Both Ili and Urumqi are great destinations for tourism in Xinjiang, each with its unique charm and attractions.?
In Urumqi, you can visit the International Bazaar, a large commercial complex in Urumqi, Xinjiang, and one of the largest bazaars in the world. It gathers thousands of merchants from all over Xinjiang and even Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and other regions, covering various fields, and admission is free.?
Tianshan Tianchi is also a must-see attraction. It is located near the Bogda Peak in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang and is a natural scenic area centered around a high-altitude lake. Tourists can engage in various activities here such as mountain climbing, hiking, skiing, camping, and photography.?
Moreover, Hongshan Park is also a park worth visiting within Urumqi city.?
In Ili, you can admire the three-dimensional undulating beauty of the Karajun Grassland, which resembles waves and is a picturesque sight with highs and lows scattered around.?
Qiaxi Forest Park is also a place worth visiting. The Qiaxi River runs through the scenic area, with low and medium mountains on both sides, and in the distance are the peaks of the Nalati Mountains, with horn peaks dotted around the summits and glaciers faintly visible.?
In addition, Ili has Sayram Lake, which is known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, a serene and beautiful plateau lake.?
The Duku Highway is also a major highlight of Ili. It runs through the backbone of the Tianshan Mountains and is a scenic avenue where tourists can experience the changes of the four seasons within a single day.?
In general, Ili and Urumqi each have their unique tourism resources and charm. If you enjoy a tourism experience that combines commerce, culture, and natural scenery, then Urumqi will be a good choice; whereas if you prefer natural landscapes such as grasslands, lakes, and mountains, then Ili will be your ideal destination. No matter which place you choose, you can find your own travel joy on this vast land of Xinjiang.?