Best Places to Visit in Inner Mongolia: Grassland, Desert, etc.

The grasslands are among the best places to visit in Inner Mongolia, offering some of China’s most beautiful and expansive natural scenery. Beyond the grasslands, the region is also home to vast deserts such as the Badain Jaran Desert, the golden autumn scenery of Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest, and the unique volcanic landscapes of Ulan Hada Volcanic Field. For travelers interested in history and culture, the Genghis Khan Mausoleum and Wudangzhao Monastery are also worth exploring. Some of the best places to visit in Inner Mongolia include Hulunbuir, Hohhot, Ordos, and Baotou, each offering its own mix of natural scenery, cultural heritage, and local experiences.

Best Grassland

Top 1: Hulunbuir Grassland

The Hulunbuir Grassland, located in northeastern Inner Mongolia, is one of the world’s four great grasslands and the largest and best-preserved natural grassland in China. Covering over 100,000 square kilometers, it is home to abundant wildlife, rich cultural traditions, and breathtaking scenery, attracting visitors and researchers from around the globe.

In summer, the grassland transforms into a vast sea of green, dotted with grazing cattle and sheep, white yurts, and galloping horses beneath a sky of drifting clouds. It is not only a popular travel destination but also the ancestral homeland and cradle of life for generations of nomadic herders.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Hulunbuir Grassland is from June to August when the weather is pleasant, and the grasslands are in full bloom.

What to Do: There are many activities to do in Hulunbuir Grassland, such as horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching. You can also visit the local nomadic tribes and experience their unique way of life.

What to Eat: The local cuisine in Hulunbuir Grassland is primarily made up of dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. You can also try traditional Mongolian dishes like roasted lamb and horse meat.

Cultural etiquette: It is important to respect the local culture and customs when visiting Hulunbuir Grassland. Dress modestly, ask permission before taking photos, and be mindful of local traditions and beliefs.

Top 2: Xilingol Grassland

Xilingol Grassland, one of China’s four major grasslands, retains 98% of its original nomadic landscape and is known as the “Paradise Grassland.” Highlights include Highway 99 and the Site of Xanadu. Away from crowded tourist spots and rows of vendors, here you’ll find nothing but grass and wildflowers stretching along the road. The Nadam Fair is often held here, where you can experience authentic nomadic culture.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Xilingol Grassland is from June to September, when the grass is green, wildflowers bloom, and the weather is pleasant. July and August are ideal for enjoying the grassland scenery and experiencing the Naadam Festival.

What to Do: What to Do: Drive along Grassland Highway No. 99 to enjoy the vast grasslands and wildflowers, visit the Yuan Shangdu Ruins to explore the remains of the Yuan Dynasty’s summer capital, and, if your visit coincides with the Naadam Festival, watch traditional Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

What to Eat: When visiting Xilingol Grassland, don’t miss local Mongolian specialties such as roast whole lamb, hand-held mutton, Mongolian milk tea, and traditional dairy products. These are classic flavors of the grassland and a great way to experience local food culture.

Top 3: Ordos Grassland

Ordos Grassland is one of the signature attractions of Ordos, located in southwestern Inner Mongolia at an average elevation of around 1,300 meters. Its vast green meadows, dotted with grazing cattle and sheep, offer a glimpse of the traditional grassland landscape and herders’ way of life. Compared with other popular grassland destinations, the Ordos Grassland preserves a more untouched and authentic natural landscape. Far from large-scale commercial development, it remains a peaceful haven where wildlife and native plants coexist in harmony.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ordos Grassland is from June to September, when the weather is mild, the grass is lush, and wildflowers bloom across the plains. Summer is also the main season for the Naadam Festival and other grassland events.

What to Do: Ordos Grassland offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, from riding horses across the open meadows to taking a leisurely camel ride and trying sand sliding on nearby dunes. You can also experience traditional Mongolian culture through folk music and attend the Naadam Festival in summer, when wrestling, horse racing, and archery bring the grassland to life. In the evening, enjoy the peaceful scenery and stargaze beneath the wide-open sky.

What to Eat: Try local Mongolian specialties such as roast whole lamb, hand-held mutton, Mongolian milk tea, and traditional dairy products.

Grassland music festivals, stargazing camps, and other seasonal events further attract young travelers from all over the country, making the Ordos Grassland a vibrant and unforgettable destination.

Top 4: Xilamuren Grassland

Xilamuren Grassland is a vast, sprawling area of lush green grasslands that is home to a diverse range of wildlife and serves as an important habitat for many endangered species, including the white-tailed eagle, black-necked crane, and Mongolian gazelle, and is a crucial area for pastoralism, with many nomadic families relying on the rich grazing lands for their livestock, making it an important cultural and economic resource for the local communities.

Xilamuren Grassland is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Xilamuren Grassland is a must-visit destination in Inner Mongolia.

