When traveling in Ili, you can experience the following aspects:?
Firstly, you can explore magnificent natural landscapes. Ili, located in the northwest of Xinjiang and known as ‘The South of the Great Wall Beyond the Border’, is a place where snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and gorges come together, possessing unique natural scenery. For example:?
Nalati Grasslands, one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers cover the mountains, and in winter, it is covered in snow.?
Sayram Lake, known as ‘The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, has crystal-clear waters that change colors from blue to green with the light, making it an excellent destination for cycling around the lake and camping under the stars.?
Karajun Grasslands, a ‘World Natural Heritage’ site certified by the United Nations, is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Terrace transforms into a colorful carpet, breathtakingly beautiful.?
Secondly, you can experience rich ethnic cultures. Ili not only boasts stunning natural scenery but also contains a profound ethnic cultural heritage. You can experience Kazakh family visits at Nalati Grasslands to understand Kazakh customs and traditions; at Huocheng Lavender Fields, feel the purple romance of the Eastern Provence while learning about lavender planting and essential oil production processes.?
In addition, you can participate in various outdoor activities. Ili offers a wealth of outdoor activity choices such as skiing, hiking, and horse riding. Gongliu County’s Ilegedai International Ski Resort is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts, providing comprehensive skiing facilities and services.?
The Xiata Ancient Road is a pilgrimage route for hikers to snowy mountains. You can hike or ride horses here, feeling the vicissitudes and grandeur of the thousand-year-old ancient road.?
Lastly, tasting local cuisine is also an experience that cannot be missed. The cuisine in Ili is diverse with unique flavors. You can try various Xinjiang delicacies such as yogurt ice cream, pilaf, noodles with sauce, and grilled meat at Yining’s Liuxing Street; at the rest area near Guozigou Bridge, taste local snacks and steaming hot drinks.?
In summary, when traveling in Ili, you can explore magnificent natural landscapes, experience rich ethnic cultures, participate in various outdoor activities, and taste local cuisine, enjoying an unforgettable travel experience.?