The Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture is a place full of natural beauty and rich culture. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
1. Best Travel Time?
The best travel time in Yili is usually from May to October. During this period, the grasslands are lush and green, flowers bloom in competition, and lakes and snow-capped mountains complement each other, making it the perfect time to enjoy natural scenery. Especially in mid-June, when lavender blooms, adding a purple romantic touch to Yili.?
2. Must-Visit Attractions?
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati Grassland is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers bloom all over the mountains, and visitors can experience activities such as horse riding and visiting Kazakh families. The Aerial Grassland Observation Deck is an excellent spot to overlook the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands.?
Karajun Grassland: Known as the "Queen of Tianshan Grasslands", Karajun Grassland boasts a landscape with distinct layers, resembling a beautiful painting. Visitors can admire the magnificent scenery of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and rivers here.?
Sayram Lake: Although Sayram Lake belongs to Bozhou, it is a core attraction on the Yili loop route. The lake water changes colors from blue to green depending on the light. In June, the golden lotus flowers bloom along the lakeshore, making cycling around the lake and camping under the stars particularly recommended experiences.?
Tianshan Heavenly Lake: Located on the northern slope of Mount Bogda in the Tianshan Mountains, this alpine lake has clear and transparent water surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking view. Tourists can take a boat tour on the lake to admire the scenery or hike up the mountain.?
Tekes Bagua City: Famous for its bagua layout, it has become a city without traffic lights. Taking a walk around the city is like walking through a picturesque scenery, perfect for a short stay to enjoy food and attractions.?
3. Transportation and Accommodation?
Transportation: The transportation network in Yili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture is relatively developed. Tourists can choose to travel by air, train, or self-driving. After arriving at Yining Airport or Railway Station, it is convenient to get to major attractions, making it suitable for self-driving tours or chartered travel.?
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options in Yili Prefecture, ranging from hotels, homestays, to pastoral resorts, all catering to the different needs of tourists. In places like Nalati Grassland and Karajun Grassland, tourists can also choose to stay at local pastoral resorts to experience grassland life.?
4. Food Recommendations?
The cuisine in Yili is rich and diverse, including local specialty dishes such as spicy chicken, earth pot stew, and steamed fish. In Nalati Town and Tekes County, tourists can taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine and specialty dishes.?
5. Itinerary Planning Suggestions?
Below is an example of a five-day travel itinerary for Yili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture:?
Day 1: Arrive in Yining City, check into a hotel, visit the downtown area of Yining City, and taste local cuisine.?
Day 2: Go to Nalati Grassland, visit the grassland scenery, and experience activities such as horse riding.?
Day 3: Head to Karajun Grassland, admire the beautiful grassland scenery, and stay at a pastoral resort.?
Day 4: Visit Sayram Lake, go cycling or camping around the lake, and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery.?
Day 5: Return to Yining City, visit local cultural attractions or markets, and buy local specialties.?
Of course, based on tourists’ personal interests and schedules, the itinerary can be flexibly adjusted.?
I hope this travel guide can help you better plan your trip to Yili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture!?