Sayram Lake9.0
Fall Viewing
[Sayram Lake introduction] Sayram Lake is located at the southwestern end of Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang, at the northern foot of the…
Sayram Lake, Bole, Bortala, China
From SEK 142
Bortala Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com
Bortala
Trending in Bortala
You must come to Sayram Lake for sunrise@Sayram Lake
Slow-travel guide to circling Sayram Lake in fall@Sayram Lake
Newlyweds enjoy lifetime free admission to Sayram Lake@Sayram Lake
Warm up and recharge at Wujiang Hot Spring City, Xinjiang@Wujiang Hot Spring City
Ebinur Lake: A Salt Lake in Western Junggar Basin@Ebinur Lake
About Bortala
1℃
1°Overcast
2° / -3°
- 10/27Tomorrow
Clear4° / -3° - 10/28WedClear7° / -2°
- 10/29Thu
Cloudy11° / 0° - 10/30FriClear9° / 0°
- 10/31SatClear8° / -1°
- 11/1SunClear0° / 0°
Local currency
CNY
Must-visit attractions in Bortala
Looking for things to do in Bortala? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
Must-try food in Bortala
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Bortala dishes and foodie spots.
Quick bites
Bakery
Hotpot
Recent events and experiences in Bortala
Bortala itinerary ideas
Traveller photos and experiences
Sayram Lake in Winter | Blue Ice Wonderland, worth the shivering cold
Sayram Lake in winter is not just about seeing snow. The alpine lake at an altitude of over 2,000 meters freezes into a deep blue. Ice ridges pile up on the shore like ocean waves, ice bubbles look like a frozen starry sky, and swans swim among the floating ice. Every snapshot feels like stepping into a chilly fairy tale. 📍Location Sayram Lake Scenic Area, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang ❄️Best time to visit · Late Dec–Feb: Blue ice and ice bubbles are most stable, with thick ice and high clarity. · Dec–early Jan, Mar–Apr: Ice ridges are common; broken ice pushed ashore by the wind looks like blue crystal waves. · 10:00 AM–2:00 PM: The ice looks bluest under sunlight; 4:00 PM–6:00 PM: Best for photographing ice ridges and sunsets. 🎫Admission & transport · Off-season admission is about CNY 35/person, and the self-drive package is about CNY 110/vehicle, valid for 48 hours. Please refer to the latest official announcements from the scenic area. · Self-driving requires advance reservation via official channels. There are no gas stations inside the scenic area, so be sure to fill up before entering. · Non-drivers can take the shuttle bus, but winter schedules and stops may change, so it is best to confirm before departure. · The lake loop is about 90 km. We recommend entering through the East Gate and exiting through the South Gate, traveling counter-clockwise for better lighting. 🧊Must-see wonders 1. Blue ice: Best in Jan–Feb. The ice surface around Dianjiangtai and Keleyongzhu is clean and glows deep blue in the sunlight. 2. Ice bubbles: Mostly appear from Jan–Mar. It is easy to photograph "bubbles under the ice" near Keleyongzhu and Qinshuitan. 3. Ice ridges: More common at Moon Bay, Qingshuitan, and Shilichangdi. Evening light is best. 4. Swans: You may still see swans at Qinshuitan and Keleyongzhu in winter, but please do not feed them and keep your distance.
Sayram Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic
Travel to Xinjiang to experience the blue of Sayram Lake. This is the last place reached by the warm, moist air currents from the Atlantic. The lake water is a pure, transparent blue. Snow-capped mountains, grasslands, wildflowers, lakes, and swans—all the elements of romance come together here. 🌊 About the scenery The lake's water shifts through different shades of blue depending on the light. When calm, the surface acts like a giant mirror, perfectly reflecting the clouds and distant snow-capped mountains. Along the lake, you'll find wildflowers covering the hills, lush alpine grasslands, and dense forests of straight Schrenk's spruces. If you're lucky, you might spot wild swans swimming or flying over the lake—a free and healing sight. Standing on a high hillside, with the snow-capped mountains as a backdrop and the lake spread out before you, you'll feel completely surrounded by the vastness as the wind brushes across the grass. 🚗 How to explore ✅ Driving around the lake: Highly recommended! You can drive your own vehicle into the scenic area. The loop around the lake is about 90 km, allowing you to stop whenever you like—if you see beautiful scenery, just pull over and take photos. Must-visit spots: ▪️Guozigou Viewing Platform: Overlook Sayram Lake with the snow-capped mountains and lake in one frame ▪️Kele Yongzhu: A sea of flowers by the lake, perfect for photos, with a high chance of spotting swans ▪️Songshutou: High alpine meadows and spruce forests with a panoramic view of Sayram Lake ⏰ Best time to visit June–July is the most beautiful time to visit Sayram Lake, when the lakeside grasslands are covered in wildflowers and lush green grass. In May, you can watch the ice and snow melt and see the blue ice on the lake. After August, the flowers and grass slowly fade, but the area is quieter and less crowded. ⚠️ Even in midsummer, it is windy and cool by the lake, so be sure to bring a warm jacket. The UV rays are extremely strong, so a sun hat and sunglasses are essential. 💡 Practical tips 1. The temperature difference between day and night is significant. Wear short sleeves during the day, but you will need a windbreaker/light down jacket in the evening. 2. Please do not step into the wetland grasslands by the lake; help protect the grassland ecosystem. 3. The lake is perfect for photos; white or red long dresses create a wonderful atmosphere. 4. Try to reserve at least half a day to drive around the lake. Don't just rush through—taking your time is the best way to experience Sayram Lake. The wind stops at the mountains, and the boat rests at the shore. At Sayram Lake, watch the lake, the clouds, and the snow-capped mountains, and let this vast expanse of blue take away all your worries.
