When winter travel in Xinjiang comes up, many people will immediately think of Altay. Yet located at the foot of the Tianshan Mountain range lies another destination just as captivating in winter—Yili (Ili) Kazak Autonomous Prefecture. During the snowy season, Yili reveals a charm all of its own, drawing those who long for sweeping white landscapes and unhurried days.

Here, winter is divided between frozen lakes and snow-covered peaks on one side, and the warmth of everyday neighborhood life on the other. Even better, it is a journey that won't necessarily strain your budget. With thoughtful planning, a rich and memorable winter trip unfolds with ease.

First stop: a vast white canvas

Nalati (Narat) is undoubtedly the signature highlight of a winter trip to Yili. Often called the "Sky Grassland" because of its high altitude of about 2,200 meters, this well-known scenic area is at its most serene in winter.

Thick snow blankets the rolling plains, transforming them into what feels like a boundless white carpet stretching to the horizon. At sunrise, the scene turns almost dreamlike. With a bit of luck, traces of wildlife may be spotted across snowfields.

Travelers should note that mountain roads can accumulate heavy snow. For self-driving trips, snow tires or chains are essential; alternatively, hiring a local driver offers peace of mind. The area merits at least half a day, allowing time to fully take in the vast, snow-blanketed landscape.

Second stop: the snowy forests

For people who imagine winter scenery straight out of fantasy epic Game of Thrones, Kuerdening (Koldeneng) and Qiaxi should be on the itinerary. Located not far from each other, both areas are known for their sweeping forest and mountain.

But Kuerdening covers a larger area, with broader vistas of snow-clad peaks and better road conditions, making it accessible to most visitors. Qiaxi, by contrast, feels more secluded and primal.

The shared advantage of both destinations is their tranquility. Winter sees far fewer visitors, and it is often possible to enjoy a near-private encounter with the silent forests and pristine snowfields, surrounded only by the hush of winter.

Third stop: the urban warmth

After immersing in nature, a return to Yining, the largest and capital city of Yili, offers a different kind of warmth.

The Cultural and Tourist Area of Yili Old Town is one of the few old neighborhoods in north Xinjiang that remains lively even in winter. Its most striking feature is the vivid blue facades of traditional homes, a shade affectionately known as "Yili Blue." Set against the clean white canvas of fresh snow, the colors feel bright and uplifting.

Life here isn't put on display. Local residents live as they always have—sunning in doorways, cooking meals and tending to their children. The atmosphere is authentic and unpretentious. A short ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage through the lanes adds a touch of charm to the visit.

Not far away, Liuxing Street reveals yet another layer of history. Once home to Russian and Tatar communities, the area features distinctive architecture with yellow walls and red roofs, making it especially photogenic.

Food is the main attraction here. Tatar pastries, steaming cups of milk tea and freshly grilled skewers line the streets. A leisurely stroll, punctuated by small bites along the way, quickly restores warmth and energy. Both Yili Old Town and Liuxing Street are open to the public for free and can be explored comfortably within half a day.

With warm clothing and a handful of well-chosen destinations, it is possible to experience the pure pleasures of snow and ice at a relaxed pace.

The costs remain manageable, and the rewards—striking scenery and the simple joy of unhurried travel at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains—linger long after the journey ends.