2025 Xinyuan Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

🌞Summer in July-August is here! Want to start a cool and affordable trip? Check out these four low-cost hidden gem cities👇 🌿Liupanshui, Guizhou – The Cool Summer Capital, Ultimate Escape from Heat With an average summer temperature of 19°C, Liupanshui is like a natural air-conditioned room❄️! 🚗Transport: Take a 1.5-hour high-speed train from Guiyang to Liupanshui Station; taxis are convenient in the city, while chartered cars are better for Wumeng Grassland. 🏠Accommodation: The Huangtupo business district in Zhongshan offers great value! Hostel beds start at 40 yuan/night, and B&Bs for two cost 100-150 yuan. 🍜Food: - Shuicheng Mutton Rice Noodles: Add chili paste and mint for an unforgettable flavor! - Luoguo (Griddle Cooked Dishes): Potatoes, stinky tofu, and beef coated in dried chili powder—so delicious you’ll stomp your feet! - Ice Jelly: 5 yuan a bowl, with rose syrup and crushed peanuts—perfect for cooling down! 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Stroll through the free Shuicheng Ancient Town in the morning and visit the Third Front Construction Museum for cultural vibes; walk the glass walkway at Minghu Wetland Park in the morning; take the Meihua Mountain Cable Car in the afternoon and catch a stunning sunset🌇. Day 2: Head to Wumeng Grassland early to chase sea of clouds; in June, enjoy the romantic purple verbena flower fields and horseback riding🐎. Visit Yeluhai Scenic Area at noon, take ethnic-style photos at Haiping Yi Village, and join the 7:30 PM torch festival rehearsal. In the afternoon, explore Yueshe National Forest Park, ride the alpine train through rhododendron forests, and wait for sunset at the mountaintop. 🏯Xining, Qinghai – Highland Ancient City, Where Cultures Blend July-August temperatures in Xining average 15-25°C, with big day-night differences—bring a jacket🧥. ✈️/🚄Transport: Fly to Caojiabao Airport, take a 21-yuan bus or 60-yuan taxi to downtown; high-speed trains arrive at Xining Station, where you can transfer to Tibet-bound trains. For road trips, Xining is the starting point of G109 Qinghai-Tibet Highway and G227—SUVs are recommended. 🏡Accommodation: Luxury options include Sofitel Xining; unique stays include Tibetan-style courtyards near Ta’er Monastery; budget-friendly picks include Jinjiang Inn and Xining Dream 78 Youth Hostel. 🍖Food: - Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Tender and fragrant, best with salt, pepper, and garlic slices—soul-satisfying! - Qinghai Yogurt: Thick golden skin, perfectly balanced sweet and sour! - Liangpi (Cold Noodles): Thick and chewy black liangpi with spicy chili oil—addictive! 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Xining, acclimate to altitude, and start a food tour😋. Day 2: Visit Ta’er Monastery for deep immersion in Tibetan Buddhist culture. Day 3: Head to Qinghai Lake—July-August offers stunning rapeseed flower fields against the lake. Day 4: Visit Chaka Salt Lake; go before 10 AM or after 4 PM on sunny days for perfect reflection photos📸. 🌊Dali, Yunnan – Romantic City of Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon Dali has spring-like weather year-round, but bring a thick jacket for high-altitude spots like Cangshan Mountain🧥. ✈️/🚄Transport: Fly to Dali Huangcaoba Airport, take a bus, taxi, or shared ride; high-speed trains arrive at Dali Station with convenient transfers. Rent an e-bike to circle Erhai Lake—super relaxing🛵. 🏡Accommodation: Erhai Lake Villas offer lakeside stays with coffee zones and bike rentals; Dali Yuelianzhuang Seaview Resort in Ideal Land has many photo spots; Dali Wuya Inn near Xiaoputuo is budget-friendly with Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake views. 🍲Food: - Ersi & Erkuai (Rice Noodles/Cakes): Soft and chewy, cooked in various ways. - Rushan (Milk Fan): Sweet, crispy, and irresistible. - Wild Mushroom Hotpot: Multiple wild mushrooms make a rich, flavorful broth. - Xizhou Baba (Pastry): Sweet or savory, crispy outside and soft inside. 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Dali, check in, watch sunrise at Longkan Dock, enjoy erxi noodles at noon, bike around Erhai Lake in the afternoon, stop at Panxi S-Bend and Xizhou Ancient Town, and explore Dali Ancient Town at night. Day 2: Day trip to Cangshan Mountain—take the cable car for breathtaking views, then visit Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas in the afternoon. Day 3: Head to Shuanglang Ancient Town for a leisurely day by Erhai Lake🌅. 🌸Ili, Xinjiang – Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall, Flower-Filled Grassland Paradise July-August in Ili means seas of flowers on the grasslands—breathtaking!🌼 ✈️/🚄/🚗Transport: Fly direct to Yining; or fly to Urumqi and transfer; self-driving offers freedom but mountain roads require caution. 🏡Accommodation: Yining city center has great food; scenic B&Bs like Qiongkushitai log cabins and Nalati yurts are amazing. 🍢Food: - Baked Buns: Crispy outside, juicy inside. - Handmade Ice Cream: Rich milk flavor—love at first bite. - Hand-Grabbed Lamb: Tender and delicious—can’t stop eating! 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Yining—explore Liuxing Street and feast on local food. Day 2: Circle Sayram Lake, the "Last Tear of the Atlantic"💧. Day 3: Huocheng Lavender Fields—Kala Jun Grassland, immersed in purple flowers and vast grasslands. Day 4: Deep exploration of Kala Jun—Qiongkushitai, stay in a log cabin. Day 5: Hike in Qiongkushitai, connect with nature. Day 6: Horseback riding in Nalati Grassland, join a lively bonfire party🔥. Day 7: Snap last-minute scenic shots before heading back. Each city has unique charm✨—choose based on your needs, and happy travels! Questions? Drop them in the comments~

🚗48-Hour Four Visits to Nalati Experience Guide|||Nalati is mainly divided into two parts: 1. Sky Prairie (vast grassland + snow-capped mountains + forest + stream in one frame), quite popular. 2. Valley Prairie (including Panlong Ancient Road), vast grassland, Panlong Ancient Road is a one-way mountain road, a three-dimensional landscape of grassland + forest (recommended). Two suggested self-driving tour routes: 1️⃣ Enter the scenic area early in the morning. From May to July, you can basically enter the scenic area at 8 a.m. (if you can stay inside the scenic area, you might get in even earlier). After entering, head straight to the Sky Prairie. At this time, there are fewer nomadic families and Tianjietai people, so if you want to take photos, do it early. Around 9 a.m., tour groups usually start entering the scenic area, and parking spaces become tight during peak season. After visiting the Sky Prairie, go to the Valley Prairie and Panlong Ancient Road. It is strongly recommended to drive around Panlong Ancient Road. 2️⃣ Enter the scenic area in the afternoon, first visit the Valley Prairie and Panlong Ancient Road, which takes about two to three hours. After 7 p.m., go to the Sky Prairie, where there are relatively fewer tourists (but grass sliding ends at this time). If the weather is good, you can even wait inside for a stunning sunset. Although the official rule states that self-driving vehicles need to leave after 9 p.m., you just need to leave before dark (in summer, it usually gets dark after 10:30 p.m.). Recommended viewing spots: 📍Nomadic Families, a three-dimensional painting of snow mountains, forests, streams, and grasslands. The famous internet celebrity bridge is here, and queuing is common. But you can continue walking further inside, where there are many single-plank bridges. Personally, I think it’s more beautiful there and no need to queue. 📍Tianjietai, climb high to enjoy a panoramic view of the vast scenery surrounded by distant snow-capped mountains. 📍Panlong Ancient Road (west section), only accessible by self-driving. You can switch infinitely between forest and three-dimensional grassland. Once inside, just say wow.

