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 boasts a prime location near the metro and Dehui Wanda Plaza, with quick access to the high-speed rail station and airport. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, plus family-friendly amenities and spa services, perfect for families or couples. Enjoy airport transfers for hassle-free travel. Facilities include a fitness center, KTV, and meeting rooms, catering to both business and leisure needs. The clean, cozy environment offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for your stay!

This hotel offers great value for money, perfect for both business trips and family vacations! Its convenient location near the airport and shopping centers, along with free parking and airport shuttle services, makes transportation a breeze. The rooms are well-equipped with 24-hour hot water and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay. Kids will love the play area and family cinema, while adults can relax in the tea room or garden. Additional services like car rental and luggage storage make exploring Urumqi even easier. With its clean environment and friendly staff, it’s the ideal choice for your next trip!

This hotel is perfect for family trips and business travel! Located near the airport with free shuttle services, it’s incredibly convenient. The rooms are spacious and bright, featuring modern and minimalist decor with complete amenities, including laundry services and a dryer, ideal for long stays. The hotel has a cozy courtyard that makes you feel at home. Surrounding areas offer local eateries and 24-hour supermarkets for added convenience. With attentive service, friendly front desk, and great value, it’s even pet-friendly—a truly thoughtful choice!




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

The room cleanliness was absolutely outstanding—every surface, from the tabletops to the corners, was spotless, and even the bathroom details were impeccably clean. The bedding was crisp, soft, and fresh with no unpleasant odors. Breakfast was a real highlight: a well-rounded buffet offering delicious hot Chinese and Western dishes, pastries, fresh fruits, and beverages that catered to all tastes. It felt like a genuine treat each morning. With such excellent value and the added convenience of airport transfer service, I’d definitely book here again on my next visit to Urumqi. The location is also very accessible, making it easy to explore the city without hassle.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The room was beautifully designed, spotlessly clean, and everything felt fresh—especially the disposable towels and face cloths, which gave me peace of mind. The soundproofing was excellent; I slept so deeply without any noise disturbance. Being just a short distance from the airport made everything super convenient—getting there or leaving was effortless, and the complimentary airport shuttle saved me so much time and hassle. Nearby dining options were great too—the breakfast buffet offered delicious local treats like warm buns and creamy milk tea that made my mornings extra special. Overall, it’s a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and value. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to fellow travelers.

I had a quick overnight stay during a flight transfer, and calling the hotel got me an immediate pickup arranged. The driver was prompt, friendly, and even helped carry my luggage—such a thoughtful touch! Honestly, I didn’t expect much at this price point—I just wanted a clean place to rest. But the room exceeded expectations: spotless, well-maintained, and surprisingly cozy. They even provided laundry detergent—a nice little detail. Noise insulation was excellent; I slept soundly with no disturbances from outside. The cleanliness, service, and location were all top-notch. Being right near the airport makes it super convenient for early flights or late arrivals. I’d definitely choose this hotel again for any transit stop. It’s a hidden gem with great value.

Absolutely a perfect stay! A huge thank you to the front desk staff, Nana, for her exceptional service. From check-in to checkout, everything was smooth and welcoming. Nana went above and beyond—she patiently explained local highlights, including a nearby food street just a short walk away, where I could enjoy authentic Urumqi snacks and popular chain restaurants without any hassle. As a food lover, this was a game-changer. The airport transfer service was another highlight: I booked in advance with Nana, and the driver arrived right on time, professional, and even helped with luggage both ways. It made my solo trip so much easier and stress-free. Every detail felt thoughtfully planned, and Nana’s warm, attentive approach truly made the experience memorable. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a home-away-from-home. I’ll definitely be back and will recommend it to everyone I know.

I absolutely loved staying at Liangzhu Homestay! The space is spacious and incredibly comfortable—felt like a home away from home. It's just a 10-minute walk to Zhongyinggong Metro Station, making it super convenient for getting around Urumqi. The front desk staff were so friendly and helpful—answered all my questions with genuine care and made the check-in process seamless. I highly recommend heading to the Water Room Bar across the street for a relaxing drink in the evening. In the afternoon, grab a coffee at the cozy café right in the same courtyard—it’s such a peaceful little retreat. The whole vibe is authentic and welcoming. This place offers amazing value and experience. Definitely coming back!

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.

This stay exceeded all my expectations! The room was immaculate—spotless from top to bottom, with plush bedding that made for a truly restful night. Hot water came on instantly, and the Wi-Fi signal was strong throughout the entire stay—perfect for streaming or working remotely. The front desk staff, especially Xiao Ma, were incredibly friendly and responsive; he even offered a complimentary breakfast, which was a lovely touch. Located just steps away from dining options and public transit, getting around the city was effortless. I especially loved sitting by the window in the evening, enjoying the vibrant city lights of Dehui Plaza across the street—truly a beautiful view. With its great value, cleanliness, and warm hospitality, this hotel is definitely a top pick for anyone visiting Urumqi. I’ll be back without hesitation!
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