The August Yili travel guide mainly includes transportation tips, must-visit attractions, travel routes, food recommendations, and accommodation tips.?
Firstly, regarding transportation, it is recommended to fly to Urumqi, or take a train or high-speed rail to Urumqi Railway Station, and then transfer to ground transportation to Yili.?
Self-driving is also a good choice, allowing you to deeply experience the scenery along the way.?
In terms of attractions, the Yili grasslands are lush and wildflowers are blooming freely in August, making it a peak time for beauty.?
Here are some must-visit attractions:?
Sayram Lake: The largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, with lake water as blue as a gem and surrounding scenery resembling a fairy tale. You can drive around the lake and encounter different perspectives of the lake and mountains.?
Nalati Grassland: One of the four major grasslands in the world, known as "China’s Most Beautiful Aerial Grassland". Meadows intertwine with forests, and snow-capped peaks connect with streams. You can ride horses or hike to appreciate the beautiful scenery.?
Kalajun Grassland: The largest grassland in Xinjiang, integrating grasslands, forests, and valleys. August is the season when the grassland is lush and flowers are in full bloom.?
Duku Highway: One of the most beautiful highways in China, stretching from Kuqa in southern Xinjiang to Dushanzi in northern Xinjiang, it boasts a diverse landscape including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, as well as Yardang and Danxia landforms.?
Furthermore, places such as Huocheng Lavender Fields, Guozigou Bridge, Yili River Valley National Forest Park, Zhaosu Grassland, and Gongnaisi National Nature Reserve are also worth visiting.?
Regarding travel routes, you can choose the 6-day Yili Loop Route, or customize your itinerary based on your interests and time. For example, you can first visit the Yili River Valley Grassland to feel its vastness and grandeur; then proceed to the Yili River Valley National Geological Park to explore natural wonders; and finally, visit the major snow-capped mountains and lakes in the Yili River Valley.?
In terms of cuisine, Yili is known for its Kazakh and Uyghur dishes. It is recommended to try local specialties such as hand-grabbed mutton, roasted whole sheep, and mutton kebabs. At the same time, you can also taste fresh fruits and dried fruits, such as cantaloupes and grapes. At Nalati Night Market and Kazakh Folk Customs Park in Yining City, you can enjoy a feast of delicious food.?
Lastly, regarding accommodation, Yili offers a wide variety of hotels. You can choose a suitable place to stay based on your own needs. Near major attractions, such as Yining City and Nalati, there are many high-quality hotels for tourists to choose from. Additionally, you can also opt for local homestays to experience local folklore and customs.?
In summary, visiting Yili in August is an excellent choice, as both its natural scenery and cultural landscapes are captivating and unforgettable. I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip and enjoy a wonderful travel experience.?