A trip from Sayram Lake to Yili can be planned as a comprehensive journey encompassing natural scenery, cultural customs, and culinary experiences. Here is a detailed travel suggestion:
First, you can fully enjoy the beauty of nature at Sayram Lake. Known as "The Last Tear of the Atlantic," Sayram Lake’s clear blue waters, magnificent scenery surrounded by mountains, and vast grasslands and flower fields by the lake are all captivating.
. You can choose to camp by the lake and wake up early to wait for the magnificent sunrise, or take a tour around the lake to appreciate famous attractions such as Moon Bay, Pine Tree Head, S-shaped Road, and West Sea Grassland.
After visiting Sayram Lake, you can proceed to the Guozigou Bridge. This bridge spans the valley, with meadows on one side and forests on the other, presenting a magnificent scenery that is the first sight of Yili.
Next, you can head to Huocheng, an important lavender planting base. Every summer, lavender blooms, forming a vast sea of flowers that is perfect for photo opportunities.
. Afterwards, you can continue to Yining, a city full of exotic charm with a blend of cultures from Uyghur, Han, Kazak, and other ethnic groups. In Yining, you can visit the Kazanqi Blue Town, enjoy singing and dancing, feed pigeons, and ride the local traditional horse-drawn cart "Hadike"穿梭 through ancient dwellings.
In terms of dining, Yili’s cuisine is also a major highlight. You can taste Chinese breakfast, local lavender products, and Kucha’s "Maxuake Beef Noodles" and other delicacies.
For transportation, you can choose a self-drive tour, which is more flexible and free. If there are many people, renting a car for a self-drive tour is a good choice, as vehicles can be driven into Sayram Lake and parking is convenient.
. Alternatively, you can choose to take a coach or opt for a one-day tour product.
In general, the tourist itinerary from Sayram Lake to Yili will offer you a rich experience of nature and culture. Whether it is enjoying the lake and mountains, exploring the blue town, or tasting local cuisine, your journey will be full of surprises and delight.