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 5-diamond luxury boutique hotel is your perfect choice! Located in the city center with excellent transport links, it offers 200 parking spaces and charging stations for hassle-free road trips. Rooms feature smart home controls and high-speed Wi-Fi, along with separate wet and dry bathrooms and instant hot water for ultimate comfort. Family rooms and a kids’ play area make it ideal for families, while meeting rooms and a business center cater to professionals. The nearby Youhao shopping district has everything you need for dining and entertainment!

This hotel is the perfect choice for both business and family trips! Located in the heart of Urumqi, it's just a 2-minute walk to popular attractions and a 15-minute drive to the high-speed rail station and airport, making it super convenient. The hotel boasts modern smart amenities like voice-controlled rooms, robot meal delivery, and smart toilets, offering a high-tech experience. Enjoy authentic Xinjiang breakfast and 24-hour service to satisfy your cravings and needs. Public areas feature a tea lounge, gym, and meeting rooms, perfect for both work and relaxation. Family-friendly facilities like kids' meals and children's用品 make it ideal for families. Newly opened with a 4.8 high rating, it's a trustworthy stay!

This hotel boasts a prime location right opposite the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, just a short walk from the subway station and surrounded by delicious local eateries and unique shops! The decor blends ethnic charm with modern touches, making it perfect for Instagram-worthy shots. Rooms are clean and comfortable, with independent fiber-optic internet—ideal for both business and leisure travelers. The friendly front desk staff and top-notch facilities, including a 70-person conference room, ensure a seamless stay. Don’t miss the stunning night views and easy access to the bustling pedestrian street—all at an unbeatable value!

This hotel offers unbeatable value with a stellar 4.7/5 rating! Perfectly located with easy access to public transport and free parking/valet services, making it ideal for road trippers. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, some even boasting stunning views of the Tianshan Mountains—a real treat! Family-friendly amenities like a kids’ play area, children’s meals, and baby supplies ensure a hassle-free stay. Just steps away from Youhao Shopping Mall and the Xinjiang Museum, plus 20-minute drives to the airport/train station. With a 24/7 front desk, friendly staff, and modern facilities like a fitness center, it’s perfect for both business and leisure. A hidden gem!

This hotel offers great value for money! Its location is super convenient, right opposite the subway station, with Hongshan Park and International Bazaar just a few minutes away. The rooms are clean and well-equipped with independent WiFi and 24-hour hot water. The front desk staff are warm and attentive, and there are family rooms and specially decorated rooms perfect for couples or families. Nearby, you’ll find Xinmin Road Food Street with authentic Xinjiang snacks. Whether for business or leisure, this is the perfect choice!

This hotel boasts a prime location in the heart of Urumqi, just a 5-minute walk from the Xinjiang International Convention and Exhibition Center, with Cultural Park and Six Halls and One Center nearby for endless exploration! Enjoy top-notch amenities like a fitness center, self-service laundry, and charging stations, plus valet parking and free parking for added convenience. The rooms are cozy and clean, with friendly front desk service, a snack bar, and 24-hour reception—perfect for both business and leisure. Don’t miss the nearby 4A-rated Hongguang Mountain for family fun!

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 Yaxin International Hotel during a business trip was an absolutely flawless experience—I just had to share how impressed I was! The room was spacious and well-lit, with a smart layout that made the space feel open and airy. The interior design had a modern yet welcoming touch, and every detail—from the soft, comfortable bedding to the high-quality bathroom fixtures—showed real thoughtfulness. Staff were incredibly attentive from check-in: friendly, efficient, and always ready to help. Throughout my stay, they checked in with genuine warmth without being intrusive. The breakfast was abundant and fresh, and the late-night congee was a delightful surprise—perfect for a quiet evening. Whether you're traveling for work or leisure, this hotel delivers exceptional comfort and service. I’ve already recommended it to friends and will definitely choose it again on my next visit.

I stayed at Urumqi Hongbaoshi Hotel for one night and was thoroughly impressed. The front desk staff were incredibly helpful—my room was upgraded for free, and I was able to check out late without any hassle. The location is perfect: right across from the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, making it super easy to explore on foot or by subway. There's also a complimentary parking lot, which is a big plus if you're arriving by car. The room was spotlessly clean, quiet, and very comfortable—ideal for a good night’s sleep. All amenities were well-maintained, and I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like free laundry detergent and moisturizer in the room. It felt like a home away from home. I came here specifically to prepare for an exam, and the peaceful atmosphere made studying a breeze. Highly recommend this hotel for both travelers and students—it offers great value and excellent service.