Who exactly is grass skiing at Nalati? 😭 Queue for 2 hours to ski for 30 seconds, then spend 10 minutes climbing back up. Although I experienced the joy of being lazy like a sheep, the cost was too high. And waiting for the shuttle bus is really painful too 😭 Just at one entrance, you have to wait in a traffic jam for half an hour. At every stop, you have to get off, then queue again to get back on the bus. ... Everyone, I’ve said it before, don’t rush to popular tourist spots 😡 Isn’t it better to just drive yourself at Nalati? - 【Nalati Warning Points】 📌 Self-driving is recommended for Nalati. There is no public transportation in Nalati Town. No taxis, no Didi, no shared bikes at all. Walking from the hotel to the Nalati scenic area is exhausting. 📌 Nalati tickets cost 95 yuan, shuttle bus Panlong 40 yuan, cable car 40 yuan, valley 24 yuan, Snow Lotus Valley 60 yuan, Worta 60 yuan. Total is about 319 yuan. With self-driving, tickets cost only 200 yuan to visit all these places. 📌 At Nalati scenic area, you must get off the shuttle bus at every stop, but during peak season, you face queues. Queuing to get on the bus, getting off to tour, then queuing again to get on the bus will really test your patience. - 【Warning Solutions】 1. Self-driving ticket reservation: book 7 days in advance, check scenic area updates. PS: One account can only book one car per day, do not buy tickets repeatedly on the same day ❌ 2. Group tours: choose tours that allow self-driving at Nalati (VIP exclusive channel), no need to wait for shuttle buses, no worries about not getting self-driving tickets. - 【Travel Tips】 ⚠️ The temperature difference between day and night is more thrilling than a roller coaster! Over 25℃ and short sleeves during the day, dropping below 10℃ at night. Must pack a windbreaker/thin down jacket in your backpack. If it rains in the mountains, you’ll freeze like an ice pop. Don’t believe the nonsense that “no jacket is needed in summer.” ⚠️ Don’t pack a full set of makeup in your luggage. With 6 hours of driving daily + strong sun exposure, foundation will cake up quickly, and traveling is tiring. Every extra minute of sleep in the morning counts, no one wants to put on makeup. Tinted sunscreen + lipstick + sunglasses are the eternal essentials! Also, if you have space, bring more skincare products, especially moisturizers. ⚠️ Be cautious wearing white clothes and white shoes on the grassland, especially when horseback riding. If it doesn’t rain, it’s fine, but if it rains, it gets very muddy and slippery. Mud will splash all over your skirt, making you look very messy, and your skirt and shoes will basically be ruined. ⚠️ Motion sickness sufferers, take note 🚗! Xinjiang attractions are very far apart, you’ll be driving so long you’ll question your life choices. Prepare motion sickness patches and medicine to avoid ruining your trip. - ✅ 7-day itinerary in Ili 👇 D1: Urumqi airport pickup - check in hotel - free activities D2: Urumqi - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Bole (stay) D3: Bole - Lake Sailimu loop - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender - Yining Kazanqi (stay) D4: Yining - Qiaxi Forest Park - Xinyuan County (stay) D5: Xinyuan County - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Town homestay (stay) D6: Nalati Town - Duku Highway - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Urumqi (stay) D7: Urumqi airport drop-off and end of trip

Xinjiang's summer is gifted by Ili! Snow mountains, grasslands, flower seas, lakes, forests... This place is as beautiful as God's overturned palette🎨" ——Just returned from Ili, and compiled this super detailed guide, including routes, accommodation, photography, and pit avoidance guide, it is recommended to collect! 📅 Itinerary (7 days and 6 nights) Day 1: Urumqi → Yining (high-speed rail 5h) - Arrive in Yining in the afternoon, visit **Kazanqi Folk Village** (blue town, super suitable for taking pictures📸) - Dinner recommendation: **Aierkasir** (hand pilaf + baked buns are amazing!) - Accommodation: Yining city (recommended **Tumalis Grand Hotel**, convenient location) **Day 2: Yining → Sailimu Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng Lavender** - **Sailimu Lake** (self-driving/chartered car around the lake, tickets 145 yuan, must-visit spots: **Songshutou, S-bend Highway, Swan Lake**) - **Guozigou Bridge** (free, cliff location navigation "Guozigou Observation Deck Resort") - **Huocheng Lavender** (best from mid-June to early July, recommended **Princess Jieyou Farm**, tickets 35 yuan) - Accommodation: Qingshuihe Town (convenient to go to Xiata the next day) **Day 3: Huocheng → Xiata Ancient Road** - **Xiata Scenic Area** (tickets + shuttle bus 80 yuan, a paradise for hiking lovers🏔️) - How to play: Take the shuttle bus to the **Hot Spring Hotel**, then hike/ride to **Xianhuatai** - Note: It is easy to rain in the afternoon, bring a jacket! - Accommodation: Zhaosu County (recommended **Zhaosu Hotel**) **Day 4: Zhaosu → Joan Kushtai** - **Joan Kushtai** (free, but need to book in advance!) - How to play: ✅ **Back Mountain** (drive to the middle of the mountain, then ride for 1h to the top of the mountain, the view is amazing) ✅ **Wusun Ancient Road** (light hike, along the stream is super healing) - Accommodation: Joan Kushtai Village (recommended **Shanye Homestay**, but it is difficult to book in peak season, you can stay in a yurt) **Day 5: Joan Kushtai → Kalajun Grassland → Tekes** - **Kalajun Grassland** (all-area ticket 275 yuan, "Human Body Grassland" is super shocking) - Go to **Tekes Bagua City** in the evening (drone aerial photography is super cool, Ferris wheel night view is average) - Accommodation: Tekes (recommended **Wanbang International Hotel**) **Day 6: Tekes → Nalati Grassland** - **Nalati Grassland** (self-driving 300 yuan/person, recommended **Air Grassland + River Valley Grassland**) - The internet celebrity bridge location is at the **Nomadic People** station, go early to queue up! - Accommodation: Nalati Town (recommended **Natila Yinqi Caolu Homestay**) **Day 7: Nalati → Duku Highway North Section → Urumqi** - **Duku Highway** (open from June to September, experiencing four seasons along the way❄️→🌿) - Must-stop spots: **Qiaerma Martyrs Cemetery, Hashlegen Daban (playing in the snow)** - Return to Urumqi in the evening and end the trip 🍖 Food recommendations ✅ **Yining City**: - **Aierkasir**: Hand pilaf, baked buns - **Gulan Danm Ice Cream**: Century-old shop, original flavor 9 yuan - **Liuxing Street**: Liuba Russian Rye Bread House ✅ **On the grassland**: - Lamb skewers (freshly slaughtered lamb, 5-10 yuan/skewer) - Kazakh milk tea (salty, with baursaki) 🚗 Transportation advice 1️⃣ **Chartered car/self-driving**: - Ili attractions are scattered, it is recommended that 4 people share a car (about 1000 yuan/day) - Only vehicles with 7 seats or less are allowed on the Duku Highway 2️⃣ **Money-saving method**: - Urumqi → Yining by high-speed rail (128 yuan), and sign up for a small group locally 3️⃣ **Note**: - Xinjiang has strict speed limits, don't speed when driving! - Gas stations require ID cards, passengers get off and wait 📸 Photo spots 1️⃣ **Sailimu Lake**: White dress + straw hat, take a "Little Switzerland" feel 2️⃣ **Joan Kushtai Back Mountain**: The light is soft in the evening, riding a horse is super cool 3️⃣ **Nalati Internet Celebrity Bridge**: No one before 10 am, take pictures as you like ### **⚠️ Pit Avoidance Guide** 1️⃣ **Weather**: The grassland weather is changeable, bring a **jacket + raincoat** 2️⃣ **Sunscreen**: Super strong ultraviolet rays, SPF50+ sunscreen is a must 3️⃣ **Accommodation**: Book Joan Kushtai and Nalati 1 month in advance during peak season! 4️⃣ **Cash**: Some grasslands have no signal, prepare 500 yuan in cash

