6-Day Hiking in Lop Nur Region

The adventure begins from Urumqi. Get up early and drive about 310 km today from Urumqi to Dikan’er. On the way, visit the ancient Jiaohe City and Karez Well in Turpan. Stay an overnight in Dikan'er. 

► General information about Lop Nur: 
At the beginning of the last century, the Swedish explorer Sven Hedin proposed the view that Lopnur was a "wandering lake". Its mysterious existence has attracted more and more scientific and archaeological explorers from both home and abroad. After years of constant change and movement, the former riverbed is now a no-man's land. The prevailing northeasterly winds have caused the terrain undulations, each with a vertical face to these winds. Thus, traveling here is especially difficult. Consequently, it is necessary to venture here mainly by a 4WD jeep with an experienced guide and driver. Consider your safety carefully when you hike any distance upon arriving at the sights. Should you decide to rent a self- drive jeep, only do so if you have plenty of experience of both driving in sand and unpopulated areas and used to living a hard outdoor life with limited food and water. The suggested time to follow this itinerary is April, May, October and November.

Today, the driving distance is 100 km. You will pass the Iron Mineral, Golden Mineral and Gobi desert area. Finally, arrive at the camp site to stay an overnight.

On the third day, drive to the Yadan Dragon City on the north of the Lopnur. The distance is about 90KM. You will reach there via Kuruktag Mountain. You may have the chance to see the wild camels when passing the Baishiquan Wild Camel Protection Area. Hike or rest in the Dragon City which has its name from the appearance of the landform. Stay an overnight in the camp.

You will cross the area from the north to the south bank of Lop Nur, a distance of about 180km. On the way, you will visit the Tomb of Yu Chunshun, which commemorates the great Chinese adventurer who ended his life at the age of 45 when hiking alone across the area in 1996. Only his body and some simple belongings remain here forever. Continue to drive for about 30 km, you will reach the Lop Nur Center. Stop here and hike around for a while. The Lop Nur Center Monument is a good photo-stop. Do not try to hike from the Gravestone of Yu Chunshun to the Lopnur Center. It is too hard and dangerous. Set up the camp upon arrival at the south bank.

Drive along the Mt. Altun which is the most important landmark on the south bank of the Lop Nur. The total drive today is about 260KM. You will see some wild animals along the way before reaching the Ruins of the ancient Loulan City. Hike for a while to fully appreciate the best-preserved ancient castle. Stop to visit the ancient Milan city too. Then drive to Ruoqiang County. You could stay in a hotel for a shower today.

It will be a full day drive to Korla for about 450 km. Head towards northeast and drive on along No. 218 National Highway. On the way, enjoy the beautiful desert poplars. Upon arrival in Yuli County, you could visit the Lop Nur villages, where you will view the way of ancient Lop Nur people' life and get close to know more about Lop Nur culture. Continue to drive to Korla for 1 hour. Your adventure to Lop Nur ends here. Please have a good rest today.

After Korla, you could get back to Urumqi or extend the tour to other cities in South Xinjiang, such as Kuqa, Aksu, Kashgar...