Things To Do
in Toli
Toli is a small town in Xinjiang's Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, set along the fertile Ili River valley. The town blends Uyghur and Kazakh cultural influences, with colorful markets, music, and nomadic hospitality. Surrounding the town are rolling steppe plains and snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan, offering dramatic landscapes.
As a gateway to the Kazakh pastoral countryside, Toli is ideal for food lovers, hikers, and photography enthusiasts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Toli Old Town, where ancient architecture and traditional markets will enchant you. Stroll through the cobbled streets, engaging with local artisans showcasing their crafts and goods. Enjoy a breakfast of freshly made steamed buns and fragrant tea at a local eatery.
After lunch, head to the Toli Museum, where exhibits on the region's rich history and culture await. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide insight into the significance of various artifacts. Spend some time exploring the nearby parks, taking in the serene beauty of the surrounding trees and flowers.
As the sun sets, find a quaint restaurant in Old Town to savor traditional Uyghur dishes, such as laghman or kebabs. Experience the local culture with a traditional music performance, showcasing the unique sounds of the region. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance.
Begin your adventure at the nearby Toli Grand Canyon, where stunning rock formations and breathtaking vistas await. Hike along well-marked trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air while observing the diverse flora and fauna. Capture the morning light illuminating the canyon walls with your camera for unforgettable memories.
Continue your exploration with a guided tour of the canyon, learning about its geological history and the significance of its unique landscape. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty around you. After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the nearby waterfalls, where the sound of cascading water provides a peaceful soundtrack.
Return to Toli in the evening and indulge in a relaxing hot spring experience at a local spa. The warm, mineral-rich waters will soothe your muscles after an adventurous day. Conclude your evening with a quiet dinner at a nearby bistro, reflecting on the day's discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 📶1 GB mobile data | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and welcoming locals
- Stunning landscapes and prolific photo opportunities
- Delicious, cumin-forward Xinjiang cuisine and diverse markets
- Limited nightlife and some services in rural areas can be sparse
- Travel between remote sites may require car rental or guided tours
- Language barriers in less-touristy spots; cash is still common in markets
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问,厕所在哪儿?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱?" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Toli
Visit one of these nice places.
A broad view along the Ili River with golden light at dawn.
Narrow lanes lined with traditional mud-brick architecture and colorful doors.
Photos of yurts and traditional dress against the amber sky.
Rugged mountains and lush meadows ideal for landscape shots.
Food in Toli
Toli Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand-pulled noodles with a rich meat and tomato sauce, commonly found in noodle shops.
Must-Try!
Skewered lamb seasoned with cumin, chili and pepper, grilled on street grills.
A fragrant rice dish with lamb, carrots and onions.
Steamed dumplings stuffed with meat and onions.
Round flatbread baked in a tandoor, perfect for scooping up sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market by the river offering dried fruits, nuts, spices, and street snacks.
Where you can watch hand-pulled noodles being made.
Seasonal stalls with dairy products and smoked meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple nod or handshake; use the right hand; greet with warmth and politeness.
Respect religious sites; shoulders and knees covered; ask before entering religious spaces.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in private settings or religious places.
Accept offered tea or snacks when offered; respond graciously even if in a hurry.
Safety
Tipping in Toli
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips for guides and drivers are common.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) are common; foreign cards may not be accepted in rural markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with dry heat and cool nights; carry water; occasional thunderstorms and dust in some areas.
Mild temperatures and harvest colors; excellent for hiking and photography; generally clear skies.
Cold with possible snowfall; some rural roads can close; dress in layers and protect against wind chill.
Milder days with blooming valleys; possible rain and muddy trails; bring waterproof footwear.
Toli at Night
Hiking in Toli
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic route along riverbanks with basalt cliffs, farms, and viewpoints.
Moderate to strenuous hike offering alpine scenery and sweeping valley views.
Airports
How to reach Toli by plane.
Main international gateway for Xinjiang; serves long-haul flights and connections to major Chinese cities; typically requires a domestic hop from smaller towns.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; closer to Ili region than Urumqi, useful for domestic travel.
Regional hub with connections to several Chinese cities; alternative gateway for some itineraries in northern Xinjiang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major local community contributing rich food, music, and cultural traditions.
Pastoral heritage and nomadic influences shape the region's culture and hospitality.
Commercial activity and services; diverse neighborhoods in larger towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Kazakh culture; commonly offered for visitors in nomad camps and on the steppe.
Traditional sport often demonstrated at cultural events and camps.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toli.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable platters, mushroom dishes, naan, and dairy; ask for oil-free or minimal meat versions; order laghman with extra vegetables.