The travel guide for Yili Grassland mainly includes the best time to visit, must-visit attractions, and route recommendations.?
Best Time to Visit:?
The best time to visit Yili Grassland is from June to August, when the grassland is lush and wildflowers bloom freely. The climate is also particularly pleasant, making it a paradise for escaping the summer heat.?
Must-visit Attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: Known as the ‘Aerial Grassland’, it is a fairy tale world intertwined with snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands. The facilities here are mature, making it suitable for traveling with the elderly and children. The recommended routes include Aerial Grassland and Panlong Ancient Road, and the self-driving experience is superb.?
Karajun Grassland: It integrates grassland, forest, and canyon, featuring a unique human-shaped grassland landscape. The facilities here are complete, accommodation is convenient, and self-driving is also an option. The endless grassland has been rated as the most three-dimensional grassland by National Geographic Magazine.?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake, with water as blue as a gem and scenery around it like a fairy tale. Driving around the lake allows you to encounter lake and mountain views from different angles.?
Huocheng Lavender Fields: From June to July, when the lavender blooms, this place instantly transforms into China’s Provence. The vast purple sea of flowers is romantic and charming, perfect for photos.?
Route Recommendations:?
6-day Yili Loop Tour (before the opening of Duku Highway): Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining – Lavender Fields – Xiata Ancient Road – Zhaosu/Tekes. This route allows you to experience multiple highlights of Yili Grassland.?
9-day in-depth tour of Yili Grassland: D1 Arrive in Urumqi, and subsequently visit S101 National Defense Highway, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Sayram Lake, Lavender Fields, Kazangqi, Yining, Xiata Ancient Road, Zhaosu, Karajun Grassland, Qiongkushitai, and other places. Finally, return from Urumqi. This route is comprehensive, allowing you to fully experience the natural scenery and folk customs of Yili.?
During the trip, you can choose suitable attractions and routes according to your personal interests and physical condition. Meanwhile, please pay attention to safe driving and protecting the environment.?