Luopu

Introducing Luopu

Luopu County is located at the northern foot of the Kunlun Mountains, bordering Cele County to the east, the Kunlun Mountains to the south, and Hotan County across the Yulong Kashi River to the west. Northward, it extends into the Taklamakan Desert, bordering Aksu City and Awati County. National Highway 315 traverses the county, and the Awati-Hotan Highway runs through the entire area.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, due to the decreasing water level of Lop Nur Lake and a major plague, a large number of residents fled. Some of them moved to Luopu along the Hotan River and settled there. The locals called it Luopu Renzhuang, which was a homonym of Lop Nur. The place name evolved from this. Since then, the village where the Lop Nur people migrated and settled has been called Luopu Zhuang, and the name Luopu is still used today.

In the flood season of summer, the lake is abundant with water and the scenery is beautiful. The lake is cleverly combined with the surrounding desert. A large amount of vegetation grows on the lakeside. The northwest periphery of the lake is a dense poplar forest. In the golden autumn of October, the golden poplar forest, sand dunes and snow-capped mountains are reflected on the green lake surface, and together with the wild ducks and white cranes flying on the lake, the Uyghur houses and sheep on the lakeside, it forms a tourist landscape with unique ethnic characteristics.

Climate and best time to travel

Luopu County has an extremely dry continental climate with four distinct seasons and large temperature differences between day and night.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Luopu

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Luopu is a historic town in southern Xinjiang, known for its significance in Uyghur culture and its role along the ancient Silk Road. It has long been a trading hub, particularly for jade, and serves as a gateway to the surrounding desert and mountain regions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Luopu is located in Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from Hotan, which is about 80 kilometers away. There is no metro service, and walking is best for exploring the town itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Luopu is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn, when the weather is milder. Summer can be very hot, and winter can be cold, particularly in the desert areas.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There are no specific entrance fees for the town itself. However, some cultural sites or attractions may charge entry fees, typically ranging from 20 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and online ticketing is not common in this region.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for most attractions in Luopu, except during peak tourist seasons or for special events. It's best to check availability closer to your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A half-day is sufficient to explore the town's main attractions. If you plan to visit surrounding natural sites or take a guided tour, you may want to set aside a full day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The local marketplaces where you can find traditional Uyghur goods.
• The historical sites, such as mosques and ancient trading posts along the Silk Road.
• Scenic areas around the desert and mountains, ideal for hiking and photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin. Some English-speaking guides may also be available on request. Audio guides are not commonly offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The local markets offer great opportunities for street photography, capturing the vibrant life of the town.
• Scenic viewpoints in the desert and nearby mountains offer stunning panoramic views, especially at sunset or sunrise.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the local markets to experience the town's culture, then head to the historical sites. Finish with a trip to the scenic desert or mountain areas for photography and exploration.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no specific night visits or light shows in Luopu. However, during certain festivals, special cultural events may be held in the evenings.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Luopu is generally not very crowded, except during public holidays and peak travel seasons. Weekdays outside of these periods tend to be the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available in the town. There are also local shops selling food, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main town is relatively accessible for elderly and children. However, some of the desert and mountain areas may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments due to uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely used in Luopu, though mobile payment systems like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted in many locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Uyghur restaurants offering dishes like lamb skewers, pilaf, and naan bread.
• Small tea houses and cafes serving traditional tea and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are widely available in Luopu, and vegetarian dishes like salads, stews, and breads are also common.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Several budget hotels and guesthouses are available in Luopu.
• If you prefer more luxurious accommodations, Hotan city, about 80 km away, offers more options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Black Jade markets in Hotan, which is also known for its jade industry.
• The desert regions around Luopu, ideal for hiking and experiencing traditional desert life.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Uyghur handicrafts, jewelry, textiles, and spices.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Private car or taxi is the most convenient option for continuing your journey, especially if you are heading to Hotan or other nearby areas.
• Public buses are available, but they may not be as convenient for tourists.