The Populus Euphratica Forest is a natural wonder in Urumqi, where golden desert poplars stand tall against harsh conditions like timeless sentinels. In autumn, the entire forest transforms into a blazing golden spectacle, creating surreal contrasts with the desert. Walk along wooden trails to witness these 'live for millennia, then stand for millennia after death' marvels, often accompanied by wild camels and rare birds. Don't forget your camera – this is the Silk Road's most breathtaking fall foliage show!

This hotel is the perfect choice for family trips and business travel! Located on Hetan North Road, surrounded by lush greenery, the environment is elegant and the air is fresh. The hotel features multifunctional halls, non-smoking floors, and a 24-hour front desk, plus parking, making travel super convenient. The rooms are elegantly designed and cozy, with good soundproofing, offering a private retreat. Nearby subway access ensures easy shopping, dining, and entertainment, along with stunning lake views! The breakfast and service are highly praised, offering great value for money—highly recommended!

This hotel boasts a prime location right opposite the International Grand Bazaar, just steps away from the Erdaoqiao Market. You’ll find the most vibrant pedestrian street and night market nearby, perfect for food and shopping! Enjoy the stunning Jiuyan Bridge night view for a romantic evening. With excellent service, a friendly front desk, and free parking, it’s a great choice. Plus, late checkout until 2 PM adds flexibility. High value for money—highly recommended for those who love convenience and beautiful nightscapes!






Everything you need to know about Populus Euphratica Forest
Near the Poplar Forest in Xinjiang, stay at Kalsak Poplar Forest Eco Resort, which offers unique desert starlit tents and traditional wooden cabins inspired by Uyghur architecture. The resort features a private viewing deck for breathtaking sunrise views over the golden poplars, and exceptional stargazing under the clear desert sky. Located about 2 hours from Ürümqi city center, it's accessible via private car or guided day tour packages, making it ideal for immersive eco-tourism experiences.
Traveling from Ürümqi to the Poplar Forest is best done via private car hire or a guided day tour package along the Tian Shan northern route, offering scenic views of deserts and oases. Many resorts like Kalsak Poplar Forest Eco Resort provide complimentary shuttle services from designated pickup points, ensuring convenient access. During peak season (June–September), temporary bus routes are also added for independent travelers. HopeGoo transport in advance is highly recommended to avoid scarcity during high-demand periods.
Visitors can enjoy authentic ecological experiences such as hiking through the miles-long ancient poplar trails, marveling at the twisted trunks that resemble dragons. Guided poplar ecology tours reveal how these trees survive extreme aridity and salinity. Photography enthusiasts can join sunset photography workshops to capture the golden silhouettes of the forest against the desert sky. Some resorts host stargazing storytelling nights, blending astronomy facts with local legends, deepening understanding of life in the desert. All activities promote sustainable tourism practices, preserving the fragile ecosystem.
Yes, the area offers numerous family-friendly activities: Kids can participate in fossil treasure hunts that combine science education with fun exploration, learning about ancient plant evolution. There are also desert sand art workshops using natural materials to create unique artworks. Safe, child-sized walking paths and designated family camping zones allow parents and children to share unforgettable nights under the stars. All activities are led by trained guides, emphasizing safety and educational value, making them perfect for meaningful family travel.
The optimal time to visit the Poplar Forest is during autumn (late September to mid-October), when the leaves turn golden and orange, creating a breathtaking "golden mile" panorama. Temperatures range from 15–25°C, ideal for outdoor exploration. The annual Poplar Festival in early October features cultural performances, photography contests, and ecological lectures, enriching the experience. Avoid peak holiday weeks like National Day for a quieter visit. Winter, though cold, offers a poetic scene with snow-covered poplars, perfect for photographers seeking serene beauty.
Strict ecological protection measures are enforced: visitor access to core zones is limited, and ecological monitoring stations track soil and moisture levels in real time. The Poplar Seed Regeneration Program plants hundreds of thousands of native seeds annually to restore degraded areas. Government and NGOs collaborate on carbon offset initiatives, encouraging low-impact tourism. All accommodations must meet green building standards, utilizing solar power and rainwater recycling systems. These efforts ensure the Poplar Forest remains not only a tourist destination but also a vital biodiversity corridor, safeguarding ecological balance across Northwest China.
See what other travelers say about Populus Euphratica Forest

