Qingming Holiday Getaway: The Ultimate Guide to Northern Xinjiang, Urumqi, and Ili

Explore the stunning scenery of Northern Xinjiang during the Qingming Festival! This 7-day itinerary from Urumqi to Ili will guide you through a unique spring experience! -------- 🗺️Itinerary: Day 1: Hongshan Park - Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar 🌳 Stroll through Hongshan Park and immerse yourself in the greenery, then experience authentic Xinjiang culture at the Grand Bazaar. Day 2: S101 Baili Danxia Scenic Viewing Platform - Dushanzi Grand Canyon 🌄 Marvel at the spectacular Danxia landforms and explore the natural wonders of the Dushanzi Grand Canyon. Day 3: Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender Fields - Yining City's Liuxing Street 💧 Visit Sayram Lake, cross the Guozigou Bridge, and lose yourself in the lavender fields of Huocheng. In the evening, explore the vibrant Liuxing Street in Yining. Day 4: Kalajun Scenic Area - Kalajun Scenic Area - Tekes Bagua City - Tekes Li Street 🌱 Enjoy a second visit to Kalajun, exploring its endless natural beauty, then head to the mystical Tekes Bagua City and Li Street. Day 5: Nalati Tourist Scenic Area - Nalati Tourist Scenic Area 🌲 Spend two days enjoying the tranquility of the Nalati Scenic Area, experiencing the grandeur and beauty of nature. Day 6: Qorma Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery - Qorma - Duku Highway 🛣️ Pay tribute to the revolutionary martyrs, admire the scenery of Qorma along the way, and then drive along the Duku Highway, taking in the magnificent natural landscapes. Day 7: Depart from Urumqi ✈️ Conclude your wonderful Xinjiang journey and embark on your return trip filled with cherished memories. -------- Must-Visit Attractions: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sayram Lake Address: Next to National Highway 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening Hours: 09:00-21:00 Duration: 1-2 days With its clear, azure waters, Sayram Lake is a photographer's paradise, surrounded by vast grasslands dotted with colorful wildflowers swaying in the breeze. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Address: No. 510 Jiefang South Road, Tianshan District, Urumqi City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Opening Hours: Open all day Duration: 2-3 hours A landmark building in Urumqi, the Grand Bazaar is a hub for Xinjiang specialties and a great place to experience authentic local culture. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Kalajun Scenic Area Address: South of Township Road 276, Tekes County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Opening Hours: 09:00-19:00 Duration: 1-2 days With its vast grasslands and rolling hills, Kalajun is an excellent choice for experiencing the magnificence of nature. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Dushanzi Grand Canyon Address: Next to National Highway 217, Dushanzi District, Karamay City Opening Hours: 11:00-19:00 Duration: 2-3 hours With its deep gorges and steep cliffs, the Dushanzi Grand Canyon is a great place to witness the wonders of nature. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Nalati Tourist Scenic Area Address: Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Nalati Town, Xinyuan County, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00 Duration: 1-2 days Home to beautiful subalpine meadow vegetation, Nalati is an ideal place to relax and connect with nature. -------- Tips: - Local Customs: Ili is a multi-ethnic region, so please respect local customs and religious beliefs 🙏. - Airport Transportation: Yining Airport is the closest airport to Ili and offers convenient transportation. You can also choose Urumqi Diwopu International Airport 🛫. - Photo Spots: Don't miss the picturesque landscapes of the Nalati Grasslands and Sayram Lake 📸! - Food: Indulge in Xinjiang specialties like roasted lamb, hand-pulled rice, and baked buns 🍖🥟. -------- Your journey to Northern Xinjiang, with its stunning scenery in Urumqi and Ili, is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Start your dream trip now!