[2025 Xinyuan ] Travel Guide for Nalati International Ski Field (Updated Jun)

Nalat: A Complete Guide to a Three-Dimensional Scroll Painting Deep in the Tianshan Mountains The moment your plane lands at Nalat Airport, the emerald grasslands and spruce trees spreading outside the porthole will instantly make you understand Genghis Khan's exclamation "Narat" during his westward expedition. This place, recognized by Chinese National Geography as one of "China's Six Most Beautiful Grasslands," hides a magical space-time woven with snow-capped mountains, forests, canyons, and Kazakh pastoral songs. As a traveler who has just completed an "In-Depth Ili River Valley Tour," I will use a three-day, two-night immersive experience to guide you in unlocking the ultimate way to explore this "Three-Dimensional Grassland Museum." 1. Scenic Routes That Fold Space and Time: Magical Moments Away From the Crowds 1. Aerial Grassland Snow Lotus Valley Loop (A Must for Photography Enthusiasts) Route: Visitor Center → Tianjie Platform (40-minute drive) → Nomadic Family (20 minutes) → Snow Lotus Valley Special Line (requires transfer) Core Experience: Tianjie Platform: Wait here at 7:00 AM to capture the "Yin and Yang Dividing Dusk and Dawn" spectacle of snow-capped mountains and meadows in the morning mist with a telephoto lens. The prayer flag array on the left side of the platform is a natural frame for shooting cultural blockbusters. Nomadic Family Internet-Famous Bridge: Avoid the tour group peak after 10:00 AM and use a slow shutter speed to capture the moment when a Kazakh girl rides a horse across the bridge, with the aerial grassland covered in dandelions as the background. Hidden Spot in Snow Lotus Valley: Hike 1.5 km along the snow line to the "Glacier Eye," where you can simultaneously photograph the reflection of Kabanbay Peak and wild snow lotus. Crampons are required (available for rent in the scenic area). 2. Panlong Valley Road Wolta Jiaota Secret Realm (Exclusive to Adventurers) Route: Visitor Center → Entrance of Panlong Valley Road (self-driving/sightseeing bus) → Wolta Jiaota Viewing Platform (5 km hike) Hardcore Data: The valley road is 12 km long and contains 27 180-degree hairpin bends, with an altitude drop of 800m. It is recommended to rent a four-wheel-drive off-road vehicle (the scenic area provides guided services for CNY 800/vehicle). The 5 km wooden boardwalk in Wolta Jiaota hides mysteries: the third viewing platform allows you to capture the magical scene of "Pine Forest Waterfall Piercing Through the Clouds." You need to use a CPL filter to eliminate water surface reflections when the sun shines directly at 12:00 noon. 2. Magical Spots With a 100% Success Rate: Even Phone Users Can Take National Geographic-Level Blockbusters 1. Tawsani: Four-Dimensional Space-Time Folding Point Shooting Time: 1 hour before sunset. Use a wide-angle lens to shoot from north to south, which can capture four landforms at the same time: snow-capped mountains, forests, meadows, and streams. The "radial blur" filter in PS can be used in post-production to enhance the sense of spatial depth. Hidden Play: Take silhouette photos at the megalithic array on the south bank of the stream and use natural stone frames to form a "picture within a picture" effect. 2. Wusun Ancient Ruins: Birthplace of Wasteland Aesthetics Golden Moment: When the rain has just stopped, carry a polarizing filter to photograph the collision between dry poplar trees and newly green grass. Raise the drone to a height of 200m to capture the space-time dialogue between the ancient road and National Highway 218. Safety Tips: Marmots often appear in this area. Feeding is prohibited. It is recommended to bring bear spray (available in scenic area stores). 3. A Pastoral Epic on the Tip of Your Tongue: 24 Hours From Snow Mountain to Yurt 1. Nomadic Family Food Matrix Must-Order Set Meal: Snow Water Stewed Air-Dried Horse Meat (CNY 128/portion) + Baursaki with Honey (CNY 15/portion) + Horse Milk Wine (CNY 30/pot). Note that horse milk wine has a very strong after-effect, so it is recommended to pair it with plum juice to relieve the alcohol. Hidden Menu: Recite the Kazakh proverb "The wisdom of Aksakal is in milk tea" to the yurt owner to receive a "Grassland Blind Box" worth CNY 88 (may be milk curd, horse sausage, or Dombra performance). 2. Yitigense Intangible Cultural Heritage Workshop Immersive Experience: The "Grassland Lifestyle Expert" course from 14:00–16:00 allows you to make wolf phalanx necklaces (CNY 280/person) or felt embroidered coasters (CNY 120/person) by hand. You can take the finished products away and be awarded an intangible cultural heritage certificate. Avoid the Pitfalls: Refuse the "free photo with Hada" promotion, as these services usually charge high frame fees afterward. 