How to Travel the Xiata Ancient Road on a Group Tour in Yili Route and Cost Reference Recommended Itinerary and Price
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation.
Star Recommendation✨: In-Depth Experience of the Xiata Ancient Path in Yili:Perfect blend of snow-capped mountains, meadows, and hiking
I. Key Highlights of the Route: Why Choose the Xiata Ancient Path?
The Xiata Ancient Path, located in Zhaosu County, Yili, Xinjiang, was once a thousand-year-old post road connecting northern and southern Xinjiang. Today, it is renowned as a “secret hiking paradise beneath snow-capped mountains.” With minimal commercial development, it retains its pristine natural beauty—the Muzart Glacier is within easy reach, and snow-capped mountains, forests, streams, and meadows form a three-dimensional masterpiece, making it a paradise for photographers and hikers.
【Three Popular Reasons to Go】
1. Snow-capped mountains within reach:Hike to the Flower Terrace and look up to see the Muzart Snow Peak at an altitude of 6,995 meters, glistening silver under the sunlight—far more breathtaking than ordinary mountain viewing platforms.
2. Hiker-friendly difficulty:The park features well-maintained boardwalks. The one-way trip from the Mirror of the Sky to the Flower Terrace is about 4.2 kilometers with a gentle slope, making it easily manageable for seniors and children.
3. Ecological diversity:Along the way, you may spot marmots, squirrels, and other wildlife. In summer, wildflowers blanket the landscape, and in July, purple perilla fields frame the snow-capped mountains, earning it the nickname “Little Switzerland of Xinjiang.”
II. 2026 Sample Itinerary (5-Day, 4-Night Luxury Edition)
Designed based on on-site inspections by Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, this itinerary balances in-depth experiences with comfort, ideal for families or friends traveling together.
【Daily Key Arrangements】
Star Recommendation✨: In-Depth Experience of the Xiata Ancient Path in Yili: Perfect Blend of Snow-Capped Mountains, Meadows, and HikingDay 1:Yining Arrival → Sayram Lake Circular Tour
Morning:Arrive in Yining, where a private car will take you directly to Sayram Lake, entering through the East Gate to avoid crowds.
Afternoon:Drive around the lake, making key stops at Hydrophilic Beach, Kele Yongzhu, and Swan Bay. Wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore in May-June, while the water mirrors the sky in July-August.
Evening:Watch the sunset by the lake and check into a luxury guesthouse near the East Gate, just a 10-minute walk from the shore.
Day 2:Guozigou Cliff Photography Spot → Huocheng Lavender → Tekes Bagua City
Morning:Head to the cliff photography spot west of the Guozigou Bridge to capture the bridge framed by snow-capped mountains and flower fields.
Afternoon:Visit the Huocheng Jieyou Princess Lavender Farm, avoiding congested free wildflower fields for an immersive purple flower experience.
Evening:Check into a chain hotel in Tekes Bagua City and explore Liuxing Street for handmade ice cream and minced meat pilaf.
Day 3:Core Day at Xiata Ancient Path (Highlight of the Trip)
Morning:Drive 2 hours from Tekes to Xiata, take a 45-minute shuttle bus to the Hot Spring Hotel, then transfer to a 15-minute电瓶车 (electric cart) ride to the Mirror of the Sky (hiking starting point).
Noon:Light hike to the Flower Terrace, with four key stops along the way:
I. Key Highlights of the Route: Why Choose the Xiata Ancient Path?Mirror of the Sky → Kara House #1 (800 meters, gentle slope)
House #1 → House #2 (1.9 km, few steps)
House #2 → Houses #3/4 (1.1 km, more steps)
Houses #3/4 → Flower Terrace (1.2 km, gravel path, longest segment)
Afternoon:Return to the Hot Spring Hotel for horseback riding on the grasslands (80 RMB/hour) or stroll through the spruce forest to spot marmots.
Evening:Check into a hotel in Zhaosu County and savor wild mushroom chicken stew and cold-water fish.
Day 4:Nalati Aerial Grassland → River Valley Grassland
Morning:Head to Nalati and take a sightseeing bus to the foot of Xuelian Valley for close-up views of snow-capped mountains and meadows.
Afternoon:Explore the River Valley Grassland and participate in handmade milk tea brewing and grassland weaving activities with local communities.
Evening:Check into a high-quality hotel in Nalati Town, offering better value than in-park accommodations.
