Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Inner Mongolia
The best months to explore Inner Mongolia are June to October. While cities like Hohhot welcome visitors year-round, the region's true beauty lies outdoors.
Summer (June-August) brings warm days (15–25°C/59–77°F) when grasslands glow bright green with wildflowers. It's perfect for horse riding, camping under starry skies, or joining the Naadam Festival on the plains – watch horse races, wrestling, and archery!
September-October offers cool, dry weather (10–22°C/50–72°F). Clear skies make desert hikes ideal, like walking the golden dunes of Badain Jaran. After late September, leaves turn gold – visit Ejina Poplar Forests for glowing trees or Erguna Wetlands for autumn colors. Check Badain Jaran Desert Adventure Tour Packages >>
Best Time to Visit Inner Mongolia for Grassland & Festivals (Jun - Aug)
June to August is the best time to visit Inner Mongolia if you love green grasslands and exciting festivals. During these months, the weather is warm but not too hot. Rain is rare – most days are sunny with clear blue skies, perfect for outdoor adventures.
The grasslands turn bright green in summer, covered with wildflowers like yellow buttercups and purple asters. This is when the famous Naadam Festival happens (mostly in July).
You can watch horse races, wrestling matches, and archery competitions. Families can stay in traditional Mongolian tents (called yurts) and enjoy bonfire parties with roasted lamb and folk music.
Weather & Climate During June to August
- Temperature: Days are warm, between 15–25°C (59–77°F). Nights are cooler, around 10–15°C (50–59°F).
- Rainfall: Very little rain (about 40–80 mm/month). Most days are sunny and dry.
Temperatures Across Inner Mongolia (Jun-Aug)
| Region | Weather | Daytime Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm/inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hohhot (west) | Warm | 22–30°C / 72–86°F | 50–70 mm / 2.0–2.8 in |
| Ordos (west) | Hottest | 25–35°C / 77–95°F | 20–40 mm / 0.8–1.6 in |
| Xilingol Grasslands (central) | Warm | 20–28°C / 68–82°F | 40–60 mm / 1.6–2.4 in |
| Hulunbuir Grasslands (northeast) | Coolest area | 18–25°C / 64–77°F | 60–80 mm / 2.4–3.1 in |
Top Grassland Loved by Travelers in Inner Mongolia
- Hulunbuir Grassland in the northeast. Known as China's largest grassland, it's a sea of green where you can ride horses with local herders or camp by crystal lakes.
- Xilinhot Grassland, the heart of the Naadam Festival in July. Here, you'll cheer for wrestlers, try archery, and feast on roast lamb at bonfire parties.
- Huitengxile Grassland, the closest grassland to Beijing, is one of the World's Largest Alpine Meadows at an altitude of over 1,800 meters. With 99 natural lakes, it has a fabulous contrast of green and blue.
- Closest to Hohhot (1.5-hour drive), Shiraimuren Grassland is perfect for families. Ride camels, shoot arrows, or chat with nomadic families.
- Ordos Grassland near the Kubuqi Desert lets you ride camels on dunes by morning and horses on grass by afternoon.
Inner Mongolia Grasslands: Top 5 Grassland Destinations
Enjoy Naadam Festival During June to August
The Naadam Festival is Inner Mongolia's biggest party—and summer (June–August) is the only time to see it! Locals call it the “Three Games of Men”: horse racing, wrestling, and archery.
Where: The biggest events happen in Hohhot, Xilin Gol, Ordos and Hulunbuir, though many grasslands host their own celebrations.
This festival lets you dive into 800-year-old Mongolian traditions. Watch kids as young as 5 ride horses at full speed, cheer for wrestlers in patterned boots, and try shooting a traditional bow. At night, join bonfire dances, eat roast lamb, and drink milk tea with herders.
Most festivals run for 3-5 days, but the main events usually happen in the first two days. The most popular venue is Xilin Gol's Naadam, known for its authentic atmosphere and large scale.
What to Pack from June to August
Packing for Inner Mongolia's summer (June–August) is easy if you focus on two things: sun protection and layers.
Light clothes like T-shirts, breathable pants, and comfy shoes are key. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and strong sunscreen—the sun here is fierce, even on cloudy days. Bugs love grasslands—insect spray keeps them away.
