On the way to Keketuohai, you will pass Keke Suli and Yileimu Lake in sequence. Both are located within Fuyun County, not far from Keketuohai Town. While many treat them as convenient stops along the route, each offers its own unique sights worth exploring.
Kesusuli is a wetland of reed marshes, where the water surface is divided into small patches by reeds and teems with birds. Yileimu Lake, in contrast, is a mountain lake surrounded by grassy slopes and rocks, offering a more open view.
1. Keksuli: Reeds and Birds
Kokosuli lies between Fuyun County and Keketuohai Town, a wetland fed by natural springs. Tall reeds tower over visitors; the water is calm, with flocks of birds rising and falling at dawn and dusk.
The trail takes about 40 minutes to complete. The reeds are densest in summer and take on a different texture once they turn yellow in autumn. Mosquitoes are common in summer, so bring long sleeves and insect repellent.
II. Yileimu Lake: A Mountain Water Surface
Lake Yileimu is located near Keketuohai Town, an upstream section of the Irtysh River surrounded by mountains and grassy slopes. The lakeside road offers excellent views and is ideal for stopping to admire the scenery, but swimming is not recommended.
The water color shifts noticeably with the weather: gray on overcast days and deep blue on sunny ones. At dusk, when the wind dies down, the surface reflects the silhouette of the opposite shore.
- Location: All within Fuyun County, along the route to Keketuohai.
- Keksuli: Boardwalk takes 40 minutes; reeds are dense and mosquitoes are abundant in summer.
- Lake Yileimu: Primarily a roadside scenic stop; stay 30 to 40 minutes.
- Best season: 6 to 9, autumn colors begin in late 9.
3. How to connect with Keketuohai
The most efficient route starts from Fuyun County, proceeds to Keksuli, continues to Keketuohai Town, and finally enters the scenic area. Visiting God Bell Mountain and Ertix Grand Canyon within the Keketuohai Scenic Area requires half a day to one day; placing the two lakes along the entry and exit routes saves the most time.
From Altay city center, the drive takes about three hours and passes through grasslands and river valleys. In winter, this route accumulates snow; it's safer to travel after the roads have been cleared.
IV. Relationship Between Keke Tuo Hai Scenic Area and the Two Lakes
The Keketuohai Scenic Area centers on the Ertix Grand Canyon and God's Bell Mountain, requiring tickets and shuttle bus access. In contrast, Kokesuli and Yileimu Lake are more like free roadside viewpoints with flexible stop durations.
A recommended itinerary: depart from Fuyun County in the morning, walk the boardwalk at Kokesuli, have lunch in Keketuohai Town, enter the scenic area in the afternoon, and stop briefly by Ilerimu Lake on your way back in the evening. This schedule captures soft morning light transitioning to golden-hour side lighting, ensuring both lakes look their best.
Hiking trails in the scenic area vary in length. Visitors with average fitness can choose a shorter route, as the canyon's layered features are already visible near the entrance.
Accommodations in Fuyun County offer better conditions and more affordable prices than those in the towns. The Ertix River flows alongside the county; in the evening, you can walk along its banks to watch locals fishing and strolling.
This route is often combined with Altay and Burqin to form a northern itinerary. SeeAltay Route; For the detailed itinerary of Keketuohai Scenic Area, seeThings to do in Keketuohai。
This area has many mosquitoes in summer; long sleeves and pants are more practical than short sleeves. Mist often covers the water early in the morning, making it a comfortable time for photography, but you'll need to wake up early. Arrive at the boardwalk before 8:00 AM.
Fuel and supply stations are scarce along the route. Fuyun County is the primary hub for refueling and shopping; ensure you top up on water and non-perishable food before entering the mountains. Local cuisine features skewered meats and dairy products.Lamb chops; Customize the northern route by season, available atSubmit Custom Itinerary RequestDescription.
Neither spot requires a long stay; both are perfect pit stops along the way. Koko-Nur experiences significant seasonal variations: winter offers snowscapes and skiing, while summer features canyons and river valleys. For the full Altay itinerary, see below.Altay RouteWinter gameplay availableKeketuohai Winter Itinerary。