Don't stress about what to wear for Sayram Lake — you don't need most of that stuff at all
People told me the lakeshore is unbearably cold in autumn, so I packed 2 thick down jackets plus thermal underwear. In practice I was sweating while taking photos by the lake during the day, and carrying the bulky jackets left my shoulders sore. The truly cold time is at dusk while waiting for sunset, when the wind really bites your face, but a windbreaker plus a fleece layer is more than enough. 🌤 Recent weather Daytime temperatures are 10–20°C, warm in the sun, dropping below 5°C at night. The lakeshore is windy, so the felt temperature can be several degrees lower. This season can bring the first snow; mountain weather changes fast. Don’t just look at the forecasted temperature — it feels colder by the lake. 👔 What to wear ❶ A quick-dry long-sleeve base layer. Avoid pure cotton — sweat clings to it and the wind makes you chilled ❷ A fleece as a mid layer — main warmth for morning and evening ❸ A windproof shell or a light down jacket as an outer layer — the lakeside wind is strong ❹ Long pants; if you get cold, bring lightweight thermal leggings ❺ Non-slip, waterproof sneakers or short boots — early-morning grass can be wet with dew and your feet will get cold ❻ Hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, lip balm. Choose a hat that can be tied on 📸 Best spots for photos ❶ Moon Bay: the first stop after entering from the east gate. In the early morning the lake usually has thin mist, with a winding shoreline and snow-capped mountain reflections. Go early for fewer people and better shots ❷ Lakeside Beach: crystal-clear water, grass turning yellow in autumn. The blue lake with golden meadows makes great photos, and if you're lucky you might see swans ❸ Dianjiang Platform: hike to the top for a 360-degree view of the whole lake. At sunset the water turns a soda-orange color ❹ Kele Yongzhu: the lake's flowing-water area where swans gather. In soft morning light the water is as clear as glass ❺ Songshutou: a hike to the top gives panoramic lake views and a view of the Guozi Gully Bridge — the open vista makes you not want to leave 🎒 Packing tips ⭕️ Insulated water bottle — a sip of hot water by the lake is comforting ⭕️ Power bank — some areas have no signal, save maps offline beforehand ⭕️ Energy bars and chocolate — few supply points on the lakeside road ⭕️ A small amount of cash — signal is unstable in parts of the park ⭕️ Foldable umbrella or raincoat — a raincoat is more practical because the lakeside wind can wreck an umbrella ⚠️ A few practical tips 👉 The lakeside speed limit is 30–40 km/h, and there are several average-speed camera sections. Don't speed. Parking is only allowed at viewing platforms 👉 Do not climb over the barbed wire. It's winter pasture for local herders, and you will be fined if you trespass 👉 The lake water is extremely cold, so do not go in. Do not feed the wild swans 👉 There are no gas stations along the lakeside road. Fill up in Bole or Yining before entering the scenic area 👉 There are few food and supply options inside the park, so bring drinking water and energy bars in advance
Left speechless by the beauty of the Changchun Garden Hotel
Must visit in spring and summer, and in autumn and winter too. Seriously, it is hard not to love it.... 🏖️ No need to pretend to be on vacation, my heart is already wandering Walking into the Garden Hotel 🏨 is like stepping into an exotic vibe even richer than I imagined. Just as you would imagine, it could be Thailand, it could be Morocco; it could be the Mediterranean, or even Sayram Lake 🌊.... Standing on the second floor looking down, the entire atrium is like an exquisite painting 🖼️ Carved arches, gilded chandeliers, green leaves, and white walls 🌴 🪔 Light kisses the blue-green water Sparkling like a pool scattered with crushed diamonds 💎 Put on some exotic-style clothing 🥻 and order a freshly ground coffee Even breathing becomes relaxed~ How can you not love it? Uncover this hidden gem in Changchun ✨ Surprises await both indoors and outdoors~ 📍 No. 1447 Chuangye Street, Luyuan District, Changchun 🏨 Garden Hotel
Yili is beautiful | But I honestly won't be back