Luxury Travel in Xinjiang | Embark on a Dreamy Journey Through the Western Regions on the Panda Express It's once again the most stunning season in Xinjiang, where sacred snow-capped mountains glisten under crystal-clear skies, meandering streams flow through endless grasslands, and colorful wildflowers bloom freely. Every vista is breathtakingly beautiful, and the air is filled with a relaxing, chill vibe. In this vast land where attractions are scattered and distances are great, the Panda Express is the perfect choice for comfortable travel! Imagine lounging on the train, gently swirling a glass of wine while melodious music plays in the background, and watching the poetic Xinjiang landscape rush past your window - it's the ultimate luxury experience. 🐼【Panda Express - A Moving Luxury Palace】 This newly launched premium luxury tourist train features an adorable panda theme cleverly incorporating mysterious Sanxingdui patterns. Stepping into the carriages, you'll find playful panda elements everywhere, as if you're in a panda sanctuary. Even better, the train is equipped with complete recreational facilities - refreshing shower rooms, non-stop KTV entertainment, and mahjong tables filled with laughter, ensuring your journey is never dull! Attentive panda butlers accompany you throughout, and on-board doctors are always on standby, moving through the carriages to provide meticulous service for your peace of mind. 🛏️【Luxurious Accommodations, Comfortable Resting Spaces】 👉Platinum Suite (4-person compartment): A private sanctuary with a dedicated bathroom and washroom, two spacious changing rooms with showers for constant freshness. The room features a carefully arranged tea table for scenic tea breaks, large storage capacity for easy luggage organization, TV entertainment, service call buttons, and abundant power outlets - thoughtful details throughout. 👉Purple Gold Suite (Deluxe 4-person room): Step into a cozy compartment with soft sofas and elegant round tables perfect for family gatherings. Organized wardrobes, TV entertainment, service buttons, and power outlets meet all needs, with clean bathrooms and shower rooms at both ends of the carriage ready for use. 🚗【Journey Highlights】 D1: Depart from Chengdu or Lanzhou, heading west toward Urumqi to begin your dream journey. D2: Arrive in Urumqi, experience this pearl of the Western Regions, explore the Grand Bazaar, immerse in rich ethnic culture. D3: Explore Tianshan Tianchi Lake with its crystal waters reflecting snowy peaks and spruce trees; evening Xinjiang welcome banquet with authentic cuisine; proceed to Beitun. D4: Enter Hemu Village, a tranquil fairy-tale town with rising smoke; continue to Jiadengyu. D5: Discover Kanas Lake, explore monster legends and color-changing waters; evening visit to Wucaitan to see Yardang landforms meet sunset; overnight in Burqin. D6: Tour the Prairie Stone City with its peculiar rock formations; return to Beitun. D7: Head to Yining, first glimpse of Sayram Lake, crystal blue like "the Atlantic's last tear"; visit Khorgos Port for border views; return to Yining. D8: Journey through Tianshan flower fields; embrace Nalati Grassland on horseback; overnight in Nalati or Xinyuan. D9: Travel the middle section of Duku Highway, witness majestic mountains; visit Bayanbulak Grassland to see the Nine Curves spectacle at sunset; continue along southern Duku Highway to Kuqa. D10: Explore the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon with its stunning red cliffs; proceed to Kashgar to begin the Southern Xinjiang chapter. D11: Visit Yarkant Khan Palace in Shache for historical insights; explore Yingjisha pottery village for traditional crafts; return to Kashgar. D12: View Karakul Lake mirroring snow mountains; visit White Sand Lake's pristine beauty; back to Kashgar. D13: Tour Id Kah Mosque to hear history's echoes; stroll through Fragrant Concubine's Garden for its tragic legend; proceed to Korla. D14: Cruise Bosten Lake's unified water and sky; head to Turpan for more wonders. D15: Brave Flaming Mountain's heat; explore the Karez system's ancient wisdom; enjoy Grape Valley's sweet harvest; begin return journey. D16: Leisurely train ride reflecting on journey highlights. D17: Safe return to Chengdu with memories to treasure.

I. Seasonal Weather and Clothing Guide (Focus on Spring and Summer) 1️⃣. Climate Characteristics Northern Xinjiang: Extreme temperature differences between day and night (20-35°C during day, 5-15°C at night), Ili Valley is humid and rainy, Kanas area is cool in summer Southern Xinjiang: Dry with little rain (extreme summer temperatures can reach 40°C), smaller day-night temperature difference than Northern Xinjiang 2️⃣. Spring/Summer (May-August) Clothing Guide Scenarios and Recommended Gear Daily Sightseeing: Short-sleeve + sun protection clothing/light jacket, quick-dry pants/long skirt (UV protection), breathable sports shoes Mountain Areas/Morning & Evening: 3-in-1 jacket/light down jacket, fleece liner, windproof scarf (essential for Kanas and Xata) Special Scenarios: Waterproof snow boots (Sayram Lake snow melting period), sun protection arm sleeves (Devil City Gobi), raincoat (Ili showers) Essential Accessories: UV400 sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, moisturizing skincare products (Xinjiang is extremely dry) II. Core Attractions Analysis of Northern Xinjiang + Ili ■ Northern Xinjiang Scenic Corridor Kanas (5A Level) Features: Three Bays (Moon/Fairy/Dragon) morning mist, Fish-Viewing Pavilion panorama, Baihaba border village Seasonal recommendation: Wildflowers in June, autumn colors in September, summer Tuva family visits Hemu Village Highlights✨: Wooden house stargazing spots, Harden Platform sunrise, horseback riding through birch forest Hidden experiences: Milky Way photography at 3am, autumn morning mist photography Keketuohai Geological wonders: Shenzhong Mountain granite peak, No.3 Mine pit (Merit Mine), Irtysh Grand Canyon hiking Tips: Recommended to combine with hot spring hotel experience World Ghost City Photography timing: 🌄2 hours before sunset (golden yardang landforms) Combined tour recommendation: Karamay Hundred-Mile Oil Field landscape Ili Grassland Matrix Sayram Lake (Lake Circuit Guide) East bank: Genghis Khan's Command Post (panoramic position) South bank: Swan Lake, S-curve road photo spot West bank: Songshu Trail (overlooking Guozigou Bridge) Nalati Grassland Route options: Sky Grassland route (popular bridge photo spot) River Valley Grassland route (Kazakh cultural experience) Panlong Valley route (self-driving exclusive) Xata Ancient Road In-depth experience: Hike to Flower Platform (June), close view of Muzart Glacier Note: Advance horse team booking required, hiking poles recommended Kurdening/Qiaxi Comparison: Kurdening: King Spruce + Heritage Exhibition Center (educational) Qiaxi: Best value with 30 yuan entrance fee, self-driving friendly III. Classic Itinerary Planning (8-12 days) Plan A: Northern Xinjiang Panoramic Circuit (10 days) Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - passing Ulungur Lake - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Day 4: Hemu - Ahe Highway (subject to opening) - passing Tuole Great Grassland - Tongba Forest - Wuxilike - Altay Day 5: Altay - Urho Ghost City - Kuitun Day 6: Kuitun - Sayram Lake circuit drive - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 7: Yining - Qiaxi - Xinyuan Day 8: Xinyuan - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Day 9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 10: Urumqi - Departure point Alternative route if Duku Highway is closed: Day 8: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland - Jinghe Day 9: Jinghe - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Urumqi Plan B: Ili In-depth Tour (8 days) Day 1: Departure point - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Sayram Lake stroll - Sayram Lake sunset - Sayram Lake East Gate Day 3: Second Sayram Lake drive - in-depth lake circuit - Guozigou Hanging Rock - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 4: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xata - Zhaosu Day 5: Zhaosu - Qiafuqihai - Kurdening - Nalati River Valley Grassland - Nalati Day 6: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland drive - Tangbula Day 7: Tangbula - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 8: Urumqi - Departure point IV. Practical Tips 🪪Document Management: Carry ID card at all times (numerous checkpoints) Border permits required for Baihaba/Xata (obtain from hometown or Burqin) 🚘Transportation Recommendations: Prefer 6-person small groups (comfortable vehicle + local driver) Duku Highway/Yizhao Highway limited to vehicles under 7 seats Cultural Taboos: No shorts in mosques, don't point at Muslims Don't trespass fences at nomad homes, ask permission before photographing people Special Notes: Scenic area price reference: Hemu horseback riding 80-150 yuan/hour, Sayram Lake sailing 120 yuan/person Drone flights need advance registration (No-fly zones in Nalati/Baisha Lake) V. Four-Season Travel Calendar Month Northern Xinjiang Highlights Ili Highlights Mar-Apr: Keketuohai ice melt observation, Turgen Apricot Valley bloom May-Jun: Kanas Lake ice breaking period, Sayram Lake wildflowers + Huocheng lavender Jul-Aug: Hemu summer retreat/river rafting, Zhaosu rapeseed fields + Xata hiking golden period Sep-Oct: Kanas autumn scenery + Baihaba morning mist, Nalati golden autumn pasture + pre-closure Duku Highway

