The most enchanting grassland at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains
by David678_Adams
Aug 14, 2025
The Ili River Valley, located in the northwest of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, is a large intermontane basin within the Tianshan Mountains, known as the "Jiangnan Beyond the Great Wall." It boasts diverse ecosystems such as grasslands, forests, wetlands, and snow-capped mountains. Rare animals like snow leopards, Siberian ibex, and red deer inhabit the area, along with ancient tree species like wild apples and apricots. Famous nature reserves include: Nalati Grassland, Kalajun Grassland, and Kuerdening (a World Natural Heritage Site).
8-Day Ili River Valley Panorama Tour
Itinerary
DAY 1 Urumqi - Lukiaowan - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Kuitun
DAY 2 Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Guozigou - Lavender Farm - Yining
DAY 3 Yining - Liuxing Street - Yizhao Highway - Zhaosu
DAY 4 Zhaosu - Xiata - Tekes
DAY 5 Tekes - Qabqikhai - Kuerdening - Xinyuan
DAY 6 Xinyuan - Nalati - Middle Section of Duku Highway - Bayanbulak
DAY 7 Bayanbulak - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Qorma - Urumqi
DAY 8 Urumqi Airport Transfer - Your Sweet Home
Post by Xinjiang Tourism Guide Li Yongfu | Feb 23, 2025

















