CHINA EXPERIENCE
When autumn arrives in Bayingol Mongolian autonomous prefecture in southern Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, vast forests of desert poplar (Populus euphratica) burst into shades of gold and amber. Against the backdrop of sweeping sand dunes, shimmering lakes and tranquil wetlands, the ancient trees create a breathtaking landscape where water, sand and golden foliage meet. For nature lovers and photographers, this fleeting autumn spectacle offers a remarkable way to experience the wild beauty of Xinjiang.
The best time to catch the golden display is generally from late October to early November, although the peak varies by location and weather. From the iconic Tarim Populus Euphratica National Forest Park in Luntai county to the quieter woodlands of Hoxud county, each destination offers a different perspective on these resilient desert trees.
Ideal for
Landscape photographers, nature lovers, road-trip enthusiasts and travelers looking for scenery beyond China's better-known autumn destinations.
Best time to go and possible destinations worth considering
Late October to early November is generally the prime season for golden poplar foliage in Bayingol. Based on the seasonal viewing periods provided, the following destinations are worth considering:
1. Korla (库尔勒市):
Best time: Oct 20-Nov 8
Recommended spots: Puhui Poplar Forest (普惠胡杨林) and Longshan Park (龙山公园)
Stay: Central Korla or near the Peacock River. No overnight stay is necessary specifically for these attractions.
Suggested visit: Half a day to one day. Longshan Park is ideal for city views and autumn foliage. Puhui Poplar Forest is better suited to a separate outing if transport is arranged.
Getting there:
Puhui Poplar Forest: From downtown Korla, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes at the fastest, covering about 49.8 kilometers.
Longshan Park: Longshan Park is right next to the Korla Expressway exit, making it easily accessible just off the expressway.
Beyond the foliage: Enjoy riverside walks, city panoramas and local Xinjiang cuisine.
Ticket price: Both Puhui Poplar Forest and Longshan Park offer free admission.
2. Yuli county (尉犁县):
Best time: Oct 21-Nov 9
Recommended spots: Luoburen (Lop Nur people) village (罗布人村寨) and Luobu Lake (罗布湖)
Stay: Yuli county is convenient for hotels and restaurants. Consider one night if visiting both attractions.
Suggested visit: One full day, or two days at a relaxed pace. Allow around 3-5 hours for Luoburen village.
Ticket prices:
Luoburen village: 35 yuan ($5.24)/person, with a sightseeing shuttle at 15 yuan/person.
Luobu Lake: 39 yuan/person
Getting there:
Luoburen village: From downtown Korla, head south along National Highway 218, pass through downtown Yuli county, and continue south to reach the destination.
Luobu Lake: From Korla, take the Urumqi-Ruoqiang Expressway toward Ruoqiang. Exit near Qunke Toll Station, then continue along the old National Highway 218 for a stretch.
Beyond the foliage: Learn about the ethnic culture of the Lop Nur people, sample local dishes and look for available desert or lake activities.
3. Luntai county (轮台县)
Best time: Oct 20-Nov 8
Recommended spot: Tarim Populus Euphratica National Forest Park (塔里木胡杨林国家森林公园)
Stay: Luntai county for an early start, or Korla if making a day trip.
Suggested visit: Allow 3-5 hours inside the park.
Ticket price: 40 yuan/person
Getting there: Tarim Populus Euphratica National Forest Park is located beside the desert highway, about 70 kilometers south of downtown Luntai county. Set your destination to “Tarim Populus Euphratica National Forest Park Visitor Center” (“塔里木胡杨林国家森林公园游客中心”).
Beyond the foliage: Ride the sightseeing train, take nature walks and photograph the forest against the desert landscape.
4. Hoxud county (和硕县):
Best time: Oct 28-Nov 5
Recommended spot: Xintare Township Poplar Forest (新塔热乡胡杨林)
Stay: Hoxud county
Suggested visit: Half a day; allow a full day if combining the forest with nearby countryside.
Getting there: Set your destination to “Xintare Township Poplar Forest” or “Bucienchagan village, Xintare township”.
Ticket price: Free
Beyond the foliage: Enjoy white saline marshland landscape.
5. Qiemo county (且末县):
Best time: Oct 20-early November
Recommended spot: Toga Bulak Scenic Area (托盖布拉克景区)
Stay: Qiemo county, especially if exploring the surrounding area over one or two days.
Suggested visit: Half a day to one full day.
Ticket price: Free
Getting there: From downtown Qiemo county, take National Highway G315, then turn onto local roads toward Kuoshisatema township.
Beyond the foliage: Explore lakes, dunes and Silk Road heritage.
Which destinations can you combine?
Korla: Longshan Park and Puhui Poplar Forest in one day, subject to transport arrangements.
Yuli county: Luoburen village and Luobu Lake in one full day, with an overnight stay recommended for a relaxed visit.
Luntai county: Dedicate most of a day to Tarim Populus Euphratica National Forest Park rather than rushing between distant attractions.
Hoxud county: Combine the Xintare Township Poplar Forest with nearby countryside or Bosten Lake if roads are open.
Qiemo county: Pair the Toga Bulak Scenic Area with local cultural attractions and an overnight stay in the county.
Travel tip:
For a short trip, prioritize Korla and Yuli county. Choose Luntai county for a dedicated forest experience, while Hoxud and Qiemo counties are better suited to self-drive or longer southern Xinjiang itineraries.
Before you go
Dress in layers: Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, sometimes by more than 15 C. Bring a warm jacket and windproof outerwear for chilly mornings and evenings.
Protect yourself from the sun: Daytime sunshine can be intense, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Carry your ID: Keep your identification document with you, as checks may be required at scenic areas.
Book ahead: Autumn is a popular travel season, and accommodation near major poplar forests can fill up quickly.
Prepare for remote conditions: If driving, refuel before entering remote forest or desert areas. Carry drinking water and snacks, and download offline maps in case mobile reception is unreliable.
Plan your photography: Red or white clothing can stand out beautifully against golden foliage. Allow extra time to explore different viewpoints as the light changes.