Best Time to Visit Inner Mongolia for Stunning Autumn Views & Desert (Sept - Oct)
September to October is the best season to explore Inner Mongolia's golden autumn and deserts. The weather turns cool and dry, with daytime temperatures between 5–20°C (41–68°F).
Forests like those in Ejina Banner or Erguna Wetland turn into paintboxes. The deserts like Badain Jaran feel comfortable for hiking (no summer heat!). The grasslands explode into fiery reds, yellows, and golds. Check Badain Jaran Desert Adventure Tour Packages >>
Regional Weather (Sept-Oct)
| Region | Day Temp (°C) | Night Temp (°C) | Rain (mm/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hohhot | 15–20 | 5–10 | 20–30 |
| Hulunbuir Grasslands | 10–15 | 0–5 | 20–40 |
| Badain Jaran Desert | 20–25 | 10–15 | <10 |
| Ejina Poplar Forest | 18–22 | 8–12 | 15–25 |
Top 3 Desert to Visit in Inner Mongolia
Kubuqi Desert, known as "The Green Desert," sits 150km from Ordos city. Visitors praise its unique mix of sand dunes and oasis areas, offering camel rides and sand sliding.
The Xiangshawan Desert, called "Resonant Sand Bay," lies near Baotou city. Its singing sand dunes produce mysterious sounds when visitors slide down them. Travelers particularly enjoy the desert resort facilities here, with comfortable accommodation and exciting activities like desert surfing and dune buggies.
Badain Jaran Desert – Home to the world's tallest sand dunes (380m!). Climb Bilutu Peak at sunrise. Check Badain Jaran Desert Adventure Tour Packages >>
Badain Jaran Desert | How to Visit Badain Jaran Desert, China (2025)
4 Best Places to Enjoy the Autumn Views of Inner Mongolia
Ejina Poplar Forest in Alxa is the superstar. Millions of poplar trees glow gold like a desert treasure chest (best Sept 25–Oct 10). Walk through “Tree King” with 1,000-year-old giants, or ride a camel past mirrored lakes.
The Arxan National Forest Park in northeastern Inner Mongolia offers a different autumn experience with its mix of red maples and yellow birch trees.
The Erguna Wetlands create a unique autumn landscape where golden grasslands meet reflected sky in countless mirrors of water.
The Hulunbuir Grasslands show a different kind of autumn beauty, with prairie grasses turning golden-red under crisp blue skies. Travelers often mention the striking contrast between white birch forests and golden grasslands.
Inner Mongolia Attractions: 10 Best Things to Do
What to Pack for Inner Mongolia (Sept - Oct)
Packing for Inner Mongolia's autumn (Sept-Oct) means preparing for big temperature swings.
Start with layers: light sweaters for daytime hikes, a thick jacket for evenings, and thermal underwear if camping. Don't forget sturdy boots; desert sands and grasslands are uneven.
Unique Experience in Inner Mongolia in Other Seasons and Months
Inner Mongolia in Spring
Spring in Inner Mongolia (March-May) is cool, dry, and windy. Temperatures slowly rise from 0–10°C (32–50°F) in March to 10–20°C (50–68°F) in May. Rain is rare (10–30 mm/month), but sandstorms can happen in April—pack a scarf and goggles!
Grasslands start turning green in May, and melting snow feeds rivers. Birdwatchers love spring: rare cranes and swans stop here during migration.
Inner Mongolia in Winter
Winter in Inner Mongolia (Dec-Feb) is extremely cold but magical for brave travelers. Temperatures range from -25°C to -10°C (-13°F to 14°F), with biting winds and occasional snow.
The air is dry, and snowfall is light except in mountainous areas. Days are short, with just 6-8 hours of sunlight.
This season offers unique icy adventures. Visit Hulunbuir Grassland to see frozen lakes and snow-covered yurts smoking in the cold. The Hulun Lake Ice & Snow Festival (January) features ice sculptures and dog-sledding. Skiers love Yakeshi Ski Resort.
Inner Mongolia Crowds & Cost
Tourism in Inner Mongolia sees its peak during July and August, when summer holidays bring large domestic crowds and high prices. During these months, popular attractions like Hulunbuir Grassland and Xiangshawan Desert become very crowded, with hotel rates increasing by 50-100%.