Best Time to Visit: Xilamuren Grassland is from June to August when the grass is lush and green, and the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the best time to see the herds of horses, cows, and sheep that roam the grasslands.

What to do: Explore Xilamuren Grassland on horseback to enjoy its vast open scenery and watch herds grazing across the plains. If you visit during the annual horse racing festival, you can watch traditional Mongolian competitions such as horse racing, wrestling, and archery. You can also visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Inner Mongolia, or hike through the rolling hills for panoramic views of the grassland.

What to Eat: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian hot pot - Try the delicious local cuisine and savor the flavors of Inner Mongolia.

Best Places to Visit in Autumn

Arxan-Chaihe Tourist Area

Arxan-Chaihe Tourist Area is located in Arxan, Hinggan League, Inner Mongolia, covering an area of 13,168.7 square kilometers in the heart of the Greater Khingan Range. It brings together forests, volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, hot springs, and a river that remains unfrozen even in winter. The rare combination of volcanic landforms, forests, and lakes makes it one of Inner Mongolia’s most distinctive natural destinations, often nicknamed the “Switzerland of the East.”

Each season offers a different view, from spring wildflowers and cool summer forests to golden birch trees and mirror-like crater lakes in September and October. In winter, the landscape is transformed by snow and ice. With its scenic trails, volcanic wonders, and natural hot springs, Arxan-Chaihe is ideal for nature sightseeing, hiking, and wellness getaways.

Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest

Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest is one of the world’s three remaining major natural poplar forest areas and one of the most spectacular places to see autumn colors in Inner Mongolia. Every year from late September to mid-October, the poplar trees turn brilliant shades of gold, creating a striking contrast with the blue sky, desert landscape, and winding rivers. With its golden foliage, ancient twisted trunks, and beautiful reflections in the water at Erdaoqiao, Ejina is a paradise for photography lovers.

Beyond admiring the autumn scenery, you can explore the forest trails, enjoy camel riding and sand sliding near the desert, and visit the historic Black City Ruins and the Strange Forest, where weathered dead poplars create a dramatic, otherworldly landscape.

Desert

Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay)

Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay) lies at the eastern end of the Kubuqi Desert, less than an hour’s drive from Baotou. Named for the sounds produced by its dunes, it is a great place to experience desert adventures. Ride a camel across the golden sands, slide down towering dunes, or drive an off-road vehicle over steep sand ridges. For a more unusual stay, Lotus Resort features striking sand-inspired architecture and a stargazing platform. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire party with Mongolian throat singing and fire performances, combining desert thrills with a taste of local culture.

Badain Jaran Desert

The Badain Jaran Desert is rated China’s most beautiful desert and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. It stands out from other deserts for its five wonders: towering sand peaks, singing sand, hundreds of lakes, natural springs and an ancient temple. It is home to Bilutu Peak, the world’s tallest stationary sand dune, known as “the Everest of Deserts”. More than 144 lakes scatter among the huge golden dunes. This rare mix of massive sand mountains and lakes is hard to find anywhere else.

Ulan Hada Volcanic Field

Ulan Hada Volcanic Field is known for its unusual volcanic landscapes. Volcanoes No. 3 to 5 can be climbed, and the contrast between black volcanic rocks and golden grasslands makes it a great spot for photography. Other places worth visiting include Genhe Source Wetland, known for its extremely cold winters; Wudangzhao Monastery, where visitors can see Tibetan Buddhist art and rituals; and the ruins of Heishantou Ancient City, which date back to the history of the Mongol Empire. You can also visit Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum to learn about Mongolian traditions, or explore Yinken Tala Desert, where grass grids and solar panels are used in efforts to control desertification. Together, these places offer a mix of natural scenery, history, and local culture.

Genghis Khan Mausoleum Tourist Area

The Genghis Khan Mausoleum Tourist Area is one of the best places in Inner Mongolia for travelers interested in Mongolian history and culture. It is well worth a visit to learn about Genghis Khan’s legacy, explore Mongolian-style architecture, and discover traditional sacrificial ceremonies that preserve centuries-old customs. Unlike the region’s grasslands and deserts, this site offers a deeper understanding of the history, cultural heritage, and spiritual traditions that have shaped Mongolian life.

Hulunbuir

Hulunbuir is a city located in the northeastern part of Inner Mongolia. It is the largest city in the region and covers an area of approximately 263,953 square kilometers. Hulunbuir is known for its grasslands, forests, and wetlands, as well as its diverse ethnic minority cultures.

Some of the top attractions in Hulunbuir include:

Hulun Lake: Hulun Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northern China and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding area.

Erguna Wetland: Erguna Wetland is a nature reserve located on the border between China and Russia. It is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the red-crowned crane.