Staying at Qoqo Office Business Hotel was a pleasant surprise—great value for the price! The breakfast served in the courtyard was surprisingly generous and delicious, with a nice mix of local specialties and Western options. Even though the room is compact, it’s well-designed and spotlessly clean, with fresh linens that made for a comfortable night’s sleep. Parking overnight costs just $1.50 (around 10 RMB), which is incredibly reasonable. Right across the street is a bustling dried fruit wholesale market—perfect if you’re looking to pick up some local treats or souvenirs. The location is convenient for getting around Urumqi, especially with easy access to public transit. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt quiet and welcoming. I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend for business travelers or anyone visiting the city on a budget.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to the bustling downtown area and right next to the metro station, making exploration so convenient. The room was spotless, fresh, and completely free of any unpleasant odors. The bedding was soft and incredibly comfortable, helping me sleep soundly throughout the night. I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent soundproofing—no noise from neighboring rooms or hallways at all. The staff were warm and attentive, even offering a complimentary room upgrade! Breakfast was generous and delicious, with a great mix of local flavors and Western options. For the quality, comfort, and value, this place is a top pick. I’ll definitely be booking here again on my next trip to Ürümqi—it’s a true gem.

I stayed at Sweetome Boutique Hotel (Urumqi High-Speed Railway Station) for one night, and the experience was excellent! I booked a triple room with three 1.3-meter-wide beds—plenty of space and super comfortable. All basic amenities were available: strong hot water, reliable air conditioning, and fast Wi-Fi. The disposable toiletries were clean and fresh, and the bedding was spotless and well-maintained. The hotel even offers free parking, which is a huge plus if you're traveling by car. Plus, it's just a short walk from the high-speed train station—super convenient for quick transfers. Overall, the service, cleanliness, and location make this a top choice. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Urumqi.

A friend recommended this place and I’m so glad they did—my stay exceeded all expectations. I was in town for a short business trip, and since it was conveniently located near my office, I decided to book here. The hotel offers free parking, which was a huge plus. As soon as I walked into the lobby, I noticed a subtle, pleasant fragrance that instantly made me feel welcome. Although check-in was busy and the lobby was full of guests, the front desk staff were incredibly warm and welcoming—they asked us to take a seat while they attended to others. When it was our turn, the agent was calm, patient, and explained every detail clearly with genuine care. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with everything I needed. Around midday, just before check-out, a staff member passed by and kindly asked if I needed a tote bag to carry my belongings—such a thoughtful touch! Even though the rate was slightly higher than other options I’d seen, the service quality made it totally worth it. They even gave me some great local food recommendations, and my friends and I went out for dinner that night—delicious and authentic. I especially want to highlight the amazing service from Kelmis at the front desk—her professionalism and kindness made the whole experience special. If you’re visiting Ürümqi, don’t miss this gem!

The stay was absolutely fantastic! The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and efficient—check-in was quick and hassle-free. I had originally booked a standard room, but they upgraded me to a deluxe standard room at no extra cost, which was such a nice surprise. The room was spotless, the bedding was super comfortable, and the location is perfect—right in the heart of the city with easy access to public transit. There are countless restaurants and local eateries just steps away, making it easy to explore authentic Urumqi flavors. I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in town. Highly recommend for both comfort and value!

My stay at Meimei Hotel (Hualing Market Branch) was excellent overall! The room was spotlessly clean, the lobby spacious and welcoming, making it a comfortable place to unwind after a long day. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, delicious, and varied, with hot breakfast items that made mornings enjoyable. I appreciated how quickly they handled my business invoice request during a work trip—no delays, very professional. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive; one of the young staff members from an ethnic minority group stood out—friendly, beautiful, and even upgraded my room for free, which was a delightful surprise. Laundry facilities were convenient, and free parking was a big plus. The only minor suggestion is that the disposable towels and bath sheets felt a bit thin—could use slightly better quality. But honestly, everything else was top-notch. This hotel offers great value and a genuinely pleasant experience. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Urumqi.

