Things you must experience when you first visit Ili

There is a saying, that if you haven't been to Xinjiang, you won't know the vastness of China; if you haven't been to Ili, you won't know the beauty of Xinjiang. So, what are the must-experience things in Ili? Let's take a look and you'll know.

Go to Ili and visit the Narati Grassland

It was rated as one of the six most beautiful grasslands in China by "Chinese Geography," and is also one of the "subalpine meadow vegetation zones" of the world's four major grasslands. The best tourist season is from June to September, when the grassland is lush green, wildflowers are in bloom, and the climate is pleasant.

Go to Ili to see the Kalajun Prairie

The Kalamu grassland, located in the southeast of Tekes County in Ili, is one of the most famous grasslands in Xinjiang. It is about 30 kilometers away from the county town and is characterized by undulating hills, backed by majestic snow-capped mountains. With forests, flower seas, and other landscapes, it offers expansive and beautiful scenery, making it an excellent destination for tourism and photography.

Go to Ili and see the most beautiful highway - the Duku Highway

The Duku Highway is an important corridor connecting the north and south of the Tian Shan Mountains. Starting from Dushanzi in northern Xinjiang, the highway winds along the Kuizi River, with unstable terrain and mountains and rivers on either side. The total length of the Duku Expressway is 561 kilometers, passing through several 5A-level scenic areas such as Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Narat Grassland, Bayinbuluke, Tian Shan Grand Canyon, and Kucha Royal Palace. Not only can you experience the stark contrast between fire and water, but also connect the north and south of Xinjiang, crossing mountains and traversing canyons, with beautiful scenery all the way.

Visit Ili to see the romantic lavender fields

Huocheng County is a true lavender city in Yili, Xinjiang. It is home to the largest lavender fields in the country. From June to August, the lavender blooms on both sides of the nearby roads, creating a romantic purple countryside scenery that attracts numerous tourists for photography.

Go to Yili to see Sayram Lake

Seriqkul Lake, nestled against the snow-capped mountains, features vast grasslands along its shores. The lake's water is crystal clear and azure, making it one of the major attractions in Xinjiang, China. In June and July, the grasslands by the lake are adorned with various wildflowers, creating a breathtaking sight that shouldn't be missed. The best time to visit Seriqkul Lake is around June when the surrounding meadows are lush with green grass and vibrant wildflowers, complementing the stunning blue waters beneath the snowy mountains. It's a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

Visit the Kazak Folk Village in Yili

Kazanki Ethnic Tourism Zone in Yining City, Xinjiang, is the only natural and cultural scenic area in northern Xinjiang that reflects Uyghur customs. It serves as a window to showcase the city's image and presents a vivid portrayal of ethnic culture.