Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop

May is truly the best time to visit Xinjiang! Perfectly avoid the peak season crowds and enjoy the blue skies, white clouds, and sea of flowers in Ili 🌼 This route is fully self-driving for maximum freedom, with scenery along the way that looks like Windows desktop wallpapers～

Day 1: Sailimu Lake
🚗 1.5-hour drive straight to "The Last Drop of the Atlantic"
✨ Recommended activities:
- Drive around the lake stopping at scenic spots like Moon Bay, Pine Head, and Kele Yongzhu
- Walk along the wooden boardwalk by the lake; wildflowers start blooming in May, very romantic
🍴 Lunch recommendation: High-quality white salmon restaurant (inside Sailimu Lake Scenic Area), the tender meat is a must-try!

Day 2: Kalajun Grassland
☑️ It’s recommended to buy the all-area ticket, which includes East and West Kalajun plus Kuokesu Grand Canyon
🌿 The grassland is just turning green in May, fewer people and beautiful scenery, you might even see newborn lambs
⚠️ Note: Large temperature difference inside the scenic area, remember to bring a windbreaker

Day 3: Nalati Grassland
🏞️ Highly recommend the aerial grassland route! Horse riding is super cost-effective at 80 RMB/hour (Location: Nomad Family Reception Point)
📸 For the popular bridge photo spot, go early as it gets crowded in the afternoon

Day 4: Kashgar Taklamakan Desert
🌅 Captured a stunning moment at sunset
🧥 Big temperature difference between day and night in the desert interior, bring an extra down jacket just in case

Day 5: Ili Tekes County Bagua City
🌅 The blue hour is especially beautiful
🧥 Big temperature difference between morning and evening, bring an extra down jacket just in case

🚗 Transportation tips:
It’s recommended to rent a car at Yining Airport (Tank 300 about 500 RMB/day)
Highways are in good condition; note that the Duku Highway is not open in May yet

🍢 Food highlights:
1. Yining old brand minced meat noodles (No. 14 Xinhua East Road)
2. Bayandai grilled buns (worth the 1-hour wait!)
3. Classic barbecue at Tekes night market (Outer ring of Bagua City)

💡 Practical tips:
• Always carry your ID card! Gas stations require ID verification
• Prepare cash, some scenic areas have poor signal
• Sunscreen essentials: sunglasses + hat + sunscreen are all must-haves