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1. Is Inner Mongolia Worth Visiting
You're asking: Is Inner Mongolia worth visiting? Absolutely, YES! If you dream of seeing huge, wide-open spaces. Endless grasslands stretching to the horizon or stunning, vast deserts – then Inner Mongolia is calling your name.
It's also one of the best places to get a real taste of unique Mongolian culture. All about ancient nomadic traditions or even staying overnight in a cozy traditional yurt. It's a totally different kind of China experience.
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2. Top Attractions in Inner Mongolia
Where should you actually go in Inner Mongolia, and what are the must-see things? This place is massive, with tons of cool spots! Let's look at some top attractions in the main areas people love to visit.
| Destinations | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hohhot | Inner Mongolia Museum Dazhao Temple Xilamuren Grassland |
| Ordos | Genghis Khan Mausoleum Xiangshawan Desert |
| Hulunbuir | Hulunbuir Grassland Arxan Forest Erguna Wetland |
| Baotou | Wudang Monastery Xilamuren Grassland |
| Ulanqab | Huitengxile Grassland Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark |
Things to Do in Hohhot
Hohhot, the capital, serves as the perfect introduction to Mongolian culture. The Inner Mongolia Museum houses the region's best cultural artifacts, while the ancient Dazhao Temple shows Buddhist influence on local life.
Just outside the city, Xilamuren Grassland offers your first taste of nomadic life, with yurt stays and horse riding available year-round.
What to Do in Baotou
Baotou is another major city, known for its industry but also as a gateway to some cool sights. A really impressive place to visit from Baotou is the Wudangzhao Monastery. Baotou can also be your starting point if you're thinking of exploring parts of the nearby Kubuqi Desert.
Top Attractions in Ulanqab
If you're looking for awesome natural landscapes, Ulanqab is a great choice. You can visit the Huitengxile Grassland, a beautiful high-altitude grassland that's especially lovely in summer with wildflowers, and you'll often see many windmills and traditional yurts. For something really different and dramatic, explore the Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark.
Highlights of Ordos
The famous Genghis Khan Mausoleum is here (though it's a grand shrine and memorial, not his actual burial place). It's a huge site dedicated to the legendary leader.
For some exciting desert fun, head to Xiangshawan, also known as the Resonant Sand Gorge. Here, you can enjoy camel rides, try sand dune sliding, and lots of other desert activities.
Top Things to Do in Hulunbuir
Way up in the north of Inner Mongolia is Hulunbuir. Hulunbuir boasts China's most pristine grasslands and forests. The Hulunbuir Grassland stretches endlessly, offering the region's most authentic grassland experience. Arxan Forest adds diversity with its hot springs, hiking trails, and rare wildlife.
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3. Inner Mongolia Itinerary: How Many Days to Spend
Hohhot (2-4 Days): The city itself needs a full day to explore its cultural treasures, including the impressive Inner Mongolia Museum and ancient temples. You'll want to spend at least two days experiencing the nearby Xilamuren grasslands, where traditional yurt stays and horse riding create lasting memories.
Hulunbuir (3-5 Days): The vast Hulunbuir Grassland needs at least two days to explore properly, while the Arxan Forest area, with its hot springs and hiking trails, demands another two days. If you're interested in the Erguna Wetland or visiting the Russian-influenced border towns, consider adding an extra day.
Ordos (2-4 Days): The Genghis Khan Mausoleum and surrounding cultural sites fill one day, while desert activities at Whistling Dune Bay need another full day. Those interested in more desert experiences or photography might want to add a third day.
Ulanqab (2-4 Days): if you're visiting the Huitengxile Grassland or the Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark, 1 to 2 days per spot works. If you want to see both and relax, maybe allow 2 to 3 days.
Baotou (1-2 Days): Baotou is perfect for a 2-day visit. The first day can be spent exploring the city's highlights and the impressive Wudang Monastery. The second day allows for grassland activities or visiting ecological parks.
Inner Mongolia Itinerary 4 Days: How to Spend 4 Days
4 days is a short time for such a big place as Inner Mongolia. But don't worry! You can still get a really good taste of what it offers. This plan focuses on exploring Hohhot, the capital city. You will also visit the Xilamuren Grassland, which is not too far from Hohhot.
Day 1: Arrival in Hohhot.
