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 stylish hotel is perfect for both business trips and family vacations! The smart rooms feature voice-controlled systems - just say the word to adjust lights and curtains without leaving your bed. With a 24-hour laundry room and fully-equipped fitness center, you can always stay fresh. Families will love the kids' play area and childcare services. Conveniently located just 10-15 minutes from the airport and high-speed rail station, plus free parking! The lobby blends Italian flair with local culture, complete with an Instagrammable photo spot. Don't miss the international breakfast buffet with local specialties!

This hotel is perfect for both business trips and family vacations! Its location is super convenient, just 15 minutes’ walk to Urumqi South Railway Station, and close to Qiyi Jiangyuan Shopping Center and Hetian Second Street, making dining and shopping a breeze. The hotel features robot services, a fitness center, and free parking, along with buffet breakfast and meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 70 people—ideal for conferences. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with non-smoking floors and children’s amenities, so families can relax worry-free. Rated 4.8/5 and listed as a 2024 top hotel, it’s truly a highly recommended stay!

Perfect for business trips and family vacations! Just 10 minutes to the railway station with free parking and 24-hour gym. Rooms feature smart systems—control lights & curtains by voice, plus high-speed WiFi and premium bedding for ultimate comfort. Kids’ play area and self-service laundry make travel effortless. The 150㎡ lobby blends local culture with Instagram-worthy spots, while breakfast offers 40+ global and regional dishes. Stress-free stays start here!

This hotel is perfect for family trips and business travel! Its prime location near the train station and schools, plus free parking, makes it ideal for road trips. Rooms feature Mlily mattresses and electric curtains for ultimate comfort and privacy. With a laundry room and fitness center, extended stays are a breeze. The 24-hour front desk and complimentary beverages show their attention to detail. Don’t miss their family rooms—fully equipped with kids’ essentials, it’s thoughtful touches like these that make your stay unforgettable.

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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