Check off the Xinjiang Yili Small Loop

An 8-day journey across northern and southern Xinjiang🚗, taking you through snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and forests, plus the most authentic local vibes of Xinjiang! Along the way, the blue of Sayram Lake, the green of the Xiate Ancient Trail, the golden hues of the Nalati Grassland...all these colors blend together, making every shot a masterpiece📸

⭐Must-Visit Attractions:
📍Sayram Lake (Bole)
Truly the "last tear of the Atlantic"! The lake is bluer than the sky, and the season when wildflowers bloom by the shore (June-July) is the most beautiful. Recommended to drive around the lake. Ticket: ¥145/person. Address: Dalete Town, Bole City

📍Xiate Ancient Trail (Zhaosu)
A paradise for hikers! Traverse forests, grasslands, and glaciers—every step is a painting. Ticket: ¥40, shuttle bus: ¥40. Address: Xiate Kirgiz Ethnic Township, Zhaosu County

📍Tangbula Grassland (Nilka)
The "Hundred-Mile Gallery" lives up to its name! Free-entry grassland scenery, horseback riding at ¥50/hour. Don’t miss the Fairy Lake. Address: Tangbula Town, Nilka County

📍Ku'erdening (Gongliu)
A real-life "Wonderland," where spruce forests and grasslands blend perfectly. Ticket: ¥60. Address: Ku'erdening Town, Gongliu County

📍Nalati Grassland (Xinyuan)
The "Sky Grassland" feels incredibly close to the heavens! Recommend the Nomadic Family route. Ticket: ¥95 + shuttle bus: ¥40. Address: Nalati Town, Xinyuan County

📍Six-Star Street (Yining City)
A dreamy neighborhood of colorful houses—free entry. Best visited at dusk for photos + ice cream! Address: Liguang Street, Yining City

Food Recommendations🍢:
- Sayram Lake High-White Salmon (inside Sayram Lake Scenic Area)
- Gulandanmu Ice Cream at Six-Star Street (Liguang Street, Yining City)
- Bazaar Roasted Buns (Jiefang South Road, Urumqi)
- Grassland Hot Pot in Nalati Town

Outfit Tips👗:
White or red dresses look stunning on the grasslands! Don’t forget a windproof jacket—mountain areas have big temperature swings. Strong UV in Xinjiang, so sunglasses + hats are a must!

Post by emmeline_lucindraeburn | Jul 29, 2025

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