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Lop Nur, located in Qiang County, in the eastern Tarim Basin, is known as the "Ear of the Earth." It was formed at the end of the Tertiary Period and the beginning of the Quaternary Period, 18 million years ago. Once China's second-largest inland lake, it sits at an altitude of 780 meters and covers an area of approximately 3,000 square kilometers.
As early as the Han Dynasty, Lop Nur was "300 miles wide, its water level stable, neither rising nor falling in winter or summer." It was also once home to the populous and sizable ancient Kingdom of Loulan. However, in the mid-to-late 20th century, the Tarim River's flow decreased, leading to severe desertification and rapid degradation. By the 20th century, the once vast Lop Nur had become a dry salt marsh.
After Lop Nur dried up, the surrounding ecosystem underwent a dramatic transformation. All herbaceous vegetation withered, and even the poplar trees, the guardians of sand, died in droves. The desert advanced towards Lop Nur at a rate of 3-5 meters per year, quickly merging with the vast Taklamakan Desert. From then on, Lop Nur became a barren land, a veritable "Sea of Death."
The Lop Nur region, known as the "Devil's Triangle" on the Asian continent, has attracted many explorers, but also many who have gone missing. In 1996, Chinese explorer Yu Chunshun tragically died while trekking across the entirety of Lop Nur in Xinjiang. While shrouded in mystery and death, this area has only added to its allure, attracting even more explorers.
Traveling to Lop Nur is risky and is best done between mid-April and mid-October, when the desert winds are less severe.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
All day
Lop Nur is a former salt lake and historically significant site along the Silk Road. It has been used for ancient trade, uranium mining, and was a key nuclear testing site for China. The area is ecologically and geologically unique, with a rich desert ecosystem.
Entrance is generally included in guided tour packages; solo visits may require 50–100 CNY for local access permits, usually purchased offline.
Booking tours in advance is recommended, at least 1–2 weeks ahead, especially for 4x4 or camel tours.
A half-day to full day is recommended, depending on whether visiting nearby ruins or doing off-road exploration.
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English-speaking guides require prior arrangement with tour operators.
Night visits are possible with overnight camping; no light shows. Stargazing is a popular activity.
The area is very remote and rarely crowded; weekdays outside peak tourist season are quietest.
Facilities are minimal; bring water, food, and supplies. Some basic rest areas may be provided by tour operators.
Rough terrain makes it less suitable for elderly or disabled visitors; children can visit with supervision.
Cash is essential; card payments are not widely accepted in remote desert areas.
Restaurants are extremely limited; eat in nearby towns such as Korla or Hami before heading to Lop Nur.
Halal food is generally available in nearby towns; vegetarian options are limited.
Accommodations are in Korla, Hami, or Barkol town; no hotels directly at Lop Nur.
Souvenir shops are found in nearby towns; typical items include local crafts, dried fruits, and postcards.
