Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Travel

Xinjiang Ili — Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall, paradise of grasslands. Explore world-class grassland scenery, experience diverse ethnic cultures, and feel the romance and heroism of the Silk Road.

56,000 km²
Grassland Area
13
Indigenous Ethnic Groups
2000m+
Average Elevation
300 days
Good Air Quality

Ili County & City Travel

Ili Prefecture 7-Day 6-Night In-Depth Tour

Traverse grassland flower seas, explore ancient paths and hidden realms, experience diverse cultures

Duration
7 Days 6 Nights
Main Destinations
Nalati Grassland, Sayram Lake, Kalajun
Suitable For
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, culture explorers
Budget per Person
¥3000 - ¥4500
01
First Encounter with Grassland
Yining City · Kazanqi Folk Village
Highlights

Arrive in Yining City, visit the blue town of Kazanqi, experience Uyghur culture, and taste local specialties.

Attractions
Kazanqi Folk Village
The best-preserved traditional Uyghur residential area in Yining city, with blue doors and windows and characteristic courtyards forming a vivid picture of folk customs.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Ili Hotel
  • Folk-style Inn
  • City Star-rated Hotel
Food Recommendations
  • Handmade Ice Cream
  • Baked Samosa
  • Kvass
02
Sky Grassland
Nalati Grassland · Kazakh Home Visit
Highlights

Head to Nalati Grassland, experience horseback riding and hiking, and join a Kazakh home visit activity in the evening.

Attractions
Nalati Grassland
One of the world's four major alpine meadows. From June to September, wildflowers bloom everywhere, known as the "Sky Grassland."
Practical Info
Special Experiences
  • Grassland Horseback Riding
  • Home Visit for Milk Tea
  • Ethnic Song and Dance Performance
03
Alpine Pearl
Sayram Lake · Guozigou Bridge
Highlights

Circle Sayram Lake, photograph the lake and mountain scenery, and pass by the spectacular Guozigou Bridge.

Attractions
Sayram Lake
Xinjiang's highest and largest alpine lake, with clear and azure waters, known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean."
Practical Info
Photography Tips
  • Shoot with sunlight in the morning
  • Prepare a wide-angle lens
  • Strong winds by the lake, protect against wind
04
Human Body Grassland
Kalajun Grassland · Kuokesu Grand Canyon
Highlights

Go deep into Kalajun Grassland, admire the soft curves of the "Human Body Grassland," and explore Kuokesu Grand Canyon.

Attractions
Kalajun Grassland
A World Natural Heritage site. The grassland undulates like a female body curve, known as "Human Body Grassland," a photographer's paradise.
Practical Info
Hiking Tips
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes
  • Bring plenty of drinking water
  • Pay attention to sun protection
05
Homeland of Heavenly Horses
Zhaosu Grassland · Xia Ancient Path
Highlights

Head to Zhaosu Grassland, visit the Heavenly Horse Cultural Park, and enjoy distant views of the Xia Ancient Path snowy peaks.

Attractions
Zhaosu Grassland
Xinjiang's largest spring rapeseed producing area. In July, thousands of acres of rapeseed flowers and purple perilla flowers interweave into a spectacular colorful carpet.
Practical Info
Best Seasons
  • July: Rapeseed flower season
  • September: Golden wheat waves
  • June: Peony flower sea
06
Lavender Fragrance
Huocheng Lavender · Huiyuan Ancient City
Highlights

Visit Huocheng lavender fields, tour Huiyuan Ancient City General's Mansion, and learn about Ili's history.

Attractions
Princess Jieyou Lavender Garden
China's largest lavender planting base. From June to July, purple flower seas stretch for miles, known as the "Oriental Provence."
Practical Info
Shopping Recommendations
  • Lavender Essential Oil
  • Dried Flower Products
  • Handmade Soap
07
Cultural Retrospect
Xibe Folk Customs · Return Journey
Highlights

Visit Chabuchar Xibe Nationality Museum, learn about the westward migration history, and depart in the afternoon according to flight/train schedule.

Attractions
Xibe Nationality Museum
A comprehensive museum showcasing Xibe westward migration history and folk culture, where you can appreciate traditional bow-making craftsmanship.
Practical Info
Return Tips
  • Arrive at airport 2 hours early
  • Knives must be checked in
  • Allow time for shopping

Must-Try Foods in Yining

Hand-Grabbed Meat

A traditional Kazakh dish made with grass-fed lamb boiled in plain water. The meat is tender and retains its original flavor, embodying the bold nomadic culinary culture.

Smoked Horse Sausage

An Ili specialty made by stuffing horse meat and fat into horse intestines and smoking them. Unique in flavor, it is a nourishing winter delicacy.

Kvass

A traditional Russian fermented beverage made from honey, hops, and other ingredients. Sweet and tangy with low alcohol content.

Yining Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • June-August: Best grassland season
  • April: Apricot blossoms
  • July: Rapeseed flower sea
  • September-October: Beautiful autumn scenery
Must-Try Experiences
  • Grassland horseback riding
  • Kazakh home visit
  • Lavender field photography
  • Sayram Lake cycling
Transportation Tips
  • Long distances between attractions, charter a car recommended
  • Mountain roads require caution
  • Confirm border pass requirements in advance
FAQs
  • Will there be altitude sickness? → Main scenic spots are around 2000m
  • What clothes to bring? → Large temperature difference, prepare a jacket
  • Is it safe? → Very safe, but keep valuables secure
  • Suitable for self-driving? → Good road conditions but need to know the route