The apricot blossom tour in Yili, Xinjiang, is a unique experience to appreciate stunning spring scenery, attracting countless tourists every year.?
The apricot blossoms in the Ili Valley usually bloom from late March to mid-April each year. At this time, when the flowering season in the regions south of the Yangtze River is nearly over, the apricot blossoms in Xinjiang are just beginning to emerge, bringing a visual feast to tourists.?
Among them, the Turpan Basin is the first to bloom welcoming spring, known as the ‘First Spring of Xinjiang’, while the apricot blossoms in the Ili Valley are the most famous, creating the happiest spring scenery in the country together with the apricot blossoms on the Pamir Plateau.?
In Yili, there are several famous apricot blossom viewing spots. The first is the Nalati Apricot Blossom Valley, located in Tuergen Township, Xinyuan County, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture. The best viewing period is mid-April. By climbing up the hillside, tourists can overlook the perfect combination of grassland and apricot blossoms, enjoying breathtaking scenery.?
Moreover, Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley is also a must-see attraction. It boasts the oldest and largest primitive wild apricot forest left over from the Middle Ages discovered globally. Wild apricot blossoms cover the mountains for tens of kilometers, forming a sea of pink.?
Besides appreciating apricot blossoms, tourists can also experience a variety of tourism activities in Yili. For example, visiting the Yili River, the largest inland river in flow volume in Xinjiang; exploring Liuxing Street, visiting the Accordion Museum, and watching performances; strolling through the Bazaar in Hanren Street to taste local delicacies; and visiting the Han Princess Memorial Hall to learn about the historical story of Princess Jieyou of the Han Dynasty.?
Additionally, tourists can choose to go on a self-drive tour, following routes such as G318, G219, the Tasha Ancient Road, and the Panlong Ancient Road, to traverse the Himalayas, embrace sacred mountains and lakes, and encounter the secret apricot blossom world of southern Xinjiang.?
For middle-aged and elderly tourists, April is also a good time to travel off-peak. It not only allows you to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a peaceful travel experience but also offers exceptional value for money during the off-season, with significant discounts on transportation, accommodation, and scenic spot tickets.?
Overall, the apricot blossom tour in Yili, Xinjiang, is an excellent travel choice that combines flower appreciation, sightseeing, and cultural experiences. Whether you are a photographer who loves taking pictures or a traveler who adores natural scenery, you can find your own tranquility and beauty here.?