There are multiple itinerary options for traveling from Urumqi to Yili. Below is a detailed 8-day self-drive travel guide**:?
Day 1: From Urumqi to Bole. Departing from Urumqi, you can reach Bole after a 5-hour drive. In Bole, you can taste the special roasted stuffed buns and delicious noodles with mixed ingredients.?
Day 2: From Bole to Yining. Departing from Bole, you can reach Sayram Lake after a 1.5-hour drive and then arrive in Yining after another 2.5 hours. It is recommended to enter Sayram Lake by self-drive due to the limited number of sightseeing buses. The tour will take approximately 6 to 7 hours, so please ensure you have enough time to enjoy it. On the way to Yining, you will also pass the spectacular Guozigou Bridge.?
Day 3: Exploring Yining City. In Yining, be sure to try the local zhuafan (a type of rice dish with meat and vegetables), with Tefeng Zhuafan and Fengguyuan Zhuafan being good choices. Additionally, Kazanqi and Liuxingjie are also worth visiting, with Kazanqi having a more authentic feel and Liuxingjie being more commercialized. In Yining, you can also enjoy delicious ice cream and yogurt.?
Day 4: From Yining to Xiata Scenic Area. Departing from Yining, you can reach Xiata Scenic Area after a 4-hour drive. On the way to Xiata, you will pass the Yizhao Highway, which is not only a road but also a scenic spot, similar to the Duku Highway.?
In addition, there are other travel plans of different durations, such as a 7-day panoramic tour or a 5-day in-depth tour.?
In Yili, you can also visit famous attractions such as the Nalati Grassland and the Khorgos Port.?
If you are interested in history and culture, you can also visit places like Tuyugou Mazhavillage and Jiaohe Ancient City.?
In general, traveling from Urumqi to Yili, whether by self-drive or with a tour group, will allow you to experience the beautiful scenery and rich culture of Xinjiang. During your trip, please be sure to pay attention to safety and respect local customs and traditions.?