2025 Gongliu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

Xinjiang is beautiful, but there are also many pitfalls! 😅 I sincerely suggest you do your research before you go, otherwise, you'll be crying on the roadside! 📝 Here's a guide to avoiding common mistakes. Please save it and read it carefully. - ✅ Weather: Xinjiang's weather is unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in one day. ⛅ Be sure to pack sunscreen, warm clothes, and rain gear. - ✅ Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is huge. Even in July and August, the nights are cold! 🧣 Wear breathable, warm clothing. Choose loose, cotton pants. - ✅ Transportation: Xinjiang's straight roads can cause visual fatigue and speeding. Drivers, please be careful! Travel times are long, so if you get carsick, remember to bring motion sickness pills 💊. - ✅ Shopping: Goods in Xinjiang are sold by the kilogram. - ✅ Accommodation: Apart from a few cities like Urumqi and 🏠 Karamay, which have modern hotels, accommodation in other areas is basic. Some places don't have air conditioning, or even showers and private bathrooms. - ✅ Time difference: Xinjiang is 2 hours behind Beijing time. ⏰ Most businesses operate on a different schedule than in other parts of China. - ✅ Acclimatization: The water in Xinjiang is alkaline and hard. If you're not used to it, it can cause constipation. 🍉 Fruits are high in sugar, so don't eat too much at once. Some people also experience diarrhea after eating fresh mutton and dairy products. - ✅ Trip length: Plan to spend at least 7 days in Xinjiang, starting in Urumqi. - 🚗 Sample 7-day Xinjiang itinerary: D1: Urumqi - Bole - Sayram Lake (stay overnight at Sayram Lake) D2: Sayram Lake - Yining - Zhaosu (stay overnight in Zhaosu) D3: Zhaosu - Shata (stay overnight in Shata) D4: Shata sunrise - Tekes (stay overnight in Tekes) D5: Tekes - Shixi - Nalati (stay overnight in Nalati) D6: Nalati scenic area sunrise - Nalati town (stay overnight in Nalati) D7: Nalati town - Urumqi

The grassland scenic areas in Ili are mostly located in east-west valleys, but Kurdening in the eastern mountainous area of Gongliu County, Ili, is situated in a north-south valley. It stretches about 14 kilometers long and is about 1 kilometer wide at its widest point, with an average valley floor elevation of 1500 meters. 'Kurdening' means 'crossing ditch' in Kazakh. The unique north-south orientation makes Kurdening warm in winter and cool in summer, with a pleasant climate throughout the year. Therefore, Kurdening is not only a famous scenic spot in Ili but also a popular summer resort. It combines the charming and delicate beauty of Jiangnan's mountain villages with the vast and rugged grassland scenery, attracting more and more domestic and international tourists. With an average elevation of about 1500 meters, it boasts the largest primeval spruce forest in China. The national-level spruce nature reserve is located here, offering beautiful and pleasant scenery. It's definitely worth a visit!

After a trip to Xinjiang, my heartfelt feeling is! Apart from Xinjiang, the rest is elsewhere, no other place can replace it! Xinjiang is about to enter the most beautiful summer, this summer, you must go to Xinjiang 🌲 · ✈ Chengdu - Yining, rent a car for a self-driving tour 🚙 Total cost per person is 6k (excluding airfare) May in Yili has just entered spring, there is still snow in many places, the biggest advantage is that during the off-season, air tickets and hotel prices are cheap, and you can enjoy both the snow-capped mountains and some early blooming flowers🌼. June is the best time, with blooming flowers and green grass, but the snow mountains have melted, and the consumption is moderate. July and August are the peak tourist seasons, with all the lavender in Huocheng in full bloom, and the consumption is relatively high. · 🚙 My favorite places throughout the journey 【Nalati】 Self-driving 300/person, although the price is not cheap, it is truly worth it, I love Nalati the most, there are herds of cattle and sheep on the grassland, as well as snow-capped mountains and streams, you must wait for the sunset at the nomadic homes 【Qiaxi Forest Park】 Compared to Kuerdening, I prefer Qiaxi, it's as romantic as an oil painting, just like the movie scene of 'Heidi and Grandfather', I suggest staying in Gongliu 【Qiongkushitai】 The road to Qiongku is extremely beautiful, there is a snow mountain swing in front of the mountain, there is no need to be stubborn about the back mountain, the stay at Qingkong Jiyi is awesome 【Fairy Lake】 Although it requires hiking, the scenery is absolutely worth it 【Sailimu Lake】 Get up at 5 am to go to S bay to watch the sunrise, an unforgettable experience, it is a beautiful scene that will be remembered for a lifetime . 🚙12-day trip recommendation 1. Chengdu - Urumqi 2. Huocheng - Sailimu Lake (must see the sunrise) 3. Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender, stay in Yining or Huanghuang Village 4. Yining - Tekes - Qiongkushitai 5. Qiongkushitai 6. Qiongkushitai - Kalajun Grassland - Stay in Zhaosu 7. Xatage scenic area - Stay in Tekes Bagua City at night 8. Tekes - Tekes River - Qiaxi Forest Park - Nalati, stay in the town 9. Nalati Grassland Scenic Area 10. Nalati - Northern section of Duku Highway - Tangbula - Fairy Lake, stay in Tangbula 11. Tangbula - Northern section of Duku Highway - Urumqi · 🌟Precautions 1. Prepare mosquito repellent 2. Choose an SUV for car rental, the roads to Qiongkushitai and Qiaxi are not very good 3. The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, you can experience four seasons in one day 4. If you want to take pictures of the sunrise at Sailimu Lake and don't want to stay in the scenic area, you can enter from the east gate before 9 am (the south gate does not check tickets)

【Introduction】: ◆ The scenery of the Ili region is the most representative and popular in Xinjiang. From May, the grasslands of Ili begin to turn green, with vast seas of flowers and clouds that seem to come straight out of an anime. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe that such beautiful scenery exists in the world. 🛬【Itinerary】: Kanas Ili 10-Day Tour 1 - Urumqi - Burqin Attractions - Wulungu Lake - Colorful Beach Sunset Accommodation - Burqin Colorful Beach 2 - Burqin - Hemu Attractions - Haden Viewing Platform - Aid Bridge Accommodation - Hemu Hemu Scenic Area 3 - Hemu - Kanas Attractions - Kanas Lake - Guanyu Pavilion Accommodation - Kanas Kanas Burqin 4 - Kanas - Burqin Attractions - Kanas Three Bays - Burqin River Night Market Accommodation - Burqin 5 - Burqin - Kuitun Attractions - Devil City Accommodation - Kuitun World Devil City 6 - Kuitun - Yining Attractions - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge Accommodation - Yining Sayram Lake 7 - Yining - Nalati Attractions - Nalati Grassland Accommodation - Nalati Nalati Tourist Scenic Area 8 - Nalati - Bayinbulak Attractions - Bayinbulak Accommodation - Bayinbulak Bayinbulak Grassland 9 - Bayinbulak - Kuitun Attractions - Duku Highway - Tangbula Accommodation - Kuitun Duku Highway 10 - Kuitun - Urumqi Attractions - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hundred Mile Danxia - S101 National Defense Highway Accommodation - Urumqi Anjihai Grand Canyon 🧡【Tips】: 💬 For more customized routes, feel free to leave a message or contact me👇🏻

A year's wait, just for Xinjiang in May. Mid-May in Yili, not many people around, snow mountains, grasslands, flowers, beautiful scenery coexist! Friends who want to go to Xinjiang, you can set off in May! 📍Sailimu Lake: A must-visit! After entering the scenic area and reaching the lakeside, turn left to the S bend, where there are many people. Continue forward to the next bend, you can park your car on the roadside, then climb up the hillside on the left to admire the stunning scenery of Sailimu Lake🌊. 📍Nalati: Recommended for the sky grassland! The difference between the self-driving ticket and the sightseeing car ticket is not big, both require parking at the nomadic homes🚗. Follow the popular bridge and walk along the stream, the fewer people, the more beautiful the scenery🌄. 📍Kuerdening: An exclusive scenic area for May, like Qiaxi, it belongs to the grasslands that turn green early. After parking in the parking lot, you can ride a horse or hike, about an hour to reach the Qimengde viewing platform🧐. Along the way, there are small cabins and plank roads facing the snow mountains, the scenery is super beautiful! 📍Qiaxi: May's Qiaxi is the essence of Yili, because it turns green early and is an open scenic area, you can drive in, stop along the way to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but be sure not to block the way for passing vehicles🚧. 📍Xia Ta: Highly recommended! Even in summer, there are snow mountains and forests here, and the divine position is at the transfer bridge. After admiring the transfer bridge, cross the bridge and walk the right plank road all the way to the end, General Bridge, the scenery along the way is breathtaking👀! If you want to go to house number 2, you can start walking or riding from the transfer bridge, about half an hour to reach🐎. ▪ Tour Line Reference 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 D1: Yining-Sailimu Lake-Guozigou Bridge-Qingshuihe Town D2: Qingshuihe Town-Nalati Scenic Area-Nalati Town D3: Nalati Town-Kuerdening D4: Kuerdening-Qiaxi-Zhaosu County D5: Zhaosu County-Xia Ta-Tekes County D6: Tekes County-Yining ▪️My Views 𝗠𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀 Yili in May can be selectively played, some attractions may not be so green yet, but the places listed above are all worth a visit! The grasslands of Yili are similar, be sure to choose differentiated scenic areas to avoid aesthetic fatigue😉.

