Korla

Located in central Xinjiang (新疆), Korla City (库尔勒市), also known as Kurla or Kurle, is the administrative center of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture (巴音郭楞蒙古自治州). As the second-largest city in Xin新疆 and the gateway to the vast southern Xinjiang region, Korla is an important economic, transportation, and cultural center. Known as the “Pear City of China,” Korla is famous for its sweet and fragrant pears, while its surrounding landscapes feature deserts, rivers, mountains, and Silk Road heritage.

Why Visit Korla

Korla Fragrant Pears (库尔勒香梨): Korla is world-famous for its fragrant pears, a local specialty known for their crisp texture, sweetness, and unique aroma. Thanks to the region’s abundant sunshine, dry climate, and large temperature differences between day and night, Korla pears have become one of Xinjiang’s most famous agricultural products.

Gateway to Bayingolin & Southern Xinjiang: As the capital of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, the largest prefecture-level administrative region in China, Korla is an important base for exploring southern Xinjiang. The city connects travelers with destinations such as the Taklamakan Desert (塔克拉玛干沙漠), Lop Nur (罗布泊), Bosten Lake (博斯腾湖), and the ancient Silk Road routes.

Bosten Lake (博斯腾湖): Located near Korla, Bosten Lake is one of China’s largest inland freshwater lakes. Surrounded by reeds, wetlands, and desert landscapes, the lake offers beautiful scenery, birdwatching opportunities, boating experiences, and a refreshing contrast to the surrounding arid environment.

Tarim River & Desert Landscapes (塔里木河与沙漠风光): Korla provides access to the unique landscapes of the Tarim Basin, where rivers, deserts, and oasis ecosystems meet. Visitors can explore Populus euphratica forests, desert roads, and the spectacular scenery of one of China’s most distinctive geographic regions.

Silk Road History & Cultural Heritage: Korla has long been located along important routes of the ancient Silk Road. The surrounding Bayingolin region preserves ancient ruins, Buddhist cultural sites, and historical remains that reflect thousands of years of cultural exchange between East and West.

Mongolian & Multi-Ethnic Culture: As the center of Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Korla is influenced by Mongolian traditions as well as Uyghur, Han, Hui, and other ethnic cultures. Visitors can experience local festivals, traditional music, cuisine, handicrafts, and pastoral lifestyles.

Modern Oasis City: Korla has developed into a modern oasis city with parks, riverside areas, shopping districts, and cultural facilities. The city combines traditional Xinjiang charm with contemporary urban life, making it a comfortable stop for travelers exploring the region.

Xinjiang Cuisine Experience: Korla offers a wide range of Xinjiang specialties, including roasted lamb (烤羊肉), naan bread (馕), pilaf (抓饭), hand-pulled noodles (拉条子), grilled fish from Bosten Lake, and fresh local fruits.

Base for Desert & Adventure Travel: With its strategic location between northern and southern Xinjiang, Korla is an ideal stop for travelers interested in desert exploration, Silk Road culture, photography, and road trips through the vast landscapes of the Tarim Basin.