Hidden Gems of Xinjiang: A Must-Visit Route!

Who says Xinjiang is only beautiful in autumn? Early July in Ili is the true hidden gem! This summer, skip the crowded spots and explore this off-the-beaten-path route that showcases Ili's most healing grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and scenic roads. Every morning feels like waking up to a Windows desktop wallpaper! 🚗 Highlights of the Itinerary: ✔️ Yizhao Highway "Little Duku"—Drive through a painting ✔️ Xiata Ancient Trail Hiking—Encounter glaciers and wildflowers ✔️ Kurdening Secret Land—Less crowded and more ethereal than Nalati ✔️ Tangbula Scenic Corridor—Free and breathtaking ✔️ Bayinbuluk Sunset—Nine bends and eighteen turns, truly stunning ✨ Detailed Itinerary: Day 1: Yining → Zhaosu ▪️ Drive along Yizhao Highway through Baishi Peak, where wild lilies bloom in early July! ▪️ Zhaosu's canola flowers are a must-see in July (plan for the blooming season in advance). Day 2: Zhaosu → Xiata → Tekes ▪️ Start your light hike in Xiata early! The snow-capped mountains are clearer in the afternoon. 🏔️ ▪️ Tekes' night view from a drone is a perfect match (DM me for the reporting guide). Day 3: Tekes → Kurdening → Xinyuan ▪️ Kurdening's wild apple blossoms are in full bloom in July, and horseback riding into the valley is highly cost-effective. 🐎 ▪️ Stop at the Kababay Peak viewing platform! Day 4: Xinyuan → Tangbula → Nalati ▪️ Tangbula is free! The roadside grasslands in the Bee Town area are better than paid scenic spots. ▪️ Once the middle section of the Duku Highway opens, travel time can be significantly reduced. Day 5: Bayinbuluk Day Tour ▪️ Enter the park before 3 PM to catch the sunset. 🌅 ▪️ Save this guide for Swan Lake + Nine Bends photography tips! 💡 Tips from the Travel Planner: ✅ July offers a double romance of lavender and canola flowers (consider extending your trip by 2 days). ✅ Xinjiang has large temperature differences; white dresses + windbreakers make for the best photos. 📌 Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Is this suitable for elderly and children? A: The itinerary can be adjusted to 3 hours of driving per day + light hiking (DM me for the family-friendly version). 👉🏻 Follow me to unlock more hidden Xinjiang adventures! 👉🏻 Leave a comment with [number of people + dates] to get a PDF of this route! (P.S.: Customized itineraries come with an exclusive photography location map! 📷)