Xinjiang is a place full of unexpected beauty and surprises, featuring popular attractions like the stunning Nalati Grassland and the Duku Highway. Additionally, there are pristine, untouched hidden gems that remain undeveloped and secluded, offering a sense of discovery akin to finding a private paradise. These secret spots provide delightful surprises amidst the region's many breathtaking landscapes. Northern Xinjiang 15-Day Grand Loop (Kanas + Ili + Desert) D1: Urumqi - Airport Pickup D2: Urumqi - Heavenly Lake of Tianshan - Fuyun (490 km, approximately 5.5 hours by car) D3: Fuyun - Koktokay - Burqin (280 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car) D4: Burqin - Kanas - Baihaba (160 km, approximately 2.5 hours by car) D5: Baihaba - Hemu (90 km, approximately 1.5 hours by car) D6: Hemu - Colorful Beach - Burqin (160 km, approximately 2.5 hours by car) D7: Burqin - Ghost City - Kuitun (460 km, approximately 5.5 hours by car) D8: Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Yining (460 km, approximately 5.5 hours by car) D9: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xiate (160 km, approximately 2.5 hours by car) D10: Xiate - Kalajun Grassland - Yuhu - Tekes (120 km, approximately 2.5 hours by car) D11: Tekes - Ku'erdening - Chaxi Ancient Trail - Nalati (320 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car) D12: Nalati - Middle Section of Duku Highway - Bayinbuluk (80 km, approximately 1.5 hours by car) D13: Bayinbuluk - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Changji (490 km, approximately 7.5 hours by car) D14: Changji - Kumtag Desert - Shanshan (260 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car) D15: Shanshan - Turpan - Urumqi (260 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car)

- Flower season alert: The lavender in Huocheng will be in full bloom around June 15. The entrance fee to Princess Jieyou Manor is CNY 35. To avoid the weekend crowds, you can go to the surrounding villagers' self-operated flower fields for free photos. - Niche routes: - Kuerdening: The entrance fee is CNY 60. The spruce forest is comparable to that of Switzerland. You can hike to the Yunmengde viewing platform. - Qiasi Forest Park: The entrance fee is CNY 30. You can drive through the forest and grassland, and camping is free (you need to bring your own equipment). - Food surprises: Liuba Russian Bread House in Liuxing Street (CNY 45/piece), Tatar Courtyard Milk Napoleon (CNY 36). - Accommodation recommendation: Kuerdening Spruce Hotel (including breakfast, CNY 200/night), a 5-minute walk to the scenic area entrance.

【Introduction】: Xinjiang, an autonomous region in northwest China, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The region is divided into Northern Xinjiang and Southern Xinjiang, with Northern Xinjiang attracting numerous visitors due to its unique natural scenery and climate. Turpan, an important city in Xinjiang, also boasts distinctive landscapes and cultural attractions. 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) - Fuyun Day 3: Fuyun - Koktokay - Altay Day 4: Altay - Ahe Highway - Hemu Village - Yunxiao Peak - Hemu Wooden Cabin Day 5: Hemu Village - Hemu Sunrise - Kanas Fish Pavilion - Kanas (Scenic Area Wooden Cabin) Day 6: Kanas - Kanas Three Bays - Colorful Beach - Urho Day 7: Urho - Ghost City - Bole Day 8: Bole - Sailimu Lake Loop - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender Fields - Six-Star Street - Yining Day 9: Yining - Kurdening Self-Drive Tour - Nalati (Homestay) Day 10: Nalati - Nalati Grassland - Tangbula Grassland (Tangbula Starry Sky Room) Day 11: Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Fairy Lake - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 12: Urumqi - Kumtag Desert - Shanshan County Day 13: Shanshan County - Turpan - Tuyugou Valley - Flaming Mountains - Karez System - Urumqi Day 14: Urumqi - Home 1. Kanas Lake: Located in the Altay region, this famous alpine lake is known for its mysterious waters and surrounding natural beauty. The scenery varies across seasons, with autumn being particularly picturesque as the birch forests turn golden. 2. Tianchi Lake: Situated near Urumqi, this alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The crystal-clear waters and stunning views make it a great spot for hiking and trekking. 3. Ili River Valley: Renowned for its fertile lands and breathtaking natural scenery, the valley features vast grasslands, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for photography and outdoor activities. 4. Sailimu Lake: Located in the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, this alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, offering spectacular views. Turpan Scenic Highlights: Turpan, located in eastern Xinjiang, is famous for its unique geography. Here are some of its notable attractions: 1. Flaming Mountains: One of Turpan's most famous landmarks, the red-colored mountains are known for their scorching temperatures, making them one of the hottest places in China. The site is also featured in the classic Chinese tale "Journey to the West," where Sun Wukong borrows a palm-leaf fan to extinguish the flames. 2. Karez System: This ancient underground irrigation system, with over 2,000 years of history, channels melted snow from the Tianshan Mountains to farmland. Visitors can explore the Karez Museum to learn about this ingenious water management technique. 🍩【Must-Try Cuisine】: Baked buns + Roast whole lamb + Lamb skewers + Big plate chicken + Hand-grabbed rice 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: Ctrip Four-Diamond Hotels + Century-Old Wooden Cabins + Premium Homestays 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Seven-seater business vehicles or luxury seven-seater business vehicles 🧡【Tips】: 1. Climate: Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night. From June to August, short sleeves and long pants with a jacket are sufficient. From September to October, bring a windbreaker or padded jacket. Hiking or travel shoes are recommended. 2. Personal Items: Carry a power bank, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, rain gear, personal toiletries, and a thermos (Xinjiang's water is hard; boiled water is preferable). 3. Essentials: Bring cold medicine, digestive medicine, band-aids, mosquito repellent, essential oils, throat lozenges, etc. 4. Food: Xinjiang cuisine is generally spicy and meat-heavy, primarily featuring beef and lamb. Avoid drinking cold water immediately after consuming meat to prevent digestive discomfort. Carry snacks for convenience. 5. Time Difference: Xinjiang operates two hours behind mainland China; adjust your biological clock accordingly. 6. Customs: Xinjiang is home to many ethnic minorities; respect local customs and traditions. Highlights: Tianchi Lake, Koktokay Scenic Area, Ahe Highway, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Village, Colorful Beach, Ghost City, Sailimu Lake, Kurdening Scenic Area, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Tangbula Grassland, Duku Highway, Kumtag Desert, Flaming Mountains, Tuyugou Valley.

⭕8 prairie characteristics 📍Nalati Grassland It's more relaxed, perfect for taking the elderly and children Cost: 95/person; Recommended play: April-August 📍Bayin Brook You must go and take a picture of the sunset Cost: 140/person Recommended play: Mid-June or September 📍Joongkush Terrace: A pristine village perfect for hiking Cost: Free, self-drive available Recommended play: May-July 📍Kalajun Grassland National Geographic rated it as the most three-dimensional prairie Cost: 140/person, can drive Recommended play: Mid-late May-June 📍Shata Grassland: You can feel the snow-capped mountains up close Cost: 80/person, can drive Recommended play: June-July 📍Chaxi Forest Park: Saili Jiangnan is located in Ili, and the most beautiful scenery is in Chaxi Cost: 30/person, can drive Recommended play: Early May 📍Donbra Baili Gallery: Compared with the vastness of the grassland, there is more of the softness of the south of the Yangtze River Cost: Free, self-drive available Recommended play: Mid-June 📍Kurdening: Close to Chatsey, "Hometown of Snow Ridge Spruce" Cost: 30/person, can drive Recommended play: Early May ⭕8 prairie how to choose 💓June-August Northern Xinjiang Loop Itinerary Recommendation Day 1: Urumqi-Dushanzi Grand Canyon-Jinghe/Double River Day 2: Double River/Bole - Lake Sailimu Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Six Star Street Dopamine - Yining Day 3: Yining-Izhao Highway - Xiata Ancient Road - View of Muzart Glacier - Tex Day 4: Tex-Chungkushtai Ancient Village-Xinyuan Day 5: New Source/Nalati-Nalati Air Grassland-Bayinbuluk Grassland-Bayinbuluk Town Day 6: Bayinbruk Town - Crossing Duku Highway - Urumqi 【Travel Guide】 ✅ Route depends on mood, celebrity route niche route is ok ✅ Don't ride with strangers, you can get high in the car ✅ Pure play will not be forced to consume, eat and listen to yourself ✅ No need to be forced to get up early, no need to follow the tour, the elderly and children are convenient

