There are many fun places to visit in Yili, Xinjiang. Here are some recommended scenic spots:?
1. Sayram Lake: Known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, its water is clear and blue, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it a paradise for photographers. Here, you can cycle around the lake, camp under the stars, and feel the awe and tranquility of nature.?
2. Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati is famous for its three-dimensional grassland landscape. In summer, wildflowers blanket the mountains, and in winter, it is covered in snow. You can experience horseback riding, visit Kazakh homes, and overlook the stunning panorama of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands from the observation deck in the Aerial Grassland.?
3. Karajun Grassland: This is a ‘World Natural Heritage’ site certified by the United Nations, famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, Huaxiantai transforms into a colorful carpet, and Falcon Viewpoint offers a distant view of the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. The Crocodile Bay in Koksu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder.?
4. Duku Highway: Known as the ‘Scenic Avenue Overlooking the Tianshan Ridge’, it stretches 561 kilometers, with world-class landscapes such as gobi deserts, snowy mountains, and alpine meadows along the way, making it known as the most beautiful highway in Xinjiang.?
5. Qiongkushitai Village: This is an original village hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden cabins scattered like a fairy tale world. The grassland in the back mountain, the starting point of the Ancient Wusun Road, and the Kurdai River Forest Trail constitute a trio of secret scenic spots, suitable for deep hiking and photography.?
6. Guozigou Bridge: Known as the ‘Most Beautiful Viaduct in Xinjiang’, it winds like a huge dragon through the valley. The observation deck offers a stunning view of the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains, a perfect combination of nature and human wisdom.?
7. Huocheng Lavender Field: This is China’s Provence, where ten thousand acres of purple flowers bloom in mid-to-late June. You can experience flower field photography, essential oil production, and feel the romantic aroma here.?
In addition, there are many scenic spots worth visiting, such as Bayinbuluke Grassland, Qiaxi Scenic Area, Yizhao Highway, and Zhaosu Xiata Scenic Area.?
. Each scenic spot has its unique charm and scenery, whether it is natural landscape or cultural landscape, all of them are fascinating and make people reluctant to leave.?