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The Plateau Desert Wonders offer stunning natural scenery, with unique sand dunes and rugged desert landscapes that are perfect for exploration. Recommended activities include camel trekking, desert photography, stargazing at night, and experiencing the peaceful isolation of the desert. Visitors can also explore ancient ruins or fossils found in the area, as well as enjoy a traditional Uyghur meal at one of the local eateries.
The wonders of the plateau desert lie within Ruoqiang County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and are situated within the Altun Mountain Nature Reserve. The most famous are the Kumkuli Desert in the northeast and the sand barchan dunes east of Whale Lake. The Kumkuli Desert, covering 2,556 square kilometers, is primarily composed of tall pyramidal dunes and complex barchans. The sand barchans are the highest deserts in the world, burying recent riverbeds and glacial deposits, and possessing a rich underground reservoir beneath the dunes.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Kumukuli Desert, Jishatan Crescent Dunes, 3 hours
free
All day
The Plateau Desert Wonders are a natural marvel in Xinjiang, offering a mix of arid desert landscapes and historical ruins that have been shaped over centuries by wind and time. The area has been historically significant as part of the ancient Silk Road, where travelers passed through. The desert's unique rock formations and ancient remnants provide a glimpse into the region's deep history and the cultural exchange that once took place.
The Plateau Desert Wonders are located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from Korla or other nearby cities. There are no metro or bus lines directly serving the desert, so driving is the most efficient option. It's recommended to hire a local guide if you want to explore deeper into the desert.
The Plateau Desert Wonders are open year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring and autumn when temperatures are milder. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter might bring harsh conditions, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is advised during these months for the best experience.
There is typically no formal entrance fee to visit the Plateau Desert Wonders as it is a natural site. However, for organized tours or camel treks, you may need to pay for activities. You can book these services offline, at local tour offices or through your hotel.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for entry to the desert. However, if you're planning to take part in guided tours or specific desert activities, it’s a good idea to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully explore the Plateau Desert Wonders, you will likely need at least 4-5 hours. This includes time for trekking, photography, and possibly a camel ride. If you plan to stargaze or explore deeper into the desert, you may want to spend an entire day or more.
The must-see highlights include the spectacular sand dunes, the ancient ruins scattered across the desert, and the impressive rock formations carved by the wind. The sunset over the dunes is a particularly stunning sight. Fossil hunting and observing desert wildlife are also popular activities in the area.
Guided tours are available, especially for those wishing to venture further into the desert. These tours typically include explanations of the desert's history and natural features. Guides usually speak Mandarin, and some may speak English, though it is helpful to confirm this in advance. Audio guides are not commonly offered.
The best viewpoints are atop the higher sand dunes, offering panoramic views of the vast desert landscape. The area around the ruins and fossil sites is also ideal for photography, as the contrast between the ancient structures and the desert environment creates striking images. Sunset and sunrise over the dunes provide the best lighting for photos.
Start your visit by exploring the outer dunes and taking photos of the panoramic desert views. Then, visit the ancient ruins and fossil sites. If you're interested in a camel ride, this can be arranged either at the beginning or end of your visit. Finally, make sure to stay for sunset to capture the desert in its golden light.
Night visits are not common, but the desert is an excellent spot for stargazing, and you can arrange for a night under the stars with a guide. There are no light shows or other night-time events, but the clear desert sky offers a peaceful and memorable experience.
The Plateau Desert Wonders are not usually crowded, especially during the off-season (winter and early spring). Visiting during weekdays or early mornings will allow you to avoid the occasional local tour groups and enjoy a quieter experience.
Facilities are limited in the desert area itself. There are no large shops, but you may find small vendors offering bottled water, snacks, and souvenirs. It’s advisable to bring your own water, food, and supplies. There are basic rest areas in the park, and portable toilets are available in key spots.
The desert environment is rugged, and certain areas may be difficult to access for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. However, visitors can still enjoy some areas close to the entrance or along paved paths. Camel rides are also available for a more comfortable experience.
Cash is often needed for small purchases, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly accepted in nearby cities and by some vendors in the desert area. It is best to carry some cash just in case.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the desert area. However, Korla city, which is nearby, has a variety of restaurants offering both local Xinjiang cuisine and international options. Local Uyghur restaurants are known for dishes like lamb kebabs and pilaf.
Yes, there are plenty of halal food options in Korla and nearby areas, as the region is home to a large Uyghur population. Vegetarian and vegan dishes, including fresh salads, vegetables, and lentil-based dishes, are also widely available.
Nearby accommodations include the Korla International Hotel and Golden Sunshine Hotel, both of which offer comfortable stays and easy access to the desert area. There are also guesthouses and smaller hotels available in Korla for more budget-friendly options.
Nearby attractions include the Kizil Caves, Korla Museum, and the Taklamakan Desert. These can all be combined in a day trip from the Plateau Desert Wonders for a comprehensive desert and historical experience.
Souvenir shops are available in Korla, selling traditional Uyghur handicrafts, textiles, carpets, and spices. In the desert area, you may find small vendors selling local crafts such as camel wool products and jewelry.
After visiting the Plateau Desert Wonders, you can continue your trip by taxi, private car, or tour bus to nearby attractions such as the Kizil Caves, Taklamakan Desert, or Korla city. Public transportation is less available in the desert area, so private transport is recommended.
