A Comprehensive Guide to Self-Driving in Xinjiang's Xiata and Must-See Attractions

Xinjiang Xiata Self-Driving Tour Guide and Must-See Spots

Last August, I drove to Ili, initially planning to just wander around Zhaosu. But then I stumbled upon a post about “the grassland closest to the snow mountain,” and with one swipe, I decided to change my route to Xiata. After two days, my phone was filled with stunning snow mountain and flower field pictures that could be used as wallpapers. Even I, someone who can't take photos, had friends asking about my settings. So, I'm breaking down my entire experience for you all; if you want to copy, just follow along.

What is Xiata?

In short: It has valleys, forests, flower fields, herds of cattle and sheep, and a snow mountain that never melts—all in one frame. Plus, it's the only place in the Ili grassland where you can see snow in July and August. If you're torn between going to Kalajun or Xiata and just want the ultimate view, go for Xiata.

Self-Driving Prep: My Departure Process

I arrived in Xiata Township the night before. The reason is simple: I had to get up early to grab the tickets the next day. I found a casual Kazakh guesthouse, and the owner promised to wake me up (at 07:00), which is way more reliable than an alarm. I filled up the gas tank, threw in a windbreaker, two bottles of water, and some compressed biscuits, so I could travel light the next day.

Early Morning Departure: Ticket Rush

• Time: 08:10, left the guesthouse
• Location: Xiata Visitor Service Center
• Key Point: Self-driving tickets are limited each day. You have to roll down your window and line up right on time to get your ticket. I arrived at 08:30 and was already about thirty people back in line. I snagged my ticket at 09:00 for 150 RMB/person—don’t lose your ticket; they check it when you enter and exit.

Once you have your ticket, you can drive straight into the scenic area, and the whole road is paved, so both cars and SUVs can handle it—no worries here.

First Stop: Zhuanyun Bridge Instagram Spot

After a 30-minute drive, I reached Zhuanyun Bridge, where there's a big sign that says “Parking Lot.” The first thing to do after parking is to get the camera ready—
After crossing the bridge, the small slopes on the left are layered with grass of varying shades, with a snow mountain in the background, which means you'll get tons of good shots.
I spent five minutes at the spot in pic 5, and a little marmot popped its head out— the photo was cuter than any filter.

Quick Tip: Arrive early for more vibrant grass colors and fewer people. After taking your photos, you can slowly walk ahead.

General Bridge: The End of the Road for Cars

Drive another ten minutes to General Bridge Parking Lot, where private cars aren’t allowed beyond this point. The parking area is spacious, so no worries about finding a spot. The first thing to do after getting out: stash your supplies in your backpack. From here on, it’s either hiking or horseback riding—you don't have a choice.

Hiking vs. Horseback Riding: Getting to Flower Terrace

I have average stamina, and I initially hesitated about riding a horse. The price is 80 RMB one way, 160 for a round trip, and there are lots of people in line during peak season, sometimes waiting over forty minutes. In the end, I opted for hiking, taking pictures along the way and reaching Flower Terrace in about an hour and a half.
Along the way, there are four herder houses; house number three sells milk tea and number four has grilled buns. The phone signal cuts out from house number one, so make sure to have cash for snacks.

Hiking Route:

1. Ticket check at General Bridge → walk along the wooden walkway by the river
2. Pass the “photography hotspot, House Number Two” grassy area—have your camera ready
3. Turn left at House Number Four and walk straight for 15 more minutes; when you look up:

Flower Terrace: Photo Guide

With the snow mountain in front and the flower field beneath your feet, colors ranging from bright yellow, soft purple to pure white fill the canvas. I flew my drone up and found that after walking in another ten minutes to the other side of the little river, there's a real, untouched flower field—if you want to claim a spot, hang out here a bit longer.
Photo Timing:

• 11:30–12:30: Side light makes the snow mountain textures clear
• After 15:00: Clouds come in, and you can snap some atmosphere shots
  On windy days, use a selfie stick as a tripod; don’t baby your gear—more phones get blown away by the wind than get crushed underfoot.

Safe Return: Avoid Getting Stuck on the Pasture Road

I turned back at 17:00. The hike back to General Bridge took about 50 minutes. I hopped in the car and drove straight to the visitor service exit with no traffic issues. After 17:30, there's a traffic peak as self-driving tours and tour buses get stuck together; you might crawl one kilometer in half an hour.
Once out of the scenic area, I headed straight to Zhaosu County to stay overnight. It started raining around 9 PM, but thankfully, I made it to the hotel before that, enjoyed a hot shower, and dug into a plate of big chicken. So cozy!

Condensed Version of the Guide

Take this process with you, and you’ll avoid about 80% of common pitfalls. The next person driving to Xiata to capture the snow-covered flower fields will be the beneficiary of this guide!