Daxing'anling Mountains: The Daxing'anling Mountains are a mountain range located in northern China. They are known for their stunning scenery and are a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities.

Manzhouli: Manzhouli is a city located in the western part of Hulunbuir and is known for its unique architecture and multicultural heritage. It is home to a number of ethnic minority groups, including Mongolians, Russians, and Koreans.

Other notable attractions in Hulunbuir include the Hailar National Forest Park, the Genhe Wetland, and the Nadamu Cultural Park.

Hulunbuir travel guide >>

Hohhot

Hohhot is the capital city of Inner Mongolia, an autonomous region in northern China. It has a population of over 3 million people and is home to many ethnic minority groups, including the Mongols and the Manchus. The city has a rich history and is known for its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and modern development.

Some of the top attractions in Hohhot include:

Dazhao Temple: This is a famous Tibetan Buddhist temple in Hohhot that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It is known for its grand halls, intricate statues, and colorful murals.

Inner Mongolia Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Inner Mongolia, including its ethnic minorities, natural resources, and ancient artifacts.

Xilitu Zhao: This is a Tibetan-style lamasery located in the heart of Hohhot. It is known for its unique architecture, intricate carvings, and religious relics.

Zhaojun Tomb: This is a tomb dedicated to Wang Zhaojun, a legendary beauty from the Han Dynasty who was married off to a Xiongnu chief to bring peace to the region. The tomb is surrounded by beautiful gardens and has a museum dedicated to the history of the Silk Road.

Huitengxile Grassland: This is a beautiful grassland located just outside of Hohhot. It is known for its rolling hills, clear streams, and traditional Mongolian yurts. Visitors can ride horses, watch traditional Mongolian performances, and try local delicacies.

Other notable attractions in Hohhot include the Five Pagoda Temple, the Great Mosque, and the Qingcheng Park. The city is also a great place to experience traditional Mongolian culture, including their music, dance, and cuisine.

Hohhot travel guide >>

Ordos

Ordos is a city located in the southwestern part of Inner Mongolia. It is famous for its unique blend of traditional Mongolian culture and modern urban development. The city covers an area of 87,000 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 2.4 million people.

One of the main attractions in Ordos is the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan, a magnificent complex that honors the legendary Mongolian leader. The complex features several temples, sculptures, and exhibits that showcase the life and legacy of Genghis Khan.

Another popular attraction in Ordos is the Genghis Khan Square, a massive public space that hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. The square is surrounded by modern high-rise buildings and is a symbol of the city's rapid development in recent years.

Ordos is also known for its unique architecture, particularly in the Kangbashi New Area, a modern urban district that was designed to be an eco-friendly city of the future. The district features a variety of innovative buildings and infrastructure, including the Ordos Museum, the Ordos Art and City Planning Exhibition Hall, and the Ordos International Airport.

Other notable attractions in Ordos include the Ordos International Circuit, a world-class motorsport facility, and the Kubuqi Desert, a vast sand dune area that is home to a variety of rare plants and animals.

Ordos travel guide >>

Baotou

Baotou is a city located in the eastern part of Inner Mongolia. It is the largest industrial city in Inner Mongolia and serves as an important transportation hub in northern China. Baotou is known for its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and mining industry.

Some of the top attractions in Baotou include:

Wudangzhao Monastery: This is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located in Baotou. It was built during the Qing Dynasty and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful scenery.

Resonant Sand Gorge: This is a scenic area located about 50 km from Baotou. The sand in the area produces a humming sound when it is disturbed, hence the name "Resonant Sand Gorge".

Baotou Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Baotou and Inner Mongolia. It houses a large collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, bronze ware, and Mongolian costumes.

Saihanba National Forest Park: This is a national park located about 70 km from Baotou. It is known for its stunning scenery, including forests, lakes, and grasslands. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and sightseeing.

Other notable attractions in Baotou include the Xilamuren Grassland, the Xiangshawan Desert, and the Baotou Steel Rare Earth Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone.

Baotou travel guide >>

Customize Your Unique Inner-mongolia Tour

If you are interested in one of the Inner-mongolia itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Inner-mongolia Tour, please visit our inner-Mongolia Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Inner-mongolia 

Mongolian wrestling

• Inner-mongolia Travel Guide: attractions, weather, food, culture, tours, etc.
• Inner-mongolia Travel itinerary for your reference
• Top attractions: well-selected top attractions in Inner-mongolia
• Brief introduction to the Inner Mongolia local culture
• Unique perspective: best interesting things to do
• Interesting cultural experiences and outdoor activities to rich your trip
• Top destinations: best places to visit in Inner-mongolia
• When is the best time to travel to Inner-mongolia in Inner Mongolia
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Inner-mongolia
• Luxury hotels: where to stay in Inner-mongolia
• Inner Mongolia Travel Advisory
• Customizable private Inner Mongolia tours