In remote Yili, Xinjiang, every spring, apricot blossoms bloom in abundance, creating a poetic spectacle that attracts countless tourists. This guide will help you unlock the Yili apricot blossom season. Bloom Forecast and Best Viewing Time The Yili apricot blossom season typically runs from early to mid-April, but it varies each year due to weather conditions. It is recommended to pay close attention to the blossom forecasts issued by the local meteorological bureau and tourism department before your trip. The apricot blossoms begin to bloom in early April, reaching full bloom in mid-April. This is the perfect time for viewing and photography, as the mountains and fields are covered in a sea of pink and white blossoms. The flowers gradually wither in late April. Best Places for Blossom Viewing - Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley: Famous for its over 30,000 acres of wild apricot trees covering the mountain slopes. Standing on the hillside, under the azure sky, the pink and white apricot blossoms complement the tender green grass and grazing cattle and sheep, creating a picturesque pastoral scene. - Huocheng Daxi Valley Fushou Mountain: Here, you'll find not only apricot blossoms but also wild fruit flowers and tulips. Different flowers bloom in succession, creating a rich tapestry of colors and a dreamlike world of blossoming flowers. - Nalati Apricot Blossom Valley: Where the vast grasslands meet the romantic apricot blossoms, with snow-capped mountains in the distance and a sea of apricot blossoms at your feet. This unique landscape combines the vastness of the grasslands with the gentle beauty of the apricot blossoms, creating a truly captivating scene. Itinerary Planning 3-Day Classic Tour - Day 1: Arrive in Yining, take a short break, and head to Hanren Street for a culinary journey. Enjoy a crispy baked bun filled with savory meat or a large plate of fragrant hand-pulled rice to experience authentic Xinjiang flavors. - Day 2: Head to Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley and immerse yourself in the sea of apricot blossoms all day long, taking photos and enjoying the scenery. In the evening, travel to Xinyuan County to experience the unique local customs. - Day 3: Visit Nalati Apricot Blossom Valley to admire the beautiful scenery of the grasslands and apricot blossoms. Return to Yining in the afternoon and prepare for your departure. 5-Day In-depth Tour - Day 1: Yining - Huocheng Daxi Valley Fushou Mountain. Stroll through the mountains and admire the beauty of various flowers in full bloom. - Day 2: Huocheng - Guozigou Bridge - Sayram Lake. First, marvel at the majestic Guozigou Bridge, and then head to Sayram Lake to see the clear lake water reflecting the apricot blossoms on the shore, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. - Day 3: Sayram Lake - Turgen Apricot Blossom Valley. Immerse yourself in the apricot blossoms covering the mountains and fields, and experience the romantic gifts of nature. - Day 4: Turgen - Nalati Apricot Blossom Valley. Get up close and personal with the apricot blossoms on the grasslands and experience the unique charm of the grassland apricot blossoms. - Day 5: Nalati - Yining. Pack your bags and return home with beautiful memories, concluding this romantic flower-viewing trip. Transportation - Airplane: Fly to Yining Airport and then transfer to a car or bus to reach the various blossom viewing spots. The journey from Yining to Turgen takes about 2 hours, and to Huocheng about 1 hour. - Train: First, travel to Urumqi, then transfer to a train or long-distance bus to Yining, and then transfer again to reach the apricot blossom viewing areas, enjoying the vast scenery of Xinjiang along the way. - Self-drive: Driving from Yining offers breathtaking scenery along the way. However, pay attention to the road conditions in the mountainous areas, check the weather and road information in advance, and drive cautiously. Photography Tips - Clothing: Wear light-colored, solid-colored clothing, such as a white or light blue dress, to create a striking contrast with the pink apricot blossoms for stunning photos. - Time: The light is soft in the early morning and evening, making it the perfect time to capture portraits and landscapes with excellent lighting effects and a wonderful atmosphere. - Angle: Shoot from a low angle looking up, with the blue sky and apricot blossoms as the background, to highlight the delicate beauty of the flowers. Climb the hillside and shoot downwards to capture the panoramic view of the sea of blossoms. Travel Tips - Weather: The weather in the Yili mountainous area is changeable, with significant temperature differences between day and night. Be sure to pack warm clothes and rain gear. - Environmental Protection: Protect the environment, do not pick flowers, and take your trash with you to help preserve this beautiful sea of blossoms. - Crowds: There are many tourists during the apricot blossom season. Book accommodations and tickets in advance to avoid delays. 💕We hope everyone has an unforgettable travel experience during the Yili apricot blossom season and encounters the most beautiful spring in this sea of pink and white blossoms.

【Introduction】: Northern Xinjiang boasts magnificent natural scenery and unique ethnic customs. Here are some highlights of Northern Xinjiang and travel tips: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Three Bays - Guanyu Pavilion - Hemu Day 4: Hemu - Hemu Morning Light - Devil City - Karamay Day 5: Karamay - Duku Highway - Hundred Mile Gallery - Nalati Day 6: Nalati - Nalati Air Grassland - Tekes Day 7: Tekes - Kalajun Grassland - Six Star Street - Yining Day 8: Yining - Lavender - Guozigou Bridge - Sayram Lake Loop - Jinghe Day 9: Jinghe - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - S101 National Defense Highway - Urumqi Day 10: Urumqi - Home - Sayram Lake: Known as the 'last tear of the Atlantic', the lake is clear and blue, surrounded by mountains with snow-capped peaks reflected in the water. The lakeside is a vast grassland, with wildflowers blooming from May to August. - Nalati Grassland: One of the four largest grasslands in the world, it is a famous pasture. From June to September, the grassland is covered with wildflowers, herds of cattle and sheep, rolling hills, and dense forests. The scenery of the air grassland is mesmerizing. - Kalajun Grassland: Divided into East and West Kalajun, the West is known for its grassland scenery, while the East features undulating grasslands, snow-capped mountains, forests, and various landscapes. Wildflowers bloom everywhere in June and July, creating a colorful spectacle. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Hand-grabbed rice, baked buns, lamb skewers, big plate chicken, grilled fish 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four Diamonds, Classic Homestays, Century-old Wooden Houses 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Seven-seater business car or luxury seven-seater 🧡【Tips】: - Climate and Clothing: The climate in Northern Xinjiang is variable, with large temperature differences between day and night. Even in summer, you need to bring a thick coat, such as a windbreaker or fleece jacket. In winter, prepare down jackets, thick sweaters, thermal underwear, and snow boots. - Cultural Customs: Northern Xinjiang is home to many ethnic groups. Respect local minority religious beliefs and customs, such as keeping quiet when entering mosques and not wearing revealing clothing. Ulungur Lake (Golden Coast Scenic Area) Kanas Scenic Area Hemu Scenic Area Five-Colored Beach Dushanzi Grand Canyon Sayram Lake Guozigou Bridge Nalati Tourist Scenic Area Kalajun Scenic Area Hundred Mile Gallery Tekes Bagua City Tekes

Starting from March, the temperature in Xinjiang ☁ continues to rise, the ice and snow ❄ gradually melt, and various flowers 💐 bloom one after another, which indicates that spring 🍀 in Xinjiang is about to come, and the next Xinjiang will be as beautiful as a painting. What can you see in Xinjiang during this period? Of course, you should go to the flower-viewing spot recommended by China National Geographic - Yili Xinghuagou to view the apricot blossoms! Believe me! ! ! The Hanging Apricot Garden in Yili in spring will surely amaze you throughout the spring. 🌸Recommended spring flower viewing route ⏰Time: 5 days and 4 nights 👣Route: Yili➕Nalati➕Sailimu Lake 🌸Day1⃣: Urumqi➟Sailimu Lake ice and snow begin to melt/Ice-topped flowers➟Sailimu Lake Starting from Urumqi, head all the way to Sailimu Lake🌅. At this time, the ice and snow of Sailimu Lake have just started to melt, and there are still some crystal clear ice cubes remaining on the lake surface, which reflect the newly blooming ice flowers, making it beautiful like a dream. Take a stroll along the lake or drive around the lake to feel the tranquility and beauty. · 🌸Day2⃣: Guozigou Bridge➟Nalati (Sky Grassland) Starting from Sailimu Lake, passing by the spectacular Guozigou Bridge, every shot is a blockbuster📸. Then we arrived at the Nalati Sky Grassland. The grass on the grassland had not yet turned completely green, but the snow-capped mountains in the distance, the dotted apricot blossoms and the vast grassland were intertwined, forming a beautiful spring picture. · 🌸Day3⃣: Turgen Apricot Valley➟Kazanqi➟Liuxing Street➟Yining In the morning, go to Turgen Apricot Valley, which is the essence of Yili apricot blossoms🌺. Apricot blossoms are blooming all over the mountains, and the pink sea of ​​flowers is like a dream world, making people feel as if they are in a fairy tale. Arrive in Yining in the afternoon🌇, first go to Kazanqi Folk Village to experience the strong Uyghur customs; then stroll around Liuxing Street, with its unique street layout and small shops full of literary and artistic atmosphere. Every shot you take is a retro blockbuster. · 🌸Day4⃣: Yining➟Daxigou Fushou Mountain Apricot Blossoms➟Kuitun Starting from Yining, head to Daxigou Fushou Mountain; the apricot blossoms here bloom in layers along the hillside🌷, contrasting with the green trees and streams in the mountains, which is beautiful. Strolling in the apricot blossom forest, breathing in the fresh fragrance of flowers, and feeling the beauty of nature. · 🌸Day5⃣: Dushanzi Grand Canyon➟Kenswat Reservoir➟S101 Baili Danxia➟Urumqi Check in at Dushanzi Canyon, the unique canyon landform makes people marvel at the uncanny workmanship of nature🏔. Go to Kenswat Reservoir to enjoy the beautiful scenery of lakes and mountains; drive along the S101 Baili Danxia Highway 🚙, enjoy the endless Danxia landforms along the way, and feel the magnificence and magic of nature.