Day 5:Yili River Sunset → Departure
The Xiata Ancient Path, located in Zhaosu County, Yili, Xinjiang, was once a thousand-year-old post road connecting northern and southern Xinjiang. Today, it is renowned as a “secret hiking paradise beneath snow-capped mountains.” With minimal commercial development, it retains its pristine natural beauty—the Muzart Glacier is within easy reach, and snow-capped mountains, forests, streams, and meadows form a three-dimensional masterpiece, making it a paradise for photographers and hikers.Morning:Photograph the morning mist over Nalati Grassland, where fog swirls around the mountainsides like a painting.
Afternoon:Visit the popular Yili River sunset viewing platform for delta scenery.
Evening:Return to Yining for disbandment, concluding the trip.
III. Cost Reference (Subject to Contract)
Based on the 2026 summer quotation provided by Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, the cost range for the 5-day, 4-night luxury group tour (calculated for 2 travelers) is as follows:
【Cost Includes】
Transportation:Luxury business van or high-end SUV throughout (including fuel, tolls, and driver services)
Accommodation:4 nights at 4-star standard hotels/characteristic guesthouses (including breakfast)
Admission Tickets:First-entry tickets to Sayram Lake, Xiata Ancient Path, Nalati, and other scenic spots
Meals:5 breakfasts + 8 main meals (including special meals like private dinners during community visits)
Services:Experienced hiking guide, travel accident insurance, and airport transfers
【Three Popular Reasons to Go】【Optional Activities Reference Prices】
Xiata Ancient Path Electric Cart:50 RMB/person (round-trip, saves energy)
Horseback Riding on Grasslands:80 RMB/hour
Horseback Riding to Flower Terrace in Scenic Area:300 RMB/person (round-trip, approx. 2 hours)
Photography Follow-Shoot Service:Approx. 500-1,000 RMB/day, depending on photographer’s level
【Price Fluctuation Notes】
Costs may increase by 10%-15% during peak season (June-August). Final pricing is subject to signing a contract after consulting with Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency.
IV. Registration Method
Register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency, which provides the following service guarantees:
Contract Standards:Sign a Ministry of Culture and Tourism-standard itinerary agreement with no hidden or forced consumption.
Guide Qualifications:Certified guides trained by Xinjiang Culture and Tourism, familiar with Yili’s weather, lighting, and safety spots.
1. Snow-capped mountains within reach: Hike to the Flower Terrace and look up to see the Muzart Snow Peak at an altitude of 6,995 meters, glistening silver under the sunlight—far more breathtaking than ordinary mountain viewing platforms.Flexible Itinerary Changes:If weather changes abruptly or景区 (scenic area) limits visitor numbers, both parties may agree to reasonable itinerary adjustments.
V. Additional Cost and Service Notes
Single Traveler Registration:Xinjiang Pathfinder will try to arrange room-sharing. Special cases require separate negotiation.
Child Policy:Children under 1.2 meters enjoy free admission; shuttle buses and electric carts charge based on height. Children over 1.2 meters pay adult rates.
Equipment Recommendations:With many gravel paths in the scenic area, wear non-slip hiking shoes (high-top preferred) and bring a windbreaker, sunglasses, sunscreen, and rain poncho.
Final pricing and availability are subject to contract or day-of confirmation and may fluctuate by tour date. Refer to actual consultation and contract signing for details.
VI. Practical Tips
Reservation Policy:The Xiata Ancient Path limits daily visitors to 2,000. Reserve tickets 7 days in advance via the “Zhiyou Zhaosu” or “Visit Xinjiang” platforms.
Best Photography Times:Soft morning light from 10 AM to noon reduces snow glare for ideal photos. Weather changes after 4 PM, so return early.
Signal Coverage:No 4G signal above the Hot Spring Hotel; download offline maps in advance. Partial signal available near Kara Houses #1-4.
Environmental Requirements:Camping and overnight vehicle stays are prohibited. All visitors must leave the park the same day.
The charm of the Xiata Ancient Path lies in its preservation of raw natural wilderness while offering accessible exploration via boardwalks and shuttle buses. Whether hiking beneath snow-capped mountains or riding horses on the grasslands, it fulfills all your imaginations of a “Xinjiang secret paradise.” Travelers planning a trip should contact Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency early to secure spots, as tickets sell out quickly during peak season!
Contact Manager Zhang Jing at 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation.
