Urho District Travel

Xinjiang Karamay Urho District — Geological Wonder Museum. Explore the World Devil City yardang landform, encounter the wetland spirits of Erike Lake, hike the Baiyang River Grand Canyon, and experience the masterful craftsmanship of nature.

200+
Number of Yardang Clusters
10km²
Devil City Area
120+
Bird Species
300m
Canyon Depth
Spectacular yardang landform of World Devil City in Urho
World Devil City - Yardang Landform
Unique yardang landform cluster formed by wind erosion

Urho District Three-Day Two-Night Geological Wonder Tour

Cross the yardang maze, explore wetland ecology, hike through canyon secrets

Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Main Destinations
Devil City, Erike Lake, Baiyang River Canyon
Suitable For
Photography enthusiasts, geology explorers
Budget per Person
¥1500-¥2000
01
City of Devils
World Devil City · Yardang Sunset
Highlights

Arrive in Urho District, check into hotel, then head to World Devil City to explore the yardang landform wonder. Photograph the golden sunset light at Devil City in the evening and experience the filming locations of movies like "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon".

Attractions
World Devil City
China's most beautiful yardang landform, wind-eroded castle-like geological wonder covering an area of 10 square kilometers, featuring over 200 yardang clusters of various shapes.
Devil City Sightseeing Train
Circular route through the core area of Devil City, approximately 8 kilometers total, with multiple viewing stops equipped with professional commentary.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Urho Devil City Hotel
  • Erike Lake Resort
  • Urho Guesthouse
Food Recommendations
  • Gobi Roasted Whole Lamb
  • Big Plate Chicken
  • Air-Dried Meat Pilaf
Travel Tips
  • Devil City is windy, bring windproof and warm clothing
  • Best photography 2 hours before sunset
  • Climbing on yardang formations is prohibited in the scenic area
02
Wetland Exploration
Erike Lake · Poplar Forest
Highlights

In the morning, head to Erike Lake Wetland Park for bird watching and scenery appreciation. In the afternoon, explore the lakeside poplar forest and photograph reflections in the water. Experience Kazakh folk activities in the evening.

Attractions
Erike Lake
The "Desert Pearl" of Urho, with a lake surface area of approximately 10 square kilometers, habitat for over 120 species of birds, surrounded by dense reeds and poplar forests.
Poplar Forest Ecological Park
Natural poplar forest distributed along Erike Lake, golden yellow in autumn with picturesque reflections in the water — a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
Practical Info
Transportation Guide
  • 30-minute drive from Devil City to Erike Lake
  • Self-driving or chartered car recommended
Ticket Info
  • Devil City: 62 yuan
  • Erike Lake: Free
  • Poplar Forest: 30 yuan
Travel Tips
  • Bring binoculars for bird watching
  • Best poplar viewing period: September-October
  • Respect ethnic customs
03
Canyon Adventure
Baiyang River Grand Canyon · Dinosaur Culture Park
Highlights

In the morning, hike the Baiyang River Grand Canyon to explore geological wonders. In the afternoon, visit the Dinosaur Culture Park to learn about the history of dinosaur fossil discoveries in Urho. Purchase specialty souvenirs before concluding the trip.

Attractions
Baiyang River Grand Canyon
A canyon wonder formed by Tianshan snowmelt, over 300 meters deep with rugged cliffs on both sides and poplar trees shading the valley floor, offering magnificent scenery.
Dinosaur Culture Park
An open-air museum showcasing the Urho dinosaur fossil site, featuring complete dinosaur skeleton reconstructions and fossil excavation site displays.
Practical Info
Tour Route
  • East entrance of canyon → Hike to viewpoint → West exit
  • Dinosaur Culture Park → Return shopping
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Yardang Strange Stones
  • Poplar Wood Carvings
  • Dinosaur Models
  • Gobi Colored Jade
Important Notes
  • Wear non-slip shoes for canyon hiking
  • Bring plenty of drinking water in summer
  • Protect geological relics

Must-Try Foods in Urho District

Gobi Roasted Whole Lamb

Using locally grazed Gobi sheep, skewered and grilled on red willow branches — crispy skin, tender meat, with a special red willow aroma.

Air-Dried Meat Pilaf

Traditional Kazakh flavor, using naturally air-dried beef and lamb simmered with carrots and onions, served with golden pilaf — a unique taste.

Erike Lake Fish Feast

Using wild fish from Erike Lake, prepared steamed, braised or grilled — tender and non-fishy, paired with local specialty seasonings.

Urho District Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • Spring (Apr-May): Bird migration season
  • Autumn (Sep-Oct): Golden poplar forest, prime photography season
  • Avoid summer midday high temperatures
Must-Try Experiences
  • Devil City Yardang Sunset
  • Erike Lake Bird Watching
  • Baiyang River Canyon Hiking
  • Dinosaur Fossil Exploration
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: approx. 150 yuan
  • Accommodation: 400-600 yuan/night
  • Meals: 150-200 yuan/day
  • Transport: 300 yuan (chartered car)
  • Total: 1500-2000 yuan
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Is Devil City very windy? → Windy in spring, bring a windbreaker
  • Suitable for family trips? → Dinosaur Culture Park is loved by children
  • Essential gear? → Sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars
  • Best time for photography? → 1 hour before sunrise and after sunset

Explore Districts of Karamay City