♦️ Northern Xinjiang is known for its natural scenery: ancient nomadic culture, alpine grasslands ♦️ Southern Xinjiang is known for its cultural landscapes: a perfect blend of deserts and gobi, diverse and simple human civilizations ♦️ With the arrival of spring, beautiful Xinjiang welcomes the blooming apricot flowers. The vast grasslands are sprouting new green buds, and the wildflowers are slowly budding. Nature's gifts are always the most beautiful. Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop 12-Day Tour D1: Various Cities - Urumqi D2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake - Beitun D3: Beitun - Hemu (God's Private Land) - Stay in Hemu D4: Hemu - Kanas Lake - Stay in Kanas D5: Kanas - Hike Three Bays - Colorful Beach - Burqin D6: Burqin - Devil City - Kuitun/Dushanzi D7: Kuitun/Dushanzi - Sayram Lake - Lavender - Yining D8: Yining - Xiate Ancient Trail - Tekesi D9: Tekesi - Kalajun - Nalati Town D10: Nalati Town - Nalati Air Grassland - Bayinbuluke D11: Bayinbuluke - Duku Highway - Urumqi D12: Urumqi - Various Cities Northern Xinjiang (Mainly Natural Scenery) 1. **Kanas Lake (Altay Region)** - Known as a "paradise on earth," the lake's water changes color with the seasons, and the autumn foliage is as beautiful as a painting. - Recommended spots: Moon Bay, Fish Watching Pavilion (legendary site of the "water monster"), Hemu Village (Tuva village). 2. **Hemu Village** - One of the most beautiful villages in China, with primitive wooden houses, misty river valleys, starry skies, and snow-capped mountains creating a fairy-tale scene. 3. **Sayram Lake (Bortala Prefecture)** - The highest alpine lake in Xinjiang, with crystal blue waters and wildflowers blooming in summer, known as the "last tear of the Atlantic." 4. **Nalati Grassland (Ili Prefecture)** - One of the world's four largest alpine grasslands, with lush green grass and herds of cattle and sheep in summer, offering a chance to experience Kazakh nomadic culture. 5. **Duku Highway** - Known as "China's most beautiful highway," it traverses the Tianshan Mountains, offering views of snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands, and lakes (open only from June to October). 6. **Bayinbuluke Grassland (Bayingolin Prefecture)** - The sunset over the winding Nine Bends is a spectacular sight in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains, and Swan Lake is an ecological paradise.

【Introduction】: Northern Xinjiang boasts the beautiful Kanas and Hemu, the last drop of the Atlantic Ocean 'Sayram Lake', and the 12 grasslands of Ili along with the Duku Highway, making it a must-visit destination for everyone: 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Heavenly Lake of Tianshan - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Three Bays - Fish Watching Pavilion - Baihaba Day 4: Baihaba - Kanas Cruise - Hemu Viewing Platform - Hemu Day 5: Hemu - Hemu Morning Light - Yunxiao Peak - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 6: Burqin - Devil City - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun Day 7: Kuitun - Sayram Lake Circle - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender - Yining Day 8: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiata Ancient Road - Zhaosu Day 9: Zhaosu - Kalajun Grassland - Tekes Bagua City Day 10: Tekes - Kurdening - Xinyuan Day 11: Xinyuan - Nalati Air Grassland - Bayinbuluke Day 12: Bayinbuluke - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 13: Urumqi - Home Kanas Scenic Area is located on Provincial Highway 232 in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a AAAA-rated scenic spot mainly featuring natural landscapes. It is one of the famous attractions in Northern Xinjiang, known for its mysterious lake monster legend and the color-changing lake water. Major attractions include Kanas Lake, Kanas Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay), and Fish Watching Pavilion. Visitors can choose to take a boat tour of the lake or hike between the three bays to fully enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. The grasslands of Northern Xinjiang are vast, with a geographical environment dominated by grasslands, deserts, and gobi, and relatively few lakes and rivers. This natural condition provides the basic premise for the formation of grassland culture in Northern Xinjiang. On this vast grassland, herders live a free and open life, and grassland culture has become a core part of Northern Xinjiang culture. The Nadam Fair, songs and dances, costumes, paintings, and other art forms on the grassland are unique, showcasing the unique charm of grassland culture. 🍩【Must-Eat Food】: Hand-Grasped Rice + Baked Buns + Whole Roasted Lamb + Grilled Fish + Big Plate Chicken 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Ctrip Four Diamonds + Century-Old Wooden House + Classic Homestay 🚌【Transportation Guide】: 7-seat business car or luxury 7-seat car 🧡【Tips】: - Xinjiang is home to various ethnic minorities with strong religious beliefs, mainly Islam, which prohibits the consumption of pork. Respect local customs and religious beliefs. - A border pass is required for travel to Hemu-Kanas. It can be obtained at the place of residence, Kashgar, Burqin, or directly at the Kanas Scenic Area with an ID card. - Pay attention to personal safety, follow scenic area regulations, do not litter, and protect the ecological environment. - Local mobile phone signals may be poor, making communication difficult. Prepare accordingly in advance. - In Xinjiang, goods are sold by the kilogram, so pay attention to the unit of measurement when shopping. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Ulungur Lake (Golden Coast Scenic Area), Kanas Scenic Area, Baihaba, Hemu Scenic Area, Colorful Beach, World Devil City, Dushanzi Grand Canyon, Sayram Lake, Yining City, Ili, Yizhao Highway, Xiata Tourist Area, Zhaosu, Ili, Tekes Bagua City, Tekes, Kalajun Scenic Area, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Bayinbuluke Scenic Area, Duku Highway

Xinjiang is beautiful, but there are also many pitfalls! 😅 I sincerely suggest you do your research before you go, otherwise, you'll be crying on the roadside! 📝 Here's a guide to avoiding common mistakes. Please save it and read it carefully. - ✅ Weather: Xinjiang's weather is unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in one day. ⛅ Be sure to pack sunscreen, warm clothes, and rain gear. - ✅ Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is huge. Even in July and August, the nights are cold! 🧣 Wear breathable, warm clothing. Choose loose, cotton pants. - ✅ Transportation: Xinjiang's straight roads can cause visual fatigue and speeding. Drivers, please be careful! Travel times are long, so if you get carsick, remember to bring motion sickness pills 💊. - ✅ Shopping: Goods in Xinjiang are sold by the kilogram. - ✅ Accommodation: Apart from a few cities like Urumqi and 🏠 Karamay, which have modern hotels, accommodation in other areas is basic. Some places don't have air conditioning, or even showers and private bathrooms. - ✅ Time difference: Xinjiang is 2 hours behind Beijing time. ⏰ Most businesses operate on a different schedule than in other parts of China. - ✅ Acclimatization: The water in Xinjiang is alkaline and hard. If you're not used to it, it can cause constipation. 🍉 Fruits are high in sugar, so don't eat too much at once. Some people also experience diarrhea after eating fresh mutton and dairy products. - ✅ Trip length: Plan to spend at least 7 days in Xinjiang, starting in Urumqi. - 🚗 Sample 7-day Xinjiang itinerary: D1: Urumqi - Bole - Sayram Lake (stay overnight at Sayram Lake) D2: Sayram Lake - Yining - Zhaosu (stay overnight in Zhaosu) D3: Zhaosu - Shata (stay overnight in Shata) D4: Shata sunrise - Tekes (stay overnight in Tekes) D5: Tekes - Shixi - Nalati (stay overnight in Nalati) D6: Nalati scenic area sunrise - Nalati town (stay overnight in Nalati) D7: Nalati town - Urumqi

🌟When the journey meets miracles, every step is taken with the beat of exploration. This year's Audi Southern Region Q Family Extreme Journey is not only a feast of driving, but also a baptism of the soul! 🚀 · 🌄 Starting from the northern scenery of Kanas, we drove the Audi Q7, crossing the majestic Tianshan Mountains, as if drawing a brave track on the skin of the earth. 🏔️ Strong power and precise control make every turn enjoyable. 🚘The luxury and comfort of the Q7 is a gentle shelter on the long journey. · 🌸 Today, the Narati grassland greeted us with its green embrace. The endless green ocean, dotted with colorful wildflowers, is like a carpet carefully woven by the earth, welcoming every traveler from afar. 🌼Here, history and nature are intertwined, and the legend of Genghis Khan seems to be whispering in the wind, making people awe-inspiring. · 📸 Every frame captured by the camera is a hymn to nature. Under the blue sky and white clouds, surrounded by mountains, Narati is like an uncarved emerald, quiet and mysterious. 📷 Every time the shutter falls, it is a deep confession to this land. · 👣 This trip is not only about seeing the scenery, but also about experiencing a lifestyle. Fearless forward, let the soul soar in the vast world, every footprint is a passionate embrace of the unknown world. 💪 · 🌈 The meaning of travel lies in how it broadens our horizons and how it allows us to grow in challenges. This Audi Southern Region Q Family Journey is not only a journey, but also a sublimation of life. 🚀

