What is ili?

Ili, also known as Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, is an autonomous prefecture located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. It has a total population of over 4 million and covers an area of 152,300 square kilometers, making it one of the largest prefectures in the region.

The majority of the population in Ili is of the Kazakh ethnic group, and their traditional nomadic lifestyle and culture still remain an important part of the prefecture's identity. The region is rich in natural resources including coal, petroleum, natural gas, and non-ferrous metals, which have contributed to its economic growth in recent years.

Ili is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful natural scenery such as the Heavenly Lake and Kanas Lake, as well as its cultural heritage sites such as the Tomb of Abakh Khoja. In addition, the prefecture is home to the Ili Horse breed, which is known for its strength, speed, and endurance.