Yili, located in northwest Xinjiang, is known as the "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall." With its mild climate, abundant rainfall, vast grasslands, and breathtaking flower seas, it is one of Xinjiang's most scenic natural regions. In 2026, Yili's tourism infrastructure continued to improve, establishing it as a core destination for tourism in Xinjiang.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of Nalati and Kalajun Grasslands in Ili, helping you fully experience the stunning landscapes of the Ili River Valley.
I. Overview of Ili
The Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture is located in northwestern Xinjiang, covering an area of approximately 27 square kilometers, making it the largest prefecture in Xinjiang. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and opening westward, the Ili River Valley receives moist air from the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in a mild climate and lush vegetation. It is one of the most fertile regions in Xinjiang.
Best time to visit Ili5 to 10Wildflowers bloom from 5 to 6, grasslands turn green from 7 to 8, and autumn scenery captivates from 9 to 10. Winter temperatures are lower, but you can enjoy snowscapes and skiing.
II. Nalati Grassland
Park Overview
Nalati Grassland is one of the world's four major grasslands, located in Xinyuan County, Ili Prefecture. It covers approximately 960 square kilometers. The grassland consists of two sections: the River Valley Grassland, which features gentle terrain, and the Sky Grassland, situated on a hillside with expansive views.
The best time to visit Nalati Grassland is from 6 to 9. During this period, the grasslands are lush green, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and the weather is pleasant.
Tickets & Transportation
In 2026, Nalati Grassland tickets cost 95 CNY per person, and shuttle bus fares are 40 CNY per person. The scenic area is open from approximately 8:30 to 19:00.
Depart from Yining City and head east along G218 National Highway for approximately 270 kilometers, with a driving time of 4 hours. You can drive yourself or hire a private car to reach the destination.
Itinerary
River Valley Grassland:Take the shuttle bus into the valley grassland and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Experience Kazakh culture with horseback riding and archery. Visit duration: approximately 2 hours.
Sky Prairie:Take the shuttle bus to Sky Meadow along winding mountain roads with spectacular views. The meadow offers an open vista, providing panoramic sightlines of snow-capped mountains and river valleys. Tour duration: approximately 2 hours.
Kazakh Ethnic Cultural Park:Experience traditional Kazakh life: enjoy milk tea and hand-grabbed mutton, and watch horse racing and eagle-catching events.
Accommodation & Dining
Nalati Town offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to grassland homestays. Book in advance during peak season.
The cuisine features Kazakh specialties. Must-try dishes include milk tea, hand-grabbed meat, naan bread, and yogurt. Restaurant prices in town are moderate.
III. Kalajun Grassland
Park Overview
Kalaqun Grassland is located in Tekes County, Ili Prefecture, covering approximately 2848 square kilometers. It is one of Xinjiang's largest grasslands. Known as the "Human Body Grassland," Kalaqun features rolling hills that resemble human curves with elegant lines, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Kalajun Grassland is from 6 to 8. During this period, the grasslands are lush green, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is pleasant.
Tickets & Transportation
The 2026 ticket price for Kalajun Grassland is 80 CNY per person, and the shuttle bus fee is 90 CNY per person. The scenic area opens from 8:30 to 19:00.
Depart from Yining City and head south on G577 Highway for approximately 280 km, taking about 4.5 hours. You can drive yourself or hire a car.
Itinerary
East Karajun:Featuring Flower Terrace and Falcon Terrace as key attractions. In summer, the Flower Terrace is covered with colorful wildflowers, while the Falcon Terrace offers the best panoramic views of the grassland. Visit duration: approximately 3 hours.
West KalajunFeaturing the Gasa Gan Grassland and Kokesu Grand Canyon as its core attractions. The majestic Kokesu Grand Canyon offers a classic photo spot at Crocodile Bay. Estimated visit duration: 3 hours.
Teksu Bagua City:The county seat of Tekes is the world's only Bagua City, featuring a street layout shaped like the I Ching trigrams. Visitors can explore and tour the area.
Accommodation & Dining
Tekes County offers a wide range of affordable accommodations. Stay in traditional yurts on the grasslands to experience nomadic life.
Catering features Kazakh and Uyghur specialties at affordable prices.
IV. Other Attractions in Ili
Sayram Lake:The highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, featuring crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Located approximately 150 kilometers from Yining City, with a driving time of 2.5 hours.
Lavender of Huocheng:From 6 to 7, Huocheng County's lavender fields are in full bloom, making it China's largest lavender cultivation base. Located approximately 70 kilometers from Yining City, it is about 1 hours away by car.
Zhosu Rapeseed Flowers:From 7 to 8, Suoxu County's rapeseed flowers bloom in full glory, creating a stunning contrast between golden fields and snow-capped mountains. Located approximately 270 km from Yining City, the drive takes about 4 hours.
Xiate Ancient Trail:The Xiata Ancient Trail is a key route of the ancient Silk Road, featuring majestic snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and forests. It is approximately 70 kilometers from Zhaosu County, with a driving time of about 1.5 hours.
V. Yili Cuisine
Yili cuisine blends the distinctive flavors of Kazakh, Uyghur, Hui, and other ethnic groups:
Hand-grabbed meat:Kazakh traditional cuisine: tender lamb with authentic, pure flavors.
Milk tea:Kazakh milk tea is rich and mellow; it can be enjoyed with kurut (dried yogurt) or nan bread.
Smoked Horse MeatKazakh specialty: smoked horse meat with a unique flavor.
Yili Horse IntestinesA Yili specialty snack made with horse meat and rendered horse fat.
Naan:A traditional staple of the Uyghur people, available in a wide variety and served with numerous dishes.
6. Practical Tips
Sun protection:UV radiation in Ili is intense; protect yourself. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are essential.
Warmth:It's windy on the grasslands; bring a jacket even in summer. Expect large temperature swings between day and night—pack a windbreaker.
Mosquito Repellent:The grasslands have many mosquitoes. Bring mosquito repellent.
Respect local customs:Ili is a region where the Kazakh people live in large numbers; please respect local customs. Remove your shoes before entering a yurt and avoid touching herders' belongings.
Cash:Mobile payments may be limited in remote areas; please carry some cash.
7. Recommended Itinerary
3-Day Express Tour:Day 1: Yining → Sayram Lake → Huocheng; Day 2: Yining → Nalati Grassland; Day 3: Nalati → Kalajun Grassland → Tekes.
5-Day In-Depth Tour:Adds attractions like Zhaosu Rapeseed Flowers and Xiata Ancient Trail to the 3-day itinerary for a more relaxed pace.
8. Summary
Yili is one of Xinjiang's most breathtaking natural landscapes, with Nalati and Kalajun grasslands as its core attractions. Plan your itinerary in advance, choose the right time, and prepare thoroughly for a wonderful grassland journey in Yili. In 2026, Yili's tourism services continue to improve, making it an ideal year to explore the Ili River Valley.
