[2025 Hejing Attraction] Travel Guide for Gongnaisi Forest Park (Updated Apr)

🌄 “The world is so big, I want to go and see it.” This once-viral internet phrase expresses countless people's yearning for distant places. In March, there's a place that resembles a fairyland meticulously carved by nature: Ili, Xinjiang. It's like a stunning picture book slowly unfolding, each page filled with the romance and poetry of spring. Now, follow this comprehensive guide and embark on a dreamy spring journey to Ili! 🕙 Travel Time: In March, the temperature in Ili gradually warms up, the earth slowly awakens from its slumber, and everything begins to flourish. At this time, apricot blossoms are in their initial bloom, and the pink sea of flowers covering the mountains and plains contrasts with the emerald grasslands and snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Choose this time to travel, and you'll encounter Ili's most romantic spring. 🌸 🗺️ Itinerary 🎈 Day 1: Yining City - Apricot Blossom Valley - Xinyuan County Depart from Yining City in the morning and head to the renowned Apricot Blossom Valley. When you step into this sea of flowers, you'll feel as if you've entered a pink fairytale world. Apricot blossoms bloom freely across the mountains and plains, and as the breeze blows, petals fall like snow, creating a dreamlike scene. Here, you can take photos to your heart's content and capture this stunning spring scenery. 📸 In the afternoon, travel to Xinyuan County and experience the tranquility and beauty of this small town. Savor local specialties, such as succulent kebabs and delicious hand-pulled rice, taking your taste buds on a wonderful journey. 😋 🎈 Day 2: Xinyuan County - Nalati Grassland - Gongnaisi National Forest Park Head to Nalati Grassland in the morning. Although the grassland in March lacks the lushness of summer, it has its own unique charm. Tender green grass sprouts peek out from the soil, distant snow-capped mountains glisten under the sunlight, and flocks of cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the grassland, presenting a vibrant scene. 🐏 In the afternoon, visit Gongnaisi National Forest Park, stroll through the forest, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the tranquility and mystery of nature. With its clear streams and dense forests, it's the perfect place to relax and unwind. 🌳 🎈 Day 3: Gongnaisi National Forest Park - Yining City Continue exploring Gongnaisi National Forest Park in the morning, enjoying the natural scenery and getting up close with nature. Depart for Yining City at noon, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way to once again appreciate Ili's magnificent mountains and rivers. After returning to Yining City, you can explore local markets, such as Hanren Street, to buy ethnic souvenirs 🎁 and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere. ❗ Important Notes 💡 Pay attention to the weather forecast in advance. The temperature in Ili in March is changeable, with a large temperature difference between day and night. Remember to bring warm clothing, such as down jackets and thick coats. 🧥 💡 When visiting scenic areas like Apricot Blossom Valley, protect the environment, don't trample on flowers and plants, and be a responsible tourist. 🌺 💡 If driving, check your vehicle's condition in advance. Mountain roads have many curves and steep slopes, so pay attention to driving safety. 🚗 💡 Some scenic areas are at high altitudes, which may cause altitude sickness. Avoid strenuous exercise and maintain a positive attitude. Seek medical attention promptly if you feel unwell. 🏥 💡 Respect local customs. Ili is a multi-ethnic region, so be mindful of cultural differences to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings. 🙌 I hope this guide will help you have an unforgettable trip to Ili in March and fully enjoy the beauty and romance of spring. 💕 Pack your bags and set off to embrace that beautiful distant place!

