The places to visit in Yili, Xinjiang, are very abundant. Here are some recommendations for major attractions:?
1. Nalati Grassland:?
Located in Xinyuan County, Ili, Xinjiang, it is known as the "Green Island of Tianshan" and "Green Homeland". Here, green grass covers the ground, dotted with wildflowers, while distant snowy mountains stand tall, forming a beautiful picture scroll. Visitors can experience horseback riding, visit Kazak families, and overlook the stunning scenery of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands from the observation deck in the mid-air grassland.?
2. Sayram Lake:?
Although belonging to Bortala Prefecture, it is regarded as a core attraction on the Yili loop route. The lake’s color changes with the light, presenting layers of blue and green. In June, the golden lotus flowers bloom by the lake, creating a dreamlike scenery. Cycling around the lake and camping under the stars are special activities here, deeply loved by visitors.?
3. Karajun Grassland:?
Located in Tekes County within the Yili River Valley in Xinjiang, it is a "World Natural Heritage" site certified by the United Nations. It is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Terrace transforms into a colorful carpet, displaying magnificent natural scenery.?
4. Qiaxi Scenic Area:?
Located in the southeastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is a national forest park. The scenic area is backed by snowy mountains, surrounded by mountains, with ancient trees towering and green water surrounding it, earning it the reputation of "The South of the Great Wall is in Yili, and the most beautiful place in Yili is Qiaxi".?
5. Xiata Tourist Scenic Area:?
Located in the Xiata Kirgiz Ethnic Township, Zhaosu County, at the northern foot of the main Tianshan Mountains with peaks rising all around. It integrates glaciers, hot springs, and ancient roads. Visitors can take a shuttle bus to traverse the Spruce Corridor and hike to the foot of the Muzart Glacier to feel the vicissitudes of the thousand-year-old ancient road.?
6. Qiongkushitai Village:?
A primitive village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden houses scattered like a fairy tale world. The hilly grasslands, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Road, and the Kurdai River Forest Trail form a trio of secret landscapes, suitable for deep hiking and photography.?
7. Guozigou Bridge:?
Located in Huocheng County, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is the natural gateway to Yili. The bridge resembles a huge dragon spanning above the Huolian Expressway, connecting the Yili River Valley with Sayram Lake. The observation deck offers a stunning view of the bridge and snowy mountains in the same frame.?
In addition, Tekes Bagua City, Huocheng Lavender Fields, and Kuerdning Nature Reserve are also worth visiting. Tekes Bagua City is famous for its unique urban planning, with the entire city layout in the shape of a bagua; Huocheng Lavender Fields is known as the "Provence of China", with ten thousand acres of purple flowers blooming in mid-to-late June; Kuerdning Nature Reserve is renowned for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural scenery.?
These attractions each have their own unique characteristics, whether natural scenery or cultural landscapes, all making people reluctant to leave. When traveling in Yili, you can deeply feel the magnificent workmanship of nature and the local unique ethnic culture.?