To be honest, Yili's beauty is a total game-changer for those of us from the mainland. Sayram Lake is as blue as spilled jewels, Nalati's "sky grassland" is dotted with yurts and herds of livestock, and every bite of handmade ice cream on Six-Star Street is rich and creamy. It's no wonder people say, "You don't know the beauty of Xinjiang until you've been to Yili." But! Why, with all this beauty, do I never want to come back? It's not that the scenery isn't stunning; it's that the attractions are too spread out, and the barrier to entry for self-driving is too high. I've gathered three pages worth of pitfalls—a brutally honest 2026 guide. If you're planning a trip, you have to read this! First off: Just how beautiful is Yili? Sayram Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic The 90 km loop around the lake is full of photo ops, with snow-capped mountains reflected in the blue water, and you might even spot swans at Kele Yongzhu. Peak season admission is ¥70. Nalati | Sky Grassland The summer pasture sits at an altitude of 2,200 meters, with meadows like green carpets stretching to the foot of the snow-capped mountains, and smoke curling from Kazakh yurts. Admission + shuttle bus starts at ¥119. Yining Six-Star Street | A model of slow living Colorful houses paired with the sound of accordions, Gulandamu ice cream for ¥3 each, and street corners at dusk that feel like an old movie. ❌ The main reasons to reconsider: Why I won't be back ❌ Attractions are often 2–3 hours apart by car Nalati, Sayram Lake, and Zhaosu are all in different directions. Without a car, it's impossible to get around, and public transportation is practically non-existent. ❌ You need to book in advance to drive at Sayram Lake In 2026, self-driving entry must be booked through Trip.com. You need to register with your real name 3 days in advance. During peak season, spots sell out in seconds, and if you don't get one, you'll have to take the shuttle bus. ❌ Lavender is seasonal The blooming season is only from mid-June to early July. If you come at other times, you'll only see fields. Many people are misled by photos online and end up making a wasted trip. ✅ 2026 Ultimate guide to avoiding pitfalls | The right way to travel (tested and verified) [Transportation — The most important part!] Fly into Yining Airport. Chartering a car or carpooling is the most practical option. A 5-seater car costs about ¥800–1,200/day during peak season. Sayram Lake self-driving: Book 3 days in advance on Trip.com. The service fee for a 5-seater is ¥120/car. [Tickets — Buy in advance!] Sayram Lake admission is ¥70. Enter from the east and exit from the south, driving counter-clockwise around the lake. For Nalati, choose the Valley Grassland route for ¥119. It's less crowded and the scenery is just as good. [Itinerary] Day 1: Yining Six-Star Street > Kazanqi Day 2: Sayram Lake loop (one day) Day 3: Nalati Sky Grassland [Outfits & Photography] It's windy by the lake, so keep a windbreaker handy. A white dress + the blue lake makes for the best photos. The light is softest in the morning. [Food & Drink] Must-try: Oil-drenched meat noodles, rack meat, and handmade ice cream. Food inside the scenic areas is expensive, so eat before you enter. [Other practical tips] Xinjiang's schedule is two hours behind the mainland; it doesn't get dark until 10:00 PM. Book accommodation in Nalati one month in advance during peak season. Honest summary Yili is a treasure trove that packages grasslands, lakes, and snow-capped mountains all in one place. You'll understand at a glance what "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall" means. But the three major hurdles—travel distance, car rental, and booking—are really not friendly for those without a long vacation. Come at the end of June to see both the lavender and the sea of grassland flowers at once; it's the only way to make the trip worth the effort✨
Sayram Lake | A Xinjiang lake perfect for a road trip around the shore
📍Bortala · Sayram Lake When you arrive at Sayram Lake, you'll see the water has different layers of blue—clear and transparent in the shallows, and deep and rich in the depths. In the distance, you can see rolling snow-capped mountains, with cloud shadows falling on the lake surface. When the wind blows, ripples spread across the water. The images captured by a camera are still different from the feeling of seeing it with your own eyes. If you have the chance, come and see it for yourself. 💬Interaction: If you come to Sayram Lake, do you plan to drive slowly along the shore, or stop and find a spot to quietly enjoy the breeze?