In February, while most places are still in the grip of winter, Ili is a magical winter wonderland that attracts countless travelers. Perhaps you are drawn to this land by the song "Moonlit Night on the Ili River," with its poetic lyrics and melodious tune that paint a picture of a quiet and charming moonlit night in Ili. It makes you want to visit this southern paradise beyond the Great Wall and embark on a romantic journey of dancing with snow and embracing nature 🎉. Itinerary Overview Day 1: Yining City - Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area - Liuxing Street Day 2: Huocheng - Guozigou Bridge - Sayram Lake Day 3: Gongnaisi National Forest Park - Nalati Grassland (winter-only area) Daily Itinerary Day 1: Folk Exploration, Colorful Yining Arrive in Yining City in the morning and head to Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area. Entering here is like stepping into a blue fairy tale world, with blue and white Uyghur houses scattered around. Stroll through the streets and alleys to see traditional handicrafts, exquisite carpets, and colorful embroidery, and experience the rich folk customs 😃. The hospitable locals may invite you into their homes to enjoy sweet milk tea and crispy naan. In the afternoon, head to Liuxing Street, which has a unique hexagonal street layout. It is home to various architectural styles and many specialty shops selling ethnic clothing and snacks. Find a café, sit down with a cup of coffee ☕, and enjoy the street view outside the window while listening to the sound of the accordion. Day 2: Fragrance in Huocheng, Scenery at Sayram Lake After breakfast, head to Huocheng. Although it is not the season for lavender, you can visit the Lavender Museum to learn about the history of lavender cultivation and processing and buy some lavender products, such as essential oils and sachets, to accompany you on your journey 🧐. Then head to Guozigou Bridge, a magnificent bridge that spans the mountains like a giant dragon and looks even more spectacular against the snow. Stand on the viewing platform and look down at the valley, where the snow-covered mountains and forests form a stunning picture with the bridge, a perfect blend of architecture and nature. Arrive at Sayram Lake in the afternoon, which looks like a giant blue gem surrounded by snow and ice. Most of the lake is frozen, with cracks crisscrossing the ice, shining in the sunlight 🌟. Stroll along the lakeside, breathe in the cold, pure air, and admire the distant snow-capped mountains, the blue lake, and the white ice, as if you were in a fairyland. Day 3: Gallop on the Snowfield, Winter Charm of the Grassland After breakfast, head to Gongnaisi National Forest Park, a snow-covered land in February. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forest, listen to the crisp sound of bells, and enjoy the rime scenery along the way, with ice crystals hanging from the branches like a dream 😍. In the afternoon, head to Nalati Grassland, where the winter grassland has a unique charm, with snow covering the vast land and rivers partially frozen, forming a unique landscape. You can try snow tubing, snowmobiling, and other activities to release your passion on the grassland, or hike deep into the grassland to experience the tranquility of nature and end your trip to Ili on a perfect note 🎉. Travel Tips 1. The temperature in Ili is low in February, so be sure to bring a thick down jacket, warm gloves, scarf 🧣, hat, etc., to keep warm. 2. Some scenic spots are at high altitudes, so be prepared for altitude sickness and avoid strenuous exercise 🏃‍♂️ when you first arrive. 3. If you are driving, check the road conditions in advance, as some sections may be covered with snow and ice, so drive carefully 🚗. Ili, a land of ice and snow and legendary charm, awaits every traveler who yearns for the scenery beyond the Great Wall and a fairy tale journey, with the melodious tune of "Moonlit Night on the Ili River." In February, pack your bags and come here to start your Ili story ❄️.

"Our Xinjiang is a wonderful place, with pastures north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, the Gobi Desert turned into fertile fields, and melting snow irrigating farms..." This song, "Our Xinjiang is a Wonderful Place," depicts the magnificence and abundance of Xinjiang with a lively rhythm, and Yili, a dreamland in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains, is etched in people's hearts like a poem or painting. In February, when the spring chill is still in the air, Yili hides a unique winter charm. With a longing for the "Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall," I embarked on this heartwarming journey. 