The Ancient Silk Road of Awati

The Ancient Silk Road of Awati

Guide: The scenic river section of the Aksu-Hetian River in the Aksu and Hotan regions is located in the western part of the Tarim Basin. It is a river that traverses the Taklamakan Desert from north to south and is known as the “Ancient Silk Road of Awati.” The basin area is arid, receives little rainfall, and experiences significant temperature variations, with the highest temperature reaching 43.7°C in July and the lowest dropping to -28.9°C in January. Introduction: The Hetian River is the only river that cuts through the heart of the Taklamakan Desert. Stretching 1,127 kilometers in total, its upper reaches consist of two tributaries: the Yurungkash River and the Karakash River, both originating from the Kunlun Mountains. These two rivers converge at Qushelashi before being called the Hetian River. The lower reaches of the Hetian River form a typical plain meandering river, with a wide and shallow riverbed, winding course, and numerous midstream and bank sandbars. Natural forests dominated by gray poplar and desert poplar grow in ribbon-like patterns along both banks. Wildlife often appears in the area. Each year after the flood season, the wide riverbed turns into sandy land, which is then shaped by wind into undulating patterns resembling waves. Under the blazing sun, from a distance, it looks like rippling water.

The flood season runs from June to August each year, during which the floodwaters discharged from the Hetian River can flow across the desert into the Tarim River. This period is the best time for river rafting. The Hetian River serves as a green corridor facilitating north-south transportation across the Tarim Basin, holding significant military and economic importance. For thousands of years, merchants and travelers have passed through here—whether by cart, horse, or camel—from Awati to Hotan, and then on to Shule. It acts as a vital link between the Awati Oasis and the Moyu and Hotan Oases, becoming an important thoroughfare of the ancient Silk Road and serving as a bridge for cultural and economic exchange between Central China and Western Asia.

During the summer flood season, the Hetian River is ideal for rafting and hunting activities, while in winter when the riverbed is exposed, it becomes a perfect venue for off-road car rally races.　

Aksu City, Xinjiang