Qitai Jiangbulake! Xinjiang's most low-key, healing mountain wilderness
To be honest, before coming to Xinjiang, I was focused entirely on popular spots like Kanas and Sayram Lake. No one recommended Jiangbulake at all. It was just a last-minute stop on my road trip, and I was pleasantly surprised! It’s not the kind of "Instagrammable" scenery that wows you at first glance, but the more you explore, the more comfortable and healing it feels. No crowds, no over-commercialization—just vast, pristine mountain wheat fields, clean clouds, and cool breezes. It’s perfect for slowing down and just chilling out. Forget the cookie-cutter templates you see everywhere online! This post is based on my actual, firsthand experience. If you’re planning to go, just follow this guide✅ 📍Quick take: Is Jiangbulake worth visiting? Many people wonder if it’s worth making a special trip. My answer is straightforward: It’s perfect for those who love slow travel, hate crowds, and enjoy road trips. It’s a completely different vibe from the vast grasslands of Yili. It’s a combination of high mountains, terraced wheat fields, and primitive forests. Two hundred thousand mu of dry mountain fields spread out along the slopes, creating a layered, undulating landscape. Especially on sunny days, when cloud shadows drift across the sea of wheat—standing at the top looking down, you instantly feel calm. It’s incredibly stress-relieving. If you want to avoid rushing between attractions or frantically checking off a list, and just want to enjoy the breeze and the view, this is the place for you. 🚗Transportation & tickets | Real advice from a local It’s about a 3-hour drive from Urumqi. The road conditions are great, it’s all highway, and it’s stress-free for beginner drivers. Key advice: You must drive your own car into the scenic area! The scenic loop is super long—over 50 km. If you take the shuttle bus, you can only get on and off at fixed stops, meaning you’ll miss out on so many unique, beautiful spots. It’s really not worth it. ✅Admission: 48 yuan/person (Great value! You can enter and exit multiple times within 2 days) ✅Self-drive vehicle entry fee: 100 yuan/vehicle (No limit on the number of passengers; it’s a great deal when split) ❌I don’t recommend just buying the shuttle bus ticket; it’s too restrictive. 💡Friendly reminder: There are no gas stations inside the scenic area. Make sure to fill up your tank before heading up—don't risk it! 🌾Sightseeing & photo ops | Avoid the tourist traps and enjoy it more this way Many online guides only recommend the wheat fields, but there’s more to Jiangbulake than that! Here is my recommended itinerary for a stress-free, reliable experience: 1. Mountain wheat sea road (the highlight of the whole trip) The entire loop is scenic, so there’s no need to crowd into popular viewing platforms. There are many temporary parking spots along the road; just find a quiet place to pull over, and you’ll get great photos. June–July features lush green wheat waves—fresh, gentle, and healing. From late August to September, the whole mountain turns yellow, creating a golden, textured landscape that’s full of autumn vibes. 2. Tianshan strange slope (don't think it's childish, the experience is unique) I thought it would be a lame, artificial attraction, but I ended up loving it! It looks like a downhill slope, but your car will roll uphill in neutral, and water flows upward—the visual contrast is amazing. You can rent a bike and cruise around slowly; it’s a lot of fun for both adults and kids. 3. Spruce forest trail (the best choice for cooling off and clearing your head) When you’re tired of the wheat fields, head into the forest. The temperature drops instantly, and it’s super cool. The dense Schrenk spruce trees, the small streams, and the meadows—the sound of the wind through the trees is incredibly healing. It’s very quiet here with few people, perfect for walking, daydreaming, or taking moody, atmospheric photos away from the crowds. 4. Hidden hillside flower fields No need to hunt for "Instagrammable" flower fields. In summer, you’ll find scattered wildflowers all over the hillsides along the loop. It’s natural and unforced, with more of a wild, mountain feel than artificial flower gardens. Just crouch down and snap a photo—it’ll look natural. 🗓My relaxing 2-day itinerary (not a "special forces" style trip) If you don’t want to rush back and forth in one day and want to truly relax, just follow this pace: Day 1: Depart from Urumqi → Arrive in Qitai for lunch at noon → Enter the scenic area in the afternoon to wander and see the wheat sea → Wait for the sunset in the evening → Stay in the scenic area The afternoon light is the softest, perfect for photos. In the evening, when the sunset hits the wheat fields, the whole mountain turns a warm gold—it’s truly mesmerizing. Staying in the mountains at night, the air is amazing, and it’s so quiet you can only hear the wind. Day 2: Wake up early to see the morning mist in the mountains → Experience the strange slope → Walk in the forest → Leisurely return trip The morning mist in the mountains is light and ethereal. There are very few people, and having the whole mountain to yourself feels amazing. 🏠Real experience with food and accommodation | No hype, just facts Most of the accommodation in the scenic area consists of wooden cabins and guesthouses. The advantage is that you’re surrounded by scenery as soon as you step outside, no need to rush back and forth, and it’s super quiet at night. Be sure to book in advance during peak season! If you arrive without a booking, you’ll likely only find expensive rooms left. Don’t worry about food. Local dishes like oil-fried meat with noodles (guoyourou banmian), big plate chicken (dapanji), and pilaf (shouzhua fan) come in huge portions. The taste is authentic, homemade Xinjiang style, and it’s great value—no need to worry about being overcharged. 💥Hidden tips & heartfelt advice (original insights) 1. The temperature difference in the mountains is extreme. Even in the hottest days of summer, it gets cool in the morning and evening. You must bring a light jacket; don’t try to tough it out in a tank top or short sleeves. 2. No need to crowd into the popular viewing platforms. Any spot along the loop offers a great view, with fewer people and cleaner scenery. 3. The UV rays are extremely strong! You can get sunburned even on cloudy days, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. 4. Don’t pack your itinerary too full. The essence of Jiangbulake is slowing down to enjoy the breeze and daydream. 5. If you get carsick, prepare medication in advance, as there are many winding mountain roads in the scenic area. ✨Final thoughts If Xinjiang’s popular lakes and grasslands are stunning blockbusters, then Jiangbulake is a gentle essay. It’s not noisy or flashy, and it doesn’t have excessive "influencer" filters—just the purest mountain wilderness, wheat fields, and fresh breeze. If you want to escape the crowds and quietly experience the gentle side of Xinjiang, I highly recommend coming here for 2 days.
