Bachu Populus Euphratica National Forest Park

Bachu Populus Euphratica National Forest Park

Bachu Populus Euphratica National Forest Park is a national-level forest park.

The Populus euphratica, or desert poplar, is a remarkable tree. In the Uyghur language, it is called "tokhrak," meaning "the most beautiful tree." It enjoys the reputation of "living for a thousand years without dying, standing for a thousand years after death, and remaining unrotted for a thousand years once fallen." The unique geographical environment of Bachu creates magnificent natural scenery. With over 3.16 million mu of pristine desert poplar forests represented by Xiamale Populus Forest, Xihe Populus Forest, and Golden Populus Island, Bachu Populus Euphratica National Forest Park boasts the world’s largest contiguous area of natural desert poplar forests. The forest is rich in wildlife, with animals such as goitered gazelles, wild deer, pheasants, hares, and foxes frequently spotted. Local specialties such as Bachu mushrooms, Cistanche, and Apocynum are also widely renowned. The ancient Yarkand River forms mirror-like small lakes across the flat forest area. Stepping into the Populus forest, you are greeted by an air of primal wilderness and can feel the pulse of raw life. Its majestic upward thrust displays an indomitable spirit, while its extraordinary shapes showcase the grandeur of nature. It’s truly astonishing that these iron-hard trunks, though dead for thousands of years, remain unrotted and stand proudly to this day. With their tenacious will, they resist the encroachment of the desert—facing them, one cannot help but feel deep reverence.