October is the golden period for tourism in Yili, Xinjiang, when the autumn colors are vibrant and the scenery is picturesque. Here are detailed recommendations for traveling to Yili, Xinjiang in October:
I. Must-visit Attractions
Sailimu Lake: The lake water is azure blue, and the surrounding grassland turns golden in October, creating a picturesque scene. It is recommended to take a tour around the lake, but the weather changes quickly, so remember to bring a thick coat.
Nalati Grassland: Here there are yaks, sheep flocks, and fields of flowers. The grassland scenery is infinite and beautiful. Nalati Aerial Grassland is a classic grassland in Xinjiang and worth visiting.
Kalajun Grassland: Experience the magnificent beauty of the grassland and feel the wonders of nature.
Zhaosu Grassland and Xiata Ancient Road: The sunrise scenery of Zhaosu Grassland is enchanting, while Xiata Ancient Road feels like stepping into the world of Hayao Miyazaki’s animated comics. Both hiking and horseback riding experiences are excellent.
Guozigou Valley: Enjoying the scenery of the峡谷 (gorge) is another highlight of traveling in Yili.
II. Itinerary Suggestions
Departure from Urumqi: First arrive in Yining, the capital of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, and then you can arrange to visit the aforementioned attractions. Urumqi has airplanes and high-speed trains, making transportation very convenient.
Carpooling or chartered cars: If you have enough time, it is recommended to carpool or charter a car for the journey, so you can better enjoy the scenery along the way.
Accommodation options: Both Yining City and Nalati Town offer various accommodation options. It is recommended to book in advance to avoid being fully booked during peak seasons.
III. Precautions
Warm clothing: The temperature in Yili in October is relatively low, with a large temperature difference between day and night. It is recommended to bring warm clothing such as down jackets and thick cotton-padded clothes.
Sunscreen products: Xinjiang has strong UV rays, so sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, hats, and other sunscreen products are essential.
Comfortable shoes: Choose comfortable sports shoes or waterproof hiking boots, as there may be wet and slippery areas on the grassland.
Medicine and food: Bring some commonly used medicines in case of emergency, as well as sufficient dry food and water, as there may not be adequate catering services within the scenic area.
In summary, Yili in Xinjiang in October is a charming tourist destination, with both natural scenery and cultural landscapes that are captivating and unforgettable. I hope the above suggestions can help you plan a memorable trip to Yili.