[Nalati Grassland] Dreaming of a green sea, let's explore it! 🌿🌾 Want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embrace the tranquility of nature? Nalati Grassland is definitely your heart's desire! 🍃 First of all, you need to know that Nalati Grassland is located in the Yili River Valley in Xinjiang, known as the "Sky Grassland", and is a famous tourist attraction in Xinjiang. Under the blue sky and white clouds, the green grass is like a carpet, and the cattle and sheep are in groups. The poetic and picturesque scenery is fascinating. 🌤️ The best travel time is from July to September, when Nalati Grassland is green and the wildflowers are in full bloom, as beautiful as a fairy tale world. 🌺 Travel essentials: 1️⃣ Sunscreen: Xinjiang has strong sunlight, so sun protection must be done well! 2️⃣ Hat and sunglasses: Protect your eyes and skin. 3️⃣ Comfortable shoes: A good pair of shoes is a must for walking on the grassland. 4️⃣ Light jacket: The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, remember to keep warm! Recommended play: 🌄 Morning horse riding experience, feel the morning dew and fresh air of the grassland. 🌄 Visit the Kazakh yurt and taste authentic milk tea and hand-caught meat. 🌄 Hike or ride a horse through the depths of the grassland to find the secret realm of Nalati. 🌄 Gather around the bonfire at night and experience the ethnic customs of the Kazakhs. Don't forget to take photos! In Nalati Grassland, every shot is a blockbuster! 📸

🌄Dreamy Departure: Nalati, the secret land of Xinjiang, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, flocks of sheep, every frame is romantic. Self-driving 300 yuan/person, 48 hours unlimited tour, shuttle bus 135 yuan directly to the essence. 🚗Self-driving route: Ride horses in the valley grassland to see the panorama, accompany the flocks on the Panlong ancient road, enjoy the sunset on the aerial grassland, check in at the internet-famous bridge in the morning, and the beautiful scenery never stops. 🏠Cozy Accommodation: Homestay, adjacent to the scenic spot, fully equipped, preferred for family with children, rooftop snow view, extraordinarily comfortable. ⚠️Tips: Sunscreen and dry food are essential, go to the internet-famous bridge early. 💌Conclusion: Nalati is waiting for you, to embark on this romantic date together, share your beautiful moments!

Our last stop in Xinjiang was a day trip to the Nalati Grasslands near Ili. We departed from Yining City and took the highway all the way, with a toll fee of 184 RMB. The entrance ticket to the scenic area, which includes the shuttle bus, costs 135 RMB per person, and the round-trip shuttle to Xuelian Valley is 60 RMB per person. At the scenic area, we chose the Sky Grassland ticket with the shuttle bus. The shuttle stops at three spots on the way up, and on the way down, it goes directly to the visitor center. So, make sure to get off at each stop to enjoy the attractions. Today, we also added a one-hour horseback riding activity, which costs 80 RMB per person (I also recommend riding in Xuelian Valley for better scenery and fewer people). At the Nomadic Station, you can buy a shuttle ticket to Xuelian Valley. I highly recommend going there as it is the most beautiful spot. I'll let the photos speak for themselves. Feel free to ask any questions. 🕰️Business Hours: 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM

Xinjiang flights are so expensive! Of course, you should visit both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one go 😏 👉 This route takes a total of 13 days (including 2 days for round-trip transportation and 1 flexible day 🉑 for adjustments), covering the Northern Xinjiang Ili Loop ➕ Southern Xinjiang Kashgar/Pamir Plateau ⛰️ Suitable for those with tight schedules who want to check off both Northern and Southern Xinjiang in one go 💖 Not for special forces❗ Not for special forces❗ Not for special forces❗ Important things are said three times! 【📸 13-day Northern ➕ Southern Xinjiang Route】 (Route map on p2) Day 1: Various locations → Urumqi, stay in Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi → Kuitun, via S101 National Defense Highway, stay in Kuitun Day 3: Kuitun → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Yining, stay in Yining Day 4: Yining → Tekes → Kalajun, stay in Kalajun Grassland Cabin Day 5: Kalajun Hiking → Tekes, stay in Tekes Day 6: Tekes → Nalati, stay in Nalati Day 7: Deep tour of three routes in Nalati Grassland, stay in Nalati Town Day 8: Nalati → Kuqa, via the southern section of Duku Highway (super beautiful!), stay in Kuqa Day 9: Flexible day in Kuqa (prices here are super low!) or continue the journey, stay in Kuqa Day 10: Kuqa → Kashgar, stay in Kashgar Day 11: Kashgar → Glacier Park → White Sand Lake → Tashkurgan, stay in Tashkurgan Day 12: Tashkurgan → Kashgar, stay in Kashgar Day 13: Kashgar → Various locations 【⚠️ Route Notes】 ❶ In Xinjiang, it gets dark around 10:30 PM, the time difference will affect your schedule, and the attractions are far apart with long journeys, so be sure to leave a flexible day for adjustments❗ ❷ If you feel tired during the trip, you can rest in Kuqa on Day 9. The reason for recommending Kuqa is: prices here are really low 😭, I booked a four-star hotel with buffet breakfast and lunch 🍜 for 290R. This is the birthplace of 'Naan', and there are many nearby attractions, making it a good place for a mid-journey rest 🌿 ❸ S101 National Defense Highway: Worth a visit! Here's a navigation route for you 👉 'Urumqi → Qigu Bridge → Hundred Mile Danxia → Kentes Reservoir → Lujiaowan → Anjihai Grand Canyon', you can choose attractions based on time and road conditions, and if you encounter road closures, you can directly get on the highway❗ ❹ Day 3 Sayram Lake ➕ Guozigou is highly recommended ❤️ If you have enough time, it's suggested to stay for 2 days, if only 1 day, be sure to start early as the journey is long❗ ❺ Note ⚠️ For the Guozigou Bridge viewing platform, be sure to navigate to 'Guozigou Viewing Resort' to reach it, otherwise, you will directly get on the highway 🛣️ ❻ Kalajun is the pinnacle in my heart, it's recommended to stay for 2 days 🙈 But make sure to open it correctly ⭕ 👣 On the first day, go directly to 'Jiasagan' and stay in a grassland cabin or yurt 👣 On the second day, hike from Flower Terrace → Falcon Terrace (highly recommended❗), about 5/6 km, mostly boardwalk, beginner-friendly, be sure to bring a raincoat and wear a windbreaker ❼ Nalati is beautiful, but crowded 😥 Self-driving is 🉑, if you take the sightseeing bus, it's not recommended ❌ The internet-famous bridge is really hard to rate ❽ Kashgar → Kuqa can be chosen by train/plane Limited space, specific car rental ➕ transportation guide in the next article 😭

#AdventurousTraveler Zhaosu County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, located in a river valley, was once a nomadic area of ​​the ancient Wusun Kingdom. It has unique geographical advantages - the unique beauty of the Tianshan hinterland and the profound grassland history and culture. One of the unique horse breeds here is the Ili horse, which can be regarded as the finest horse among the "celestial horses", and thus it is praised as the "hometown of celestial horses". Every early summer, Ili horses would come to the river to drink water, bathe, play and fight at the urging of herdsmen, with groups of horses running on the waves. The changes of light and shadow are intertwined, and the water and horses are shaking with strength to attract the attention of tourists, as if watching a visual feast on the Milky Way - "Heavenly Horse Bathing in the River". The sunlight at dusk on the banks of Tekes River and the herds of Pegasus complement each other. The endless beauty is refreshing and the scene is very shocking. It is definitely worth your visit.

