Aral

Introducing Aral

Aral City is located at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains, the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert, and the upper reaches of the Tarim River where the Aksu River, Hotan River and Yarkand River meet.

Aral was originally an ancient wasteland with few people. In 1957, the First Agricultural Division of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps was ordered to enter Aral to settle and guard the border. After years of hard work, the Aral of today has emerged.

Thanks to its unique natural conditions and reliance on scientific and technological progress, Aral City has become an important fine-staple cotton and the largest long-staple cotton production base in the country, as well as a demonstration base for the transformation and value-added of Xinjiang's characteristic agricultural and sideline products. Aral City's high-quality fruits such as fragrant pears and gray dates have won gold medals at the National Agricultural Expo.

Climate and best time to travel

Aral City has a warm temperate extreme continental arid desert climate.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tarim River

The Tarim River is formed by the confluence of the Aksu, Yarkand, and Hotan rivers. With a total length of 2,137 kilometers, it is the fifth-longest inland river in the world and the longest in China, after the Volga, Syr-Naryn, Am-Panj-Vakhsh, and Ural rivers.

Taklamakan Desert

The Taklamakan Desert is located in the center of the Tarim Basin in southern Xinjiang. It is the largest desert in China, the tenth largest desert in the world, and the second largest mobile desert in the world.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

---

Most Popular FAQs for Aral

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Aral is located along the historic Silk Road, which was once a critical trade route connecting the East and West. The region is historically significant for its role in trade, cultural exchange, and as a part of the greater Central Asian region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Aral is located in the southern part of the Dzungarian Basin in Xinjiang, China. To get there, you can take a flight to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, and then travel by bus or car for approximately 10-12 hours.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

There are no specific opening hours for the area, as it's an open region with no major tourist gates. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder, avoiding the harsh winter cold and summer heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting Aral itself. However, there may be small fees for guided tours or entry to specific sites like the Karamay Desert. Tickets can be purchased locally or through tour agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For general visits, advance booking is not required. However, booking a guided tour or accommodation in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons (summer months).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Aral itself can take a day or two, depending on the number of sites you wish to visit and the time spent in the nearby Karamay Desert or Aral Salt Lake. A visit to the region can last between 1-3 days.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the ancient ruins of the Silk Road, the expansive desert landscapes, Aral Salt Lake, and the nearby Karamay Desert with its unique geological formations.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not commonly available, so booking a guide in advance is advisable if you prefer English-speaking tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include the views over the Aral Salt Lake, the rolling sand dunes of Karamay Desert, and the ruins of the Silk Road caravanserais scattered across the region.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the Aral Salt Lake, followed by a trip to the Karamay Desert. Explore the ruins of the ancient Silk Road cities, and enjoy the vast desert landscapes along the way.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available in Aral. The region is best experienced during the daytime due to the natural beauty of the desert and historical sites.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area is not heavily crowded, except during the peak summer tourist season. The least crowded times are in the spring and autumn months, especially in April and November.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available in nearby towns. Food and water can be found at local eateries, but it's advisable to carry your own supplies, especially if venturing into the desert areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Aral's natural terrain, particularly the desert and salt lake areas, may not be suitable for elderly, young children, or disabled visitors. It's recommended to plan accordingly if traveling with such groups.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended as mobile payments and credit cards are not widely accepted in the area. It's best to bring sufficient cash, especially if you're heading into more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants in Aral and nearby towns that serve Uyghur cuisine, including dishes like lamb skewers, pilaf, and naan. However, dining options may be limited in the more remote areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are available, as the region is primarily inhabited by Uyghur Muslims. Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited, but you can find dishes like vegetable pilaf or various breads.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and hotels in Aral and the nearby towns. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors may need to stay in larger cities like Urumqi or Karamay.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Karamay Desert, the ruins of ancient Silk Road cities, and the scenic areas around the Aral Salt Lake. A trip to the Flaming Mountains in Turpan can also be combined with your visit to the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in nearby towns, offering traditional Uyghur handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and spices. Local items like dried fruits and nuts are also common souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue the trip, travelers can take buses or private taxis to Urumqi or Karamay. For longer trips, flights are available from Urumqi to other major cities in China.