Administrative Division: 1 autonomous county (Qapqal Xibe); 7 counties (Gulja, Korgas, Tokkuztara, Kvnes, Monglkvre, Tekes, Nilka,); 2 county-level cities (Gulja, Kuytun) ; 2 regions (Qoqek, Altay)
Xinjiang Sayram Lake | Xinjiang Nalati Grassland | Guozigou Valley |
When to visit Ili?
The prefecture of Ili enjoys a cool, temperate, semi-arid, continental climate. Owing to the vast expanse of land, there are also microclimate features in different regions. Generally, summers here are short and the winters, long. The temperature varies greatly between day and night. The temperature in spring rises rapidly but unstably, while the autumn temperatures drop rapidly. Summer and autumn are the best time. The pastures are verdant. Melons and fruits are ripe. Notable is the sunset in Ili River. It is the favorite of many photographers.
How to reach Ili?
Transportation in Ili is very convenient. There are highways connecting Yining, the political and economic center of Ili, with Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, and with the surrounding prefecture-level cities, which include Shihezi, Bortala and counties under the administration of Ili. In addition, Yining Airport operates daily flights to Urumqi.Yining Airport is only 5 kilometers from downtown Gulja City, operating flights to Urumqi and Kashgar.
Ili Travel Tips
Local Highlights:There are 41 ethnic groups living in Ili. Minority populations account for approximately 54.8% to the prefecture's total. Kazak is the largest ethnic minority living in this prefecture, and the Kazaks are hospitable. Visitors should be sure to see their traditional food and costumes. The Kazaks are the largest minority ethnic group. They originated from ancient nomadic tribes and rely mainly on animal husbandry. Kazak culture is famous for its grassland characteristics. The traditional Akens Antiphonal Singing Assembly,a Grand Folk Art Gathering, and the Girl Chasing Festival are unique cultural practices in the Kazak culture.
Shopping in Ili: Special Local Products are lavender, black currant.