Yili tourism is indeed very fascinating, with numerous natural scenery and cultural landscapes. Here are some recommended tourist attractions that showcase the beauty and charm of Yili:
Nalati Grassland: As one of the four major alpine valley grasslands in the world, Nalati Grassland is famous for its three-dimensional landscapes and abundant wildflowers. In summer, wildflowers are everywhere, and in winter, it is covered in snow. Tourists can experience horseback riding and visits to Kazak families, overlooking the stunning scenery of snow-capped fir trees intertwined with grasslands from the Aerial Grassland Viewing Platform.
Sayram Lake: Although belonging to Bozhou, Sayram Lake is a core attraction on the Yili loop route. The color of the lake water changes with the light, showing layers of blue and green. In June, the golden lotus flowers bloom by the lake, and in winter, there are ice pushing wonders. Cycling around the lake and stargazing camping are special activities here.
Karajun Grassland: This is a ‘World Natural Heritage’ site certified by the United Nations and is famous for its human-shaped grassland curves. From May to June, the Flower Platform transforms into a colorful carpet, and from the Falcon Viewing Platform, one can overlook the main peak of the Tianshan Mountains. The Crocodile Bay in Kuokesu Grand Canyon is also a geological wonder.
Guozigou: Located in the northeast of Huocheng County, Guozigou is a famous gorge passage for traveling north to Sayram Lake and south to the Yili River Valley. The scenery here is beautiful and奇特, with snowy peaks and steep cliffs, as well as the wonders of dark green spruce trees and towering waterfalls. The Guozigou Bridge is even praised as ‘the most beautiful viaduct in Xinjiang’ and is an excellent location for capturing stunning images of the bridge and snowy mountains together.
Qiongkushitai Village: This is an original village deeply hidden in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains, with wooden houses scattered like a fairy tale world. The grassland at the back of the mountain, the starting point of the Wusun Ancient Road, the Kurdai River Forest Trail, etc., constitute a trio of secret spots, suitable for in-depth hiking and photography.
Huocheng Lavender: In mid-to-late June, the ten thousand acres of purple flower sea in Huocheng bloom, earning it the nickname of ‘China’s Provence’. Tourists can experience flower field photography and essential oil production at Princess Jieyou Manor, Sigong Village, and other places.
In addition, Bayinbrook Grassland, Duku Highway, Zhaosu Xiata Scenic Area, Yizhao Highway, Qiaxi Scenic Area, and Xiannv Lake Scenic Area are also attractions in Yili that cannot be missed.
In short, Yili is rich in diverse tourism resources, whether it is natural scenery or cultural landscapes, both of which are captivating and make people reluctant to leave. Both adventure-loving tourists and those who enjoy leisurely vacations can find suitable travel programs here.