In the western border of Xinjiang lies a particularly enchanting land. Vast grasslands stretch along river valleys, snow-capped mountains and forests intertwine, and lakes reflect wildflowers in bloom—like a series of natural paintings. This is Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, a place both magnificent and gently beautiful.
Every summer, sea of flowers bloom and horses gallop freely across the grasslands, creating breathtaking scenery everywhere. The climate is cool and comfortable, neither hot nor humid. With its rich ethnic culture and diverse natural landscapes, Ili is an ideal destination for summer retreats, leisurely travel, and deep exploration.
Why Choose Ili?
Diverse Natural Scenery: Snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, dense forests, rivers, lakes, and canyons—all are here, blending grandeur with gentle beauty.
Rich Ethnic Culture: Home to Kazakh, Uyghur, Hui, Han, Xibe, and other ethnic groups, each with distinctive clothing, cuisine, and architecture.
Pleasant Climate: Moderate summer temperatures without extreme heat or heavy rain make it ideal for cooling off and enjoying the blooming flowers.
Flower Festival: From May to August, Ili transforms into a natural garden, blooming successively with apricot blossoms, lavender, wild lilies, and sunflowers.
Top Attractions
1.Nalati Grassland
Known as the “Sky Grassland,” Nalati is located in Xinyuan County at about 2,000 meters above sea level. Wide valleys dotted with cattle and sheep create a pastoral scene. In April and May, apricot blossoms bloom; June and July bring lush green grasslands. It is the traditional summer pasture of Kazakh herders. Activities include horseback riding, grass sledding, staying in yurts, and watching sunrises and sunsets over the plains.
Nalati Grassland
Special Experience: Kazakh horseback archery performances, overnight in yurts, stargazing the grassland Milky Way.
2. Sayram Lake
Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic,” Sayram Lake boasts clear, deep blue waters backed by snow-capped mountains and surrounded by wildflowers. June to August is the best time for flower viewing, especially mid-July when the lakeside is ablaze with blooms.
Sayram Lake
Tip: Camping lakeside overnight offers an unforgettable experience of night winds and starry skies.
3. Zhaosu Rapeseed Flower Sea & Tianma Cultural Festival
Zhaosu County holds the Tianma (Heavenly Horse) Cultural Festival every July, coinciding with the peak of rapeseed flowers. Golden-yellow fields stretch as far as the eye can see, with the towering Tianshan Mountains and perennial snow peaks in the background, creating a unique high-altitude flower sea landscape.
Highlights: Photo shoots in rapeseed fields, horse riding performances, and ethnic dance shows.
4. Kalajun Grassland
Located in Tekes County, Kalajun Grassland is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. It is divided into East and West Kalajun; the east features vast grasslands, while the west boasts magnificent canyons and forest belts. Visitors can hike, horseback ride, or take sightseeing buses. It’s a paradise for photographers.
Kalajun Grassland
Highlights: Snow mountains, forests, and meadows intertwine in a landscape known as “Paradise Grassland.”
5. Huocheng Lavender Fields
Huocheng County produces 90% of China’s lavender. From mid-June to mid-July, the purple fields bloom like an ocean, evoking the charm of southern France. This is one of Ili’s most romantic summer scenes.
Lavender in Yili
Photography Tip: Early morning or late afternoon light is soft with fewer visitors—ideal for capturing high-quality photos.
Best Travel Time
May to September：
- May: Apricot blossoms bloom, temperatures are comfortable.
- June: Lavender, sunflowers, and wild lilies begin to flower.
- July: Peak of rapeseed flowers and lush grasslands.
- August to September: Cool weather with golden grasslands, great for hiking and photography.
Avoid: October to April due to mountain closures and snow, unsuitable for driving or in-depth travel.
Transportation
By Air: Direct flights to Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Airport (Yining Airport) or Horgos Airport near Sailimu Lake. Flight from Ürümqi to Yining takes about 1 hour.
By Train: High-speed train from Ürümqi to Yining, about 8 hours with scenic views.
By Car: Ili is perfect for self-driving tours. A typical 7-day route: Yining — Sailimu Lake — Huocheng — Zhaosu — Tekes — Xinyuan.
Practical Tips
- Temperature Fluctuations: Large day-night temperature differences; summer days can reach 25°C, but nights may drop to 10°C—bring warm clothes.
- Sun Protection: Strong UV rays require hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Limited Network: Some grasslands and mountains have poor signal; download offline maps in advance.
- Respect Ethnic Customs: Remove shoes when entering yurts, avoid touching halal food improperly, and respect local traditions.
- Book in Advance: Especially hotels and tickets from June to August.
Recommended Itinerary
9-Day Xinjiang Duku Highway Tour: Urumqi, Kanas, Hemu, Sailimu Lake & More
- Brief itinerary：Urumqi, Kanas, Hemu, Nalati, Sailimu Lake, Lavender Base
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- Private tour for up to 6 people, with luxury airline seats, all next to the window.
- Stay in upscale 4-star hotels throughout the journey, with 2 nights in scenic village cabins.
- Complimentary Bottled Water in the Vehicle; Drone Equipped for Stunning Cinematic Views.
16-Day Xinjiang Panorama Tour: Urumqi, Heavenly Lake, Altay, Nalati, Tashkurgan, Kashgar & More
Ili is a place worth more than one visit. It’s not a destination to rush through in a day. Take your time to feel the breeze across the grasslands, the light reflecting on the lakes, and listen to the melodies of the Kazakh dombra drifting from the yurts. This is the softest corner of Xinjiang and one of the most charming summer retreats in the west. Ili deserves your visit once—and certainly again.
