Desert Populus Euphratica Ecological Scenic Area

The Desert Populus Euphratica Ecological Scenic Area is a natural landscape area with the theme of poplar forest ecological protection and desert scenery. There are large areas of original poplar forests and vast deserts in the scenic area, which is an ideal place for photography enthusiasts and nature explorers. You can enjoy the spectacular poplar forest landscape, experience desert adventure activities, and feel the magical charm of nature.

Highlights of Desert Populus Euphratica Ecological Scenic Area

Populus Euphratica

Populus Euphratica

In the center of the lake and the sea of sand, there are patches of populus euphratica forests. Looking around, the sky is clear blue, the desert is vast, and the golden populus euphratica stretches to the horizon, presenting a beautiful and stunning landscape. Populus euphratica is also a major highlight of the scenic area. In autumn, the populus euphratica is full of golden yellow, which is very dazzling. Here, you can not only feel the magnificent beauty of nature but also appreciate the majestic and upward momentum as well as the indomitable spirit of the populus euphratica trees.

The Taklimakan Rally Camp

The Taklimakan Rally Camp was built by the scenic area with a large investment. Covering an area of nearly 200,000 square meters, it can accommodate 1,000 vehicles at the same time. The camp is fully equipped with facilities such as charging stations, car washing services, showers, and toilets. The Desert Populus Euphratica Ecological Scenic Area is an important stop for the Taklimakan Rally and also serves as a self-driving tour camp. It was one of the venues for the 2019 Taklimakan Rally and continued to host the rally's closing ceremony in 2023. The "Rally Settlement" in the scenic area provides a camp integrating leisure, accommodation, catering and other services for self-driving enthusiasts.

Educational Value

With its drought-resistant characteristics, the populus euphratica is a biological miracle of plants adapting to extremely arid and saline-alkali environments. By observing the roots and leaves of the populus euphratica, you can intuitively understand the mechanisms of plants' drought resistance and salt-alkali tolerance, as well as the adaptive evolution of organisms to the environment.

Activities to do at Ulungur Lake

Amusement and experience activities: In the scenic area, you can try sand sliding, camel riding, and desert off-road driving. These bring the excitement and joy of desert travel. You can also enjoy other activities like cycling, taking a cruise, and riding a carriage.

Photography: Here you can take photos of vast golden stretches. In autumn, the large area of populus euphratica turns completely golden—everywhere you look is bright gold, making for a beautiful and stunning landscape.