The travel guide for Yili, Xinjiang, mainly includes the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and route recommendations.?
Best Travel Time:?
The best travel time in the Yili region is mainly concentrated from May to October. Among them, from May to June, the grasslands are lush and wildflowers bloom competitively, making it an excellent time to enjoy natural scenery; from June to August, the climate is pleasant and the grasslands are green and lush, representing the peak beauty of Yili and a great place to escape the summer heat.?
Must-visit Attractions:?
Nalati Grassland: Located in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains and the eastern end of the Yili River Valley, it boasts vast grasslands, dense forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. It is a habitat for the Kazak people. Here, you can ride horses and experience the folk culture of the Kazak people.?
Sayram Lake: The highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic’. The lake water is azure, surrounded by vast grasslands and snow-capped mountains. Driving around the lake can offer views of the lake and mountains from different angles.?
Tuergen Apricot Blossom Valley: A globally renowned gathering place for primitive wild apricot forests. The best flowering season is from early March to mid-April each year, with apricot blossoms blooming sequentially in low-altitude and high-altitude areas, forming a magnificent picture scroll.?
Huocheng Lavender Fields: From June to July, when the lavender blooms, it instantly transforms into China’s Provence, with vast purple fields of flowers that are romantic and charming, making it an excellent location for photos.?
Route Recommendations:?
6-day Yili Loop Route: Departing from Urumqi, passing through Sayram Lake, Yining, Lavender Fields, Xiata, and other places, before returning to Urumqi. This route covers multiple essential attractions in the Yili region and is suitable for first-time visitors.?
In-depth tour route: Starting from Yining, you can choose to visit Nalati Grassland, Karajun Grassland, Qiongkushitai, and other places for in-depth exploration, experiencing diverse natural landscapes such as grasslands, forests, and canyons.?
In addition, during travel, attention should be paid to the large temperature difference between morning and evening, so appropriate clothing should be brought; some scenic spots may require advance reservations; prepare some cash for unexpected needs, etc.?
The above information is for reference only. Specific itinerary arrangements need to be adjusted according to personal interests and actual situations.?