Day 2: It takes you to Xilamuren Grassland, just 90 minutes from Hohhot. Your day includes horse riding, visiting the impressive Hongge'er Aobao shrine, and watching a spectacular outdoor cultural show. The highlight comes at night - sleeping in a traditional yurt and joining a bonfire party under the stars.
Day 3: Visit a local Mongolian family to learn about nomadic life and try traditional dairy foods. Returning to Hohhot, you'll explore the historic Dazhao Temple.
Day 4: Focuses on two key cultural sites: the Inner Mongolia Museum, showcasing the region's rich history, and the Zhaojun Museum.
Inner Mongolia Itinerary 5 Days: Classical West Inner Mongolia Tour
5 days is great for exploring western Inner Mongolia. This plan mixes city sights, grasslands, deserts, and culture. It's perfect for seeing the main highlights of this unique region. You'll experience three major cities - Hohhot, Baotou, and Ordos.
Day 1 starts in Hohhot, where you'll explore the Inner Mongolia Museum and Dazhao Temple. These visits give you a strong introduction to local history and Buddhist culture.
Day 2 takes you to Xilamuren Grassland for a full day of Mongolian life. Watch traditional shows, try horseback riding, and spend the night in a yurt under the stars. The evening bonfire party is always a highlight.
Day 3 moves to Baotou, home to the impressive Wudangzhao Monastery. Often called the "Potala Palace of the Grasslands," this massive temple complex shows the region's strong Buddhist influence.
Day 4 combines desert adventure with history. Visit Kubuqi's Resonant Sand Bay for desert activities, then explore the Genghis Khan Mausoleum in Ordos. End the day in the modern Kangbashi District if time allows.
Day 5 returns you to Hohhot for departure.
| Day | Main Stops | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hohhot city sights | Hohhot |
| 2 | Xilamuren Grassland | Yurt |
| 3 | Wudangzhao Monastery | Baotu |
| 4 | Desert and Mausoleum | Ordos |
| 5 | Return to Hohhot | - |
Inner Mongolia Itinerary 6 Days: Best East Inner Mongolia Tour
This 6-day eastern Inner Mongolia route focuses on Hulunbuir, known for China's most beautiful grasslands and rich ethnic culture. The journey takes you through pristine grasslands, wetlands, forests, and border towns, offering a complete northern wilderness experience.
Day 1 starts in Hailar, the gateway to Hulunbuir. After arrival, rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 introduces you to the famous Hulunbuir Grassland and Morigele River, followed by the stunning Erguna Wetland. End your day in Genhe City, known for its cool summers.
Day 3 brings cultural encounters at the Oruguya Evenki tribe village, where you'll learn about reindeer herders. Then explore Moridaga Forest Park before reaching Shiwei, a charming Russian-style border town.
Day 4 takes you along the Haur River to Heishantou. Here, experience classic grassland views, a memorable sunset, and join a traditional bonfire party.
Day 5 heads to Manzhouli, visiting Hulun Lake en route. Explore the city's unique Russian architecture and famous Matryoshka Plaza.
Day 6 returns to Hailar for departure.
4. Best Time to Visit Inner Mongolia
When is the very best time to visit Inner Mongolia? This is a common question. The answer depends a little on what you hope to see and do, as different seasons offer different views.
Many people think July and August are the top months to visit. During these summer months, the weather is usually at its warmest. This is when the vast grasslands are at their greenest and look most beautiful.
It's a perfect time for activities like horse riding and enjoying the open plains. Also, many traditional festivals, like the Naadam Festival, often happen in summer, making it a lively period.
Asia Odyssey Travel suggests that a longer period, from June to October, can also be an excellent time to visit Inner Mongolia.
- June is when the grasslands really start to become lush and green. The weather is usually pleasant, and there might be fewer big crowds compared to the peak months of July and August.
- July and August, as mentioned, are peak summer. You'll see the most vibrant green grasslands and experience warm weather, ideal for all grassland activities.
- September and October bring cooler and often very comfortable weather. This is autumn, so you can see beautiful fall colors, especially in forested areas like the Ejina Poplar Forest. It's also the best time to visit deserts in Inner Mongolia.
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5. Inner Mongolia: How to Get to?
