Save this for later! Compared to Altay, I prefer Yili from June to August!!!

Must-visit in June! The Ultimate 7-Day In-Depth Yili Travel Guide

In June, Yili unfolds like a breathtaking scroll of emerald grasslands and blooming flower seas, showcasing its most enchanting season. This carefully curated 7-day itinerary will immerse you in Yili's unique charm.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Yining - Exploring Old Town Charms
- Afternoon: Visit the Hexagonal Street upon arrival. This East-meets-West neighborhood is famous for its unique star-shaped layout. Stroll through exotic architecture while soaking up vibrant local life, with spontaneous music and dance performances inviting you to pause and enjoy.

Day 2: Kuerdening - A Fairytale Encounter
- Full day: Journey to Kuerdening, home to towering spruce forests and crystal-clear streams. Walk along wooden paths where rolling mountains meet whimsical clouds, creating a storybook landscape.
- Special experience: Try horseback riding (¥80/hour) through the woods, with guides happy to photograph your adventure.
- Food tip: Sample rich handmade yogurt, customizable with sugar to taste.

Day 3: Narati Valley Grasslands & Ili River
- Morning: Explore Narati Valley's vast grasslands where livestock graze peacefully, and you might spot adorable marmots. Opt for a 2-hour horseback ride (¥80/hour) to panoramic viewpoints.
- Evening: Witness a serene sunset over the Ili River, where golden light paints the water with quiet beauty.

Day 4: Sayram Lake & Border Exploration
- Morning: Visit "The Atlantic's Last Tear" - Sayram Lake. Its sapphire waters shift hues magically, creating Insta-worthy shots without filters.
- Afternoon: Tour Khorgos Gateway, learning about border history before shopping for imported goods at nearby markets.
- Evening (optional): Visit lavender fields (recommend Huocheng area farms) in late June when purple blooms perfume the air.

Day 5: Karajun Grasslands' Grandeur
- Full day: Discover Karajun's diverse landscapes blending forests, grasslands, canyons, and snow-capped peaks. Eastern Karajun offers vast plains while Western Karajun stuns with its "Human Body Grassland" curves. Tour via scenic shuttle for nature's masterpiece views.

Day 6: Qiongkushitai - Rustic Village Serenity
- Full day: Experience Qiongkushitai's preserved wooden village where streams wind through lanes. Wander pastoral paths to absorb slow-living charm and glimpse the ancient Wusun Trail's grandeur.

Day 7: Guozigou Bridge & Departure
- Morning: Marvel at the dragon-like Guozigou Bridge spanning valleys in perfect harmony with nature. After photos, conclude your Yili journey.

Must-Try Local Cuisine:
1. Laghman: Chewy noodles with savory toppings like fried meat or potatoes - best at old-town eateries.
2. Samsa: Crispy baked buns stuffed with fragrant lamb and onions.
3. Big Plate Chicken: Tender chicken with soft potatoes and wide noodles in rich sauce.
4. Kazakh Steamed Noodles: Unique texture with lamb and veggies.
5. Spicy Chicken: Numbing-tingly cold appetizer you can't miss.

Travel Tips:
1. Sun protection: Strong UV requires high-SPF sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and cover-ups.
2. Layered clothing: Pack long sleeves for cool evenings even in summer.
3. Comfortable shoes: Essential for walking and light hiking.
4. Camera gear: Bring extra batteries/cards or power banks for endless photo ops.
5. Cultural respect: Mind local ethnic customs and religious practices.

Yili in June awaits with open arms. Pack your bags for this dreamy journey to Xinjiang's most intoxicating landscapes!