Staying at Jiangyu Hotel was a pleasant surprise! The room was much larger than expected, offering plenty of space and a very comfortable atmosphere. Located near Baishang Plaza, it's convenient for shopping and dining, and getting around the city by subway is easy. What stood out most was the ample parking availability—no stress about finding a spot, which is a big plus for travelers driving their own cars. The overall experience was excellent, and I’d definitely choose this hotel again on my next visit to Urumqi.

Absolutely deserving of a 5-star review! As someone who pays close attention to details, I was thoroughly impressed by every aspect of this hotel. The room's soundproofing is exceptional—completely silent even late at night, making it perfect for a restful sleep. All the toiletries are from reputable brands and feel luxurious on the skin. There are USB charging ports right next to the bed, plus well-placed power outlets—so convenient and thoughtfully designed. The facilities are immaculately maintained: elevators run smoothly, and the air conditioning heats and cools quickly, adjusting to the ideal temperature in minutes. Breakfast is a highlight—wide variety, fresh, and deliciously prepared. Staff are consistently friendly, always smiling, and respond promptly to any request. From check-in to checkout, the service feels personal and genuine. This stay exceeded all expectations—definitely a place I’d return to without hesitation.

Stayed at Universal Hotel Urumqi and was truly impressed from start to finish. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and fully equipped with modern amenities—everything you'd need for a comfortable stay. The staff went above and beyond with their hospitality; every interaction felt warm and genuine. Located right on the main city thoroughfare, it’s incredibly convenient for getting around. Just a short walk from the hotel, you’ll find bus stops and a metro station, making travel within the city a breeze. It’s also close to parks, hospitals, a science museum, and a lively food street—perfect for exploring without needing to go far. The airport is just a 20-minute drive away, which is super helpful if you're traveling. The buffet breakfast and dinner were outstanding—huge variety, excellent quality, and fresh ingredients across multiple cuisines. And let’s not forget the indoor pool! If you’re in the mood to relax or work out without leaving the hotel, this is the ideal spot. Overall, an exceptional experience that exceeded expectations. I’d absolutely recommend this hotel and plan to return soon.

Staying at Ibis Hotel Wulumuqi Nanhu Square Branch was an excellent experience. The hotel is exceptionally clean and well-maintained, with modern facilities that meet all my needs. I appreciated the free laundry access and the convenient location—just a short walk from local attractions and public transit. The lobby has a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere, and the breakfast buffet offered a good variety of options, including both local and international favorites. My room was bright, spacious, and tastefully decorated. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful, and I even used their computer for some quick work—very convenient. Overall, the service, comfort, and value for money are outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Urumqi and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

Staying at this 7 Days Inn was an absolute delight! The room was spotlessly clean, and the bathroom featured a smart dry-wet separation design—so practical and hygienic. Free Wi-Fi worked perfectly throughout my stay, and I appreciated the complimentary laundry and wake-up call services, especially helpful when catching an early flight. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and attentive—the kind of service that makes you feel welcome. Located just minutes from the airport and near De Gang Wanda Plaza, it’s super convenient for both business and leisure travelers. Easy access to public transit means getting around Urumqi is a breeze. With such great value, comfort, and hospitality, I’ll definitely be coming back. Highly recommend this place to anyone visiting the city!

Staying at Orange Hotel (Urumqi Railway Bureau Ergong Gymnasium Branch) was an absolutely fantastic experience! The view from the panoramic room was breathtaking—wide open spaces and great natural light made every morning feel refreshing. The lobby and public areas were spotless and well-maintained, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you walk in. The front desk staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with any request. Room cleanliness was excellent, and the space felt brand new with modern amenities. I especially loved the smart assistant (Duer) for easy control of lights and climate. Breakfast was a highlight too—great variety with both Chinese and Western options, fresh and delicious. Everything about this stay was top-notch. If you're visiting Urumqi, this hotel is a must-book. A perfect 10/10—highly recommend!
Explore more amazing destinations