The complete travel guide to Yili, Xinjiang, includes key information such as itinerary planning, must-visit attractions, food recommendations, and the best travel time.?
I. Itinerary Planning?
The travel itinerary in Yili can be flexibly arranged according to personal time and preferences. Here is a classic seven-day itinerary for reference:?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, free time to feel the local flavor and taste Xinjiang specialty dishes such as big plate chicken and grilled mutton skewers. 1?
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi to Sayram Lake to admire the magnificent sunrise scenery. Take a self-driving tour around the lake or ride the scenic area shuttle bus. In the evening, it is recommended to stay at an RV campsite near Sayram Lake to experience the joy of being in close contact with nature. 1?
Day 3: Get up early to admire the sunrise at Sayram Lake again, then head to Guozigou and cross the Guozigou Bridge to overlook the magnificent canyon scenery. In the afternoon, arrive in Yining City to visit Yining Old Town and taste local cuisine. 1?
Day 4: Head to Zhaosu County to visit Zhaosu Jade Lake and admire the blue ice wonders (in winter). Visit the Tianma Bathing River to experience the charm of equestrian culture. Stay at a hotel in Zhaosu County in the evening. 1?
Day 5: Visit the Xiata Ancient Road and take a distant view of the Muzart Glacier. In the afternoon, head to Tekes Eight Trigrams City to feel the unique charm of this city built according to the eight trigrams layout. Stay at a hotel in Tekes County in the evening. 1?
Day 6: Visit the Qiaxi Forest Park to enjoy the tranquil forest scenery. In the afternoon, arrive at the Nalati Grassland to fully appreciate the beauty of the grassland. In the evening, you can choose to stay in Nalati Town to experience the peaceful night on the grassland. 1?
Day 7: Continue exploring the Nalati Grassland or return to Yining City to prepare for your return trip. 1?
II. Must-Visit Attractions?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine gem, with lake water as blue as a sapphire, and surrounding scenery like a fairy tale. It is an excellent spot for driving around the lake, camping, and watching sunrises and sunsets. 12?
Guozigou Bridge: A magnificent modern bridge that perfectly blends with the natural scenery. From the viewing platform, you can easily capture a panoramic view of the bridge. 13?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Aerial Grassland’, it is a place where snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands intertwine, making it a great spot for horse riding or hiking to admire the scenery. 12?
Huocheng Lavender Field (June-July): When the lavender blooms, it instantly transforms into China’s Provence, with a large purple sea of flowers that is romantic and charming, perfect for taking photos. 4?
III. Food Recommendations?
Grilled Meat: The grilled meat in Yili is rich and diverse, including grilled intestines, grilled kidneys, grilled mutton, grilled beef, etc. Each type has delicious meat and a fragrant aroma. 5?
Hand-Grabbed Rice: One of the local specialty dishes, it has a fragrant and glutinous taste, paired with ingredients such as mutton and carrots, it is very delicious. 5?
Mianfeizi: Also one of the specialty dishes of Yili, it has a unique taste and is worth trying. 1?
IV. Best Travel Time?
The best of Yili?