Alaer

In autumn, the temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring warm clothing when you travel.

Alar lies on the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. It combines desert scenery, military reclamation history, and oasis ecology, giving it the character of a Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps city. There are relatively few tourists here, making it suitable for travelers who want to get away from crowds and experience the vast, stark beauty of the desert.

• Taklamakan · 359th Brigade Cultural Tourism Area: A national 5A scenic area that includes the “Desert Gate Scenic Area” and the “359th Brigade Reclamation Memorial Hall.” In the desert area, you can try off-road dune driving, camel riding, and other activities. At the memorial hall, you can learn about the Corps’ history of reclamation and border defense, and understand the spirit of dedication expressed by the phrase “devoting one’s youth, and then one’s whole life.”

• Tahe Source Scenic Area: A national 4A scenic area located in the 16th Regiment area. The Aksu River, Yarkant River, and Hotan River meet here to form the Tarim River, so it is known as the “zero-kilometer” starting point where three rivers converge. From the “Alar Eye of the Tarim River” observation tower, you can overlook the river confluence. Large areas of original poplar forest also line the banks.

• Sleeping Poplar Valley Scenic Area: A national 4A scenic area with the largest and best-preserved original poplar forest remaining in the Tarim River Basin. The dead poplars in the valley take on many different shapes. It is best visited at sunrise or sunset, when the light brings out the rugged, wild character unique to the desert environment.

• No. 139 Poplar Secret Road: If you drive to Alar, you can choose this route along the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. Sand dunes and poplars appear alternately on both sides of the road. The section from K65 to K76 is especially scenic, with golden poplars set against open wilderness. There are places along the way where you can stop to enjoy the view and take photos.

Suggested Itineraries

• One-day trip (compact version): Depart from Aksu in the morning for Alar. First visit the 359th Brigade Reclamation Memorial Hall to learn about Corps culture. At noon, try mixed noodles in the city. In the afternoon, head to the Taklamakan Desert Gate and choose activities such as off-road dune driving or camel riding. In the evening, watch the sunset in the desert, then return.
• Two-day trip (in-depth version):
  • Day 1: After arriving in Alar, visit the 359th Brigade Reclamation Memorial Hall in the morning. In the afternoon, go to the Tahe Source Scenic Area to see the three-river confluence and original poplar forest. In the evening, enjoy the sunset glow by the river.

• Day 2: In the morning, head to Sleeping Poplar Valley or the Desert Gate to experience, respectively, the open desert landscape and the desolate beauty of dead poplars, and try the desert activities in the scenic area. End the trip and return in the afternoon.

• Self-drive crossing (No. 139 Road): Depart from Kuqa and follow No. 139 Poplar Secret Road to Alar, a journey of about 280 kilometers. Along the way, you can stop at wild poplar forests and bends in ancient river channels to enjoy the scenery, taking in the views as you drive. Arrive in downtown Alar for dinner in the evening.

Recommended Food in Alar

Accommodation and Transport Guide

• Where to stay: In downtown Alar, you can stay at Alar Yinjie International Hotel or Alar Guest House. Both have relatively complete facilities and convenient locations for getting around. If you plan to watch the stars in the desert, you can choose Alar Radisson Yiman Hotel or the RV campsite inside the Desert Gate Scenic Area.
• Getting there: A convenient option is to arrive first at Alar Aksu Airport. The airport is about 120 kilometers from Alar, with a drive of around 1.5 hours. You can take a scheduled coach or taxi. You can also take a high-speed train to Aksu Station, then transfer onward.
• Getting around the city: Within the city, transport mainly depends on buses and ride-hailing services, operating from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Since the desert and poplar forest scenic areas are far away, self-driving or hiring a car is more suitable for visiting these places.

Pre-trip Tips

• Best season: Autumn, from mid-to-late October to early November, is a good time to visit. The weather is relatively comfortable, and it is also when the poplars turn golden. In summer, the highest temperature can reach 38°C, so prepare for the heat.
• Sun and sand protection: Ultraviolet rays are strong in southern Xinjiang. It is recommended to bring SPF50+ sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and a wind- and sand-proof face covering. When entering the desert, you can wear high-top sand-proof shoe covers to reduce sand getting into your shoes.
• Temperature difference and hydration: The desert has a clear temperature difference between day and night, so even in summer you should bring a warm jacket. There are few shops in the scenic areas, so prepare enough drinking water and high-energy snacks before setting out.
• ID and reservations: You must carry your ID card when entering scenic areas. Some areas use real-name reservations, so it is recommended to book in advance through the “Zhiyou Alar” mini program.
• Set realistic expectations for the Desert Gate: Some facilities at the Desert Gate show signs of artificial construction. If you are mainly expecting a completely natural, vast sea of sand, the actual experience may differ from your expectations. However, it is still a suitable stop on an itinerary, or a good place to take children for desert activities.