A 5-Day Trip to Yili and Bortala: Your Ultimate Guide

Hey ladies! The Qingming Festival holiday is just around the corner! Where do you want to go? We recommend a 5-day trip to Yili and Bortala! Starting March 10, Tekes transforms into a winter wonderland, with snowflakes adorning the Bagua City. Stroll along Sayram Lake, explore the ancient village of Joan Kushtai, and enjoy a surprising night tour of the Bagua City! Don't miss out on Kalajun and the Kuokesu Grand Canyon! Come and experience a unique spring journey!
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🌟Itinerary:🌟
Day 1: Arrive in Yining City and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Our 24-hour pick-up service ensures a smooth start to your journey.
Day 2: Explore the Tekes Bagua City and witness the magical snowfall along the lines of the I Ching. Then, head to Kalajun Scenic Area to gallop across the snowy plains and listen to the symphony of the sea of clouds and flowers. Finally, visit the Kuokesu Grand Canyon to admire the magnificence of nature.
Day 3: Explore the hidden gem of Joan Kushtai, stay overnight in a wooden cabin, and gather around the fireplace, waiting for a romantic encounter with the Milky Way and the snow-capped mountains.
Day 4: Cross the Guozigou Bridge and stroll along Sayram Lake to experience tranquility and beauty. Afterward, visit the Khorgos Gate Scenic Area to witness the majesty of the national gate. Finally, visit the Princess Jieyou Lavender Garden and immerse yourself in the dreamy purple sea of flowers.
Day 5: Conclude your Yili trip, filled with wonderful memories, and embark on your return journey.
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Must-visit attractions:

🌟 Tekes Bagua City 🌟🌟
Address: Gulebage Street, Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Opening hours: Open all day
Duration: 1 day
The Bagua layout is super unique, with no traffic lights in the entire city. The maze-like streets and beautiful scenery are stunning! Especially after a snowfall, the Bagua City transforms into a winter wonderland—it's breathtakingly beautiful!😍

🌊 Sayram Lake 🌊
Address: Next to National Highway 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
Duration: 1–2 days
The lake water is as clear as a sapphire, and the surrounding grasslands are full of blooming wildflowers—it's like nature's palette!🎨

🌿 Kalajun Scenic Area 🌿
Address: Township Road 276 South, Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Duration: 1–2 days
This beautiful grassland is a must-see on Xinjiang's western route. Every frame is a scenic masterpiece!📸

🏡 Joan Kushtai 🏡
Address: Kayingde Kushtai Village, Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture
Opening hours: Open all day
Duration: 1 day
With crisscrossing ravines, rolling green waves, and snow-capped mountains and cedar forests surrounding the Kazakh herders' village, it feels like a paradise!🌳

🌉 Guozigou Bridge 🌉
Address: Huocheng County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Opening hours: Open all day
Duration: 1 hour
This beautifully designed bridge, situated in a wonderful environment, is the perfect place for taking photos!📷
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Travel tips:
- Souvenir prices: Yili handicrafts and Bortala specialties are reasonably priced. Don't forget to pick up a few as souvenirs!🎁
- March weather: Although it's spring, March in Tekes is still a world of snow❄️. Remember to bring warm clothes to enjoy the unique snowy scenery.
- Airport transportation: After arriving at Yili or Bortala Airport, you can choose to rent a car or take a bus to the scenic areas. Transportation is convenient.🚗
- Must-do activities: Watching the snow fall in Bagua City, galloping across the snowy plains of Kalajun, and staying overnight in Joan Kushtai to witness the spectacular snow scenery are not to be missed!🌟
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Come to Yili and Bortala to enjoy the unique charm! If you like this itinerary, don't forget to book a Ctrip private tour for a hassle-free and fun trip!