Gurbantünggüt Desert

Gurbantünggüt Desert

Gurbantünggüt Desert

The Gurbantünggüt Desert is the second largest desert in China. The 103rd Regiment of Wujiachuan City is a natural green gateway into the heart of the Gurbantünggüt Desert (the route from the 103rd to the 182nd Regiment is also known as the “Bloodline” journey). This green desert corridor starts from Wujiachuan, featuring vast fields of fertile farmland and rows of green trees, with wide, smooth, and convenient roads. Along the way, you’ll find Baijiahuzi, Qingcaolingzi, Dongdaohuzi, Wutongwozi, the “Three-North Shelterbelt,” the ruins of Xinquchengzi, and the Junken Village—each spot offers unique and ever-changing scenery. Additionally, the 103rd Regiment is known as the “Hometown of Sweet Melons in China.” The Hami melons here are fragrant, sweet, crisp, nutritious, safe, and green products that are exported both domestically and abroad. As the setting sun casts its glow, standing beside ancient poplar trees and enjoying a sweet Hami melon—such moments are truly beyond words.

Stepping into the Gurbantünggüt Desert, you’ll find it far from frightening and certainly not lacking in life. Species such as saxaul, tamarisk, wormwood, white wormwood, ephedra, carex, and various ephemeral plants abound, while animals like Mongolian gazelles, camels, and wild rabbits are commonly spotted. There’s no endless sea of yellow sand here, but instead, a strikingly blue sky and exceptionally fresh air. Endless sand dunes stretch out in long, winding ridges, undulating with gentle beauty and forming countless shapes as they twist and turn. Here, the saxaul and tamarisk grow in countless forms, swaying and twisting as they strive mightily for life—defying dryness and harsh cold, boldly proclaiming the resilience of life against the wind and sand. The desert also offers surreal mirages and uniquely shaped wind-eroded landforms, all incredibly beautiful.

And if that’s not enough, along the vast desert oases, there are many cultural relics from the ancient Silk Road. These include the ruins of the Beiting Protectorate (south of Hongqi Farm), the Tudunzi Grand Mosque, ancient beacon towers, the ruins of Majiao Ancient City, the Xiquan Smelting Site, and the ruins of the Yiwu Trench Ancient City of the 105th Regiment—more than enough to captivate and enchant visitors.

The Gurbantünggüt Desert is perfect for mass tourism, sightseeing, adventure, and cross-desert treks. Only by stepping into it can you truly understand and appreciate it.

Travel Guide:

1.

The best time for sightseeing is during autumn and winter (September to December), while spring and summer offer a uniquely flavorful experience for exploration (January to August).

2.

Essential items: sunglasses, face masks, respirators, walking sticks (for winter exploration), high-top sports shoes, thick socks, sunscreen, anti-freeze cream, lip balm, sufficient water and food (for summer and autumn), garbage bags, and appropriate medications for colds, fevers, and minor injuries.

3.

Accommodation options are limited, so it’s best to bring a tent for camping.

4.

Bicycles and off-road vehicles can travel safely and smoothly.

5.

The desert is perfect for picnics. Just bring raw food and cooking gear—the area is full of firewood, and barbecue made with tamarisk or saxaul, along with grilled naan, is especially delicious.