This isn't Switzerland! It's Xinjiang's Ili from June to August
by BeachBumming&
Jun 22, 2025
Dear friends! The 7-day route of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is a must-recommend! You can ride UTV snowmobiles at Sayram Lake, enjoy tea by the fire while admiring the snowy scenery which is super healing, soak in snowfield hot springs, and fill your trip with romance and happiness!
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🚗 Itinerary:
This trip is tightly scheduled, allowing you to visit many attractions within a limited time~
DAY 1: Arrive in Urumqi, rest well to prepare for the upcoming journey 💤
📝 Upon arrival in Urumqi, take a short break to adapt to the environment.
DAY 2-3: Head to Sayram Lake to deeply experience the winter romance of Sayram Lake. You can ride UTV snowmobiles, enjoy tea by the fire in the snowy scenery, and soak in snowfield hot springs ♨️ -> On the third day, visit Guozigou Bridge to admire the spectacular bridge and natural scenery.
📝 Deep exploration of Sayram Lake, feeling the collision of ice, snow, and hot springs; Guozigou Bridge witnesses the perfect blend of nature and engineering.
DAY 4: Have fun on the Sky Grassland, feel the vastness and grandeur of the grassland -> Return to Sayram Lake to appreciate its beauty from a different perspective 🌄
📝 The dual beauty of Sky Grassland and Sayram Lake offers a visual feast for your eyes.
DAY 5: Kurdeng Scenic Area, explore the mysteries of nature and ecology 🌳
📝 Walk through the primeval forest in Kurdeng Scenic Area, breathe fresh air, and feel the charm of nature.
DAY 6: Dushanzi Grand Canyon, challenge your visual limits and experience the wonders of nature’s craftsmanship 🌉
📝 Stand at the edge of Dushanzi Grand Canyon, feeling awe and amazement.
DAY 7: Return from Urumqi, bringing back full memories and photos, back to your warm home 🏠
📝 End a pleasant journey and look forward to the next trip.
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Travel Tips:
1️⃣ **Photo Spots**: Sayram Lake lakeside boardwalk, Dushanzi Grand Canyon cliff café, Guozigou Bridge viewing platform. Wearing light-colored dresses makes photos stand out 📸
2️⃣ **Must-Try Foods**: Ili roasted baozi with kvass, Karamay cold noodles, Bortala Mongolian milk tea with fried rice, prepare your stomach capacity 🍢🥛
3️⃣ **October Climate**: Large temperature difference between morning and night. Bring a windbreaker by Sayram Lake, wear a light down jacket on Ili grassland, and don’t forget sunscreen in Karamay during the day ☀️🧥
4️⃣ **Customs and Taboos**: Avoid stepping on the threshold when entering a Mongolian yurt, don’t touch children’s heads in Kazakh herders’ homes, carrying small snacks as gifts is thoughtful 🎁🙏
5️⃣ **Transportation Reminder**: Yizhao Highway may be closed in October, check road conditions in advance. It’s recommended to charter a car from Karamay to Devil City for more freedom 🚗💨
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🎉 Friends, this group tour of Bortala-Ili-Karamay is awesome. Wishing everyone a fun trip without any mishaps!
Post by Vibrant Trip | Oct 24, 2025