Yili's Hidden Gems
Northern Xinjiang Yili · Niche Hidden Spots 📍G219 National Highway (Zhaosu Border Section | Alternative to Yizhao Highway) A hidden Tianshan scenic highway. Its biggest advantage over the Yizhao Highway: a longer open season, no sudden closures due to blizzards, accessible to vehicles larger than 7 seats, and the road conditions are smooth and easy to drive with fewer cliffside curves. Along the way, you'll see rolling grasslands, border river valleys, and distant views of Baishi Peak. There are far fewer people here than on the Yizhao Highway, and you can pull over to take photos at any time. It connects the Dulata Port and the entire Zhaosu area, avoiding crowded, popular routes. Perfect for road trippers who don't want to gamble on the Yizhao Highway being temporarily closed. 📍Hunnahai Town · Wulukungai Village A niche village in Zhaosu with many boutique homestays. The early morning is the highlight: morning mist rolls over the grasslands, and the distant, continuous snow-capped mountains emerge clearly. The mist, the village, the pastures, and the snow-capped mountains all in one frame create a legendary atmosphere. It is recommended to stay for one night and wake up early to catch the sunrise and morning mist; the photo opportunities are excellent. 📍Zhaosu Jade Lake · Aheyazi Valley (Petroglyphs) An alpine lake formed by glacial meltwater that changes color. Depending on the sunlight, it appears Tiffany blue or milky blue, with snow-capped mountains in the background. The entire Aheyazi Valley is more than just Jade Lake; ancient grassland petroglyphs are scattered along the hillsides, offering a niche cultural attraction. If you drive deep into the valley, you'll find lakes, streams, and alpine meadows along the way. A thorough visit can take up most of the day, and it is much less crowded than Xiata. 📍Kaxiajia'er Town · Aheyazi River Free! Located just downstream from Jade Lake, glacial rock flour gives the river its unique blue hue. We happened to go after the rain, and two currents converged—one milky white and one deep blue. It's perfect for photographing the blue river against the backdrop of the grasslands. The light is excellent at sunset, so don't miss it if you're passing by. The best part is that it's free, and it's great for drone photography. 📍Wetland Ancient Poplar Park (Nileke County) A quiet, hidden gem tucked away on the south bank of the Kashgar River. It features groves of century-old poplars with dense foliage. The autumn scenery is stunning, and there are very few tourists. You can often find wild ducks in the wetland river channels, and there are sea buckthorn and wild jujube trees along the banks. You can even feed ostriches. You can ride forest go-karts in the park, essentially having the whole forest to yourself. It's perfect for a slow, relaxing, family-friendly getaway. The overall atmosphere is laid-back and healing. 📍Qapqal Reservoir Free! A super magnificent alpine canyon reservoir that many Yili travel guides completely overlook. The lake is vast, flanked by reddish-brown canyon mountains, and the water is a deep, clear blue. The view is open and grand. No admission fee is required, and you can drive along the road around the lake. It's uncrowded and spectacular, making for very impressive photos. It is one of the few canyon water landscapes in Yili. 📍Yite Section (Rural road between Yining and Tekes) Not an official scenic spot, but rather the scenery along the way. From July to August, fields of golden wheat, sunflowers, and small patches of lavender spread out one after another, creating a strong pastoral atmosphere. There are many unnamed viewpoints along the road where you can pull over at any time to photograph the fields, the road, and the distant mountains. It's perfect for a quick stop while on the road. In September, you can also see golden wheat "Swiss rolls." 📍Kaisike Village A treasure of a village around Zhaosu, surrounded by large, flat wheat fields and sunflower fields. The terrain is open, and you can see the Tianshan Mountains in the distance. You can drive through the paths between the fields. It's not commercialized—just pure Yili rural field scenery, perfect for capturing healing pastoral images. 📍Wild Wolf Valley (Zhaosu, passing by along G219) A niche spot to check out while on the road. It's right on the roadside on the way to Zhaosu, so you don't need to go out of your way. The valley is open, the grasslands are rolling, and the rock formations are unique. A short stop for photos is enough; you can visit it as part of the entire G219 route. 📍Mutta'er Desert (Jinghe County) A very rare desert landscape on the Yili loop, perfect for relieving "grassland fatigue" after seeing so much green. It's uncrowded and lightly commercialized, offering three scenes in one place: sand dunes, poplars, and views of distant snow-capped mountains. You can go sand bashing, sandboarding, and watch the desert sunset. It's not far from Sayram Lake, so after finishing the main Yili route, you can take a detour to add a desert element to your trip. 📍Alashankou Port A first-class port on the China-Kazakhstan border and a hub of the Second Eurasian Land Bridge. You can see China-Europe freight trains passing through and the massive port architecture. From the observation deck, you can look out over the small town in Kazakhstan, and the border atmosphere is profound. It's very windy, so be sure to bring a windbreaker. It's a bit far from the main Yili loop, so it's better suited for a larger Bozhou loop trip and not recommended for a tight 7-day Yili small loop itinerary.
