The travel guide for Ili Grassland mainly includes the best time to visit, must-visit attractions, and route recommendations.?
Best time to visit:?
The best time to visit Ili grassland is from June to August, when the grassland is lush and wildflowers bloom freely. The climate is also particularly pleasant, making it a paradise for escaping the summer heat.?
Must-visit attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Sky Grassland’, with snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands intertwining, it is like a fairy tale world. The facilities here are mature and suitable for traveling with elderly and children. It is recommended to visit the Sky Grassland and the essential route of Panlong Ancient Road. The self-driving experience is superb.?
Kalajun Grassland: It integrates grassland, forest, and canyon, with a unique human-shaped grassland landscape. The facilities here are complete, accommodation is convenient, and self-driving tours are also possible. It has been rated as the most three-dimensional grassland by National Geographic Magazine, and Flower Terrace is a must-visit.?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake, with water as blue as a gem and scenery around it like a fairy tale. Driving around the lake, you can encounter lake and mountain views from different angles.?
Huocheng Lavender Fields: From June to July, when the lavender blooms, this place instantly transforms into the Provence of China, with vast purple fields of flowers that are romantic and charming, perfect for taking photos.?
Route recommendations:?
6-day Ili loop route (before the Duku Highway opens): Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining – Lavender – Xiata – Zhaosu/Tekes. This route allows you to experience the diverse scenery of Ili grassland.?
9-day in-depth tour route: D1 arrive in Urumqi, and subsequently visit S101 National Defense Highway, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Sayram Lake, Lavender Fields, Kazanqi, Yining, Xiata Ancient Road, Zhaosu, Kalajun Grassland, Qiongkushitai, Nalati, Bayinbrook, and other places. This route is quite comprehensive and allows you to fully experience the natural scenery and folk customs of Ili.?
When planning your itinerary, it is recommended to choose suitable attractions and routes based on personal interests and schedule, while also paying attention to weather and road condition information to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.?