4. Alternative Rainy Day Plans: Open the Grassland Metaverse Indoors 1. Nalat International Ski Resort (Off-Season Carnival) Black Technology Play: Rent a VR ski simulator (CNY 80/20 mins) and experience winter snow tracks in a blizzard effect. The system will generate a "Grassland Skiing Rank Certificate" based on your movements and scores. Parent-Child Surprise: The "Snow Monster Ale" theme park in the ski equipment hall allows you to use a 3D printing pen to create exclusive snow monster dolls (CNY 198/piece). 2. Kazakh Folk Museum In-Depth Play: Participate in the "Transfer Memory" special exhibition at 10:00/16:00, which uses holographic projection to reproduce the epic of the Kazakh people's seasonal migration. Interactive devices can simulate the perspective of a shepherd driving cattle and sheep. Cultural and Creative Treasure Hunt: The "Grassland Flavor" series of fragrances in the museum store mixes artemisia, snow lotus, and mare's milk into a unique scent. The "Nomadic Dawn" model (CNY 168/bottle) is recommended. 5. Accommodation Red and Black List: From Luxury Tents to Cloud Hotels 1. Nianhua Bay Nalat Luxury Camping Site Red List Reason: The tent is equipped with floor heating and a starry sky skylight. The Milky Way and snow-capped mountains can be seen in the same frame at 3:00 AM. Includes "Grassland Awakening Service": Kazakh teenagers ride horses to deliver freshly squeezed warm mare's milk. Black List Warning: Some tents will be removed during the off-season (November–March). You need to confirm in advance whether they are on the operating list. 2. Senjing Treehouse Hotel Survival Guide: The treehouse is suspended above the spruce forest. It is recommended to bring a windproof jacket (night temperatures can be as low as -5℃). The balcony's star-gazing telescope has a preset M31 Andromeda galaxy coordinate and can be used for free. 6. Exclusive to Hardcore Players: Unlock the B-Side of Nalat 1. Gongnais River Valley Stream Tracing Equipment List: Stream tracing shoes (Decathlon MH500 series, CNY 299/pair) Waterproof backpack (OSPREY Talon 22, CNY 799/piece) Target Species: Rainbow trout (artificial bait lure can be used, limited to 3 fish per day) Blue sheep (limited to distant viewing, it is forbidden to use lenses with a focal length exceeding 400mm) 2. Light Hiking on Wusun Ancient Road Safety Instructions: You need to report to the scenic area 7 days in advance and sign the "Letter of Life and Death." A satellite phone is mandatory (available for rent in the scenic area, CNY 300/day). Fantastic Moment: Wait for the "Sunlight on the Golden Mountain" by Heaven Lake. When the first ray of sunlight illuminates the Muzart Glacier, the glacier cracks will refract colorful halos.

Attention, skiing enthusiasts! This 5-day tour of Ili and Sayram Lake in the Xinjiang Northern Frontier offers both skiing and sightseeing. Check out this super-practical guide! -------- 🚩 Itinerary suggestions: Day 1: Ili Old Town - Kazanqi Ethnic Tourism Area Immerse yourself in the rich folk customs of Kazanqi Old Town and experience the strong cultural atmosphere. Day 2: Guozigou - Sayram Lake - Sayram Lake Pointing Platform Cross the picturesque Guozigou, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery of Sayram Lake, and finally climb the Pointing Platform to overlook the surrounding mountains. Day 3: Nalati Tourist Area - Aerial Grassland Experience the grandeur of nature in the Nalati Tourist Area, then head to the Aerial Grassland to experience the vastness of the grassland and the tranquility of nature. Day 4: Nalati International Ski Resort - Liuxing Street in Yining City Enjoy the fun and excitement of the ski resort, then stroll through Liuxing Street in Yining City and experience the blend of history and modernity. Day 5: Depart from Yining End your wonderful Ili tour, take a VIP car to the airport, and look forward to your next exciting journey! -------- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Sayram Lake: The lake water is as clear as sapphire, and the surrounding grassland is full of colorful wildflowers, which are breathtaking. 🌳 Nalati Tourist Area: Here you can admire the beautiful alpine meadow plants, and the green treasure of nature is here. 🎨 Aerial Grassland: Imagine, under the blue sky and white clouds, snow-capped mountains, racecourses, and picturesque grassland scenery are intertwined, isn't it beautiful? 🏛️ Sayram Lake Pointing Platform: Not only is there a historical heritage, but also a magnificent view of the towering rocks, allowing you to feel the weight of nature and the depth of history. -------- Travel essentials: 👚 **Clothing:** Bring a warm and windproof jacket, scarf, hat, and gloves, as it is still quite cold in February in Xinjiang. 🎒 **Accessories:** Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential, as the sun is strong there. Also, bring an umbrella or raincoat to prevent sudden rain. 📋 **Documents:** Don't forget your ID card, student ID, etc., as some attractions offer special discounts. 💊 **Medical and health:** Prepare some common medicines, such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness medicine, as travel health is important. 🎮 **Others:** Of course, don't forget your power bank and data cable, take photos and post them online, and let your friends envy you! -------- Come to Sayram Lake and experience the grandeur and mystery of nature, you will definitely not be disappointed! 🌄 Remember to like and collect, share the beauty with more friends~🌟

