Luntai Populus Euphratica Forest

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

1. Thousand-Year Huyang King: A UNESCO-listed tree estimated to be 1,000 years old, with branches spanning 40 meters.
2. Golden Canopy Walkway: A 1.5-km elevated boardwalk through autumn-hued trees (mid-October–early November).
3. Tarim River Viewpoint: Sunset views of the river winding through dunes and poplars.
4. Huyang Museum: Displays fossilized wood, ancient caravan tools, and Silk Road artifacts.
5. Retro Forest Train: A restored 1960s steam train offering 2-hour rides through the grove.
6. Lop Nur Desert Edge: A 30-minute drive to the forest’s southern boundary, where dunes meet poplars.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (3 Hours):
   Visitor Center → Golden Canopy Walkway → Tarim River Viewpoint → Huyang Museum → Return
   Highlights: Iconic tree clusters and river vistas.

2. 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.

3. 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.