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 near the high-speed railway station! Whether for business or travel, its robot service and 24-hour front desk ensure a seamless stay. Rooms feature eco-friendly materials and smart AC, offering comfort and peace of mind. The wet-dry separated bathroom and constant hot water make showers a delight. Nearby attractions like Xiaolügu Park and Grand Bazaar are easily accessible. Enjoy a diverse breakfast buffet, fitness center, and laundry facilities—everything you need is here!


This hotel is super convenient with its prime location right next to the high-speed rail station and bus terminal, making transportation a breeze. Enjoy modern amenities like dryers, laundry rooms, and smart ventilation systems, plus 24-hour front desk and robot services for a high-tech stay. The rooms are clean and cozy, with stunning night views to unwind. Plenty of dining and shopping options nearby make it easy to explore. With free parking and car rental services, it's perfect for road trips. Great value for money—highly recommended for those who love comfort and convenience!

This hotel offers great value for money! Located next to the Cultural Palace BRT Station, it's super convenient to reach Hongshan, Youhao商圈, and Wanda Plaza. The rooms feature premium zero-pressure mattresses for a comfortable sleep, and smart robots provide 24/7 delivery service—so thoughtful! Enjoy a variety of Chinese and Western buffet breakfast options. The area is packed with local snacks and shopping spots, making it perfect for exploring. Facilities include laundry rooms, a gym, and non-smoking floors, ideal for both families and business travelers. With attentive service and a friendly front desk, it’s highly recommended!

Looking for a budget-friendly hotel near the subway station and airport? This is your perfect choice! With 24-hour front desk service, free parking, and airport shuttle, getting around is a breeze. The rooms are clean and cozy, featuring laundry service and ironing facilities, ideal for both business and family travelers. Its prime location near the train station makes exploring the city effortless. Children's amenities are also available, so families are well taken care of. Bookmark this gem for your next hassle-free trip!



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.
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