Depart from Urumqi, Xinjiang, and explore Northern Xinjiang! This 8-day itinerary will take you to all the best sights. Come and discover the charm of this mysterious land! / 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Departure 👉 Yining Depart from your city and arrive in Yining to start your Northern Xinjiang trip! Day 2: Sayram Lake Spend the day at the beautiful Sayram Lake and enjoy the stunning scenery. Day 3: Swan Spring - Zhaosu Yuhu Scenic Area Visit the mysterious Swan Spring, then head to Zhaosu Yuhu Scenic Area to experience the beauty of nature. Day 4: Wanghu Manor - Tekes - Karatohai - Kurdening Town Travel through Wanghu Manor, pass through Tekes, visit Karatohai, and finally arrive in Kurdening Town. Day 5: Kurdening Scenic Area Explore Kurdening Scenic Area and enjoy the unique scenery of Northern Xinjiang. Day 6: Nalati International Ski Resort - Nalati Scenic Area Ski at Nalati International Ski Resort, then visit Nalati Scenic Area for some leisure time. Day 7: Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area Visit Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area in Yili Old Town and experience the rich folk culture. Day 8: Yining 👉 Return End your Northern Xinjiang trip and return home from Yining. / 🎒 What to pack: 👚 Clothing: Bring a windproof and warm jacket, scarf, gloves, hat, and comfortable hiking shoes or boots. 🔧 Accessories: Bring a large backpack, power bank, hand cream, and moisturizing face mask. Don't forget sunscreen and a sun hat. 📇 Documents: Bring your ID card, cash, and train tickets and hotel booking information for a smooth trip. Remember to adjust your gear according to the weather and your personal needs! 🌞 / 🎉 Have a great Urumqi-Northern Xinjiang trip! Keep your passion for travel and get ready for your next adventure!

Hey guys, here's a detailed itinerary for a 5-day trip to Northern Xinjiang, Ili, and Sayram Lake. Explore the beauty of Xinjiang! Save it now! -------- 🏃Itinerary: Day 1: Han Princess Memorial Hall Visit the Han Princess Memorial Hall to experience the charm of history and cultural heritage. Day 2: Guozigou - Sayram Lake - Sayram Lake General Platform Travel through Guozigou, explore Sayram Lake, and climb the General Platform to appreciate the magnificence of nature and the weight of history. Day 3: Nalati Tourist Scenic Area - Air Grassland Stroll through Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, explore the Air Grassland, and enjoy the tranquility of nature and the vastness of the grassland. Day 4: Nalati International Ski Resort - Liuxing Street, Yining Experience the fun and joy of Nalati International Ski Resort, then visit Liuxing Street in Yining to experience the local customs. Day 5: Depart from Yining Depart from Yining and end this wonderful journey. See you next time! 👋 -------- Must-visit attractions: 💧 Sayram Lake: The lake shines like a sapphire, surrounded by grasslands with blooming wildflowers, creating a breathtaking view. 🌳 Nalati Tourist Scenic Area: Stroll through the area and enjoy the colorful subalpine meadows, a natural palette. 🐎 Air Grassland: Feel like you're in a painting, with snow-capped mountains and a racetrack creating a symphony of the grassland under the blue sky and white clouds. 🏔️ Sayram Lake General Platform: A blend of historical weight and natural magnificence, with giant stones standing tall, telling the story of past glories. 🏞️ Guozigou: A fairyland on earth, with scenery as beautiful as Guilin, lush pine and birch trees, and a captivating landscape. -------- Travel essentials: Northern Xinjiang, Ili, and Sayram Lake itinerary checklist 🧳 👚 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, long pants, hat, scarf, gloves. It's cold in Xinjiang in December, so keep warm. 🎒 Personal items: Cash, ID card, charger, power bank. These basic items are essential when traveling. 💊 Medicine: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness medicine. Be prepared for emergencies and travel healthily. 📸 Photography equipment: Camera, spare batteries, memory card. The beautiful scenery of Xinjiang is worth capturing! 🧴 Skincare and sunscreen: Sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer. The sun is strong in Xinjiang, so be prepared for hydration and sun protection. -------- Visit Sayram Lake to experience the magnificence and tranquility of nature. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture every beautiful moment! 📸

