The recommended seven-day travel route in Ili is as follows:?
Day 1: Arrive in Yining?
After arriving in Yining, you can first stroll around the downtown area, feel the local flavor, and taste Xinjiang’s special delicacies such as dapanji (large plate chicken) and roast mutton skewers to recharge for the upcoming trip.?
Day 2: Yining – Sayram Lake?
Set out for Sayram Lake in the morning to admire the magnificent sunrise scenery. Sayram Lake is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean". Take a self-driving tour around the lake or ride the scenic area shuttle bus to fully experience the lake and mountain scenery. In the evening, it is recommended to stay at an RV campsite near Sayram Lake, such as the Dianjiangtai Starry Sky Campsite, to experience the joy of being in close contact with nature.?
Day 3: Sayram Lake – Guozigou – Yining?
Get up early to admire the sunrise at Sayram Lake again, then head to Guozigou, cross the Guozigou Bridge, and overlook the magnificent canyon scenery. In the afternoon, return to Yining City to visit Yining Old Town and taste local delicacies such as pilaf and mianfeizi.?
Day 4: Yining – Zhaosu – Xiata?
Head to Zhaosu County to visit Zhaosu Jade Lake and admire the blue ice wonders (in winter). Afterwards, visit Tianma Bathing River to feel the charm of equestrian culture. Stay at a hotel in Zhaosu County in the evening. The next day, visit the Xiata Ancient Road, view the Muzart Glacier from afar, and experience the mystery and grandeur of the ancient road.?
Day 5: Zhaosu – Tekes?
Head to Tekes Bagua City, a city built according to the bagua layout, which has a unique charm. Here you can experience the unique architectural style and cultural atmosphere of Bagua City. Stay at a hotel in Tekes County in the evening.?
Day 6: Tekes – Nalati?
Head to Nalati Grassland, known as the "Pearl of Tianshan Mountain". Here you can fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of the grassland and feel the tranquility and harmony of nature. In the evening, you can choose to stay in Nalati Town to experience the peaceful night on the grassland.?
Day 7: Nalati – Return Trip?
After spending a pleasant morning in Nalati Grassland, return according to your flight or train schedule. If time permits, you can also take a stroll around Nalati or choose to return to Urumqi via the Duku Highway, experiencing the amazing feeling of "traversing four seasons in a day and encountering different weather conditions within ten li".?
This route covers the main attractions and unique landscapes of Ili, but the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and needs. I hope you can gain lots of happiness and wonderful memories during your seven-day trip in Ili!?