I have decided to come to Xinjiang this summer and autumn! Friends who want to travel to Xinjiang from May to October but don’t know how to arrange it, hurry up and copy your homework! Now In northern Xinjiang, you can see the pure nature, the snow-capped mountains, grasslands, flowers, blue sky and white clouds with built-in filters, just like a fairy tale world. For example, in Sailimu Lake Nalati Grassland, you can also have afternoon tea at Qiongkush Terrace, hike in Xiata, attend markets and folk villages to feel the primitive grassland tribes, and experience the unique Uyghur and Kazakh lifestyles. Route recommendation: DAY1 Urumqi-S21 Desert Highway-passing Ulungu Lake-Colorful Beach-Burqin DAY2 Burqin-Kanas Dream Trip-Kanas-Scenic Spot Accommodation DAY3 Kanas-Hiking Kanas Three Bays-Hemu-Scenic Spot Accommodation DAY4 Hemu-Hemu Ancient Village Stroll-Urho-Moroccan Style B&B DAY5 Wuerhe-Devil City-Shuanghe/Bole DAY6 Shuanghe/Bole-Tour of Sailimu Lake-Manxinwangyou Valley Flower Field-Xinyuan County/Nalati DAY7 Xinyuan County/Nalati-Nalati Grassland BBQ-Middle Duku-Bayinbuluke DAY8 Bayinbuluke-crossing the northern section of Duku-Urumqi San

Xinjiang's summer has no rival in China! Isn't it an exaggeration to say that🤩? Especially from June to August is the most beautiful period Mountains of flowers, snowy lakes, forest🌳 cabins, meadows with flocks of sheep 📸 Incredibly picturesque check-in spots 🎀 Sayram Lake: Wildflowers💐 bloom on the grasslands around the lake, complementing the azure waters under the snowy mountains, with no end in sight. 🎀 Nalati Grassland in the Sky: A verdant green🍃, dotted with wildflowers, river valleys, mountain peaks⛰️, deep gorges, and forests reflecting each other, where you can also ride horses, dress up for photos, and see many cute sheep🐑. 🎀 Duku Highway: It runs through the Tianshan Mountains from north to south, experiencing the changes of the four seasons in one day, and three-quarters of Xinjiang's scenery can be seen here. 🎀 Shat Ancient Trail: Grasslands, forests, glaciers, seas of flowers, the end of the forest is the glacier and snowy mountains, the scenery here is refreshing! 👔 Yili Temperature & Clothing Recommendations From June to September, the summer is a bit hot☀️, it is recommended to wear short sleeves and shorts, you can also bring some thin coats to cope with the temperature difference in the morning and evening, don't forget to bring sunglasses🕶️ and sunscreen, protect your skin! 🌟Essential items Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. Personal items: Sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products, daily toiletries Clothing: Coats, thick jackets, knitwear, sweaters, base shirts, casual pants, flat shoes, sports shoes Others: Masks, tripods, daily medicines, sunglasses, etc. 🥢Xinjiang Specialty Cuisine Chicken dishes: Pepper chicken, big plate chicken, spicy chicken Lamb dishes: Lamb skewers, roasted meat with red willow branches, pot meat, spicy lamb trotters, rack of lamb, roasted kidneys, roasted whole lamb Staple food: Fried rice noodles, pilaf, mixed noodles, naan Drinks: Kvass, Wusu beer, yogurt, camel milk 💕Little tips: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is significant, so be sure to prepare thick clothes for unexpected needs Xinjiang is vast, and some scenic spots require walking, so choosing a pair of suitable sports shoes is very important Xinjiang's ultraviolet radiation is strong, be sure to remember to prepare sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, sun hats, etc.

After a trip to Xinjiang, my heartfelt feeling is! Apart from Xinjiang, the rest is elsewhere, no other place can replace it! Xinjiang is about to enter the most beautiful summer, this summer, you must go to Xinjiang 🌲 · ✈ Chengdu - Yining, rent a car for a self-driving tour 🚙 Total cost per person is 6k (excluding airfare) May in Yili has just entered spring, there is still snow in many places, the biggest advantage is that during the off-season, air tickets and hotel prices are cheap, and you can enjoy both the snow-capped mountains and some early blooming flowers🌼. June is the best time, with blooming flowers and green grass, but the snow mountains have melted, and the consumption is moderate. July and August are the peak tourist seasons, with all the lavender in Huocheng in full bloom, and the consumption is relatively high. · 🚙 My favorite places throughout the journey 【Nalati】 Self-driving 300/person, although the price is not cheap, it is truly worth it, I love Nalati the most, there are herds of cattle and sheep on the grassland, as well as snow-capped mountains and streams, you must wait for the sunset at the nomadic homes 【Qiaxi Forest Park】 Compared to Kuerdening, I prefer Qiaxi, it's as romantic as an oil painting, just like the movie scene of 'Heidi and Grandfather', I suggest staying in Gongliu 【Qiongkushitai】 The road to Qiongku is extremely beautiful, there is a snow mountain swing in front of the mountain, there is no need to be stubborn about the back mountain, the stay at Qingkong Jiyi is awesome 【Fairy Lake】 Although it requires hiking, the scenery is absolutely worth it 【Sailimu Lake】 Get up at 5 am to go to S bay to watch the sunrise, an unforgettable experience, it is a beautiful scene that will be remembered for a lifetime . 🚙12-day trip recommendation 1. Chengdu - Urumqi 2. Huocheng - Sailimu Lake (must see the sunrise) 3. Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender, stay in Yining or Huanghuang Village 4. Yining - Tekes - Qiongkushitai 5. Qiongkushitai 6. Qiongkushitai - Kalajun Grassland - Stay in Zhaosu 7. Xatage scenic area - Stay in Tekes Bagua City at night 8. Tekes - Tekes River - Qiaxi Forest Park - Nalati, stay in the town 9. Nalati Grassland Scenic Area 10. Nalati - Northern section of Duku Highway - Tangbula - Fairy Lake, stay in Tangbula 11. Tangbula - Northern section of Duku Highway - Urumqi · 🌟Precautions 1. Prepare mosquito repellent 2. Choose an SUV for car rental, the roads to Qiongkushitai and Qiaxi are not very good 3. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, you can experience four seasons in one day 4. If you want to take pictures of the sunrise at Sailimu Lake and don't want to stay in the scenic area, you can enter from the east gate before 9 am (the south gate does not check tickets)

We have seen the sunny and rainy Nalati Grassland, snow-capped mountains, forests, streams, herds of cattle and sheep. Every time the wind blows the grass waves and the clouds roll by, it refreshes my imagination of a fairy tale world. Xinjiang · Nalati Grassland Self-driving 200 RMB per person, unlimited entries within 48 hours for section car: 135 RMB per person Tour route: Valley Grassland - Panlong Valley Road - Sky Grassland - Nomadic Family's Internet-famous Bridge | Shooting location Valley Grassland You will understand the sense of relaxation here when you see the cattle and sheep leisurely grazing on the open, undulating grass slopes. ◆ Panlong Valley Road Driving through it, it's like a road winding forward on the green background of the Nalati Grassland. When you pass by the glowing 'magic tree' (a fake tree growing on a real tree branch), you must stop. Whether you go to the streamside, climb the hillside, or sit under the tree, you can see the beautiful scenery from different perspectives; Sky Grassland Just navigate to the Nomadic Family's home, the internet-famous bridge is nearby. There are a lot of people in line, personally, I don't think it's necessary to wait. Walking up, there are many wooden bridges and tree stumps that are very photogenic, or you can climb the hillside to see the distant snow-capped mountains

【Introduction】: ◆ The scenery of the Ili region is the most representative and popular in Xinjiang. From May, the grasslands of Ili begin to turn green, with vast seas of flowers and clouds that seem to come straight out of an anime. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that such beautiful scenery exists in the world. 🛬【Itinerary】: Kanas Ili 10-Day Tour 1 - Urumqi - Burqin Attractions - Wulungu Lake - Colorful Beach Sunset Accommodation - Burqin Colorful Beach 2 - Burqin - Hemu Attractions - Haden Viewing Platform - Aid Bridge Accommodation - Hemu Hemu Scenic Area 3 - Hemu - Kanas Attractions - Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion Accommodation - Kanas Kanas Burqin 4 - Kanas - Burqin Attractions - Kanas Three Bays - Burqin River Night Market Accommodation - Burqin 5 - Burqin - Kuitun Attractions - Devil City Accommodation - Kuitun World Devil City 6 - Kuitun - Yining Attractions - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge Accommodation - Yining Sayram Lake 7 - Yining - Nalati Attractions - Nalati Grassland Accommodation - Nalati Nalati Tourist Scenic Area 8 - Nalati - Bayinbulak Attractions - Bayinbulak Accommodation - Bayinbulak Bayinbulak Grassland 9 - Bayinbulak - Kuitun Attractions - Duku Highway - Tangbula Accommodation - Kuitun Duku Highway 10 - Kuitun - Urumqi Attractions - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hundred Mile Danxia - S101 National Defense Highway Accommodation - Urumqi Anjihai Grand Canyon 🧡【Tips】: 💬 For more customized routes, feel free to leave a message or contact me👇🏻