✨[Kurdning, Limited May Day Experience] Escape the crowds! This spruce forest haven, certified by National Geographic, sheds its spring snows around May Day, and the grasslands begin to sprout new greenery. The snow mountains are still clearly visible 🏔️, making it the most worthwhile hidden gem in Yili to visit again and again! The key is that it's uncrowded and beautiful, and every shot is a cinematic masterpiece 📸 🚗 [Transportation Guide] ▪️ Starting from Yining: A 2.5-hr drive directly (navigate to "Kurdning Scenic Area"). You'll pass through the Chaxi Gallery along the way, so it's recommended to drive an SUV for stability ~ (Webpage 6 Self-driving route ) ▪️ For those without a car: Yili Bus Station → Gongliu County (bus CNY 15.5/2 hrs), then carpool to the scenic area (CNY 20/person) 👉🏻Tips: The scenic area limits the number of visitors per day, so it's recommended to arrive before 9am to avoid the peak. 🏡 [Must-Stay Homestay | A Healing Cabin with Snow Mountain Views] This time, I found a treasure of a homestay, "Kurdning Xiaobin Homestay"! They speak fluent Chinese, and as soon as you enter, they'll serve you homemade raspberry jam with hot nang 🍯. The sweet and sour burst of flavor instantly heals the fatigue of the journey! ✅ Homestay Highlights: ▫️ Snow Mountain View from the Window: You can lie in bed and watch the golden sunrise🌄. The terrace also has a swing chair, and lying down and counting the stars at night is so beautiful it makes you cry. ▫️ Breakfast Perfection: Handmade raspberry jam + wild black honey + Kazakh baursaki (fried small oil pancakes). The owner will also take you to a hidden viewing platform on the back mountain. 🔥 [Private Hidden Gems] 1️⃣ Qimengde Hiking: Walk 15 minutes from the homestay to the starting point of the boardwalk. The 2 km wooden boardwalk crosses the spruce forest, and the end point is a viewing platform surrounded by 360° snow mountains and grasslands (Webpage 5 Recommended ). 2️⃣ Kabanbayi Peak Sunset: Drive to the vicinity of the Iron Bridge at 6pm to capture a blockbuster photo of the snow mountain and stream in the same frame. 3️⃣ Forest Picnic: Ask the owner to prepare nang + dried meat + raspberry jam in advance, and enjoy it by the river while listening to the sound of the water. 🍽️ [Kurdning Cuisine] ▪️ Homestay Hidden Menu: Raspberry jam, ▪️ Must-Eat in Town: Nang Rou (braised lamb with nang) at Lao Guli Restaurant. The lamb is stewed until it's soft and flavorful. 💡 [Tips] ✔️ There's a big temperature difference between day and night during May Day! A light down jacket + sun hat + sunglasses are essential. ✔️ The scenic area ticket is CNY 60/person, and cars can enter Zhonggou (Webpage 1 Fees ). ✔️ If you want to take forest-style photos, it's recommended to wear a white/light-colored dress, and a ethnic-style shawl will make the photos even better. 📣 What the Homestay Owner Has to Say: "We're not just a room, we want you to feel the enthusiasm of the Kazakh people ❤️ The cattle and sheep raised on our own farm, and the wild fruits picked from the back mountain, are all gifts for guests from afar ~" This May Day, say no to special forces travel! Stay in a fairytale wooden house under the snow mountains, and let the morning mist and starlight of Kurdning heal your urban fatigue.

Life is really wild 🌳 May to June in Ili is the gentlest season in Xinjiang The snow-capped mountains have not yet melted, the grasslands are green, wild flowers are all over the mountains, and the lakes are like mirrors Everything here carries the power to heal Avoid the crowds, slow down and let nature soothe anxiety 。 🌳First stop Lake Sairimu – the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean 🌊 Watch on the east shore of the lake in the early morning for a sunrise Watch the golden sunshine shining on the ice blue lake The swans swam leisurely and rented a bicycle to roam along the lake Here is the collision of pine forest and sapphire 。 🌳Second stop Nalati Steppe – the poetic habitat of the aerial steppe Roaming on horseback Follow Kazakh teenager on horseback to 'nomad's house' See the spruce forest and snow-capped mountains intertwined into a painting Live in a Kazakh rut deep in the steppe I gather around the fire at night to listen to the herdsmen playing and singing Dombula Look for the top of the "Air Prairie" in mid-to-late May A sea of ​​wild tulips lies in a daze among the flowers 。 🌳The third stop Chassi Forest Park – the abandoned fairytale river valley 3 kilometers hike along the Chasi Valley The stream is gurgling, and I encounter cattle and sheep gnawing grass -Lay out a picnic mat under a century-old spruce Take a bite of cake with the snow-capped mountain background Visit herders’ homes on the hillside and learn how to milk cows Drink a bowl of fresh milk that has just been boiled 。 🌳Fourth stop Kurdening – a hidden paradise under the snow-capped mountains Enter the World Heritage-level Snow Ridge Spruce Forest Take a deep breath of negative oxygen ions at the Qimende Observation Deck Watch the sunset dye the snow-capped mountains pink and gold If you encounter light rain, hide in the herdsmen's wooden houses Make a pot of Ili black tea and listen to the sound of rain 。 🌳Fifth stop The ancient path of Xiata - the secret land of snow-capped mountains that travels through thousands of years Hike from the hot spring hotel to "Frog Spring" Looking at the magnificence of the Muzart Glacier Take a dip in the natural hot springs at the foot of the snow-capped mountains to wash away your fatigue Early morning prairie encounters plump groundhog probe healing Lira 。 📝 Seven-day healing route reference Day1: Yining → Sailimu Lake (Lakeside) Day2: Sunrise at Lake Sai → Guozigou Bridge → Nalati (stay at Prairie B&B) Day3: Nalati Grassland → Chaxi (stay at Chaxi Wooden House) Day4: Chasi → Kurdening (Sugongliu County) Day5: Kurdening → Xiata → Zhaosu (stay at Zhaosu and return to Yining the next day) (Take two more days off) 。 💡Healing Tips 1. Play only 1-2 points a day, leaving enough time to feel natural 2. Onion style dress (thin down + rush jacket), prepare a pair of waterproof hiking shoes 3. Weak signal in some scenic spots, just right to put down your phone and talk to nature 4. Do not pick wild flowers, do not disturb animals, take away all garbage Ili in May is a S-washing dedicated to the mind Time slows down here, and you let go of all your anxiety

❄️Early summer ice and snow adventure｜The snow-capped mountains of Xinjiang in May/June are even more stunning than Switzerland! ✨Still squeezing into Switzerland to see the Alps? The snow-capped mountains of Xinjiang are sinfully beautiful in early summer! 🌲Wildflowers bloom at the foot of the snow-capped mountains, the meadows are covered with oil painting filters, and there are few people and beautiful scenery, so hurry up! Essential spots 🏔️[Kuerdening] Spruce forest × Tianshan Mountains in the same frame 🔥This year's top spot! Hike along the wooden boardwalk for 30 min to encounter a fairy tale forest. A drone taking off will instantly produce a National Geographic blockbuster 🏔️[West Bank of Sayram Lake] Snow-capped mountains and blue lake double strike 💦Snow-capped mountain reflections + S-shaped road, get up early to wait for a 5:30AM orange-flavored sunrise (remember to bring something to prevent frostbite ❗️) 🏔️[Xiate Ancient Trail] Epic hiking route 👣Take a sightseeing car deep into the hinterland, where the glacier is within reach! Encounter cute marmots and enjoy a super healing horse riding experience (remember to bring cash) 📸Exclusive photography tips √ Light-colored fairy dress + windproof thick coat! The snow-capped mountain reflector comes with its own lighting √ Lower the camera's color temperature (below 5500K) to instantly transform into a cold wonderland √ Use a telephoto lens to shoot the S-shaped road, and stand on the top of the slope to capture the oppressive feeling of the snow-capped mountains at the end of the road ⚠️Things special forces need to know ❶ The temperature difference is so great that you'll doubt your life! Lock in a thin down jacket + sun hat ❷ If you don't wear sunglasses, you'll get snow blindness, so apply high SPF sunscreen three times ❸ The signal in the mountainous area is weak, so download the Two Steps track in advance