My stay at Bazhou Hotel in Urumqi was absolutely excellent! The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with clean linens that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff were friendly and attentive—especially the front desk attendant who kindly offered to refrigerate my medication, which was such a thoughtful touch. Housekeeping came by promptly each day, keeping the room spotless and fresh. All amenities were well-maintained, and I appreciated the strong, consistent hot water supply. It’s clear the hotel values guest comfort and service quality. With its convenient location and great value, I’d definitely book here again on my next visit to Urumqi. Highly recommend this hidden gem!

Staying at Meiyi Hotel was an absolute highlight during my recent business trip—definitely the right choice! The location is unbeatable: just a short walk to the subway station and the shopping district, making it super convenient for both work and exploring. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and efficient—check-in was quick and smooth, and they even took the time to recommend some local favorites nearby, which instantly made me feel welcome. The room was spotless, with fresh linens that felt soft and smelled clean. The mattress was just right—not too hard, not too soft—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. The bathroom features a smart dry-wet separation design, with strong water pressure and consistent hot water, making morning routines a real pleasure. The air conditioning cools down quickly, and the soundproofing is excellent—no outside noise disturbed my sleep at all. All amenities are well-maintained and thoughtfully provided. What stood out most was how attentive the team was—they regularly checked if I needed housekeeping or extra toiletries, showing genuine care. For the price, this level of comfort and service is truly outstanding. I’ve already recommended it to colleagues and friends, and I’ll definitely be back on my next visit to Urumqi.

I absolutely have to shout out this incredible value hotel! I originally booked it with a 'just stay here' mindset since the price was so affordable, but the actual experience blew my expectations completely away. The front desk staff were warm and efficient—check-in took less than 5 minutes with zero compromise on service quality, even offering us a room upgrade without hesitation. That was such a pleasant surprise! The room itself felt way above its price point: spotless floors, incredibly comfortable bedding that made for a restful night’s sleep, powerful air conditioning, reliable hot water, fast Wi-Fi, and high-quality toiletries—not the cheap stuff you often get at budget places. Even the bedside charging outlets were thoughtfully placed, making it super convenient for travelers. What really stunned me? Breakfast was included! It wasn’t fancy, but it had all the basics—congee, noodles, rice, buns, eggs, milk, and coffee—fresh ingredients, simple home-style flavors, and more than enough to start the day right. Totally worth it. Location-wise, it’s perfect: just a short walk from the bus stop, surrounded by local eateries and convenience stores, so finding food or essentials is effortless. For the lowest possible cost, I got an experience that rivals mid-to-high-end hotels in comfort and service. The value is unmatched. If I’m ever back in Urumqi, this will be my go-to choice. A genuine recommendation for anyone traveling on a budget who still wants a great stay!

Staying at Yuexiang Huanpeng Hotel was a great experience from start to finish. Located just a 10-minute walk from Nanguan Square, it's super convenient for exploring nearby attractions or catching the high-speed train—especially helpful when you're on a tight schedule. The heating system worked like a charm during the cold weather, keeping the room comfortably warm even when it was freezing outside. Rooms were spotless, with clean bedding and well-maintained bathrooms. Everything felt modern and thoughtfully designed. The staff were friendly and efficient—check-in was quick, and they went out of their way to assist with any requests. What really stood out was the excellent value for money. You get a lot of comfort and convenience without paying a premium. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to travelers visiting Ürümqi, whether for business or leisure. A solid choice for a stress-free stay!

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.

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!

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!

Stayed here multiple times and always impressed! Opened in 2021, the room is bright, clean, and spotless—really impressive hygiene standards. Everything you need is available: a solid TV system for entertainment, a super comfortable soft bed, and thoughtful lighting throughout—each step has a light, which adds to the cozy, welcoming feel. It truly feels like home, just like the Homeinn experience I’ve come to love. Staff are friendly, helpful, and attentive without being overbearing. The location near Xiaxigou Metro Station is convenient, and the overall value is excellent. I’ve stayed here several times already and will definitely be back on my next trip to Urumqi.
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