The recommended seven-day Yili tourism route is as follows:?
Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi?
Upon arriving in Urumqi, you can choose to explore the city freely, experience the local customs, and taste Xinjiang’s specialty foods such as big plate chicken and grilled mutton skewers.?
Day 2: Urumqi – Sayram Lake?
Set out for Sayram Lake in the morning to enjoy the magnificent sunrise scenery. With an average altitude of 2,600 meters, Sayram Lake is known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean". You can take a self-driving tour around the lake or ride the scenic area shuttle bus to experience the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains.?
It is recommended to stay at an RV campsite near Sayram Lake at night, such as the Dianjiangtai Starry Sky Campsite, to experience the joy of close contact with nature.?
Day 3: Sayram Lake – Guozigou – Yining?
Get up early to enjoy the sunrise at Sayram Lake once again, then head to Guozigou, crossing the Guozigou Bridge to overlook the magnificent canyon scenery. In the afternoon, arrive in Yining City to visit Yining Old Town and taste local delicacies such as pilaf and lung kebab.?
Additionally, you can explore Kazangqi Folk Customs Street to experience Kazak culture.?
Day 4: Yining – Zhaosu/Tekes?
On this day, you can choose to head to Zhaosu or Tekes. If you choose Zhaosu, you can visit Zhaosu Jade Lake to admire the blue ice wonder (in winter) and visit Tianma Bathing River to experience the charm of equestrian culture.?
If you choose Tekes, you can head to Qiongkushitai Village, where the scenery along the way is picturesque, reminiscent of Switzerland. Stay overnight in Qiongkushitai Village.?
Day 5: Zhaosu/Tekes – Nalati?
Departing from Zhaosu or Tekes, head towards Nalati. Along the way, you can visit the Xiata Ancient Road and take a distant view of the Muzart Glacier.?
Upon arriving in Nalati, you can choose to visit the Nalati Valley Grassland and Aerial Grassland. The Nalati Aerial Grassland, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, has been rated as a 5A scenic area. Watching horse herds and cattle and sheep pass by, it feels like being amidst the clouds.?
Day 6: Nalati – Northern Section of Duku Highway (Optional)?
Continue exploring Nalati Town by opting to explore the northern section of the Duku Highway, passing through Qiaerma and Baili Gallery. The Duku Highway is famous for its magnificent scenery and is a paradise for self-driving enthusiasts.?
Day 7: Return to Urumqi?
On the last day, you can choose to return to Urumqi along the S101 National Defense Highway or the original route. On the way back, you can continue to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang and relive the wonderful seven-day journey.?
The above routes are for reference only, and the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and actual conditions. During the trip, please pay attention to safety and respect local customs and habits.?