The beauty of Ulan Butong that even strong winds can't stop
Ran into a huge hailstorm in Hohhot ⚡, and then hit force 7 winds in Ulan Butong 💨. The car doors were almost impossible to open, and the car was shaking while we sat inside! Heard there would be massive traffic jams in Ulan Butong during the National Day holiday 🚗, so we made a quick retreat the day before. Here is my itinerary to share 👏 📅 Itinerary Sep 28: Arrived in Ulan Butong from Ulanqab Sep 29 Left at 4:30 AM for the Film and Television Base to watch the sunrise and sea of clouds ☁️. It was truly worth seeing! Massive layers of stratospheric clouds, breathtakingly beautiful 😭 Then drove all the way to Wucai Mountain. Since we went early, it wasn't crowded. However, drone flights were restricted there 🤔 (though I saw others flying theirs, so I didn't dare ask). Passed by Princess Lake 🦢. Heard the scenery was just average, so we decided to skip it to save parking time. Let's go! Next was Panlong Canyon 🏞️. You have to park outside and walk, ride a horse, or take an off-road vehicle to the bottom of the valley. The whole route is about 4–5 km. The horseback riding experience here is really good. Seeing others riding freely 🏇, we regretted not doing it halfway through. Since we were tired, we just flew the drone to see the panoramic view ✈️. Because the weather was just okay, we finished all the above in one morning. In the afternoon, we originally wanted to go to Huamugou and Hamaba, but after reading many guides saying they weren't great, we decided against it. In the evening, the clouds were too thick to see the sunset 🌅, so we just wandered around along the road and went back to the homestay to rest (after all, we woke up too early 😴). Sep 30 Second visit to the scenic area! We didn't arrive until noon this time, so we explored more thoroughly and discovered a big surprise we missed the first day—a lake that rivals Sayram Lake 💙. It's super beautiful! The lake reflects the blue sky, white clouds, and golden hills, and there was a horse grazing leisurely by the water 🐴. Every shot looks like a wallpaper 📸. Afterward, we set off for Jingpeng Town. The plan for the next day is to travel along Huanggangliang and the Dada-Re'a line~ 📌 Accommodation recommendation This time we stayed at the Haozeruili Hotel in Linxi County. The decor is modern, the soundproofing is good, and it's very convenient for going to the Dada line 🚗. 💡 Reflections It was cold yesterday, and today it's cold + super strong winds. I finally understand the true meaning of the online saying, "Force 7 winds, force 8 dust, I'm in Inner Mongolia" 😭. Why didn't we visit so many attractions in Ulan Butong? Because many spots require driving on dirt roads. Even though we were driving a Beijing SUV, I was afraid it would be difficult to drive 😅. Plus, looking at many photos, the scenery felt quite similar. Most importantly—the weather really determines everything! Some photos are really not postable without filters. Even on a sunny day, we didn't see the golden, lush grasslands and forests we expected. But honestly, lowering your expectations can actually lead to surprises ‼️💛 That little horse on the grassland was the most healing moment of this trip 🐴✨
National Day early-autumn Xinjiang self-drive | Pack Xinjiang's golden fairytale into a loop
Early autumn in Xinjiang is like a palette spilled by God ✨ The blue of Sayram Lake, the snow-capped peaks along the Duku Highway, the vastness of the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, and the golden white birch covering Kanas' hills. Drive this loop to see lakes, canyons, forests, and snow-capped mountains all in one trip. Head to Xinjiang for National Day and experience this golden romance ✅ Early-autumn Xinjiang self-drive loop plan (map points: Sayram Lake → Duku Highway → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Kanas) Route: Sayram Lake → Duku Highway → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Altay (Kanas, Guanyu Terrace, Hundred Flowers Garden, Kanas Bridge) · Day 1 Bortala · Sayram Lake Early-autumn lake surfaces are clear, the water a vivid blue, and the lakeshore grass tinged light gold. Drive around the lake to see the snow mountains reflected in the water, check out the lakeside road, and wait for the sunset. · Day 2 Duku Highway + Blue Heart Lake Experience four seasons in one day as grassland, forest, and snowy peaks alternate along the way. Blue Heart Lake sits among the mountains like a gem—perfect for photos. ⚠️ Early autumn on the Duku Highway can be very cold, so watch for temporary road closure notices. · Day 3 Karamay · Dushanzi Grand Canyon The canyon's rock walls are carved with gullies and ridges, majestic and vast—feel the earth's textures and watch the canyon at sunset. · Day 4–5 Altay region (Kanas) Kanas Lake, the scattered emeralds of the Altay Mountains. Climb the fish-watching platform for a panoramic view of the lake; stroll through the Hundred Flowers Garden and across Kanas Bridge, where golden birch forests ring the water. Early autumn turns Kanas into a tapestry of yellow and green—it's the pinnacle of Xinjiang's autumn scenery. ⚠️ Key precautions for early-autumn self-drives and National Day travel 1. Weather and clothing Late September–October in the Altay and Duku mountain areas has a large temperature swing, with daytime temperatures in the teens and nights around 0°C. A heavy down jacket, a waterproof shell, a hat, and gloves are essential. Dress in layers for easy adjustment. Mountain areas can see rain or snow at any time, so bring waterproof shoes. 