| The Spruce Kingdom Deep in the Tianshan Mountains, a Lost Fairyland. 📍 Basic Information Tickets: CNY 60/person (peak season), shuttle bus CNY 48/person. Private cars are allowed into the scenic area (hiking required on some sections). Opening Hours: Open all day. Recommended visit time: 1–2 days. 🚗 Transportation Guide 1. Main Transportation Plane: Fly to Yining Airport, then take a chartered car/drive to Kuerdening (approx. 3-hour drive). Train: Urumqi → Yining Station (approx. 5 hours), then transfer to a bus. 2. Driving Route From Yining: Yining → Gongliu County → Mohur Township → Kuerdening Scenic Area (approx. 180 km). Road Conditions: Mostly mountain roads. SUV recommended; snow chains required in winter. 3. Public Transportation Yili Prefecture Bus Station → Gongliu County (bus approx. 2 hours), Gongliu County Bus Station → Kuerdening Scenic Area (1–2 buses daily). 🌈 Best Season and Highlights Season Core Experience Recommended Activities May–June Grassland wildflowers in full bloom (trollius, iris), snow mountain meltwater streams Wildflower photography, light hiking July–August Spruce forest lush and dense, summer retreat (average daily temperature 20°C) Forest camping, stream tracing September–October Autumn colors, layered forests, snow mountains and colorful forests in the same frame Hiking and sightseeing, stargazing December–March Snow-covered forest, tranquil fairytale world Snow hiking, forest snowfield photography 📸 Must-Visit Attractions and Photo Spots 1. Kabanbayi Peak Highlight: Famous snow peak in the Tianshan Mountains, overlooking the spruce forest and valley. Photography: Use a telephoto lens to capture the layers of the snow mountain and valley. The misty clouds at sunrise are the most stunning. 2. Da Mohe Gully Highlight: Valley streams flowing through the spruce forest, cattle and sheep scattered like an oil painting. Photography: Use a slow shutter speed to capture the atomization effect of the stream. Have people stand on the wooden bridge (wide-angle, low angle). 3. Qimengde Viewing Platform Highlight: 360° panoramic view, snow mountains/spruce trees/grassland in the same frame. Route: Hike or ride a horse (approx. 2 hours), crossing through the primeval forest along the way. 4. Wuling Ridge Highlight: Overlooking the entire Kuerdening area, high probability of sunrise and sea of clouds. Tips: Need to get up early, prepare warm clothing and a tripod. 5. Spruce King Highlight: Giant snow ridge spruce with a tree age of over 300 years and a diameter of 2m+. Composition: Have people stand under the tree to compare the size of the giant tree, and shoot the crown of the tree with light. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations Inside the Scenic Area: Wooden cabins (approx. CNY 400–800/night, snow mountains visible from the window). Tent camp (open in summer, experience sleeping under the stars). Surrounding Area: Gongliu County hotels (budget-friendly, 1.5-hour drive). Tekes/Xinyuan County (choose when visiting Kalajun/Nalati along the way). ⚠ Precautions Safety Protection: No signal in some sections. Download offline maps in advance. Wear non-slip shoes and bring hiking poles for hiking. Environmental Protection Guidelines: Do not cut down or damage spruce trees, and do not litter. Do not drive on the grassland. Drive on designated routes. Weather Response: The weather in the mountains is changeable. Prepare a windbreaker/raincoat and mosquito repellent in summer. Respect Customs: Do not photograph herders and livestock without permission. Obtain consent before entering the grassland. Drones: Need to be reported in advance to take aerial shots of the spruce forest and valley curves. Filters: ND filter (slow shutter stream), CPL polarizing filter (reduces reflections from leaves).

Kuerdening Travel Guide: A Spruce Fairytale Town Deep in the Tianshan Mountains 🌲🏔️ Destination Snapshot Kuerdening, the "Tianshan Secret Realm" of Yili, Xinjiang, is a core area of world natural heritage! It doesn't have the crowds of Narat, but it has more pristine snow-capped mountains and spruce forests, emerald river valleys formed by snowmelt, and the cooking smoke and starry sky pastures of Kazakh herdsmen 🌌. When the morning mist sweeps over the glaciers of the Kabanbayi Peak and the horses trample the golden morning light on the river, you will understand why Chinese National Geography rated this place as the "Most Beautiful Green Valley of Tianshan" 💚. Transportation Guide Self-Driving Route (Highly Recommended) - Starting from Yining: Yining → Gongliu County → Mohur Township → Kuerdening (approx. 180km/3h) 🚗 - Duku Highway Players: Narat → G218 → Gongliu → Kuerdening (140km/2.5h, grassland scenery along the way) 🚗 Car-Free Options - Yili Prefecture Bus Station → Gongliu County (bus 2h/CNY 40) → ride-sharing to Kuerdening (CNY 50/person) 🚌 - Scenic Area Transportation: Unified transfer to shuttle bus (CNY 45/person), private cars are prohibited from entering the core area 🚌 Must-Do Itinerary Spruce Forest Hike Classic Route: - Qimengde Viewing Platform → Spruce King (365 years old!) → Swan Lake (wildflower sea in summer) 🌲 - Wooden boardwalk throughout, 200m elevation gain, chance encounters with squirrels and red deer 🦌 📸 Magic Spot: Drone aerial photography of the forest "layer cake" landform Kabanbayi Peak Pilgrimage How to Play: - At sunrise, squat in the Da Mohegou to photograph the golden mountains reflecting on the river 🏔️ - Horseback riding to explore (CNY 80/hr) to the edge of the snow line, touch the remains of billion-year glaciers 🐎 Kazakh Pasture Immersion Experience Package: - Squeeze mare's milk (CNY 10 for a taste of freshly squeezed, slightly intoxicating mare's milk wine) 🥛 - Learn to play the Dombra (Kazakh folk music instrument) (CNY 50/person for a visit to a herdsman's home, including tea and snacks) 🎸 - Listen to Aken sing under the midnight Milky Way (impromptu grassland rap!) 🌌 Wild Fruit Forest Treasure Hunt Seasonal Limited: - May apple blossom sea (wild apple gene bank left over from the Middle Ages) 🍎🌸 - September wild hawthorn and raspberries everywhere, paid picking (CNY 20/basket) 🍇 The Taste of Nomadic Life - Air-Dried Meat Naren: Dried horse meat + belt noodles, sprinkle with piyazi (onion) and slurp it all up (CNY 35) 🍜 - Baursaki: Kazakh fried dough with blueberry jam, the soul of breakfast (CNY 5/piece) 🥞 - Kvass: Honey-fermented kvass, a great way to relieve greasiness when eating barbecue (CNY 10/cup) 🍺 - Hidden Menu: Herdsmen slaughter lamb (boiled in clear water with salt, so fresh you'll stomp your feet) 🐑 Accommodation Red Treasure Book Starry Sky Lovers: - Kabanbayi Peak Base Camp Tent (CNY 300/tent, including heater, the Milky Way is within reach) 🌌⛺ Exotic Style: - Ayusai Herdsman's Home (dorm bed CNY 80/person, drink milk tea and watch mare milking) 🥛🏠 Comfortable Party: - Kuerdening Town "Spruce Inn" (CNY 200/night, stable hot water + Wi-Fi coverage) 🛏️ Lessons Learned from Blood and Tears 1. Weather Mystery: - Mountainous areas have instant rainstorms, waterproof shoes + a storm jacket are life-saving 🌧️ - The snow has not melted completely in June, so bring a light down jacket with you 🧥 2. Ecological Iron Law: - No drones allowed (nature reserve policy)! Violators will be fined CNY 2,000 🚁 - No breaking branches in the wild fruit forest, take your trash out of the scenic area (there are checks at the exit) 🍎🚮 3. Anti-Pit Guide: - Negotiate the price before riding a horse (by the hour, not by the distance) to avoid disputes 🐎 - There are no stores in the scenic area, bring your own snacks + mineral water 🍪💧 4. Cultural Taboos: - Do not step on the tablecloth, do not point at the moon 🙅‍♂️ - Do not step over the fire, do not turn the tent door curtain upside down 🔥⛺ 5. Photography Tips: - Arrive at Qimengde 1 hour before sunrise to grab the corner spot on the boardwalk 🌅 - Use a polarizing filter at Swan Lake to eliminate water reflections 🌊 When the setting sun dyes the spruce trees amber, lie on the grassy slope full of small yellow flowers and daydream. In the distance, smoke rises from the felt tents, and sheepdogs chase marmots all over the mountains, and the aroma of roasted buns floats in the wind - this primitive valley, which even mobile phone signals are too lazy to cover, may be the most authentic appearance of Xinjiang 🌄🐎 Best Season - May-June: Wildflower feast + snow-capped mountains not melted 🌼🏔️ - September-October: Autumn colors gilded + wild fruits ripe 🍁🍎 - July-August: Summer paradise (occasional thunderstorms) 🌧️🌳 (🔔 Fun Fact: The Kuerdening's spruce forest can reach 60m in height, and one tree can store 2.5 tons of water, making it a true "green reservoir"!)