By Air
Flying is a common way to reach Inner Mongolia. Many big cities in China have flights to airports in Inner Mongolia.
Hohhot Baita International Airport is the main gateway, with flights from Beijing (2 hours), Shanghai (3 hours), and other major Chinese cities. Ordos, Baotou, and Hulunbuir (Hailar) also have airports serving domestic routes. International flights connect through Hohhot and Manzhouli airports.
Some main airports in Inner Mongolia are:
- Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET) in Hohhot, the capital.
- Hailar Dongshan International Airport (HLD) in Hulunbuir.
- Baotou Erliban Airport (BAV) in Baotou.
- Ordos Ejin Horo International Airport (DSN) in Ordos.
- Chifeng Yulong Airport (CIF) in Chifeng.
By Train
China High-speed trains connect Hohhot with Beijing (2.5-3.5 hours), Datong (1.5 hours), and other cities. Regular trains link all major Inner Mongolian cities. The railway network is extensive and reliable.
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6. Where to Stay in Inner Mongolia: Accommodation Tips
Finding a good place to stay in Inner Mongolia is usually easy. Your options will change depending on if you are in a big city or out on the grasslands. Here are some tips for key destinations:
Hohhot
Hohhot provides the most extensive lodging choices. The Xincheng District (New City) has international hotel chains and luxury options, while the Huhehaote Railway Station area offers mid-range hotels convenient for travelers. The Muslim Quarter features budget-friendly guesthouses.
Baotou
Baotou's best hotels cluster around Qingshan District and Kunqu Square. These areas provide easy access to restaurants and shopping, with options ranging from business hotels to boutique stays.
Ordos
Ordos is a modern city. It has many new hotels. You can find luxury hotels. There are also good mid-range options. If you visit Xiangshawan (Resonant Sand Gorge), there are special desert resort hotels right in the scenic area. These offer a unique stay.
Ulanqab
In Ulanqab city, you can find standard hotels. If you visit the Huitengxile Grassland or Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark, staying options might be more local. On the grasslands, you can often stay in Mongolian yurts. This is a great experience.
Hulunuir
Hulunbuir is a very large area.
- In Hailar (the main city of Hulunbuir), there are many hotels, from basic to more comfortable.
- On the Hulunbuir Grasslands, staying in a traditional Mongolian yurt is very popular. Many tourist spots offer this.
- In towns like Manzhouli (near Russia) or Shiwei, you can find unique guesthouses. Some have Russian-style buildings. This adds to the local feel.
7. Inner Mongolia Food: What to Eat?
Inner Mongolian food is known for being hearty and tasty. It uses a lot of meat, especially lamb, and dairy products. Trying the local food is a big part of the travel experience here.
Hand-grabbed mutton: Tender boiled lamb, eaten with hands. A staple in grassland areas.
Milk tea: Salty, buttery tea paired with fried rice or bread. Often served at breakfast.
Roast whole lamb: A festival dish, crispy-skinned and shared in groups.
Dairy snacks: Try "milk tofu" (curd) or "milk skin" (dried cream) for sweet/savory flavors.
Beef jerky: Thin, air-dried strips for snacks or stews.
Youmian: Oat noodles, served with veggies or meat in soups.
8. Extend Your Inner Mongolia Trip
Inner Mongolia is well-connected to other interesting parts of China. If you want to see more, it's easy to add another destination to your travels. Here are a few popular choices:
Beijing: Beijing is the capital of China. It is located south of Inner Mongolia. About 2.5-3.5 hours high speed train ride to Hohhot. Beijing is rich in history. You can visit world-famous sites like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Summer Palace.
Datong: Only 1.5 hours bullet train ride to Hohhot. Datong is famous for the ancient Yungang Grottoes, which are stunning Buddhist cave carvings. You can also see the unique Hanging Monastery built into a cliff.
Xi'an: It is further to the southwest of Inner Mongolia. You can reach Xi'an by flight or train. Home to the incredible Terracotta Army. You can also explore the ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and the lively Muslim Quarter.
Zhangye: It is a famous city on the Silk Road. It is known for its stunning Rainbow Mountains. It is also often a gateway to the Badain Jaran Desert in Inner Mongolia, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its desert, lakes, and the world's tallest sand dunes. Check Badain Jaran Desert Adventure Tour Packages >>
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!
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