2. Vehicles and road conditions The Duku Highway is prone to temporary traffic controls in early autumn. Check real-time road conditions before you set off. Mountain roads have many curves and strict speed limits—avoid driving at night. Give your vehicle a full check before departure and bring windshield washer fluid, a spare tire, and a tow rope. Prefer gasoline vehicles when possible, as charging stations are scarce. 3. Documents Carry your ID at all times. Some border areas require a border pass, so apply online in advance. 4. Accommodation & National Day tips National Day is peak season, so book accommodation in Kanas and Sayram Lake well in advance. Many scenic areas have few restaurants, so bring snacks and hot water in the car. 5. Other · Distances between scenic areas are vast, often hundreds of kilometers—plan driving times reasonably and avoid driving when fatigued · UV is still strong, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses · Respect local customs, no open fires in forested areas, and protect the environment
What people are saying about Bortala
Sayram Lake
It's the off-season now, so there aren't many people. However, there are so many shuttle buses that each bus stops at one attraction, and everyone gets off together to visit, then gets back on together to go to the next attraction, turning it into a small tour group. If you want to linger at a certain point, you don't want to keep the other passengers waiting, so you just rush through each attraction. However, there was a level 11 gale that day, so you really couldn't stay long. It was way too cold, and the wind was strong enough to blow you away.
文&秋Luquan Hot Spring Center
Just as I wanted, it has many small pools! The water is very clean, and there are many different water temperatures to choose from! The environment is beautiful, and it's great for taking photos! It's a great place to escape the summer heat!
新疆菲儿Guozigou Valley
Entering Guozigou, you feel like you are in a fairy tale wonderland, and you can't help but imagine. Leaving Sayram Lake, you climb up to the top of the pine tree, where you can see thousands of wounds and ravines, and the pine waves are breathtaking. The road twists and turns down, sometimes steep cliffs, sometimes like facing the abyss. The clouds and mountains send waves of pine waves, and the wild fruits bring wisps of fragrance. The gurgling springs come and go, and a wooden house and felt tent are hidden in the green leaves and floating on the green grass. It is a combination of danger and beauty, and reality and fantasy are intertwined.
JJ77Mutetal Desert Scenic Area
新开的景点，第一次见到沙漠，景色不错。景区内的atv和滑沙都挺好玩，从托托镇开车进去还能经过一片生态保护区，有很多胡杨，秋天应该也很漂亮。
jed***odThe Valleys of Exotic Rocks
Strange Stone Valley is filled with wind-eroded granite formations, each with its own unique shape, resembling a natural stone sculpture wonderland. Lacking extensive greenery for shade, the strong sunlight makes it a convenient spot for sightseeing; remember to bring sun and wind protection.
YoYo_9H7U5N1AKele Yongzhu
In Xinjiang's Sayram Lake, there is a wonderful landscape called Kele Yongzhu. "Kele" means "all springs" in Kazakh. This is the area where the undercurrent of the entire Sayram Lake is most concentrated. On the lakeside, countless springs continuously gush out clear spring water. They gush out from the lakeside gravel layer, like strings of pearls jumping and jumping on the colorful pebble lake bed, flashing charming light, and "Kele Yongzhu" is named after this. These spring waters are filtered through layers of gravel layers and meadows. The water is sweet and refreshing. You can pick up a handful and drink it directly, which makes people feel refreshed. In addition to the lively spring water, Kele Yongzhu is also a paradise for swans. Every spring and autumn, flocks of swans fly from Siberia to live and play here. The clear lake water reflects the elegant swans, who sometimes sing loudly, sometimes comb their feathers, and sometimes swim happily in the water, splashing layers of water. Tourists stood by the lake, quietly appreciating the scene and feeling the beauty of harmonious coexistence between man and nature. This is also a paradise for photography enthusiasts, whether it is the first light in the morning or the afterglow of the sunset in the evening, you can take beautiful photos here.
