Recommendations for places to visit in Yili tourism:
1. Nalati Grassland:
As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains, and in winter, it is draped in snow. Visitors can experience horse riding and visits to Kazakh homes. The Aerial Grassland Observation Deck is an excellent spot to overlook the stunning panorama of snow岭 spruce intertwined with grasslands.
2. Sayram Lake:
The lake’s color changes from blue to green with the light, and in June, golden lotus flowers bloom by the lake. Cycling around the lake and camping under the stars are particularly recommended. Although it belongs to Bozhou, it is a core attraction on the Yili loop route.
3. Karakun Grassland:
A "World Natural Heritage" site certified by the United Nations, famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. In May and June, the Flower Terrace resembles a colorful carpet, and from Falcon Viewing Terrace, one can overlook the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains.
4. Xiata Ancient Path:
A steep gorge traversed by Xuan Zang on his pilgrimage to fetch Buddhist scriptures, integrating glaciers, hot springs, and ancient paths. Take the shuttle bus through the spruce corridor and hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier to feel the vicissitudes of the millennia-old path.
5. Qiongkushitai Village:
A primitive village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden cabins scattered like a fairy tale world. The Houshan Grasslands, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Path, and the Kurdai River Forest Trail form a trio of hidden wonders, suitable for in-depth hiking and photography.
6. Guozigou Bridge:
Known as the "Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang", it resembles a huge dragon coiled in the valley. The observation deck offers a stunning view of the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains; in spring, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and in autumn, the forests are ablaze with color.
7. Huocheng Lavender Manor:
Known as the "Provence of China", with ten thousand acres of purple flower fields blooming in mid-to-late June. Princess Jieyou Manor and Sigong Village both offer experiences in flower field photography and essential oil production.
8. Kurdining:
A gene bank of snow岭 spruce, the most biodiverse area in the West Tianshan Mountains. The Qimengde Observation Deck offers a view of the reflection of Kabanbay Peak, while wild apple groves coexist with spruces in the valleys.
9. Tekes Eight Trigrams City:
The largest ancient city laid out in the Eight Trigrams formation in the world, a mysterious city without traffic lights. Ride the Ferris wheel to overlook the streets arranged according to the I Ching八卦 diagram; the Li Street folk customs area is full of Uyghur charm.
10. Yili River Scenic Area:
The Central Asian river that flows through the city, and the sunset over the Yili River Bridge is known as the "Most Beautiful Dusk in the Western Regions". Birdwatching in the Wetland Park and ethnic dances by the river display the beauty of a lively ecology.
These places each have their own unique characteristics, covering natural scenery, cultural landscapes, and folk customs experiences, among other aspects. They are the cream of Yili tourism.