Ili is a tourist destination full of natural beauty and ethnic customs. Here is a detailed introduction to traveling in Ili:?
1. Main Attractions?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati Grassland is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains, and in winter, it is covered in snow. Visitors can experience activities such as horse riding and visiting Kazakh homes. The Air Grassland Observation Deck offers a breathtaking view of the intertwined snow-capped fir trees and grasslands.?
Karajun Grassland: Known as the "Beautiful Place Suspended in the Air", in spring and summer, hundreds of grass species compete in beauty, forming a colorful natural painting. It is also a UNESCO-certified World Natural Heritage site.?
Sayram Lake: Famous for its crystal-clear water and reflections of the blue sky, it is known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean". The lake surface is as calm as a mirror, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky, making it an excellent place for photography and relaxation.?
Ili Valley: Known as the "Wet Island of the Western Regions", it has a unique terrain and pleasant climate. The meltwater from snow-capped mountains in the valley nourishes fertile land, giving birth to rich vegetation and abundant fruits. From June to October each year, lavender, apricot blossoms, and rapeseed flowers bloom successively, forming a charming pastoral landscape.?
Kuerdining Scenic Area: Known as the "Most Beautiful Green Valley of Tianshan", it boasts lush forests, vast grasslands, magnificent snow-capped mountains, and clear streams. Spring is the first place in the Ili Valley to welcome greenery, with wildflowers blooming and a vibrant spring atmosphere.?
2. Special Activities?
Flower Viewing: From late March to mid-April each year, the apricot blossoms in Ili bloom, making it the best time for flower viewing. Among them, Ili Apricot Blossom Valley is the largest and most concentrated primitive wild apricot forest in the world, where the most beautiful spring flowers in Xinjiang can be found.?
Self-driving Tour: Ili has many beautiful self-driving routes, such as G318 and G219, allowing you to traverse the Himalayas, embrace sacred mountains and lakes, and encounter the secret apricot blossom world of southern Xinjiang.?
3. Other Recommended Attractions?
Xiata Ancient Road: A rugged gorge passed by Xuanzang on his pilgrimage to obtain Buddhist scriptures, integrating glaciers, hot springs, and ancient roads. Take a shuttle bus to traverse the Spruce Corridor and hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier to feel the vicissitudes of the thousand-year-old road.?
Qiongkushitai Village: A primitive village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden houses scattered like a fairy tale world. The grasslands behind the mountain, the starting point of the Ancient Wusun Road, and the Kurdai River forest trail form a trio of secret spots, suitable for in-depth hiking and photography.?
Ili attracts countless tourists with its unique natural scenery and rich ethnic culture. Whether you want to admire the magnificent grasslands and lakes or experience the local folk customs, Ili can meet your needs.?