Kekesuli and Yileimu Lakes in Altay: Two Hidden Gems in Fuyun

Most travelers heading to Fuyun head straight for Keketuohai, stopping at Kokesuri for just ten minutes. Yet the waters here deserve a slower pace: reeds, wild ducks, distant mountains, and the slanting light of dawn or dusk create one of the few serene landscapes in northern Xinjiang.

two water surface locations

Koksuori is a wetland lake along the road from Fuyun County to Keketuohai, featuring extensive reed beds. Yileimu Lake lies closer to Keketuohai Town, with a wide open water surface surrounded by low mountains and grasslands.

Both spots are on the same route, so you can see them easily by car or private hire. Public transit is inconvenient; scheduled buses do not stop for sightseeing.

How to play at Keksuli

A boardwalk and viewing platform line the lake, with a full loop taking about 30 minutes. In the early morning, calm waters reflect the reeds and distant mountains; at dusk, backlighting highlights the edges of the reeds.

This is a wetland area with many mosquitoes; bring insect repellent in summer. Do not venture deep into the reeds, as the ground is soft mud. During bird breeding season, keep your distance from nesting areas and do not feed the birds.

How to visit Lake Yilemu

Lake Yilemu has a large surface area and strong winds, making it suitable for walking along the shore but not for entering the water. Pastures used by local herders surround the lake; please do not enter them casually. At sunset, the mountain's colors change dramatically—waiting 30 minutes can yield stunning views.

Amenities near the lake are limited; bring water and a jacket. For comfortable lodging, return to Keketuohai Town or Fuyun County. Accommodation standards vary significantly between the two.

How to connect with Keketuohai

A common itinerary is: depart from Fuyun in the morning, stop at Kekesuli for one hour, have lunch at Keketuohai Town around noon, explore the Ertix Grand Canyon in the afternoon, and watch the sunset at Yileimu Lake on the way back in the evening.

This works perfectly—no need to backtrack. The Keketuohai Scenic Area itself takes half a day to explore, so don't spend all your time on the roadside. For key highlights, refer to the following guide.Keketuohai Geological Park。

Seasons & Weather

June to September offers the most comfortable weather with lush green grass and full water levels, though mosquitoes are at their peak. By late September, reeds turn golden, creating beautiful scenery as temperatures drop and jackets become necessary. In winter, the lake freezes over and roads may be covered in snow; please verify opening status in advance.

Mountain weather changes quickly; winds often pick up in the afternoon. When taking photos, secure your tripod—strong gusts can easily knock it over. On rainy days, trails become slippery; slow down and proceed with caution.

Suggested Itinerary

The drive from Fuyun to Keketuohai takes about an hour with frequent speed limits. Gas stations are concentrated in the county seat and towns; fill up before heading into the mountains. Cell signal is weak on some stretches, so download offline maps in advance.

If you only have one day, prioritize Keketuohai; the two water bodies are on the same route. If time permits, stay overnight in Keketuohai Town and visit Keshuli the next morning. For a general itinerary toward Altay, refer toAltay Travel Routes。

No entry fees for Kokesuli or Yileimu Lake, but park only in safe areas. Strong winds near the lake can blow hats away. In summer, mosquitoes are prevalent; long sleeves are recommended. Use a telephoto lens for bird photography and keep your distance. The grasslands around Yileimu Lake belong to herders—please ask before entering. If driving back after dark, watch out for cattle and sheep on the road. Fuyun County offers plenty of accommodation options at lower prices than the scenic area. Local dining focuses on noodles and grilled meat. If traveling with children, supervise them near the water and avoid soft mud. Please carry all trash with you and do not leave it on the shore.

Sometimes, stopping along the way is more rewarding than rushing to the next destination.

Save the sunset for Lake Yilemu on your way back.

The boardwalk at Kokesuli is short. At its end lies an open expanse of water, with reeds bending in the wind. Morning often brings water birds; a long lens isn't necessary—capturing the scene with your phone still yields beautiful shots. Do not step into the wetland to get closer to the birds; the mud layer is deep.

The shores of Yileimu Lake are strewn with gravel and grassy slopes, making the terrain uneven; wear sturdy shoes. On windy days, whitecaps form on the lake, giving it a sea-like appearance. If you have time on your return trip, stop in Keketuohai Town for a bowl of hand-pulled noodles—prices here are more reasonable than at tourist sites. For a general itinerary to Altay, refer to the following.Altay Travel Routes。

Mornings at Kesusuli are often foggy; the mist lingers until light filters through by 9 a.m. If you're short on time, visiting in the evening is also an option—the reeds look stunning in backlight.

Some reeds around Kelasu are harvested in autumn, changing the landscape from summer. For the best view of the reed marshes, visit in July or August; by September, the golden hue offers its own unique charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket for Kekesuli?Usually not included. Boardwalks and viewing platforms are free of charge; subject to on-site conditions.

How long can you play at the two water surfaces?About an hour each, plus travel time—half a day is enough. Allow extra time if you want to capture sunrise or sunset.

If you're taking the Altay Loop, these two water bodies make great stops along the way. To plan your Fuyun segment, you can...Online SupportSpecify the number of days.

All destinations mentioned are within Xinjiang. Before departing, please verify your itinerary based on current road conditions, opening hours, and reservation requirements for the season.

Supplement: Compiled by the itinerary consultant of Xinjiang International Travel Service (Xinjiang Guolv). Tourism information for Altay and Xinjiang is subject to seasonal changes and road conditions. For details on itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please consult a local travel agency consultant online.