Ili River Valley Xinjiang Guide 2026: Lavender Fields, Kazakh Nomads & Spring Flowers
Journey to the Ili River Valley in western Xinjiang, a land of lavender fields, wild tulip meadows, and Kazakh nomadic culture that feels more Central Asian than Chinese. This 2026 guide covers the stunning Sayram Lake, the lavender plantations of Huocheng, the grasslands of Nalati and Kalajun, Kazakh yurt experiences, Ili's unique Uyghur-Kazakh fusion cuisine, and practical advice for reaching and exploring this extraordinary valley that the travel world is only beginning to discover.