The scenery of Nalati on May 24th was too beautiful I was worried about the rain🌧️ But it turned out to be a big sunny day🌞 Here is my travel route in the Yili region of Xinjiang: 📍DAY 1 Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender - Yining City Sailimu Lake is more suitable for self-driving tours, enter from the east gate and exit from the south gate, and you will reach the Guozigou Bridge, it's very windy so wear something thick. In June, you can see the endless sea of lavender flowers, which is no less than Provence 📍DAY 2 Yining Kazanqi Folk Street - Yizhao Highway - Zhaosu County 📍DAY 3 Xia'ta Scenic Area - Tekes Bagua City You must go to Xia'ta in the morning, the weather changes a lot and it often rains or even hails in the afternoon 📍DAY 4 Tekes - Kalajun Grassland, continue to stay in Tekes at night I didn't go to Qiongkushitai 📍DAY 5 Tekes - Tekes River - Kurdai/Qiaxi - Xinyuan County On the way from Tekes to Kurdai, you will pass the Tekes River, which is incredibly beautiful, indeed the most beautiful scenery in Xinjiang is on the road Kurdai and Qiaxi have very similar scenery, you can choose either one 📍DAY 6 Xinyuan County - Nalati, continue to stay in Xinyuan County at night I drove to Nalati myself, the aerial grassland is as beautiful as a fairy tale~ If you don't want to go to Nalati, you can go to Tangbula Fairy Lake today 📍DAY 7 Duku Highway - Bayanbulak Grassland - Kuqa

"To love, to live, to get hurt" "My Altay" has imprinted the mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas of Altay in many people's hearts, and has also given another possibility for life. The vast wilderness of Xinjiang seems to be able to accommodate the joys and sorrows of many people. Although everyone's life is not easy and smooth, nature seems to have such magic that can temporarily heal us, and then we set off again - Snow mountains, lakes, forests, grasslands, canyons, streams, summer flowers 🌲Summer is really suitable for going to Xinjiang, the summer in Xinjiang will refresh your cognition, and it's beautiful like the scenes in comics - ✅Recommended itinerary and route: Day1: Urumqi—Shanshan Kumtag Desert—Stay in Shanshan Day2: Shanshan—Tuyugou Scenic Western Region Architectural Area—Stay in Hejing Day3: Hejing—Nalati Sky Prairie—Valley Scenery—Stay in Nalati Day4: Nalati—Qiaxi—Stay in Tekes Day5: Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Stay in Qiongkushitai Day6: Qiongkushitai—Xiaota Luxury Trekking—Stay in Xiaota Day7: Xiaota—Guozigou Bridge—Sailimu Lake Scenic Loop—The Lonely Tower—Stay at Sailimu Lake Day8: Sailimu Lake—Stay in Urumqi - 🌲Recommended must-visit attractions in Xinjiang: Nalati + Qiaxi Forest + Qiongkushitai + Sailimu Lake - 💡Travel tips: 1. In addition to the large temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang, there is also a large temperature difference in the mountains 2. The attractions in Xinjiang are far apart, so prepare some dry food. There may be no signal in some sections of self-driving, and the prices are higher if you stay in scenic areas. The hotels in the county are all around two to three hundred, and our trip cost about five hundred per person excluding airfare 3. Those who do not self-drive can consider finding a reliable leader to arrange the itinerary, if you need, you can ask me - The meaning of travel is not to tell others that I have been here, but that there was a story about me here. It lets me know that there are many ways to live life, you can have a wandering soul, the joy and innocence of a child, and also the courage to see the world's prosperity

Summer in Xinjiang, the romantic ceiling of China!! This summer, you must go to Xinjiang with your good friends! Snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, herds of cattle and sheep... It's simply a paradise on earth!! When you come to places like Yili in Xinjiang, you must visit |Sayram Lake| Known as 'the last tear of the Atlantic', in May, the ice and snow of Sayram Lake melt away, sparkling under the sunshine, incredibly beautiful. |Naraty Grassland| Naraty offers vast visual expanses, with wildflowers, snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and valleys everywhere, as if stepping into a fairy tale world of Hayao Miyazaki. |Kunes Village| An undeveloped Kazakh village, with clear views of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, swings, and log cabins, if you have enough time, chase a romantic sunset here. Qapqal To see the primeval forest, you must visit Qapqal, where in May it's already fully green, with grasslands, forests, snow-capped mountains, complemented by blue skies and white clouds, picturesque. |Shatyr| For a glimpse of 'The Wizard of Oz' in real life, Shatyr is the place, with spruce forests, streams, mountains full of wildflowers, Heidi's and her grandfather's cottage, unbelievably beautiful.

Duku Highway: It is the southern section of National Highway 217 that connects the north and south of Xinjiang, also known as the Tianshan Highway. Sayram Lake: It is the last place in Xinjiang where the warm and humid air currents of the Atlantic Ocean linger, known as 'the last teardrop of the Atlantic'. Naraty: It integrates grasslands, valleys, and forests, with a high vegetation coverage and rich wildlife resources. 10-Day Itinerary in Northern Xinjiang along the Duku Highway: D1 Home - Urumqi D2 Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - S21 Gurbantunggut Desert - Pass by Wulungu Lake - Burqin Night Market D3 Burqin - Kanas - Wolong Bay - Moon Bay - Fairy Bay - Jiadengyu D4 Jiadengyu - Hemu Tuwa Village - Hemu Viewing Platform - Hemu D5 Hemu - Wuerhe Devil City - Karamay D6 Karamay - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender Farm - Yining City D7 Yining City - Kazanqi Six-Star Street - Qaxi National Forest Park - Naraty Town D8 Naraty - Naraty Sky Grassland - Xinyuan D9 Xinyuan - Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Jor Madan Pass - Duku Highway - Urumqi D10 Urumqi - Home

Just came back from a delightful trip in Xinjiang, from the vastness of Northern Xinjiang to the mystique of Southern Xinjiang. Although I encountered some minor setbacks along the way, I also enjoyed the beautiful scenery. I want to share these experiences with everyone, hoping they can help with your journeys! 👏 . 1️⃣ The four most worthwhile spots to check in ✔️ Nalati Grassland: Endless grasslands that are utterly refreshing! 🌾 ✔️ Sayram Lake: The lake is as clear as a mirror, breathtakingly beautiful! 🌊 ✔️ Tianshan Sea of Flowers: Fields of purple lavender, extremely romantic! 🌸 ✔️ Kashgar Old Town: Traces of history are everywhere, as if traveling back to ancient times! 🏰 2️⃣ Weather is really key!! 🌦️ ▫️ The grasslands and lakes of Xinjiang change with the weather. Overcast and sunny days are completely different worlds! ▫️ If you encounter a rare sunny day, don't hesitate, head straight to Sayram Lake and take a tour around the lake. 3️⃣ Hiking in Shipton's Arch requires good physical strength! 🚶‍♂️ ✔️ If you want to experience the magnificence of the snow-capped mountains up close, Shipton's Arch is a good choice, but it requires 1-2 hours of hiking, and the path is not easy. If you are traveling with the elderly or children, take it easy! ✔️ The shuttle bus in Shipton's Arch is very crowded, it is recommended to start early and try to return before 4 pm. 4️⃣ Thick clothes are a must! 🧥 Xinjiang has a large temperature difference between day and night, and the wind is strong. Even if the day is hot, you must bring thick clothes, otherwise, you will really get a runny nose from the cold! 5️⃣ Ili Grassland, 2-3 selections are enough! 🌾 ✔️ There are too many grasslands in Ili, and seeing too many can really lead to aesthetic fatigue! If you like snow-capped mountains, choose Shipton's Arch; if you like forests, choose Qiongkushitai or Chaxi; if you like grasslands, choose Nalati. ✔️ For Nalati, you can skip the internet-famous bridge, but you must go to the Panlong Valley Road, that's where the essence really is! 95% of people will miss this spot. 6️⃣ Golden hour for photography: 7-10 am/pm 📸 Morning and evening light is soft, especially in the evening when there's a high chance of seeing the sunset, the sky turns golden, making photos especially good, full of artistic conception! Oh, and the ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang are really strong, be sure to protect yourself from the sun! 🌞 . 👉👉 My itinerary ✅D1. Urumqi to S21 Desert Highway - Colorful Beach Sunset ✅D2. Burqin to Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion ✅D3. Kanas Lake Morning Mist - Sanwan to Hemu Road ✅D4. Hemu to Hemu Village ✅D5. Burqin to Devil City to Baiyu Oilfield ✅D6. Kuitun to Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Kazanqi ✅D7. Yining to Kalajun Koksu Canyon - Li Street ✅D8. Tekes to Nalati Sky Grassland ✅D9. Nalati to Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Fairy Lake ✅D10. Dushanzi to S101 National Defense Highway - Urumqi