Xinjiang is so beautiful, it is unforgettable... I just compiled this practical guide ❤️Advantages: Beautiful scenery, affordable prices 🖤Disadvantages: Long driving distance, few toilets, and only snacks to fill your stomach 🚗7-day chartered tour route D1 Urumqi Airport Pickup D2 Urumqi - S101 Baili Danxia Scenic Spot - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Jinghe D3 Jinghe - Sailimu Lake - Guozigou - Yining D4 Yining - Kurdening Scenic Area - Gongliu D5 Gongliu - Nalati Grassland - Nalati D6 Nalati - Duku Highway - Urumqi D7 Urumqi Airport Transfer Attractions Recommendation 🔸The Baili Danxia landform beside the S101 highway, there is a parking spot where you can get off and take pictures 🔸Wengbalang attractions, if you are short on time, you can choose not to go 🔸Kendawat Reservoir, the lake water is blue-green, like emerald, amazing‼ ️ 🔸Anjihai Grand Canyon, this free attraction is well worth a visit, the landform is stunning, and it makes people admire the uncanny workmanship of nature 🔸Sailimu Lake 🎫145 yuan ⏰Visit duration: more than 4 hours The blue lake and white clouds and blue sky complement each other. There are also paragliding 🪂 and helicopters 🚁 to play. There are many check-in spots, and the swans 🦢 are worth watching. 🔸Guozigou Bridge, no need to wait in line for the popular camera, you can visit it in 20 minutes 🔸Kurdenin 🎫108 yuan ⏰Duration of visit: half a day If you have time, it is recommended to play for a day. The scenic area is very large and you can drive in or take the scenic area transportation. There are three main scenic spots where you can take photos similar to those on your computer screen saver and have a picnic by the stream. 🔸Nalati 🎫135 yuan ⏰Duration of visit: more than 4 hours We visited the aerial grassland and nomadic people. The internet celebrity bridge is right at the entrance and is very easy to find. The stream and grassland are very suitable for taking pictures. The second stop is a commercial street, you can choose not to get off 🔸Duku Highway is more than 200 kilometers long and takes about 6 hours to drive. It is basically unobstructed except for the traffic jam at the entrance. You can get off the car at the service area to play in the snow❄️ and take pictures 🍲Food recommendations The ice cream, Tekes lamb chops slices, and milk skin ice cream in Liuxing Street, Yining are all very delicious. The lamb skewers in the scenic area are only 6 yuan each.

An immersive May Day travel guide to Ili: Experience breathtaking scenery with a 2k budget! This May Day holiday, pack your bags and head to Ili for a dreamy immersive journey with a budget of 2,000 yuan! Here, every landscape will amaze your eyes, and every bite will delight your taste buds. Day 1: Encounter the Pure Beauty of Sailimu Lake Sailimu Lake Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," Sailimu Lake's beauty is pure and stunning. The lake water displays a deep, mesmerizing blue, like a giant sapphire set between heaven and earth. During the May Day holiday, although you won't see lavender fields, the stunning panorama of snow-capped mountains, blue lake, and grasslands will definitely captivate you. Take a stroll along the lakeshore, feel the gentle breeze, and admire the lake and mountain scenery from different angles - every photo you take could be a wallpaper-worthy shot. 🌟Travel tips: It's windy by the lake, so wear a light-colored long dress with a thick coat for both warmth and great photos. Scenic area tickets plus shuttle bus cost 145 yuan, with half-price for students. If time permits, try cycling around the lake for a closer experience of Sailimu Lake's charm. Food Recommendations Near Sailimu Lake, you can taste special Xinjiang mixed noodles, with chewy noodles paired with abundant vegetables and lamb, offering a satisfying taste. There's also fragrant baked naan bread, crispy outside and soft inside, with a rich wheat aroma. Guozigou Bridge Just a 10-minute drive from Sailimu Lake, you'll reach Guozigou Bridge. This most spectacular "sky bridge" in Xinjiang spans the canyon like a giant dragon. From the viewing platform, you can overlook the magnificent canyon and majestic bridge with an incredibly expansive view. Drone photography can better showcase its grandeur. Especially at sunset, when the bridge is bathed in golden light, the scenery is breathtaking, and it's free to visit - don't miss it. Accommodation For the night, staying in downtown Yining is recommended, where hotel options are plentiful, transportation and shopping are convenient, and you can taste more local delicacies while preparing for the next day's journey. Day 2: Explore the Fairy-tale World of Qiaxi Forest Qiaxi Primeval Forest Qiaxi Primeval Forest is a hidden gem with few visitors but beautiful scenery. During the May Day holiday, the grasslands are just turning green, dotted with yellow wildflowers, like stepping into a fairy tale. You can choose to hike deep into the forest to experience its serenity and freshness, or ride a horse (80 yuan/hour) through it, encountering streams, cattle, and sheep along the way. The entrance fee is only 30 yuan, offering excellent value for money and allowing you to fully enjoy nature's gifts. Qiaxi Panorama Deep in the forest lies a treasure viewing platform - the Qiaxi Panorama. From the platform, a three-dimensional landscape of grasslands, snow mountains, and spruce forests unfolds before your eyes, creating an unforgettable view. Bring a picnic mat, lie on the grass to sunbathe, and enjoy leisurely moments where all worries seem to fade away. Food Recommendations After exploring Qiaxi, arrive at Nalati Town for the evening. Be sure to try local specialties like juicy grilled lamb skewers with irresistible aroma; and kvass, a honey-fermented drink that's sweet and refreshing. Also, don't miss the Big Plate Chicken with tender meat and soft potatoes, served with belt noodles - it's absolutely delicious. Accommodation The guesthouses in Nalati Town are full of ethnic charm, allowing you to experience local life more deeply. Day 3: Gallop Across Nalati Grassland, Experience Exotic Culture Nalati Sky Grassland Known as "China's Most Beautiful Grassland," Nalati Sky Grassland is lush and vibrant during the May Day holiday. Mount a horse and gallop freely at the foot of snow-capped mountains, feeling the wind whistle past your ears and experiencing unprecedented freedom and exhilaration. The popular photo spot bridge gets crowded, so arrive early to avoid queues. Scenic area tickets plus shuttle bus cost 135 yuan, allowing you to fully appreciate the grassland's magnificence. Six Star Street Back in Yining, don't miss Six Star Street. The colorful houses here are arranged in a picturesque way, full of artistic atmosphere. The Accordion Museum displays various accordions, seemingly telling touching musical stories. Stroll down the street, buy an ethnic-style cap, step into a corner café for a rich coffee, and every casual photo becomes Instagram-worthy. For food, strongly recommend trying face lung (a local specialty), with its unique texture; and crispy-outside-tender-inside baked buns, which can fill you up for just 10 yuan. Tips to Avoid Pitfalls and Route Overview Tips to Avoid Pitfalls 1. Book accommodation in advance as May Day holiday is busy and last-minute rooms can be hard to find. 2. Xinjiang is vast with long distances between attractions, so plan your itinerary and transportation well to avoid wasting time. 3. Respect local customs and avoid inappropriate behavior in religious sites and ethnic communities. Route Overview D1: Yining → Sailimu Lake tour → Guozigou Bridge → Yining (stay in Yining) D2: Yining → Qiaxi Primeval Forest → Qiaxi Panorama → Nalati Town (stay in Nalati) D3: Nalati Sky Grassland → Six Star Street Outfit Suggestions - Day 1: White long dress with denim jacket, complementing Sailimu Lake's blue for a fresh and beautiful look. - Day 2: Cargo pants with combat boots for comfortable forest hiking, both practical and stylish. - Day 3: Ethnic-style shawl with a sun hat to showcase exotic charm on Nalati Grassland. This May Day, follow this guide to encounter Ili's most beautiful scenery, taste the most authentic food, and create unforgettable memories!

#discoverchina This is my first time visiting Kurdenin in winter, and it feels truly special. Located in Xinyuan County of Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, Kurdenin is a famous forest and grassland scenic area, known as one of the most beautiful valleys in Ili. The landscape is spectacular and breathtaking. Compared to the lush green meadows and flower fields of spring and summer, winter in Kurdenin reveals a completely different kind of quiet beauty—serene and peaceful. It’s definitely worth experiencing.

#discoverchina This is my first time visiting Kurdenin. Located in Xinyuan County of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang, China, Kurdenin is a hidden gem deep in the Tianshan Mountains. It is praised as the most beautiful forest in the Tianshan region and a "green jewel of the plateau." The area boasts dense virgin forests, crystal-clear streams, layered mountains, and vast alpine meadows, creating a stunning landscape where nature, ecology, and tranquility come together. The entire stretch of lush greenery is truly captivating.

