I went to Yili in Xinjiang, it was really great, next time I'll go with friends

👣 You must visit Yili this summer! The healing sight of cattle and sheep grazing under the wind-blown grass, the dreamlike blue of Sayram Lake, and every shot on the grassland is wallpaper-worthy scenery🏞

🌟5-day 4-night highlights itinerary:
DAY1: Ürümqi → Sayram Lake (super healing self-drive around the lake, recommend bringing a drone) → Guozigou Bridge (see the bridge framed with snow mountains at dusk) → Stay in Yining city
🔥Tips: Sayram Lake is super windy! Bring windproof jackets and hats, be careful as the lakeside boardwalk can be slippery

😊DAY2: Yining → Kazanqi Folk Village (great photo ops with blue houses) → Liuxing Street → Lavender Farm (best visited at dusk for soft lighting) → Stay in Zhaosu
🍴🍲Recommendation: Gulandanmu ice cream in Yining - handmade ice cream from a century-old shop is incredibly delicious!

😊DAY3: Zhaosu → Xiate Ancient Trail (hiker's paradise) → Tianma Cultural Park (witness the breathtaking gallop of Akhal-Teke horses) → Stay in Tekes Bagua City
📸 Photo spot: The grassland swing at Xiate scenic area entrance with dreamy snow mountain backdrop

😊DAY4: Tekes → Kalajun Grassland (breathtaking "human body" grassland) → Qiongkushitai (super atmospheric primitive village) → Stay in Nalati
⚠Warning: Qiongkushitai mountain roads are dangerous - beginners shouldn't self-drive! Hire local drivers

😊DAY5: Nalati Grassland (must-visit aerial grassland) → Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway northern section (experience four seasons in one journey) → Return to Ürümqi
🏨 Accommodation recommendation: Muyun Homestay in Nalati with grassland views from windows and stargazing at night

👍✨Food recommendations:
1. Yining Ailijiang Nangkeng Roast Meat (amazing crispy-on-outside, tender-inside lamb chops) 🔥
2. Tekes horse intestine noodles (local's secret old shop) 👍
3. Zhaosu camel milk (super nutritious)
4. Ürümqi Grand Bazaar baked buns (thin skin, generous filling - eat while hot) 🤩

💡Practical tips:
① Huge temperature differences on grasslands! Pack from T-shirts to down jackets
② Sunscreen is a must! UV rays can burn you in half an hour ☑️
③ Always carry ID! Needed at gas stations and checkpoints ☑️
④ Remember to bargain for horse riding in peak season, 100-150/hour is reasonable ☑️