The Naadam Festival period in mid-July particularly draws massive crowds, making accommodation scarce and expensive.
June and early September offer better value and more comfortable experiences. These shoulder seasons maintain good weather while avoiding peak crowds, with hotel prices about 30% lower than summer peaks.
Grasslands and deserts remain accessible, and visitors can enjoy similar activities with fewer tourists.
Always avoid China's Golden Week holidays (May 1–7 and October 1–7). Trains and attractions overflow with tourists, and prices skyrocket.
How to Plan a Inner Mongolia Trip (With Itinerary): 8 Easy Steps
Inner Mongolia Weather by Month
January is the coldest month. Temperatures drop to -25°C (-13°F) in most areas. Snow covers grasslands, and icy winds make outdoor trips challenging.
February stays freezing (-20°C/-4°F), but sunny days increase. Ice festivals begin in places like Hulunbuir Lake.
March brings slightly warmer days (-5°C/23°F) but strong sandstorms. Avoid open areas during dust storms.
April sees temperatures rise (5–15°C/41–59°F). Grasslands start turning green, but nights stay chilly.
May is mild (10–20°C/50–68°F) with less wind. Perfect for desert hikes before summer heat.
June starts summer with warm days (15–25°C/59–77°F). Grasslands bloom, and tourist crowds grow.
July is peak season. Temperatures hit 25–28°C (77–82°F). Rain showers refresh the air, but hotels get pricey.
August stays warm (20–28°C/68–82°F). Nights cool down, ideal for camping under stars.
September brings autumn chill (5–20°C/41–68°F). Poplar trees turn gold, and crowds thin out.
October cools further (0–15°C/32–59°F). Frosty mornings start, but deserts stay hike-friendly.
November feels winter's return (-10°C/14°F). Snow begins in northern areas like Manzhouli.
December is harsh (-20°C/-4°F) but magical. Frozen lakes and snow festivals attract brave travelers.
| Month | Temperature Range (°C/°F) | Packing Tips |
|---|---|---|
| January | -25°C to -10°C (-13°F to 14°F) | Bundle up in thermal layers; avoid remote areas. |
| February | -20°C to -5°C (-4°F to 23°F) | Wear waterproof boots; attend ice sculpture events. |
| March | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) | Pack goggles and scarves; great for photography. |
| April | 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) | Light jackets; watch for sudden weather changes. |
| May | 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) | Light sweaters, breathable clothing, sunscreen, reusable water bottle. |
| June | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | Sun hat, breathable fabrics, hiking shoes, insect repellent, power bank. |
| July | 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) | Lightweight clothing, UV-protection gear, portable fan, extra camera memory. |
| August | 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) | Similar to July. |
| September | 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F) | Layers (T-shirts + fleece), sturdy shoes, camera for autumn colors. |
| October | 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) | Warm jacket, gloves, beanie, thermal socks, lens wipes for dust. |
| November | -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) | Heavy coat, woolen accessories, portable charger, thermos for hot drinks. |
| December | -15°C to -5°C (5°F to 23°F) | Extreme cold gear: fur-lined boots, balaclava, thermal sleeping bag. |
Explore the Inner Mongolia with Asia Odyssey Travel
We are Asia Odyssey Travel, your dedicated China travel specialists over 10+ years, offering authentic expertise and local insights for your first, or fiftieth, visit to the captivating region of Inner Mongolia. We craft journeys that go beyond the ordinary.
What we offer:
✅ 10+ Inner Mongolia Tours Packages - Grasslands, deserts, Naadam Festivals & cultural wonders.
✅ Custom & City Trips: Your perfect Hohhot, Ordos, Grassland, Badain Jaran Desert or Singapore-origin tour.
Your Quick Travel Toolkit:
Guides & Planning: Inner Mongolia Guide • Plan Your Trip • Best Time •Things to Do • Maps • Beijing to Inner Mongolia.
Key Spots: 5 Best Grasslands - Badain Jaran Desert.
Let's venture into Inner Mongolia – a realm of endless horizons and unforgettable cultural encounters!
Data in submission...
