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Explore the stunning Populus euphratica trees, especially during the golden autumn months when the forest is in full color. Take a nature walk, enjoy birdwatching, and photograph the contrast of the trees against the vast desert landscape. A visit to nearby cultural sites is also a great addition.
The Golmud Populus euphratica forest is located in the Tolahai Animal Husbandry Society of Guolemude Township, Golmud City, 50 kilometers west of Golmud City, on the Tolahai River beach terraces and the sand dunes and inter-hill land scattered on the west bank of the river. The area is between 36°32′-36°40′ north latitude and 90°20′-90°26′ east longitude, 6 kilometers long from east to west and 7 kilometers wide from north to south, with an altitude of 2730-2813 meters. The total area of the reserve is 4,200 hectares.
This region has a typical plateau continental climate, with no extreme heat in summer, dry weather with little rain and strong evaporation.
The river only flows from June to September each year, and the riverbed is dry for most of the rest of the time.
Every October, the poplar trees turn from dark green to golden yellow, like flames burning in the vastness, seeming to dye the entire desert golden, making people feel the beauty of nature and the tenacity of life.
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The Golmud Populus euphratica forest is one of the largest and oldest forests of its kind in China, with some trees dating over 1,000 years. It plays an important role in the local ecosystem and is a significant landmark in the Qinghai region, known for its remarkable biodiversity and natural beauty.
The forest is located near Golmud in the Qinghai Province. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the Golmud city center. There is no metro service in the area, and walking is only suitable for short distances within the park.
The forest is open year-round. The best time to visit is during autumn (September to November) when the Populus euphratica trees turn golden, creating a stunning landscape. Spring and summer are also good times for visiting, though they can be more crowded.
The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through online platforms during peak seasons.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the autumn season when the forest is most popular. Booking 1-2 days in advance should suffice, but for peak times, booking a week ahead is recommended.
You can explore the forest in about 2-3 hours. However, if you plan to take photographs or participate in a guided tour, you may want to spend 4-5 hours to fully appreciate the area.
The forest’s majestic Populus euphratica trees, especially the ancient ones, are the main highlights. The surrounding desert landscape and the nearby river are also noteworthy for photography and nature walks.
Guided tours are available, typically in Chinese. English-speaking tours may be available upon request, but it’s recommended to confirm in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available.
The best viewpoints are around the edges of the forest, where you can capture the vastness of the desert with the golden trees in the foreground. The most iconic spots are near the riverbanks and on higher ground with panoramic views of the forest.
Start at the entrance and head to the main viewing platforms for an overview of the forest. Then, take a walk through the forest to admire the ancient trees up close. Don’t forget to stop by the riverbank for some scenic shots.
There are no light shows or night tours available. The forest is best explored during daylight hours when the natural beauty of the trees and surrounding landscape is most visible.
The forest can get crowded during the autumn peak season. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays. The off-season (winter and early spring) tends to be much quieter.
Basic facilities are available, including public toilets and water stations. There are small rest areas along the trails. Food and souvenir shops are available near the entrance, but options are limited within the forest itself.
The forest is accessible to children and elderly visitors, though the terrain can be uneven. Some areas may not be suitable for wheelchairs, so it's advisable to check accessibility in advance if needed.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used and recommended for convenience. Credit cards are not commonly accepted at the forest.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the entrance to the forest, serving traditional Chinese food. For more variety, head to the nearby Golmud city, where more dining options are available.
Vegetarian food options are available at some of the local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s best to check the menu in advance if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are several hotels in Golmud city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxurious stays, you can find larger hotels within the city itself.
Nearby attractions include the Tuotuo River, known for its natural beauty and pristine environment. Golmud city also offers several cultural landmarks worth exploring.
There are small souvenir shops at the entrance selling local handicrafts, postcards, and natural-themed souvenirs like dried flowers. Traditional Uyghur and Tibetan crafts can also be found in Golmud city.
After visiting the forest, taxis and buses are available to take you back to Golmud city. For longer trips, Golmud has a train station with connections to other major cities in the region.
