Iparhan Lavender Tourist Garden

Introducing Iparhan Lavender Tourist Garden

Located in Yining County, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, the Iparhan Lavender Garden spans over 30,000 square meters. Its main attraction is a sea of ​​purple lavender and verbena flowers. The garden integrates tourism, sightseeing, leisure, photography, shopping, and dining, attracting large numbers of visitors starting in June each year. The garden cultivates a variety of fragrant plants, including lavender, verbena, roses, and marigolds, creating a vast, romantic sea of ​​flowers. The garden also features red-roofed houses and European-style windmills amidst the purple blooms for photo opportunities.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1 hour

Tickets

Lavender Manor Tickets: 35 yuan per person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-22:00 (May 10th - September 30th) 10:00-18:00 (October 1st - May 9th of the following year).

---

Most Popular FAQs for Iparhan Lavender Tourist Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Iparhan Lavender Garden is a modern tourist attraction in Xinjiang, designed to showcase the beauty of lavender cultivation in the region. The garden has grown in popularity for its scenic beauty and has contributed to the local economy through agritourism. Lavender in this area has been used for centuries for its medicinal and aromatic properties.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Iparhan Lavender Garden is located in the Yili region of Xinjiang, about a 2-3 hour drive from the city of Yili. It can be reached by taxi, private car, or guided tours. Public transportation options are limited, so it's best to arrange for a private vehicle or join a tour for convenience.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The garden is typically open from April to October, with the peak lavender blooming season occurring from late June to early July. The best time to visit is during the lavender bloom for the most vibrant experience, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is generally around 30-50 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site. It’s recommended to check for online booking options or special discounts during the peak season, especially for groups or large tours.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons, especially in late June and July, to avoid long lines or sold-out tickets. Booking a few days in advance should suffice for individual travelers.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend 1-2 hours exploring the lavender fields and taking photographs. If you wish to experience lavender harvesting or participate in a longer tour, plan for a half-day visit. It’s also nice to spend time at the nearby gift shops and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the garden.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the expansive lavender fields, which offer stunning views and ideal photo opportunities. There are also smaller sections dedicated to different varieties of lavender, along with product stands where you can buy lavender-based items. Don’t miss the scenic viewpoints where you can capture panoramic views of the garden and surrounding countryside.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally, English-speaking guides can be arranged with advance notice. Audio guides are not typically provided, but local guides can share detailed information about the lavender and its uses during the tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are found along the edge of the lavender fields, where you can capture both close-up shots of the flowers and wider panoramic photos of the landscape. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with the golden hour enhancing the lavender’s purple hues.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by walking through the main lavender field to the central viewing platform for the best photo opportunities. Afterward, stroll through the smaller sections of the garden to see different lavender varieties, and finish your visit at the souvenir stalls where you can purchase lavender-based products and local crafts.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Iparhan Lavender Garden, as it is primarily a daytime attraction. However, special tours may be offered during the lavender bloom season to witness the fields at sunrise or sunset, providing a unique experience in soft, natural light.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can be crowded during the lavender bloom season, especially in July. To avoid the largest crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. Visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as late spring or early autumn, will also help avoid large crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The garden has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small gift shops where you can purchase lavender-based products. There are no large restaurants, so it’s a good idea to bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to stay for a while.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Iparhan Lavender Garden is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas of the garden may have uneven paths. For disabled visitors, certain parts of the garden may be challenging due to the terrain, but the main pathways and viewing areas are wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance and for purchases in the garden. Mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used, but it’s always good to carry some cash, especially if you plan to buy from smaller vendors or in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants inside the garden, but nearby towns like Yili offer various dining options ranging from local Xinjiang cuisine to international choices. Restaurants in the area serve lamb dishes, pilafs, and traditional bread, which can be enjoyed before or after visiting the garden.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is widely available in Xinjiang, and vegetarian dishes can be found in most local restaurants. While specific vegan options may be limited, there are typically vegetable-based dishes that can be enjoyed by vegan visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options near the garden include guesthouses and hotels in Yili and Zhaosu. There are also smaller inns closer to the garden if you prefer to stay in a more rural setting. Popular hotels in Yili provide a range of options for different budgets.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Hashilegenda Pass and the Iparhan Grasslands. A day trip can be easily planned by combining the lavender garden visit with a stop at the nearby scenic mountains or historical sites in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops at the garden sell lavender-based products such as oils, sachets, soaps, and dried flowers. You can also find local handicrafts like textiles and jewelry, making for great keepsakes from your visit.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options are private car, taxi, or guided tours to continue the trip to nearby attractions. Renting a car gives you flexibility, especially if you want to explore the region further. Public transportation is limited, so a private vehicle is ideal for further travel.