😃 🔵 Best time to visit In February, the temperature in Yili ranges from -10°C to 5°C. Although it's cold, the sky is as blue as a sapphire, and the sun is warm. At this time, the grasslands are covered with snow, like a white carpet in a fairy tale world. The surface of Sayram Lake is frozen, and the ice bubbles and blue ice are breathtaking. There are relatively few tourists, making it a great time to explore the pure beauty of Yili. ✨ 🔵 Itinerary D1: Yining - Kazanqi Folk Village → Liuxing Street → Yining Tianyuan International Hotel (overnight) Arrive in Yining in the morning and head to Kazanqi Folk Village. This place is full of Uyghur charm, with colorful houses scattered around. Walking through it feels like stepping into a fairy tale town. Take a carriage ride through the streets, listen to the clatter of hooves, admire the traditional houses, and interact with the hospitable residents to experience the rich folk culture. In the afternoon, head to Liuxing Street, a unique hexagonal street with various specialty shops and handicraft stalls. Try a handmade ice cream 🍨, rich in milk flavor, sweet on the tongue, and intoxicating. Stay overnight at Yining Tianyuan International Hotel, conveniently located and comfortable, to recharge for the journey. D2: Huocheng - Guozigou Bridge → Sayram Lake → Qingshuihe Town Hotel (overnight) Head to Guozigou Bridge in the morning. This majestic bridge spans the valley like a giant dragon, looking even more spectacular against the snow. Standing on the viewing platform, you can overlook the entire bridge and the surrounding snow-capped mountains and forests. The perfect blend of nature's wonders and human architectural marvels is breathtaking. Then head to Sayram Lake, where the lake surface is like a giant blue mirror, with layers of ice bubbles. The sunlight penetrates the ice, refracting colorful light. Walk along the lake, and the ice creaks underfoot, as if playing a winter symphony. Stay overnight at Qingshuihe Town Hotel, conveniently located for the next day's activities. D3: Gongnaisi National Forest Park → Return After breakfast, head to Gongnaisi National Forest Park. Although it's winter, the forest is decorated with snow, giving it a unique, tranquil beauty. Walk along the boardwalk, breathe in the cool, pure air, and occasionally see squirrels jumping on the branches, adding vitality to the quiet forest. Here, you can enjoy the fun of hiking in the snow forest and get close to nature. Then return with beautiful memories. 🔵 Transportation • By air: You can fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport and then transfer to Yining Airport. There are many flights, and the transfer is convenient. ✈️ • By train: There are trains from Urumqi to Yining, with picturesque scenery along the way. However, the journey is long, so you can choose an overnight train to save time and enjoy the scenery. 🚉 🔵 Accommodation • City center: Hotels in Yining City, such as Yining Tianyuan International Hotel, are close to attractions and shopping areas, making it easy to get around and quickly immerse yourself in local life. • Near attractions: Accommodations near Qingshuihe Town and Gongnaisi National Forest Park are suitable for resting after sightseeing, but some homestays are closed in winter. 🔵 Must-see attractions 📍 Kazanqi Folk Village (in front of colorful houses): Take photos with the colorful Uyghur houses as the background to capture the moment of folk customs. 📸 📍 Sayram Lake (Dianjiangtai): Stand on Dianjiangtai, overlooking the entire frozen lake and distant snow-capped mountains, and capture the breathtaking scenery. 📍 Guozigou Bridge (viewing platform): Take photos with the panoramic view of the bridge as the background, capturing the snow-capped mountains, forests, and bridge in one frame, leaving a beautiful image of Yili's most beautiful transportation architecture. 🈲 Tips: • February is cold, so be sure to bring a thick down jacket, scarf, gloves, warm hat, etc. 🧣, and take measures to keep warm. • When you first arrive at the plateau, avoid strenuous exercise to prevent altitude sickness. You can prepare altitude sickness medication in advance. • Respect local customs, follow the host's wishes when entering a home, and communicate politely. During my days in Yili, accompanied by the melody of "Our Xinjiang is a Wonderful Place," I danced with the snow, embraced the folk customs, and hugged nature. Every scene of this land is etched in my heart, and I am full of longing when I leave, hoping to return to continue the story of Yili. 💕

📍Address: Gongnaisi National Forest Park Here is a travel guide to Gongnaisi: 🧳Preparation: • Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Gongnaisi is large. Even in summer, you need to prepare warm clothes such as down jackets and outdoor jackets, and bring light and breathable summer clothes. • Sunscreen: Located on the plateau, the ultraviolet rays are strong, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, etc. • Medicine: Prepare cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness medicine, and mosquito repellent. • Documents: Bring your ID card and other valid documents. • Other items: Prepare comfortable sports shoes or hiking shoes for outdoor activities. You can also bring a camera, binoculars, and other equipment. 