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Gultu Town is located in the northern part of Xinjiang, 84 kilometers west of the urban area of Urumqi. It is the largest farm and ranch town in Urumqi. The ranch was established in 1953 and the town was built in 1996. The township and town coexist.
Gultu, meaning "where the red horse hooves rest" in Mongolian, is home to Xinjiang's oldest and largest poplar forest. Entering the Gultu Town poplar forest, the golden poplar trees are reflected in the clear, azure waters, swaying gracefully in the rippling waters. Each tree is identical in form, some leaning, some twisting, some standing tall. The leaning ones are almost parallel to the ground; the twisted ones resemble the unruly claws of a silk-spinning fairy; the upright ones, in their relaxed demeanor, display a proud presence. Golden, light yellow, pale yellow, orange, pale yellow, bright yellow... At this moment, yellow seems a dazzling riot of color, possessing an indescribable charm, as if transported back through millennia.
The wild Populus euphratica forest in Gurtu, Wusu, Xinjiang, covers an area of 800,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares). Entering Gurtu, the road is lined with Populus euphratica trees. Growing in the harshest and most brutal climate, Populus euphratica is a remarkable species, enduring cold, heat, alkali, waterlogging, and drought. Their indomitable stature has shielded the oasis from sandstorms, forming a magnificent green corridor and contributing to the civilization of the "Silk Road." The Uyghur people of Xinjiang call Populus euphratica "hero trees," with a saying that "they live for a thousand years, stand for a thousand years after death, and remain immortal for a thousand years after falling."
Temperate continental climate; mid-October is the most beautiful time for the Populus euphratica forest.
It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours
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Sugurtu Populus euphratica forest is an ancient forest of Euphrates poplars, vital for desert ecology. It is known for its resilience in arid conditions and serves as a key natural habitat for wildlife, contributing to environmental conservation in Xinjiang.
Located in the Tacheng area of Xinjiang. Accessible by private car or taxi; public transportation options are limited. Walking is recommended within the forest paths.
Open year-round. Best times are autumn (September–October) when foliage turns golden, and spring for milder weather.
Entrance fees are usually modest and can be purchased at the forest entrance. Online ticketing may be available through local tourism websites.
Booking in advance is generally not required unless visiting during peak tourist season.
2–4 hours for a full visit, depending on whether you include photography stops and guided tours.
Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese. Private guides may provide English explanations if arranged in advance.
Night visits are generally not recommended due to safety and limited lighting. Special tours may be available during festivals or organized events.
The forest is generally quiet; weekdays are least crowded, while national holidays may see increased visitors.
Main paths are moderately accessible, but some areas with uneven terrain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Mobile payments are widely accepted; carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors.
Limited restaurants and cafes near the forest entrance, mostly serving local Xinjiang cuisine and snacks.
Halal food is common; vegetarian options may be limited and should be confirmed locally.
Small guesthouses and hotels are available in Tacheng city, approximately 30–60 minutes by car from the forest.