🔥The summer in northern Xinjiang is so beautiful that it seems like a long-planned visual hoax. From the Queen Mother's Jade Pool to the private land of the gods, from the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean to the backbone of the Tianshan Mountains, this journey witnessed the ultimate aesthetics of the Western Regions - glaciers and sea of ​​flowers coexist, Yadan dances with the stars, and horse-riding people breathe together with spruce forests🌲. The skylight of the yurt frames the Milky Way 🌌, and the sound of the horse-head fiddle blends into the evening breeze. They answer the seasons with migration, but we only need to measure freedom with our footsteps. —— 🛬【Itinerary】 D1: Arrive in Urumqi D2: Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi Special Lecture - Fuyun D3: Fuyun - Keketuohai self-driving - Beitun/Fuhai D4: Beitun/Fuhai - hike to Meili Peak - follow Hemu light photography - talk about the stars at night - stay in Hemu D5: Sunrise in Hemu - Kanas - Hiking in Sanwan - Stay in Kanas/Jiadengyu D6: Kanas/Jiadengyu-Devil City VIP self-drive to enjoy the sunset-stay in Karamay D7: Karamay - Sailimu Lake VIP self-driving (Songshutou - Internet celebrity S Bay - Jinsha Zihui - Keleyongzhu swan watching - Xihai grassland - Swan happy water) - drone aerial photography - stay at Qingshui River Route A: D8: Qingshui River-Kurdenin Spruce Hiking-Kurdenin Route B: D8: Qingshui River - Xiata Qingtu - Zhaosu D9: Kuerdening/Zhaosu-Nalati Sky Grassland VIP self-drive-Snow Lotus Valley-stay in Nalati Town D10: Narat Town - Duku Highway - Qiaoerma - Urumqi return trip —— ⛺【Must-see attractions】 🌀Tianshan Tianchi: the legendary place of Queen Mother of the West, take photos of the reflection of Bogda Peak and decode the secret language of rock paintings. 🌀Keketuohai: A canyon like a geological textbook, exploring the red history of the "meritorious mine pit". 🌀Hemu Village: Climb up to the observation deck to enjoy the morning mist and smoke, and use long exposure to "harvest the Milky Way" late at night. 🌀Kanas Three Bays: Hike from Shenxian Bay to Wolong Bay, and encounter squirrels and mirror reflections. 🌀Devil City: VIP self-drive to chase the sunset at Yadan and listen to the "Symphony of Hell" played by the wind-eroded rock walls. 🌀Sailimu Lake: Drive around the lake to look for swans, and take some "jumping into the sea" photos from the cliff. 🌀Kurdenin: Travel through the snow-capped spruce forest and touch the annual ring code of the 3,200-year-old tree king. 🌀Nalati Grassland: Ride a horse to explore the Snow Lotus Valley and unlock the Kazakh stone pile blessing ceremony. 🌀Duku Highway: Four seasons in one calendar, touch the July snow at Hashilegenda Pass. —— 🍩【Must-eat food】 ✅Baked buns (Lingguan Lane, Urumqi): Lamb meat cubes wrapped in crispy skin, bursting with juice in one bite. ✅Hand-pulled rice (Kanas Scenic Area): yellow radish + raisins, oily but not greasy. ✅Big plate chicken (Kuitun/Dushanzi): belt noodles dipped in soup, carb ecstasy. ✅Grilled lamb kebabs (Hemu Wood House Restaurant): freshly slaughtered lamb + fragrant red willow branches. ✅Nanbao Rou (Nalati Town): The nanbao is full of broth, and it is more enjoyable to eat by tearing it into pieces. —— 🏨【Accommodation Guide】 🔸Hemu/Kanas: Give priority to wooden house B&Bs in the scenic area. You can see the stars when you open the window, but the overall conditions and facilities are relatively simple. The price increases greatly during the peak season and it is difficult to find a room. 🔸Nalati Muxing Valley: A very distinctive camping homestay, with an independent glass room, a starry sky dome, equipped with a professional astronomical telescope + heater + starry sky projector, private terrace lounge chairs, and a housekeeper providing a "shooting star wake-up service". You can also experience warming yourself by a fire in a yurt and milking cows. 🔸Kurdenin: Ranch camp, surrounded by snow-capped spruce, the scenery is as beautiful as you open your eyes. 270° viewing skylight, overlooking the starry sky at night and the sea of ​​clouds in the morning. —— 🚌【Transportation Guide】 🚄 Transportation: Arrive in Urumqi by plane, buy tickets in advance during peak season (especially Yining/Kanas section). 🚌Local Transportation: Charter: We recommend a 7-seater commercial vehicle with a local driver who is familiar with the Duku terrain. Self-driving: SUV is recommended. The Duku Highway has many bends, so novices should choose with caution. ❗Key road section tips: The speed limit on Duku Highway is 40-60KM/h. Traffic jams are common during peak seasons, so please prepare plenty of snacks. The speed limit around Sailimu Lake is 70KM/h, and the co-driver can take pictures of swans at any time. —— 🧡[tips]： 🪪Documents: Security checks are frequent in Xinjiang, so please carry your mainland China ID card + border pass (required in some areas). 🌞Sun protection: SPF50+sunscreen+sunglasses+sun hat, ultraviolet rays are like a "tanning accelerator". 👘 Clothing: There is a big temperature difference between day and night, so wear a thin down jacket + short-sleeved shirt, and prepare a red skirt/scarf for the Devil City. 🍚Diet: Mutton can easily cause internal heat, so pair it with brick tea or yogurt for balance; people with weak stomachs should be careful when drinking mountain spring water. 👉Environmental protection: Drones are prohibited in Kanas/Kurdenin (except designated areas), and please do not pick up stones. 📈Network: The signal is weak in mountainous areas (especially in the middle section of Hemu/Duku), so download offline maps in advance. 🌅Time difference: Xinjiang’s schedule is 2 hours later, with sunset at 21:30, so meals can be delayed.

Located approximately 180 km from Yining city center, Qasi Grassland is about a 3-hour drive away. Situated southeast of Gongliu County and near Kurdening, it's the first grassland in the Ili Valley to turn green in spring. The scenic area has a large parking lot, basic dining facilities, and camping sites. Several homestays around the area have also started to open. A wooden boardwalk in the main scenic area leads directly to the mountaintop. Along the way, wildflowers bloom everywhere, the grass is a vibrant green, and the nearby snow-capped mountains are a magnificent sight. Besides walking along the boardwalk, you can also choose to ride horses provided by local herders. Be sure to inquire about the time and price in advance.

Xinjiang is a place where you can discover countless unexpected beautiful scenery and surprises, with popular attractions such as the beautiful Nalati grassland and the Duku Highway. Of course, there are also some pristine and pure hidden gems. Among the many scenic spots, there are still many undeveloped and hidden landscapes, like private secret realms, bringing unexpected surprises. 8-Day Xinjiang Ili Loop Tour Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi - Free Activities - Stay in Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Self-drive tour around Sailimu Lake - Stay in a Sailimu Lake apartment/hotel Day 3: Sailimu Lake sunrise - Pass Guozigou Bridge - Qasi grassland - Stay in Tekes/Gongliu Day 4: Tekes/Gongliu - Xiata Ancient Road - Distant view of Muzart Glacier - Stay in Zhaosu/Tekes Day 5: Zhaosu/Tekes - Joan Kushtai Village - Stay in Joan Kushtai Campground Tent Day 6: Joan Kushtai - Nalati Aerial Grassland - Stay in Nalati Day 7: Nalati - Duku Highway - Stay in Urumqi Day 8: Urumqi - Return trip ✅Pure play small group, free and convenient travel, everyone is taken care of ✅Selected hotels + Xinjiang local driver + brand new car, butler-style service. ✅Reasonable route planning, ample time for sightseeing, in-depth experience of northern Xinjiang scenery. ✅Cars within 5 years, various models such as business/SUV are available

