Visiting Yili in October allows you to experience the vibrant autumn scenery and rich ethnic culture. Here is a detailed travel guide:
I. Transportation Methods
Airplane: You can first fly to Yining Airport and then choose to rent a car or take public transportation to various attractions. Renting a car allows you to freely arrange your itinerary, and public transportation is also convenient, with buses or public transport options to some major attractions.
II. Recommended Travel Routes
Short-term tour (1-2 days)
Day 1: Nalati Grassland, Gongnaisi National Forest Park
Morning: Upon arriving in Yili, directly proceed to Nalati Grassland to feel the vast green grasslands and flocks of sheep and cows. You can choose to ride a horse or take a sightseeing bus to explore the grassland.
Afternoon: Visit Gongnaisi National Forest Park to admire lush forests, clear streams, and spectacular waterfalls.
Day 2 (optional): Salimu Lake, 霍尔果斯口岸
Morning: Go to Salimu Lake to admire the beautiful lake scenery. There are also beautiful flower fields and snow-capped mountains beside the lake. You can drive or bike around the lake.
Afternoon: Visit霍尔果斯口岸 to experience border trade and exotic flavors.
Medium-term tour (about 3 days)
Day 1: Explore within Yining City
After arriving in Yining, first take a short rest in the urban area, stroll through local markets, and taste Xinjiang snacks such as mutton kebabs and baked stuffed buns. Then head to Kazanqi Folk Tourism Zone to visit traditional houses and handicraft shops.
Day 2: Nalati Grassland, Tekes Eight-Trigram City
Visit Nalati Grassland, and then proceed to Tekes Eight-Trigram City to experience its unique urban layout and architectural style.
Day 3: Qiongkushitai or Karajun International Eco-tourism Zone
Choose to visit Qiongkushitai to admire natural scenery or go to Karajun International Eco-tourism Zone to ride horses across the vast grasslands and feel the tranquility of nature.
Long-term tour (more than 5 days)
You can refer to a richer itinerary, such as adding Salimu Lake, Guozi Gorge, Six-Star Street, Yili River, Yizhao Highway, Wetland Park, Tianma Bathing River, Jade Lake, and other scenic spots to experience a deeper trip to Yili.
III. Accommodation and Food Recommendations
Accommodation: There are many hotels to choose from in Yining City, such as Yining Longxin International Hotel. It has a superior geographical location and a high cost-performance ratio.
Food: Don’t miss the Xinjiang cuisine such as hand-grabbed mutton, spicy pepper chicken, spicy sheep hooves, etc. You can taste them at local restaurants or night markets.
IV. Precautions
Book flights and hotels in advance to save costs and ensure accommodation.
Reasonably arrange your itinerary to avoid peak crowds. You can choose to visit popular attractions in the morning or evening.
Familiarize yourself with relevant information about the destination, including weather conditions, opening hours of scenic spots, and local cultural customs.
I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Yili!