1. Ski Resort Location: Nalati International Ski Resort is located within the Nalati Scenic Area in Ili Prefecture, with a total planned area of 7.5 square kilometers and a maximum vertical drop of 600 meters. There are currently 2 intermediate ski runs, 2 beginner ski runs, and 1 advanced ski run. The longest advanced run (Chasing Wind Avenue) is 5200 meters long, a brand-new natural ski run with an altitude of 2024-1424 meters, a vertical drop of 600 meters, and a maximum slope of 46.2%. 2. Ski Resort Introduction: Nalati International Ski Resort is located within the Nalati Scenic Area in Ili Prefecture, with a total planned area of 7.5 square kilometers and a maximum vertical drop of 600 meters. There are currently 2 intermediate ski runs, 2 beginner ski runs, and 1 advanced ski run. The longest advanced run (Chasing Wind Avenue) is 5200 meters long, a brand-new natural ski run with an altitude of 2024-1424 meters, a vertical drop of 600 meters, and a maximum slope of 46.2%. 3. Ticket and Discount Policy: The ticket prices for Nalati International Ski Resort may vary depending on the season and activities. It is recommended to check the official website or consult the scenic area staff for the latest ticket information before you go. 4. Business Hours: From January 1 to March 31, 2024, the opening hours of Nalati International Ski Resort are from 10:30 to 18:00. 5. Dining Recommendations: ● Nalati Cattle Bar: The beautiful scenery outside the window makes this place cozy, with a unique ambiance. Here you can taste prairie beef steak, dried meat pilaf, hand-grabbed meat, mountain mushroom chicken, and other delicacies. ● Nalati Book House: You can enjoy the snow scenery of the river valley prairie while savoring aromatic coffee and a plate of dried fruits, feeling the fairy-tale-like comfort of winter. ● Nalati Tianmutai: If you are also keen on integrating into the local culture, you must come to Tianmutai. Here you can taste local Nawruz porridge, horse meat sausage, dried yak meat, dried lamb, special cold horse tripe, and other delicacies. ● Lovely Nalati Restaurant: This place gathers Xinjiang specialty foods, with Nalati Big Plate Chicken being the main attraction, paired with deer antler mushroom fried beef, which is incredibly fragrant. 6. Accommodation Recommendations: ● Xinyuan Sanshan Homestay (Nalati Ski Resort Branch): Located within Nalati Ski Resort, 6.1 kilometers from Nalati Airport, about a 9-minute drive. Opened in 2023, the rooms offer free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk service, and free airport pickup service. ● Hotels within Nalati Scenic Area: Concentrated in the river valley prairie, you can enjoy the magnificent snow mountain scenery right outside your window. Recommended options include Jinling Mountain Villa, Ctrip Farmhouse, Muxing Valley Hotel, Linyin Hotel, Xinjiang Cultural Tourism Nalati Resort Hotel, and Wansen Hotel. 7. Transportation Guide: ● Airplane: ● Direct flight from Urumqi to Nalati Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car. Urumqi ⇌ Nalati (Tianjin Airlines GS7527), flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, time 11:55-13:15 (only one flight per day), total duration 1h20m, price around 500 yuan/person. ● Direct flight from Koktokay to Nalati Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car. Koktokay ⇌ Nalati (Chengdu Airlines EU1920), flights every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, time 15:25-16:45 (only one flight per day), total duration 1h20m, price around 109 yuan/person. ● Flight from Urumqi to Yining Airport: After landing, choose self-driving or chartered car, bus station shuttle, or route car. Urumqi ⇋ Yining flights, Monday to Sunday, direct flights available from 7:45 to 23:50, total duration 1h15m, price around 300 yuan/person. ● Train, High-speed Train: ● High-speed train from Urumqi Station to Yining Railway Station: After exiting the station, you can take a route car or chartered car at the bus station. Urumqi Station ⇋ Yining Station (high-speed train), five trains daily (C841, C843, C845, C847, C849), departure times 08:26, 09:06, 09:40, 17:20, 17:32, travel time as fast as 4 hours 47 minutes, price 128 yuan/person. ● Train from Urumqi Railway Station to Yining Railway Station: After exiting the station, you can take a route car or chartered car at the bus station. Urumqi Station ⇋ Yining Station (train), two trains daily (K9759, K9789), departure times 20:51, 21:50, travel time around 10 hours, price 81 yuan/person. ● Self-driving: From Urumqi to Nalati International Ski Resort, there are three routes to choose from. ● Urumqi ⇋ Nalati (highway): The route is Urumqi—Lianhuo Highway—Qingyi Highway—Yidun Highway—Gaoyi Highway—Nalati, a distance of 934 kilometers, taking about 10 hours and 2 minutes.