When visiting Yili, you can experience the following attractions and activities:?
I. Major Attractions?
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake, with water as blue as a gemstone, it is known as "The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean". Each season presents different scenic beauty, especially the ice-pushing spectacle in winter, which is awe-inspiring. Cycling around the lake and camping under the stars are recommended experiences.?
Nalati Grassland: One of the four alpine valley grasslands in the world, famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains, and in winter, the grassland is dressed in white snow. Visitors can experience horse riding, Kazakh home visits, and other activities. The Aerial Grassland Observation Deck offers a breathtaking view of the intertwined snow-capped fir trees and grasslands.?
Karajun Grassland: Certified by the United Nations as a "World Natural Heritage Site", it is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, wildflowers bloom like a colorful carpet, and from the Falcon Viewing Platform, visitors can overlook the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains, presenting a breathtaking scene.?
Qiongkushitai Village: A primitive village hidden deep within the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden houses scattered like a fairy tale world. The rear mountain grassland, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Road, and the Kurdai River forest trail constitute a mysterious realm, suitable for in-depth hiking and photography.?
Guozigou Bridge: Known as the "Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang", it winds like a dragon through the valley. Standing on the observation deck, visitors can capture stunning photos of the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains.?
Huocheng Lavender Field: From June to July, when the lavender blooms, this place instantly transforms into China’s Provence. The romantic and charming purple sea of flowers is an excellent location for taking photos.?
Yili River Scenic Area: A major Central Asian river that flows through the city. The sunset over the Yili River Bridge is known as the "Most Beautiful Dusk in the Western Regions". Activities such as bird watching in the wetland park and ethnic dance and song performances by the riverbank showcase the beauty of a lively ecosystem.?
II. Special Activities?
Skiing: Yili has several ski resorts, such as the Yilegedai International Ski Resort in Gongliu County. With complete facilities, these resorts are ideal for skiing enthusiasts to fully enjoy the fun of ice and snow.?
Hiking: There are multiple hiking routes in Yili, such as the Xiata Ancient Road and the Qiongkushitai Rear Mountain Grassland. These routes allow visitors to experience the vicissitudes of the millennia-old paths and the beauty of the mysterious realms deep within the Tianshan Mountains.?
III. Precautions?
Respect the culture: Yili is inhabited by ethnic minorities. It is important to respect the local ethnic cultures and customs, such as the Islamic faith where pork is not consumed.?
Pay attention to the weather: The climate in Yili is changeable, and even in summer, one may encounter temperature drops, rainfall, and other weather conditions. Before traveling, pay attention to the weather forecast.?
Sunscreen: The local sunshine is intense, with strong UV radiation. It is necessary to prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, and other sun protection items.?
In summary, visiting Yili allows one to appreciate magnificent natural scenery and rich cultural landscapes, as well as experience diverse outdoor activities and cultural exchanges.?