About
Korla is a city in Xinjiang, in north-western China, and it sits on the old Silk Road routes that once linked China with Central Asia. It is a place to visit for its setting as much as its streets: desert landscapes stretch around the city, and Bosten Lake lies within reach, giving the region a quieter, more open character than many larger Chinese cities.
What draws visitors
- Fragrant pears. Korla is known for its pears, and the fruit is a natural thing to seek out at local markets and in season.
- Bosten Lake. The lake is one of the main reasons to make the trip beyond the city itself, offering wide water views and a change of scenery.
- Desert landscapes. The sand and open country around the city give a sense of the Silk Road's dry, far-reaching geography.
Planning a visit
Korla suits travellers who want to see a part of China shaped by its Silk Road history and its landscape rather than by big-city attractions. Plan your days around the lake and the desert, and allow time to sample the pears, which are the local product most closely tied to the city's identity. Check transport and conditions in advance, as the city's surroundings are remote compared with the eastern provinces.