Traveling to Yili in May allows you to enjoy the apricot blossoms in Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley, the green grass of Nalati Grassland, the lake scenery of Sayram Lake, and many other natural beauties. You can also experience the life of Kazakh herdsmen and feel the unique folk customs of Xinjiang. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
I. Must-Visit Attractions?
Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley?
Time: Early May?
Reason for Recommendation: Wild apricot trees bloom in the valley, resembling a sea of pink, making it a paradise for photographers?
Nalati Grassland?
Time: Mid-to-late May?
Reason for Recommendation: Green grass covers the land, and cattle and sheep graze everywhere. It is suitable for activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and picnicking on the grassland, experiencing the life of Kazakh herdsmen?
Sayram Lake?
Reason for Recommendation: Known as ‘The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the scenery is so enchanting. The distant snow-capped mountains, playful swans, and the flower sea along the shore form a stunning picture scroll?
Karajun Grassland?
Reason for Recommendation: It is famous for its primitive natural scenery and unique landforms. In May, the green grass is dotted with colorful wildflowers, making it a paradise for photographers?
Other Attractions?
Xiata Forest Park: You can encounter cute marmots at the foot of the snow-capped mountains, cross grasslands, jungles, and rivers, and feel the healing power of the snow-capped mountains?
Huocheng Lavender Fields: At the end of May, some lavender begins to bloom, providing an early preview of the romantic purple flower sea journey?
II. Suggested Itinerary Arrangement?
Days 1-2: Arrive in Urumqi, adjust to the time difference, and take a plane or train to Yining City. Visit the urban area of Yining, stroll through Hanren Street, and taste Xinjiang cuisine?
Day 3: Head to Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley to capture the best lighting effects and experience the life of local herdsmen?
Day 4: Drive to Nalati Grassland, experience the fun of horseback riding across the grassland, and stay in a yurt?
Day 5: Visit the Karajun Grassland or Sayram Lake to feel the tranquility and beauty of nature?
Day 6: Depending on the actual situation, you can arrange a visit to Huocheng Lavender Manor to understand the lavender planting and essential oil extraction process?
Subsequent days: Depending on personal interests and time, you can choose to visit other attractions such as Xiata Forest Park, Duku Highway, Tangbula, etc.?
III. Precautions?
Transportation: Public transportation within the Yili Prefecture is relatively inconvenient. It is recommended to rent a car for self-driving or join a local tour group?
Clothing: The temperature difference between morning and night in the mountainous areas is large. It is recommended to bring thin sweaters, rain jackets, thick coats, and other warm clothing?
Sunscreen: The sunlight is intense in summer. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, and other sun protection items?
Respect local customs: The Yili area is inhabited by multiple ethnic groups. Please respect the local customs, habits, and culture?
Through the above guide, you can fully experience the nature of Yili in May?