密码2013Songshutou
It is worth going. Standing on the top of Songshutou Mountain, you can see the panoramic view of Sailimu Lake on one side and overlook the Guozigou Bridge on the other side. It is great! It takes more than 900 steps to walk to the middle platform, and a total of 1962 steps to the top of the peak
M39***18Sayram Lake Command Platform
2. Sailimu Lake Dianjiangtai (Rating 5.4, Free) The nostalgic landmark where Genghis Khan was said to have inspected his troops: • Highlights: Standing on the high platform and overlooking, the magnificent Sailimu Lake and the vast grassland are in the same frame. The lake breeze seems to be able to trace back to the wars of thousands of years ago. The view is excellent and free, suitable for history fans or taking panoramic photos. • Shortcomings: Pure original ecological viewing platform, no supporting facilities (even no clear signs), it is recommended to drive and check in (with a trip around the lake), and it is not cost-effective to go alone. → Suitable for: Tourists who are obsessed with "history + vision" and need to bring their own imagination to check in.
枫原没有万叶Pattaya Holy Hot Spring
I'm dying of laughter! Apparently, it's called Pattaya because they actually created a Pattaya! Hahahaha! The hot spring next door had ridiculously long queues during Chinese New Year, so I went to Pattaya instead. It was still crowded, but luckily I arrived at noon and managed to get a soak. The environment was quite nice, and there were tons of kids. It's definitely a great choice for a family outing. Remember to wear your own swimming cap! Swimming caps are mandatory in the pool! Although it wasn't the kind of romantic hot spring I was hoping for, it was still a lot of fun!
臭屁丸子宝宝饼West Sea Grassland
Warning for taking your kids to visit the grassland twice! The healing power of Xihai Grassland is engraved into your DNA after one visit🌿 Who understands! I dragged my two "little beasts" to play crazy in Xihai Grassland for 3 days. After returning home, my kids kept saying "I want to go to that place with big lawns and stars" - as an old mother, I understand this feeling of being healed by nature. This place really deserves to be included in the list of parent-child travel ceilings! • The safety factor is full: there are no steep mountain roads, and large and gentle meadows are like green velvet carpets. Kids can run and jump happily, and old mothers can just sit in the wild flowers and watch them, without chasing them and shouting "slow down"! • Every shot is a fairy tale feeling: the mountains in the distance are as green as if they have been washed, and the small wild flowers nearby are purple, yellow, and white, dotted with the grass. The two kids are chasing butterflies. Any shot taken with the phone is a healing wallpaper. • The pace is slow to the bone: no need to rush the schedule! Being woken up by birds in the morning, drinking salty milk tea in the herdsmen's tent at noon, and watching the sunset dye the clouds orange in the evening, this sense of relaxation is the most luxurious gift for traveling with children. 3 things you must experience when traveling with children 1. Wild plan on the grassland Bring a bubble machine and a kite, put them on the lawn, the bubbles are shining in the sun, the kite flies higher than the windmill in the distance, and the screams of the two children chasing the bubbles are better than any nursery rhymes. When you are tired, spread a picnic mat, eat the herdsmen's freshly roasted mutton jerky, and watch the clouds in the sky slowly float. 2. Surprise encounter with small animals We were very lucky and encountered a group of lambs! They ran after the mother sheep with fur, and the children carefully touched their fur, their eyes were as bright as stars. The herdsman uncle also taught the children how to distinguish the gender of the lambs. This kind of knowledge outside the textbook is a hundred times more vivid than the picture book. 3. Whisper under the starry sky If the weather is good at night, you can see the Milky Way! Wrap the kids in a thick coat, lie on the grass and point at the stars, and tell them which one is the North Star. The elder brother suddenly said, "Mom, the stars here are brighter than those at home, because they are closer to us?" At that moment, I felt that all the hard work of rushing on the road was worth it. Tips from an old mother • Outfit: Be sure to bring a windproof coat for your baby! The temperature difference between morning and evening on the grassland is large. Wear short sleeves at noon and a coat in the evening. Choose light colors, and the photos will match the grassland. • Equipment: Bring a small folding chair (a magic weapon to free the waist), mosquito repellent stickers, wet wipes (the baby can wipe his hands in time after touching the lamb), and prepare a small first aid kit just in case. • Eating: You must try the pilaf and yogurt at the herdsman's house! The baby doesn't like sour food? Add some sugar, the brother ate two bowls in one breath, and the sister also took a spoon to learn from the herdsman uncle to "cheers". When we left, my sister held the wild flowers she picked on the grassland and refused to let go. My brother said, "Mom, can we bring a tent next time?" It turns out that children understand the goodness of this grassland better than we do. Xihai Grassland is not the kind of scenic spot where you can "check in and leave". It is the kind of place that people will remember and want to visit again. Next time, I will bring a book and take a good look at this grassland that slows down time while my child is having fun. (Secretly: When I sorted out the photos after I came back, I found that I took more than 100 photos of my child's smiling face. I couldn't bear to delete them even when the memory was full~)
旅行界的吃货王Bortala FAQ
Destinations near Bortala