Qiaxi Grassland, known as the "back garden of the Ili River Valley", is one of the most primitive and purest alpine grasslands in Xinjiang. Here, snow-capped mountains, forests, grasslands and river valleys are intertwined. In summer, wild flowers are everywhere, and in autumn, the forests are colorful. It is an ideal place for photography, hiking and camping. --- 1. [Calendar] Best time to travel June-August: Grasslands are green, wildflowers are in bloom, and the climate is cool (average daily temperature 15-25℃). September-October: The autumn colors are rich, the birch forests are golden, and the snow-capped mountains and colorful forests complement each other. --- 2. [Taxi] Transportation Guide 1. Long-distance transportation [Airplane]Fly to Yining Airport first, then charter a car or drive to Qiaxi (about 150 kilometers, 3 hours). [Station] Train: Urumqi→Yining (depart in the evening and arrive in the morning), then transfer to a bus. 2. Local Transportation [Car] Self-driving/chartering a car: recommended method! Yining → Gongliu County → Qiaxi Grassland (the entire route is tarmac road, some mountain roads are winding, SUV is recommended). [Bus]Bus: Yining Bus Station→Gongliu County (multiple buses per day), then charter a bus to Qiaxi (about 80 kilometers, 1.5 hours). --- 3. [Snow Mountain] Must-see attractions and experiences 1. Qiasi Scroll Viewing Platform [RoundNails] - A great location to overlook the grassland. Snow-capped mountains, spruce trees and river valleys form a painting-like scenery. It is recommended to shoot in the early morning or at sunset. 2. Chiasi Valley Hike [RoundNails] - Walk along the river valley, through spruce forests, streams and herdsmen's yurts. Recommended route: Qiaxi Camp→Swallow Bridge (about 8 kilometers round trip, light hiking). 3. Tarim Spruce Forest [RoundNails] - The area is densely covered with thousand-year-old spruce trees, which is suitable for taking forest photos and occasionally encountering groundhogs and squirrels. 4. Horseback riding experience on the grassland [RoundNails] - Local herdsmen provide horse riding services (about 80-150 yuan/hour). Ride to the top of the mountain to enjoy the broad view and experience the nomadic life. 5. Starry Sky Camping [RoundNails] - You can camp in the scenic area (bring your own tent or rent one). The Milky Way is clearly visible at night, so please keep warm. --- 4. [WorldMap] Recommended itinerary 【2 days and 1 night in-depth tour】 Day 1: Yining → Tekes Bagua City (lunch) → Qiaxi Grassland (viewing platform in the afternoon + river valley hiking) → Yurt B&B / camping Day 2: Sunrise photography → Horseback riding to explore the spruce forest → Gongliu County (lunch) → Return to Yining [Scenic] 【Linked peripherals】 - If you have enough time, you can connect Kurdning (30 kilometers, also a World Natural Heritage Site) and Qiongkushitai (3 hours drive) to form a 5-7 day Yili loop. [MountFuji] --- 5. [Bed] Accommodation recommendations In the scenic area - Herders’ yurt: about 200-400 yuan/bag, experience nomadic culture, simple meals provided. Chashi Camp Cabins: The conditions are relatively basic and need to be booked in advance (in the peak season). Gongliu County/Tekes County - Economy hotels: 150-300 yuan/night (such as Gongliu Hongfu Hotel, Tekes Wanbang International Hotel). --- 6. [Tableware] Food Recommendations Local specialties: hand-pulled lamb, baked buns, kumis, Kazakh milk tea, and yogurt lumps. Dining Tips: There are few dining options in the scenic area. It is recommended to bring your own dry food or purchase it in Gongliu County in advance. --- VII. [SnowFlake] Notes 1. Documents: There are frequent security checks in Xinjiang, so please carry your mainland China ID card with you at all times. 2. Sun protection: Ultraviolet rays are strong, so sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are essential. 3. Keep warm: The temperature difference between day and night is large, so you need to bring a windproof jacket even in summer. 4. Environmental protection: Do not litter and protect the original ecology. 5. Respect customs: Avoid stepping on the threshold when entering a yurt, and do not take photos of herders without permission. --- 8. [Trunk] Practical Information Ticket price: 30 yuan per person (may be adjusted during peak season), self-driving cars are allowed. Signal: There is no signal in some areas of the scenic area, so download the offline map in advance. Safety: Do not hike into undeveloped areas and avoid traveling alone. --- The beauty of the Qiaxi grassland lies in its primitiveness and tranquility, which is a good place to slow down and appreciate nature. When planning your trip, it is recommended to reserve flexible time so that you can stop at the snow-capped mountains, herds of cattle and sheep, and wild flowers along the way! 🌄

📍 Recommended for May-June: Northern Xinjiang 🌿 Landscape Features: - Sayram Lake, "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean" - Narati, "the Sky Prairie" with wildflowers in full bloom - Duku Highway, the "four seasons in a day" spectacle - Hemu Village, morning mist and starry sky 📅 Best Time: Mid-May to end of June (before the peak summer season) 🚗 Classic 7-Day Loop: D1: Urumqi assembly D2: Dushanzi Grand Canyon (Internet-famous cliffside cafe) D3: Loop around Sayram Lake + lavender fields (purple sea in June) D4: Qiasi Forest Park (niche secret) D5: Narati Grassland (nomadic family experience) D6: Northern section of Duku Highway + Tangbula D7: Return trip 🎒 Must-Haves Before the Trip: • 3-in-1 windbreaker (large temperature difference between day and night) • High SPF sunscreen + face mask • Comfortable hiking shoes • Camera spare battery (too much beautiful scenery) 🍖 Food Check-In: - Sayram Lake white salmon - Yining handmade ice cream - Grassland roasted whole lamb - Kazakh milk tea 💡 Travel Tips: • Drones need to be registered in advance • Need to swipe your ID card at gas stations • Prepare a small amount of cash (unstable signal areas) > The summer in Northern Xinjiang is a god-level landscape! [Southern Xinjiang Reminder] Best Season: September-October Highlights: • Tarim Populus euphratica Forest • Kashgar Old City • Pamir Plateau • Desert starry sky camping

Hey, everyone! Recently, I unlocked a new place that is perfect for vacation—the Gongliu Kuldening Bairui Camp! Here, you will not only find refreshing natural beauty, but also an unimaginable accommodation experience. Today, follow in my footsteps and explore this treasure camp hidden at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains! Gongliu Kuldening Bairui Camp is located 800 meters east of Qimengde Viewing Platform, Arele Village, Kuldening Town, Gongliu, Xinjiang. Winter here is like a fairy tale world, with the snow-capped mountains, spruce forests, and Kabanbayi Peak acting as guardians, adding a bit of mystery to this beautiful secret place. It is very convenient to drive into the scenic area, and the scenery along the way is picturesque and refreshing. Bairui Camp is a high-end campsite, covering an area of 120 acres, with 33 tents and 40 prefabricated holiday houses. Each room is equipped with a full set of intelligent systems and high-quality facilities. The panoramic automatic floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to enjoy the magnificent scenery of the snow-capped mountains and spruce forests while lying in bed. You can see the scenery as soon as you open the window. It is simply a warm paradise in winter. From the moment you first step into Bairui Camp, you can feel the fresh air. Each room here is cleverly designed, especially those top-luxury prefabricated holiday houses, equipped with panoramic automatic floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent Kabanbayi Peak or snow-capped spruce forest outside while lying in bed. Waking up in the morning, the first ray of sunlight gently awakens you through the window, as if the whole world is smiling at you. For friends who like camping but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, Bairui Camp is simply the perfect choice! It uses top Nordic outdoor brands "Tentipi" and "Nordisk" tents, which can keep you warm even on cold and windy nights. Each tent is also thoughtfully equipped with warming stoves, brand-name washing and care products, etc., to ensure that every guest can enjoy the warmth and care like at home. In addition to the amazing natural scenery, the restaurant in Bairui Camp is also a highlight. Here, you can taste authentic Xinjiang delicacies, or sit leisurely in the mobile cafe, holding a cup of fragrant latte, and stare at the rolling mountains in the distance. If you are lucky, you can also participate in a bonfire party carefully organized by the staff in the evening! Finally, I have to mention the beautiful sunset here! When the sun gradually sinks below the horizon, the entire sky is dyed with gentle colors. Find a quiet corner to sit down and quietly wait for that moment to arrive. I believe you will have an unforgettable memory. I hope my sharing can give you a better understanding of this secret place. If you are planning your next travel destination, why not consider coming to Gongliu Kuldening Bairui Camp to experience it! I look forward to meeting more friends who love life there~

Gongliu Kurdening Borui Camp 📍Located 800 meters east of Qimengde Viewing Platform in Arele Village, Kurdening Town, Gongliu, Xinjiang. Winter here is like a fairy tale, with snow-covered spruce forests and Kabanbai Peak standing guard like protectors, adding mystery to this beautiful sanctuary. Driving into the scenic area is very convenient, with picturesque views along the way that refresh your spirit. 🚗❄️ 🏕️Borui Camp is a high-end camping site spanning 120 mu, featuring 33 tents and 40 prefabricated holiday houses. Each room is equipped with a smart home system and high-quality facilities. The panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to admire the magnificent views of snow-capped mountains and spruce forests right from your bed - it's a warm paradise in winter where scenery greets you at every window. 🌟🛏️ 🏕️【Living in a Cartoon World】 Individual cabins with private bathrooms and floor heating! Unobstructed views of snow-capped mountains and grasslands right outside - drawing back the curtains in the morning feels like stepping into a scene from "Heidi." - 🎨【Fun Family Activities】 ❶ Forest Classroom: Mushroom picking, herb identification, become a "nature detective" ❷ Starlight Cinema: The camp sets up a screen at night! Watch cartoons wrapped in blankets under the Milky Way - pure romance. ❸ Horseback Riding and Archery: Kids can try riding gentle ponies, while adults can enjoy fun traditional archery competitions! ❹ Visit to Herders' Homes: Milk cows, make dairy products, and meet adorable lambs - everything is so therapeutic! - 🍖【Food Tips】 ✅Must-try camp-grilled lamb ribs! Crispy outside, tender inside, sprinkled with cumin, perfect with pilaf ✅Afternoon tea recommendation: Kazakh milk tea + Borsak, loved by both sweet and savory fans - ⚠️【Hard-learned Tips】 1️⃣ Extreme temperature differences! Bring thick jackets now! 2️⃣ Don't forget sun protection items 3️⃣ Bring disposable bed sheets for more comfort in the humid grasslands - - 🌿Here, there are no tourist crowds, only the sound of cowbells and wind sweeping through the grass. Running wild on flower-covered hillsides, you suddenly understand the meaning of travel

