Korla is a dazzling pearl of southern Xinjiang tourism, attracting numerous visitors with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here are several must-visit attractions in Korla that you cannot miss:?
Lopnur Village: Located about 100 kilometers south of Korla, it is the border between the desert and oasis. The Lop people have lived by fishing and herding for generations. The village retains traditional wooden houses with reed roofs. Populus euphratica trees stubbornly grow in the desert, turning golden in autumn, creating a picturesque scene. Visitors can experience the traditional lifestyle of the Lop people here, taste grilled fish skewered on tamarisk branches, and feel the blend of history and nature.?
Tiemen Pass: Located on the banks of the Peacock River in the northern suburbs of Korla, it was once a strategic pass on the Silk Road. The ruins of the pass show traces of time and weathering, with the Peacock River flowing through the gorge, its water clear and cliffs steep. Standing at the pass and looking out, the snow-capped peaks of the Tianshan Mountains intertwine with the Gobi desert, creating a desolate yet magnificent view. It is suitable for outdoor hikers, and the sunset scenery here is especially enchanting.?
Bosten Lake: Nestled at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains, it is the largest inland freshwater lake in China. The lake water is clear, and the lake surface is like a mirror reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. Reeds sway by the lake, waterbirds gather in flocks, and fishermen row boats to catch fish, creating a serene and rustic scene. Due to varying water depths in the lake, sunlight casts different shades of blue, forming a unique "dual-colored lake" landscape. It is a paradise for photographers and a great place to relax.?
Taklimakan Desert: South of Korla, the Taklimakan Desert spreads out like a golden ocean, with continuous dunes and graceful lines. Visitors can experience desert off-road driving or camel rides to feel the pace of ancient caravan routes. The Populus euphratica forest at the edge of the desert turns golden in autumn, forming a stark contrast with the desolation. At night, the starry sky is dazzling with a clear Milky Way, making it an excellent spot for stargazing.?
Bazhou Museum: Located in the center of Korla, it is a microcosm of southern Xinjiang’s history and culture. The most impressive exhibit in the museum is the mummy of the "Loulan Beauty", which is well-preserved and allows people to imagine the history of a thousand years ago. The museum is designed with the Loulan Buddhist Tower as its main feature, complemented by the Mongolian Vajra Sarcophagus Stupa as its architectural base, implicitly seeking and contemplating the ancient Loulan culture.?
In addition, Korla also has attractions worth visiting such as Peacock River, Swan River Scenic Area, and Longshan Park. The Peacock River, known as the "mother river" of Korla, flows through the city, painting a poetic picture of "half of the city with pear blossoms and half with water". The Swan River Scenic Area has a vast water area and is a place where swans spend the winter. Longshan Park is located at the high point in the northeast corner of Korla, and from the top of the mountain, you can have a panoramic view of the city.?
The best travel seasons are summer and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is delightful. It is recommended to stay for about 3 days, so you can fully appreciate the scenery and culture of Korla.?