July is the best time to visit Ili, when you can enjoy diverse natural landscapes such as grasslands, snowy mountains, forests, and lakes. Here are some specific travel recommendations:?
Must-visit Attractions:?
Xiata: Known as the staircase to the snowy mountains, it allows you to experience the majesty and grandeur of the mountains up close.?
Zhaosu: It feels like entering a beautiful two-dimensional fairy tale world, with scenery as poetic as a painting.?
Tianma Bathing River: The hometown of Akhal-Teke horses, where you can admire the spectacular sight of galloping horses.?
Karajun Grasslands: Described as the summer in Hayao Miyazaki’s animations, these grasslands are vast and scenic.?
Qiongkushitai: A fairy tale-like village with fewer tourists, perfect for taking photos and enjoying peaceful nights.?
Nalati Grasslands: Stroll through the endless flower sea of the aerial grasslands and experience a different grassland atmosphere.?
Sayram Lake: Known as the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean, its clear blue waters make it a great place for photos and scenery appreciation.?
Lavender Manor: The Eastern Provence, where you can encounter purple romance and feel the charming fragrance of lavender.?
Food Recommendations:?
During your trip to Ili, be sure to try the local cuisine, such as Xinjiang’s popular big plate chicken, Xinjiang roast meat, and baked buns, all of which are delicious dishes with local characteristics.?
Itinerary Suggestions:?
You can choose Urumqi as your starting point and begin your Ili journey after being picked up at the airport. During the trip, you can arrange visits to attractions such as Sayram Lake, Lavender Farm, Xiata, Qiongkushitai, and Nalati Grasslands.?
It is recommended to stay overnight in Qiongkushitai to enjoy the peaceful nights and beautiful scenery.?
The Nalati Grasslands attract many tourists, so camera positions may require waiting, but horse riding is a good option with high cost-effectiveness.?
The Duku Highway is a must-experience on the Ili route, and you can choose the round-trip route based on road conditions.?
In July, Ili boasts pleasant weather and picturesque scenery. Both natural and cultural landscapes are enchanting, making visitors reluctant to leave. I hope these suggestions can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Ili.?