The best time to visit Yili is from May to October each year. Here are detailed travel tips:
Travel time and seasonal characteristics:
From May to June: At this time, the grasslands of Yili are lush and green, with wildflowers and lavender blooming in competition, making it an excellent opportunity to appreciate the natural scenery. The temperature is suitable, ranging from 15°~25°, and the comfort level for travel is high.
From July to August: Although it is also the peak tourist season, at this time the fruits are fragrant, making it a good time to taste Xinjiang cuisine. However, it should be noted that there are many tourists during this period, the commercial atmosphere may be relatively strong, and ultraviolet rays are intense.
From September to October: Autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, and the forests and valleys of Yili start to show autumn colors, making it a paradise for photographers. By the end of October, Yili transforms into a world of white snow, presenting a unique charm.
Must-visit attractions recommendations:
Sayram Lake: Known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean", the lake’s water is as blue as a gem, and the surrounding scenery is like a fairy tale.
Guozigou Bridge: A magnificent modern bridge that perfectly blends with the beautiful scenery of mountains and rivers, it is an excellent location for taking photos.
Nalati Grassland: One of the four major valley grasslands in the world, the vast grassland is picturesque and poetic, making it a great place for horse riding or hiking to appreciate the scenery.
Lavender fields: From June to July, when the lavender blooms, this place instantly transforms into China’s "Provence", with large fields of purple flowers creating a romantic and charming atmosphere.
Other travel tips:
Food recommendations: During your trip to Yili, be sure to try local Xinjiang specialties such as hand-grabbed rice, baked stuffed buns, and large plates of chicken, as well as homemade yogurt made by herdsmen. The taste is excellent and the portions are generous.
Cost reference: In terms of travel expenses, the round-trip airfare is approximately 1.5k, local chartered car costs about 1k, accommodation costs about 100-200 yuan per person per night, tickets and other expenses are about 500 yuan, and dining costs about 50-80 yuan per person per day.
Itinerary planning: You can make an itinerary according to your schedule and preferences, but it is recommended to avoid the peak tourist season in July and August to enjoy a quieter and more comfortable travel experience.
In summary, Yili has a long tourist season, with different landscapes and characteristics in different months. Tourists can choose a suitable travel time according to their schedule and preferences, and plan their itinerary and budget in advance to fully appreciate the beautiful scenery and unique charm of Yili.