10-Day Xinjiang Leisure Private Tour for Seniors: Discover Sayram Lake, Ili Grasslands & Tianshan Mountains

Welcome to Xinjiang!

Upon arrival at Urumqi Tianshan International Airport, your private driver will meet you and transfer you to your city hotel.

Enjoy a relaxing evening at your own pace and prepare for your Xinjiang adventure.

Distance: Approx. 25 km
Driving Time: Around 40 minutes

Accommodation: Urumqi

After breakfast, head to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (Tianchi Lake), one of Xinjiang's most famous natural wonders.

Located in the Tianshan Mountains and backed by the magnificent Bogda Peak, Tianchi is a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by forests and snow-covered mountains. Explore highlights including:
- Queen Mother's Yaochi
- Minor Heavenly Lake
- Magic Needle viewpoint

Enjoy panoramic views of the lake, mountains, and forests before returning to Urumqi.

In the evening, visit Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, one of the largest Islamic-style markets in Central Asia. Stroll through colorful streets, browse local handicrafts, and taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine.

Distance: Approx. 180 km (round trip)
Driving Time: Around 3 hours

Accommodation: Urumqi

Today, travel west to explore the spectacular Dushanzi Grand Canyon.

Created by thousands of years of erosion from the Kuytun River, this dramatic canyon features layered cliffs, deep valleys, and unique rock textures. The wide-open views and changing colors make it a favorite destination for photography.

After sightseeing, continue to Kuytun for overnight stay.

Distance: Approx. 320 km
Driving Time: Around 4 hours

Accommodation: Kuytun

Today's highlight is the legendary Sayram Lake, known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic.”

Located in the western Tianshan Mountains, Sayram Lake is the largest alpine cold-water lake in Xinjiang. Surrounded by mountains and grasslands, the lake features crystal-clear blue water and breathtaking scenery.

Enjoy a scenic drive around the lake, stop at beautiful viewpoints, and take time to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of this high-altitude paradise.

Distance: Approx. 320 km
Driving Time: Around 4 hours

Accommodation: Near Sayram Lake

Wake up to the beautiful morning scenery of Sayram Lake before continuing south.

Drive through Guozigou Valley and stop at the famous Guozigou Bridge, an impressive engineering landmark surrounded by mountains, forests, and valleys.

Continue to Tekes Bagua City, the only complete Bagua-pattern city in China. The streets are designed according to the ancient Chinese Bagua system, creating a unique circular urban layout.

Enjoy a walk through the city center and experience the charming atmosphere of this special town.

Distance: Approx. 270 km
Driving Time: Around 3.5 hours

Accommodation: Tekes

Today, explore the magnificent Kalajun Grassland, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.

Kalajun is famous for its rolling grasslands, snow-covered mountain views, spruce forests, and unique "Human Body Grassland" landscape formed by gentle curves of the hills.

Explore two major areas:
- Kalajun Grassland – endless meadows with panoramic mountain views
- Kuokesu Grand Canyon – dramatic valleys and unique geological scenery

Return to Tekes after sightseeing.

Distance: Approx. 80 km (round trip)
Driving Time: Around 2 hours

Accommodation: Tekes

Continue your journey to Kuerdening Scenic Area, a hidden natural treasure in the Tianshan Mountains.

As a national nature reserve, Kuerdening is famous for its untouched ecosystem and pristine mountain scenery. The area is covered with ancient spruce forests, peaceful mountain valleys, crystal-clear streams, wide alpine grasslands, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, offering a quiet and immersive experience in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains.

Compared with busier tourist destinations, Kuerdening offers a quieter experience surrounded by pristine nature.

After sightseeing, cross mountain passes and continue to Narat Town.

Distance: Approx. 240 km
Driving Time: Around 5 hours

Accommodation: Narat Town

Today, visit the famous Narat Grassland via the Sky Grassland Route.

Located at a higher altitude, the Air Grassland offers some of the best panoramic views in the Ili Valley. Vast green meadows stretch toward the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains, while horses and livestock roam freely across the landscape.

Experience the classic scenery of Xinjiang's alpine grasslands and enjoy the peaceful beauty of traditional pastoral life.

Return to Narat Town after sightseeing.

Accommodation: Narat Town

After breakfast, drive west to Yining, the cultural heart of the Ili region and an important city along the ancient Silk Road.

In the afternoon, explore the charming Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area, a historic neighborhood known for its traditional blue Uyghur-style houses, colorful streets, horse-drawn carriages, and authentic local atmosphere. Walking through the old lanes, you can experience the daily life, architecture, and cultural traditions of the local community.

Continue to Six-Star Street, a unique historic district famous for its distinctive hexagonal layout, vibrant buildings, traditional courtyards, and small local shops. Take a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, enjoy photography, and experience the multicultural charm of Yining.

Distance: Approx. 260 km
Driving Time: Around 4 hours

Accommodation: Yining

After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in Yining at your own pace. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to take a relaxing walk, enjoy a final local meal, or purchase some last-minute souvenirs before leaving Xinjiang.

At the arranged time, your private driver will transfer you to Yining Airport for your departure flight. We will make sure you arrive at the airport comfortably and on time, providing a smooth and worry-free end to your Xinjiang adventure.

As your journey comes to an end, take with you unforgettable memories of the stunning Sayram Lake, vast Ili grasslands, spectacular Tianshan Mountains, and the rich cultures you discovered along the way.

Distance: Approx. 7 km
Driving Time: Around 15 minutes