Xinjiang's Silk Road journey through nature, history and culture

Korla

About one hour's drive from Korla, Qigexing Buddhist Temple Ruins, or Seven-Stars Buddhist Temple, is an archaeological site in the Yanqi Hui autonomous county of Xinjiang. This temple, a major religious center along the Northern Silk Road, was a pivotal cultural exchange hub during the latter half of the first millennium AD. It was renowned for bridging Eastern and Western cultures, providing a space where travelers could impart and absorb knowledge about the world's diverse cultures.

The Qigexing features remnants of a grand temple complex comprising 93 buildings and eleven cave temples. The ruins consist of numerous shrines and monks' houses, with most of their walls preserved. The museum houses many artifacts and sculptures that pay homage to the ancient period. The Bosten Lake in the Bayingolin Mongol autonomous prefecture proposes the perfect summing-up to the Xinjiang Silk Road journey. This unique lake, only an hour's drive from Korla, covers an area of more than 1,600 square kilometers. Over 400 square kilometers of lush reeds surround it, creating a picturesque landscape that is a must-see for any traveler.

It is the largest lake in Xinjiang and one of China's largest inland freshwater lakes. Renowned for its thriving fishery, the lake offers a taste of local delicacies, including fish sourced directly from its waters, providing a culinary escapade that resonates with the region's natural abundance.

The area provides many water sports and activities, including boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. These activities draw visitors from near and far to experience its vibrant aquatic adventures.