🚉Transportation: • Self-driving: Departing from Urumqi, you can take the Lianhuo Expressway and Dushanzi-Kuche Highway to get there. The scenery along the way is beautiful, but the driving is difficult, so pay attention to traffic safety. • Car rental: If you don't want to drive, you can rent a car in Urumqi or Korla, which is convenient for arranging your itinerary freely, and the driver is familiar with the road conditions. • Public transportation: First take a plane to Nalati Airport, and then transfer to a car to Gongnaisi. Recommended attractions • Gongnaisi National Forest Park: There is the Panchen Valley, where the 10th Panchen Lama Chokyi Gyaltsen once chanted sutras, and wildflowers bloom in mid-July; there is also the Arxan Hot Spring, which has medicinal effects; and the Fairy Lake, with clear water and beautiful scenery. • Gongnaisi Grassland: In summer, the grass is lush, and you can ride horses and enjoy the sight of cattle and sheep. • Gongnaisi River: The river is clear, and you can rent a boat to visit or fish. 🍽️Recommended food • Roasted whole lamb: Made with fresh local lamb, marinated with special spices and roasted, the skin is golden and crispy, and the inside is tender and juicy. • Pilaf: Made with lamb, carrots, onions, and rice, it is fragrant and delicious. • Kazakh milk tea: Made with brick tea, milk, and goat milk, it is rich in flavor and can be eaten with naan. 🏨Accommodation options • Gongnaisi Self-driving Camp: Located in the scenic area, it is convenient to travel and you can enjoy nature. • Tent Resort: Tents built on the grassland, where you can experience grassland life and watch the stars at night. • Hotel: With superior conditions, it provides a comfortable accommodation environment and various facilities. 🗓Itinerary: • Day 1: Arrive at Gongnaisi, go to Gongnaisi National Forest Park, visit Panchen Valley, enjoy the natural scenery and cultural landscape, and stay overnight at Gongnaisi Self-driving Camp. • Day 2: Go to Arxan Hot Spring in the morning to relax in the hot spring, go to Gongnaisi Grassland in the afternoon to ride horses and walk, and enjoy the grassland scenery, and have a roasted whole lamb dinner in the evening. • Day 3: Walk or ride along the Gongnaisi River to enjoy the river view, then go to Fairy Lake to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, and return in the evening. 📝Tips: • Respect local customs and religious beliefs, and abide by the regulations of the scenic area. • Pay attention to environmental protection during outdoor activities and do not litter. • When tasting food, choose regular restaurants and merchants to ensure food hygiene. • The scenic area is at a high altitude, and newcomers may have altitude sickness, so pay attention to rest and avoid strenuous exercise.

Escape the crowd, embrace the breath of nature! Gongnaisi, a place whose name is imbued with greenery, means 'green valley' in Mongolian, quietly awaiting your footsteps👣. Imagine traveling on National Highway 218, with the scenery unfolding like a picturesque scroll along the way, so beautiful that you want to shout 'cut'!📸✨ 📍Mysterious coordinates: It is hidden in the northwest frontier of Hejing County, Xinjiang, maintaining just the right distance from the hustle and bustle. Just follow the Duku Highway, take a gentle turn between Narat and Bayanbulak, and the shiny asphalt road of National Highway 218, like a red carpet leading to a fairy tale world, invites you to dance together.🚗💨 🌳🎉Gongnaisi National Forest Park 'Free Admission'! 🏡Accommodation Nests: When night falls, the Mongolian yurts and log cabins in Gongnaisi Town are your cozy nests. Imagine sharing stories of the grassland with friends in a Mongolian yurt under the starry sky, isn't your heart already fluttering?🌌⛺️ ⏰Half-Day Tour Memoir: Half a day is enough to leave a deep impression here. 🏞️Fantastic Attractions Revealed: 1️⃣ Gongnaisi National Forest Park: Mount a fine horse🐎, let a local guide take you through the woods, like a medieval knight, seeking out secrets hidden deep in the forest, and you might even get the chance to pick wild mushrooms🍄! 2️⃣ A'ershan Hot Spring Valley: On one side is the fee-based exquisite blue pool, on the other is the untamed mountain hot spring. Bring your swimsuit, be the first to explore the hot springs! Or simply soak your feet, enjoy the purest gift of nature, and feel utterly refreshed!💦🧖‍♀️ 3️⃣ Banchan Valley: In summer, Banchan Valley is blooming like a painting, a proud masterpiece of nature. Grasslands, rivers, Mongolian yurts, sheep herds... form a harmonious ecological scroll.📸🌸 🌟Pro Tips: - 💰Carry cash, no hunger worries. - ⛽️Full tank, roam freely. - 🚙SUV is the way to go, the road to A'ershan may be bumpy, but the scenery is worth it. - 📡Offline map, navigate with ease even in signal blind spots. - 🧥Big temperature difference between day and night, don't skimp on warm and sun protection. - 💊High altitude essentials, no altitude sickness, making the journey more wonderful.