**🌿[Xinjiang Ili's Ultimate Guide] Divine Grasslands in Summer, Breathtakingly Beautiful!** ✨**Must-Visit Attractions** 1️⃣ **Nalati Grassland**: Sky grassland + popular bridge. Horse riding costs CNY 80 per hour. Go straight to the nomadic people's station! 2️⃣ **Sayram Lake**: The last tear of the Atlantic Ocean, 90 km around the lake, with the most photogenic flower fields at the south gate. 3️⃣ **Xata Ancient Trail**: A paradise for hiking enthusiasts, close to glaciers. Remember to book tickets in advance! 🚗 **Route Suggestions** ✔️ **5-Day Classic Loop**: Yining → Sayram Lake → Xata → Qiongkushitai → Nalati → Duku Highway ✔️ **Niche Alternative**: Kashi Grassland is less crowded and cheaper. Hiking in Kuerdening is super therapeutic. 🍜 **Foodie Guide** ▫️ Yining City: Yibazhua roasted buns, Gulandam ice cream, and Liuxing Street steamed lungs ▫️ Avoid: Overpriced group meals in scenic areas. It's more cost-effective to bring your own nang and yogurt. 📌 **Hardcore Tips** ▪️ Accommodation is in high demand! Book rooms in Nalati/Qiongkushitai 10 days in advance. Prices triple during peak season. ▪️ Self-driving is preferred! Chartering a car costs about CNY 800 per day. Duku Highway is only accessible to vehicles with 7 seats or less. ▪️ Sun protection trio: Sunglasses + face mask + SPF50. Xinjiang's UV rays can cause severe sunburn. 💬 "Half of Xinjiang's summer is given by Ili!" Which grassland do you want to visit the most? 👇

In the vast and magical land of Xinjiang, Kuerdening is like a hidden green pearl in the deep mountains, exuding a unique charm. It not only boasts magnificent natural scenery but also rich historical and cultural connotations. This trip to Kuerdening left me with a profound and beautiful experience. 1. First Encounter with Kuerdening: Discovering a Tranquil Paradise The moment I stepped into Kuerdening, it felt like entering a world isolated from the rest. In the distance, the undulating mountains, bathed in sunlight, displayed varying shades of green, like a giant painting unfolding before my eyes. At the foot of the mountains, lush forests were scattered, with tall and straight trees interweaving their branches, forming a sea of green. The fresh air, mixed with the fragrance of soil and vegetation, was invigorating. Walking along the winding country roads, I saw scattered wooden houses and yurts. These traditional buildings perfectly blended with the surrounding natural environment, creating a beautiful pastoral scene. Occasionally, the distant sounds of cattle and sheep could be heard, narrating the tranquility and harmony of this land. 2. Exploring Natural Wonders: Experiencing the Unique Charm of Kuerdening The Majestic Kabambayi Peak One of the most famous attractions in Kuerdening is Kabambayi Peak. This towering peak, with its snow-capped summit shining golden in the sunlight, stands like a majestic giant guarding the land. As I hiked up the mountain trail, I encountered various rare plants and wildlife. Reaching the summit, the panoramic view of the endless mountain ranges and the mist swirling among them was breathtaking, making me feel like I was in a fairyland. The Mysterious Green Forest The forests of Kuerdening are a precious gift from nature. Entering the forest felt like stepping into a mysterious green world. Tall spruces and firs reached for the sky, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating patches of golden light on the ground. The crisp bird songs added to the vitality of nature. While wandering in the forest, I discovered ancient trees with thick trunks and bark marked by the passage of time, telling the history of this land. 3. Experiencing Folk Culture: Feeling the Warm Hospitality of the Kazakh People Visiting Traditional Homes Kuerdening is home to the Kazakh people, where one can deeply experience their unique folk culture. I visited a traditional Kazakh home and was warmly welcomed by the host. The interior was decorated with ethnic features, with exquisite embroidery and tapestries on the walls and thick carpets on the floor. The host introduced me to the Kazakh lifestyle and cultural traditions, giving me a deeper understanding of this ancient ethnic group. Watching Folk Performances In Kuerdening, one can also enjoy wonderful Kazakh folk performances. In a square, I watched a grand song and dance performance. The Kazakh performers, dressed in splendid traditional costumes, danced passionately to lively music. Their graceful and captivating dance moves won rounds of applause from the audience. Additionally, there were impressive equestrian performances, with riders showcasing their superb riding skills, leaving the audience in awe. 4. Tasting Delicacies: A Culinary Journey in Kuerdening Kazakh Cuisine Kuerdening offers a rich variety of food, with Kazakh cuisine being the most distinctive. Grilled lamb skewers are a must-try, with tender and juicy lamb sizzling over the charcoal fire, emitting an enticing aroma. A bite reveals a crispy exterior and a succulent interior, with the flavor of the lamb lingering in the mouth. Other delicacies include hand-grabbed rice, milk tea, and mare's milk wine, each filled with rich ethnic flavors. Recommended Restaurants In Kuerdening, there are many specialty restaurants where one can savor authentic Kazakh cuisine. One restaurant, "Aken's House," left a deep impression on me. The restaurant's environment was cozy, and the staff were warm and attentive. Here, I could enjoy various authentic Kazakh dishes while also appreciating traditional Kazakh music and dance performances, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. 5. Leisure and Entertainment: Enjoying Relaxing Moments Horseback Riding on the Grasslands Riding a horse on the grasslands of Kuerdening is a very pleasant experience. I rented a horse and, under the guidance of a herdsman, slowly rode across the grasslands. The breeze brought a refreshing coolness, and the beautiful scenery before my eyes was mesmerizing. The distant mountains, forests, and grasslands formed a beautiful picture, and I felt like I was part of it. River Rafting Adventure Kuerdening has many clear rivers with picturesque scenery along the banks. I chose a river suitable for rafting and experienced an exciting rafting adventure. Sitting in a rubber boat, I drifted down the river, sometimes rushing through rapids, sometimes gliding through calm waters, feeling an unprecedented thrill and joy. 6. Accommodation Experience: Enjoying Peaceful Nights Unique Homestays In Kuerdening, there are many accommodation options. I chose a unique homestay with traditional Kazakh architectural features. The room was cozy and comfortable, with beautiful grassland scenery outside the window. At night, lying on the soft bed, listening to the sounds of insects outside, and feeling the tranquility and harmony of the grasslands, I had a wonderful night. Camping Experience For those who prefer a closer connection with nature, camping is also a great option. In the designated camping areas of Kuerdening, I could set up my tent and get close to nature. At night, lying in the tent, gazing at the starry sky, and feeling the vastness and mystery of the universe, this experience was unforgettable. 7. Summary and Reflections The trip to Kuerdening was an unforgettable experience, allowing me to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery and feel the unique charm of Kazakh folk culture. Here, time seemed to slow down and become peaceful, with people living in harmony with nature, enjoying a simple and authentic life. Kuerdening is like a vivid history book, with each page recording the stories and culture of this land; it is also like a splendid painting, showcasing the wonders and beauty of nature. I believe that everyone who comes to Kuerdening will be captivated by its charm and leave with beautiful memories. If you are also looking for a tranquil and beautiful place, why not come to Kuerdening and experience its unique charm?

Spring in Xinjiang 🌱 is half paradise, half Ili! With the April breeze, Ili becomes God's private garden 🌸 The blue ice 🧊 of Sayram Lake is just beginning to melt, the grasslands of Narat are gradually turning green 🌱, wildflowers 💐 cover the mountains, and the forests of Qiasi are a secret 🌲... Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi to Altay Day 3: Altay to Hemu Day 4: Hemu - Three Bays - Kanas Day 5: Kanas - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 6: Burqin - Ghost City - Dushanzi Day 7: Dushanzi - Sayram Lake Loop - Sayram Lake Sailing - Yining Day 8: Yining - Kalajun Self-Drive - Tekes Day 9: Tekes - Kuerdening Self-Drive - Xinyuan Day 10: Xinyuan - Narat Self-Drive - Tangbula Day 11: Tangbula - Farewell Dinner in Urumqi Day 12: Urumqi - Departure 📸 Outfit Tips 👗 Mori Girl Style｜White maxi dress + straw hat 👒, for a cinematic feel at Sayram Lake 🧥 Vintage Adventure｜Denim jacket 🧥 + Martin boots, instantly transform into a Western protagonist on the Duku Highway 🌼 Cottagecore｜Floral dress 👗 + knitted shawl, become a shepherdess on the Narat Grassland If there is a wonderland on earth ✨, it must be the spring and summer of Northern Xinjiang Greenery 🌱 spreads across the valleys, wildflowers 💐 adorn the grasslands 🌼, and cattle and sheep graze under the spruce trees. While the Duku Highway 🛣 is just awakening, embark on a healing journey✈️!