Charklik (Ruoqiang) Travel Guide

Explore the best of Charklik (Ruoqiang) in Northwest China with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Located in Tarim, Xinjiang, Charklik (also known as Ruoqiang) is a remote town in Northwest China that offers a unique experience to travelers. This town used to be a stopover on the ancient Silk Road, and its history dates back to over 2,000 years ago. Charklik is famous for its diverse landscapes, from towering sand dunes to picturesque lakes to rugged mountains, making it a promising destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, fun things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Charklik.

List of Places to Visit in Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Charklik Museum: Explore and learn more about the history and culture of Charklik, including exhibits on the Silk Road and local folk art.
  • Charklik Ancient City: Observe the ruins of the ancient city and its monuments and learn about the history of the Silk Road and how this city used to be an important stopover.
  • Loulan Museum: View ancient artifacts from the Loulan kingdom that dates back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD)

Natural Attractions of Charklik (Ruoqiang): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Taklimakan Desert: The world’s second-largest shifting sand desert, where adventure seekers can go on a camel ride or sandboarding.
  • Saierlong Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for a boat ride or a picnic.
  • Muztagh Ata: A beautiful mountain range ideal for hiking, trekking, or ice climbing.
  • Gez River: A scenic location where you can fish, swim, or take a peaceful walk along the riverbed.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Charklik (Ruoqiang)

  • Charklik Scenic Route: A beautiful place for hiking, biking, or driving across a desert and mountainous terrain.
  • Loulan to Qiemo: A scenic route for adventurous trekkers who want a challenging hike through a harsh but stunning desert.

Best Things to Do in Charklik (Ruoqiang): Activities and Tours

  • Silk Road Tour: Visit historical sites and landmarks associated with the ancient Silk Road, such as the Loulan Ancient City ruins and the Charklik Museum.
  • Camping: Experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle of the region by camping in the desert and enjoying the stunning night sky.
  • Stargazing: Witness the beautiful constellations of the starry night sky of Charklik in a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
  • Local Festivals: Participate in local festivities such as the Dragon Boat Festival, and learn more about the local culture and traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Charklik (Ruoqiang)

  • Day 1: Explore the Charklik Museum and historical sites in Charklik.
  • Day 2: Visit the Saierlong Lake and enjoy a boat ride or picnic.
  • Day 3-4: Experience the Taklamakan Desert and go on a camel ride or sandboarding.
  • Day 5-6: Trek through the beautiful Muztagh Ata mountain range.
  • Day 7: Take a peaceful walk along the Gez River and explore the beautiful nature around it.

Food and Drink Scene of Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nang: A Xinjiang-style flatbread that is usually served with lamb or vegetables, perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
  • Lamb Kebabs: A must-try dish, which is grilled with cumin and other spices and is a staple of Xinjiang cuisine.
  • Da Pan Ji: A spicy chicken stew full of potatoes and served with noodles or rice.
  • Lanzhou Beef Noodles: A Chinese dish that originated in the Lanzhou region of China and is now a staple of Xinjiang cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Kumis: Fermented mare’s milk, which is a traditional drink of nomads.
  • Tea: Chinese-style tea is a common drink, which is usually consumed with meals or as an afternoon refreshment.

Where to Stay in Charklik (Ruoqiang): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Taklamakan: A four-star hotel located in Charklik, which offers comfortable accommodation and delicious local cuisine.
  • Loulan Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel in Charklik that provides a relaxing stay with basic amenities and excellent service.
  • Hostel Muztagh-Ata: If you’re looking for a peaceful and remote place to stay, this hostel is the perfect option, located in the beautiful Muztagh Ata mountain range.

What to Buy in Charklik (Ruoqiang): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Carpets: Charklik is known for its beautiful handmade carpets that come in different colors and designs.
  • Jade: There are many jade workshops in Charklik, and you can buy beautiful jade jewelry or other items made of jade.
  • Kumis: If you’re curious about nomadic culture, you can buy Kumis, a fermented mare’s milk, as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Charklik is a part of Xinjiang province, which is home to many ethnic groups such as Uighur, Han, and Kazakh. The local culture of Charklik is heavily influenced by its ancient history and nomadic traditions.

Best Time to Visit Charklik (Ruoqiang)

The best time to visit Charklik is from May to October when the weather is more hospitable and precipitation is low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and beliefs of the ethnic minorities in the region.
  • Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Carry enough cash, as credit card machines are not commonly available in the region.

Don’t:

  • Engage in political discussions, as the region is politically sensitive.
  • Take photos of military buildings, installations, or personnel.

Safety and Health

Safety in Charklik (Ruoqiang)

Charklik is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always essential to take some precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended in public areas and being aware of pickpockets in busy areas.

Health in Charklik (Ruoqiang)

The tap water in Charklik is not safe for drinking, and it’s recommended to drink bottled water instead. Mosquitoes are common in some areas, so it’s recommended to use mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeve shirts and pants.

Getting to Charklik (Ruoqiang): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Charklik (Ruoqiang)

The closest airport to Charklik (Ruoqiang) is Qiemo Yudu Airport, which is about 220km (136 miles) away. Alternatively, you can fly to Korla Airport, which is 740km (460 miles) away.

Bus Stations Near Charklik (Ruoqiang)

There are several bus stations in Charklik, such as the Charklik Bus Station or the Central Bus Station in Charklik, which have regular services to key cities like Korla, Urumqi, and Kashgar.

Other Options

Some adventurous travelers prefer to cycle or hike to Charklik, but this option is only for the nature lover who is willing to endure harsh conditions.

How to Get Around in Charklik (Ruoqiang)

To get around in Charklik, you can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or take the bus. However, you can also hike or bike to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Where to Go Next from Charklik (Ruoqiang): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time, you can also consider visiting nearby destinations such as Dunhuang, Kashgar, or Urumqi. These cities are known for their historical significance, natural beauty, and unique culture.

Conclusion

Charklik (Ruoqiang) in Xinjiang, China, is a travel destination that appeals to adventurers, nature lovers, and those interested in Chinese history and culture. With its vast deserts, picturesque lakes, and idyllic mountains, Charklik offers a unique experience to visitors. This comprehensive guide provides insight into the best places to visit, exciting things to do, where to eat and sleep, and everything you need to know before embarking on a journey to this fascinating destination.

Ruoqiang County or Charklik Ruoqiang County or Charklik Desert landscape on the 315 National Highway Silk Road Desert landscape on the 315 National Highway Silk Road