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The banks of the Ejina River, located in Dalaikubu Town, Ejina Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, are a kingdom of poplar trees. The 450,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares) of poplar forests make this one of the only three remaining large expanses of poplar forests in the world. Dense shade, sheltering pastures and sheep, stretch across hundreds of thousands of acres, vibrant and vibrant, creating a vibrant paradise amidst the vast desert. The poplar forests are the backbone of the Juyan Oasis and a fundamental ecological foundation. Without them, there would be no oasis; without them, human survival and development would be impossible in this geothermal, sandy, and bitterly cold desert. The poplar forests are inextricably linked to life here and are deeply cherished by the people.
Populus euphratica trees are generally more than 10 meters tall, and can reach more than 20 meters in height. They are known for their reputation of "living for a thousand years without dying, standing for a thousand years after death, and remaining immortal for a thousand years after falling." They are regarded as living fossils and are also a national second-level protected plant.
The best time to see the Populus euphratica trees is from the end of September to mid-October, when you can see yellow leaves. However, the best season to view the Populus euphratica forest is from October 5th to October 15th. The banks of the Ejina River are covered in golden color, making it a paradise for photography and travel enthusiasts.
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The Ejina Populus euphratica forest is a rare and ancient natural forest located in the Gobi Desert. It is significant not only for its unique biodiversity but also for its importance to the local ecosystem, as the Populus euphratica trees have adapted to survive in harsh desert conditions. The forest is a vital habitat for migratory birds and serves as a key part of the region's ecological balance.
The forest is located in Ejina Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia, China. To get there, you can fly to Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, and take a long-distance bus or hire a taxi to reach the Ejina area. Local transportation options such as buses or hired cars are also available to access the forest.
The Ejina Populus euphratica forest is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during autumn (September to October), when the leaves of the trees turn golden, creating a stunning visual display. The spring months also offer a pleasant climate for visiting, though it can be windy and dusty during the summer and winter months.
The entrance fee for the forest may vary, but it typically costs around 50 to 100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. It's recommended to check online for any ticketing information or packages offered by local tour providers.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally required for regular visits, but it is advisable during peak tourist seasons, such as autumn when the forest is most popular. It's recommended to book a few days ahead if you're planning a guided tour or if you're visiting during high-demand periods like national holidays.
You can fully explore the Ejina Populus euphratica forest in a day. However, if you plan to take a more leisurely walk through the forest and spend time photographing, you might want to allocate an entire day or more to take in the scenery and experience the area fully.
The must-see highlights include the large grove of Populus euphratica trees, the surrounding desert landscape, and the nearby river that provides a stark contrast to the dry surroundings. The golden leaves of the trees during autumn are particularly stunning.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour operators may offer services in English upon request. Audio guides are typically not available, so it’s best to arrange a tour for a more informative visit.
The best viewpoints are along the riverbank where the forest meets the desert. The contrast between the golden Populus euphratica trees and the vast desert provides amazing photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset when the lighting is ideal.
Start at the entrance and walk along the main trails to immerse yourself in the forest. Make sure to stop at various spots along the river for the best photo opportunities. You can also take a short hike to explore the surrounding desert and see the contrast between the forest and the arid landscape.
Night visits are not typically available at the Ejina Populus euphratica forest, and there are no light shows. The forest is best enjoyed during daylight hours. Special tours may be available upon request, particularly during peak seasons like autumn.
The forest can get crowded during the autumn season, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, try to visit on weekdays or during the early morning hours on weekends. The least crowded times are typically in the early spring or late winter, though the weather may not be ideal for exploration during these times.
Basic facilities are available near the entrance, including toilets, food vendors, and water stations. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. However, it’s advisable to carry your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to explore the forest for an extended period.
The main trails within the Ejina Populus euphratica forest are relatively flat and accessible, making it suitable for elderly and children. However, some of the more remote areas and trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check with local guides for the most accessible routes.
Cash is widely accepted in the area, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also available. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payments when purchasing tickets or food.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside the forest, but you can find basic food vendors and small eateries in the nearby Ejina town. These serve local Chinese and Inner Mongolian dishes.
Vegetarian options are generally available, but vegan and halal options may be limited in the area. It’s advisable to inquire at local restaurants beforehand or carry your own snacks if you have dietary restrictions.
There are several basic hotels and guesthouses in Ejina town, which is around a 20-minute drive from the forest. For more luxurious accommodations, you may need to stay in Hohhot and travel to the forest as part of a day trip.
Nearby attractions include:
Yes, there are small souvenir shops in the area where you can purchase local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Mongolian jewelry. Typical souvenirs include felt items, scarves, and items made from jade or wood.
After visiting the forest, the best transportation options are buses or taxis to return to Ejina town or Hohhot. If you're traveling to other destinations, long-distance buses and trains are available from Hohhot to other major cities in Inner Mongolia.
