Luntai Populus Euphratica Forest
Luntai Huyang Forest, located in Xinjiang’s Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, is the world’s largest contiguous wild Euphrates poplar (Populus euphratica) forest, spanning 3,800 hectares. These "living fossils" have survived 65 million years, with individual trees living up to 1,000 years. Fed by the Tarim River, the forest forms a critical ecological barrier against the Taklamakan Desert. Recognized as a national 4A-level scenic area in 2013, it attracts photographers and eco-tourists with its autumn golden hues and winter frost-covered trunks.
Historical Overview
The forest’s history intertwines with the Silk Road:
- Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE): Huyang trees provided shade and fuel for caravans traveling between Loulan and Khotan.
- 1970s: Discovered by scientists, revealing its role in stabilizing Tarim River oases.
- 2000s: Included in the "Great Green Wall" project, planting 200,000 saplings to combat desertification.
- 2020: Designated a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves candidate.
Structural Layout
The forest is divided into three zones:
- Core Protection Zone: 1,500 hectares of ancient trees (500+ years old), accessible only via guided tours.
- Buffer Zone: 1,200 hectares with younger trees and boardwalk trails.
- Visitor Area: 1,100 hectares featuring observation towers, photo spots, and cultural exhibits.
Key landmarks include the "Thousand-Year Huyang King," a 32-meter-tall tree with a 4-meter trunk circumference, and the "Huyang Museum" showcasing fossilized wood.
Major Attractions
- Thousand-Year Huyang King: A UNESCO-listed tree estimated to be 1,000 years old, with branches spanning 40 meters.
- Golden Canopy Walkway: A 1.5-km elevated boardwalk through autumn-hued trees (mid-October–early November).
- Tarim River Viewpoint: Sunset views of the river winding through dunes and poplars.
- Huyang Museum: Displays fossilized wood, ancient caravan tools, and Silk Road artifacts.
- Retro Forest Train: A restored 1960s steam train offering 2-hour rides through the grove.
- Lop Nur Desert Edge: A 30-minute drive to the forest’s southern boundary, where dunes meet poplars.
Suggested Itineraries
-
Classic Route (3 Hours):
Visitor Center → Golden Canopy Walkway → Tarim River Viewpoint → Huyang Museum → Return
Highlights: Iconic tree clusters and river vistas. -
Extended Route (5 Hours):
Visitor Center → Retro Forest Train → Thousand-Year Huyang King → Lop Nur Desert Edge → Sunset at Braid Hill
Highlights: Steam train ride and desert-forest contrast. -
Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Visitor Center → Retro Train → Thousand-Year Huyang King → Golden Canopy Walkway → Tarim River Cruise → Huyang Museum → Night Camping
Highlights: Full ecosystem immersion and stargazing.
Ticket Purchase
- Entrance Fee: ¥45 (peak season: Oct–Nov), ¥30 (off-season: Dec–Apr).
- Retro Train Ride: ¥80/person (includes priority photo stops).
- Guided Tours: ¥200–400/group (up to 10 people).
Purchase: Book via the official WeChat platform "Luntai Huyang Forest" or buy on-site.
Transportation
- From Urumqi: Fly to Korla Airport (1.5 hours), then 2-hour taxi (¥300) or bus (¥50) to Luntai County.
- From Korla: Take bus route 102 (1.5 hours) or taxi (¥150, 1 hour).
- Self-Drive: Follow the G218 Desert Highway from Korla to Luntai (120 km, 1.5 hours).
- Local Transport: Electric carts (¥30/hour) and horse rentals (¥50/hour) available at the visitor center.
Best Time & Tips
- Ideal Season: Mid-October–early November (peak autumn foliage).
- Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends host photography groups.
- Essentials:
- Pack layers (temperatures swing 20°C between day/night).
- Bring a polarizing filter for canopy photography.
- Cash for remote ticket purchases and souvenirs.
- Prohibited Items: Drones (require permit), littering, and tree climbing.
- Eco-Tip: Join "Adopt a Huyang" programs (¥200/year) to fund reforestation.
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