grasslands, is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers are everywhere, making it an excellent destination for horseback riding and visiting Kazakh families.?
Subsequent Days: Depending on personal interests and schedules, continue to explore other attractions in the Yili area, such as Tangbula Grassland and Bayinbrook.?
Recommended Attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the world’s four alpine valley grasslands, Nalati Grassland attracts tourists with its unique grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers bloom, and in winter, it is covered in snow. The Sky Grassland Observation Deck is an excellent spot to overlook the stunning view of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands.?
Sayram Lake: The lake’s water changes colors from blue to green with the light, making it an ideal place for cycling around the lake and camping under the stars.?
Jongkushitai: A quaint village hidden under the alpine forest and grassland, full of poetry, and free to enter. Driving in is allowed, saving money and being convenient.?
Tangbula Grassland: The Hundred-Mile Gallery is breathtakingly beautiful, and Fairy Lake is mysterious and charming, making it an excellent spot for taking photos and stargazing.?
Travel Tips:?
The temperature difference between morning and night in the Yili area is large, so it is recommended to bring a windbreaker and a thin down jacket to cope with temperature changes.?
Xinjiang has strong ultraviolet rays, so be sure to take sun protection measures, such as applying sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and hats.?
Self-driving is an excellent way to explore Yili, but attention should be paid to road conditions and driving safety.?
Food Experience:?
During your trip, don’t forget to try local specialty foods, such as Xinjiang’s Pilaf, to experience authentic flavors.?
With this self-guided travel guide, you can better plan your trip to Yili, Xinjiang, and feel the charm and unique flavor of this beautiful land.?