The Ili Loop travel guide mainly includes several aspects such as itinerary planning, must-visit attractions, specialty cuisine, and travel tips.?
I. Itinerary Planning?
The Ili Loop can be arranged for 7-10 days depending on personal time and preferences. For example, a classic 7-day itinerary can start from Urumqi, passing through Sayram Lake, Huocheng Lavender Fields, Yizhao Highway, Karajun Grassland, Nalati Grassland, and other places, before returning to Urumqi.?
. If you want a more in-depth experience, you can choose the 10-day loop route, which also includes attractions such as Xiata Glacier Grassland, Jongkushitai Grassland, Duku Highway, and S101 National Defense Highway.?
II. Must-visit Attractions?
Sayram Lake: Known as the sapphire lake of "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean", it is a sacred place for taking photos.?
Yizhao Highway: The scenery along the way is picturesque, making it a paradise for self-driving enthusiasts.?
Karajun Grassland: An expansive grassland where cows, horses, and sheep freely roam, it is a great place for taking breathtaking photos.?
Nalati Grassland: The aerial grassland scenery is magnificent and worth visiting.?
Xiata Tourist Area: Mystical and beautiful, you can get up close views of snowy mountains.?
III. Specialty Cuisine?
Xinjiang boasts a rich variety of cuisine. Along the Ili Loop, you can taste the classic dishes of nang (a type of bread) series, lagemen (a type of noodles), big plate chicken, mutton skewers, and more.?
. Additionally, don’t miss the specialty dishes such as hand-grabbed rice, spicy chicken, stir-fried rice noodles, and tangkawa meat.?
IV. Travel Tips?
Climate and Equipment: Xinjiang has a large temperature difference in summer, so remember to bring a jacket. At the same time, prepare necessary items such as a trekking pole, insulated water bottle, lipstick, sunscreen, and skincare products. Quick-drying clothes, sunglasses, fleece hats, sun hats, waterproof jackets and pants, down jackets, sports shoes, and other outdoor equipment should also be packed.?
Self-driving Tips: When driving the Ili Loop, pay attention to road conditions and traffic rules. Security checks in Xinjiang are strict, so carry your ID card with you. Additionally, prepare some snacks and water to replenish energy and hydration anytime during your journey.?
Photo Opportunities: places such as Sayram Lake, Jongkushitai, Qiaxi, Kumtag Desert, and Anjihai Grand Canyon are all photogenic spots. Don’t miss these spots that will surely garner lots of likes on your social media posts.?
In summary, the Ili Loop is a tourist route that integrates natural scenery, cultural landscapes, and cuisine. Whether you are traveling by car or with a group, you will have an unforgettable travel experience.?