Korla Travel Guide

Korla is approximately 200 km southwest from Urumqi. Situated in the center of Eurasia and Xinjiang province, it borders Tarim Basin to the northeast and Taklimakan Desert in the south, which is the second largest desert in the world. The area abounds in oil and pears thus the name “oil city” and “pear city”. Nationalities like Mongolian, Uygur, Han, Hazake, Hui, Kerkezi, Xibo, Tajike, Wuzibieke, Tataer, Dawoer, Manchu and Russian live harmoniously in this area.
 

History

Korla is a throat in the middle of the Silk Road with thousands years history. Known as Weil in Han Dynasty, Korla was set up as a county in 1939 and merged into the Bayin'guoleng Mongolia Autonomous prefecture in 1960. It was approved to be as a city in October 1979.
 

Attractions

There are many attractions in Korla such as Lake Bosten, Tiemen Pass, Bayanbulak Grassland, Lop Nur, Ancient City of Loulan, and Swan Lake.etc.

Lake Bosten is the largest inland freshwater lake in China with beautiful scenery. Tiemen Pass is an important arduous pass of Silk Road with strategic location. Bayanbulak Grassland is the second largest grassland only inferior to Erdos in Inner Mongolia. The annual Nadam Festival is held in this grassland on Lunar Jun 4. Swan Lake is the place everyone eager for to watch swans. The best time to watch is around June every year. Ancient City of Loulan is the relic of ancient Loulan Kingdom which disappeared suddenly in 4th century, remaining lots of secrets uncovered. All pathfinders are enthusiastic about Lop Nur.
 

Transportation

By Air: Korla Airport has daily flights to/from Urumqi. Also there are flights to Beijing, Jinan and Chengdu. Inquiry: 0996-2364033

By Train: Korla Railway Station is at the southeast corner of the city. There are trains to Urumqi, Turpan and Hami in Xinjiang as well as to other provincial cities like Lanzhou, Xian and Chengdu. Inquiry: 0996-8642222
Kashgar - takes about 14 hours
Urumqi - takes about 10 hours

By Long-distance Bus: The Bus Station is at Beishan Road. Korla has daily buses to Urumqi, Aksu, Kashgar, Karamay City, etc. Inquiry: 0996-2070576

City Transport: You can take bus No.1 to railway station and bus station and take bus No.6 to airport. The initial rate for taking a taxi is CNY6.
 

Weather and Climate

Dominated by continental climate, Korla is dry with light rainfall and lots of sun. There is a great daily temperature difference between day and night. The coldest month is January and hottest month is July.
 

Food and Restaurants

Famous local dishes: Roast Lamb, Baked Mutton Kebabs, Roast Fish and Uighur Rice.

Recommended Restaurants
The culture square and many streets in Korla serve all kinds of local snacks.

Xinhuan Hongmumen Restaurant
Address: south Jianguo road
Tel: 0996-2860836

Xinsheng Qingzhen Restaurant
Address: railway business street
Tel: 0996-2159385
 

Shopping

Local products: Fragrant Pears, Carpets, Melons and Seedless White Grapes. These can be bought in the shops along the streets.
Other places to buy:
Bazhou Department Store
Address: west Renmin road, Korla
Phone: 0996-2612811

Lingxian shopping center
Address: east Renmin road
Phone: 0996-2214900
 

Nightlife and Entertainment

Horse Racing and Archery are popular entertainment on the grassland. You are recommended to walk along the Peacock River and enjoy the scene of the river at night.

The Horse Racing Club
Address: Renmin road, Korla

Jinchi Club
Address: Binhe road

The Luna Palace Club
Address: east Renmin road

Hongfang Bar
Address: east Renmin road

259 Bar
Address: south Jianguo road
 

Accommodation

Recommended hotels in Korla
Jiaotong Hotel: cheap and clean
Address: near the bus station with convenient transportation

Longfugong Hotel: ideal location in city center
Address: No.25 Sayibage Road, Korla
Phone: 0996-2262838, 2028600
 

Travel tips

1. Nadam Festival is held from June 4 to 9 (lunar calendar).
2. Hiking Lop Nur is dangerous since it’s easy to get lost in the area.
3. Most area in Korla is desert so bring enough water when travelling.
4. Pay attention to the weather forecast before visiting Korla.
5. Bring adequate money because there is lack of bank staffs.