[2025 Dalad Banner Attraction] Travel Guide for Yinken Steppe Desert Ecological Cultural Tourism Area (Updated Jul)

The Ultimate Inner Mongolia Travel Guide: A Perfect Blend of Grasslands, Deserts & Exotic Culture Located in China's northern frontier, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is a vast and magnificent land featuring expansive grasslands, boundless deserts, mysterious volcanic landscapes, and unique ethnic minority cultures. As one of China's largest provincial-level regions, Inner Mongolia attracts countless visitors with its breathtaking "endless sky and boundless wilderness" scenery and profound nomadic heritage. This guide provides detailed information on the best travel seasons, must-visit attractions, unique experiences, and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable Inner Mongolia adventure. Best Time to Visit Given Inner Mongolia's vast territory spanning great east-west distances, different seasons offer distinctly different experiences. Based on climate characteristics and landscape changes, the travel seasons can be divided as follows: **May-September** is the golden season for grassland tourism. Early May brings spring greenery with fewer tourists, ideal for photographers capturing the "awakening grasslands." Mid-June to early July sees wildflowers like golden lotus and wolf poison flowers carpeting the hillsides. July-August offers the lushest grasslands and traditional Naadam Festival events, though be aware this is peak season with higher prices and crowds. **September-October** is prime time for autumn colors. Hulunbuir's birch forests turn golden, Ergun Wetland displays layered red, yellow, and green vegetation, while deserts glow crimson at sunset. Ejina Banner's poplar forests reach peak viewing from late September to mid-October, with golden trees contrasting sharply against blue skies - a photographer's paradise. **Winter (November-March)** transforms Inner Mongolia into a snowy wonderland. Enjoy skiing and hot springs in Arxan, ice fishing in Hulunbuir, or snow sculptures in Manzhouli. Yakeshi City even offers unique "reverse-season snow play," preserving winter snow for summer activities. Must-Visit Attractions Hulunbuir Grassland As one of the world's four great grasslands, Hulunbuir is Inner Mongolia's signature destination. In 2024, the Hulunbuir Grassland-Moergen River Scenic Area was officially designated a National 5A-level tourist attraction. The Morin River, known as "the world's most winding river," creates breathtaking natural landscapes across the grasslands. Visitors can horseback ride, experience nomadic life, attend bonfire parties, and immerse in Mongolian hospitality. Resonant Sand Bay Located in Ordos, this desert resort nearest to urban areas offers camel rides, dune buggies, and sandboarding. The Lotus Sand Resort Island features the world's only five-star desert hotel, with spectacular Milky Way views at night. For quieter alternatives, Yinken Tara Desert's fine sands are photographers' favorites. Ejina Poplar Forest This thousand-year-old poplar forest is a "holy land for photography," especially in autumn. Top photo spots include Erdaoqiao Reflection Forest, Sidaoqiao Hero Forest, and Badaoqiao Desert Sunset. The 28km route is best explored via shuttle buses. Arxan-Chaihe Scenic Area Famous for volcanic landscapes and forest hot springs, Arxan Tianchi is a crater lake requiring a 998-step climb. Winter's "Unfrozen River" phenomenon creates magical misty scenes even at -30°C. Manzhouli Matryoshka Square This Russian-style square centers around giant nesting doll sculptures, surrounded by onion-domed buildings that become enchantingly romantic at night. The Sino-Russian Trade Zone offers great-value Russian souvenirs. Classic Itineraries 5-Day Classic Loop **Day1: Hohhot Arrival** Morning at Inner Mongolia Museum to explore nomadic history, afternoon at Dazhao Temple and Old Street for ethnic handicrafts. **Day2: Xilamuren Grassland Immersion** Horseback riding, archery, visiting herder families to learn milking and dairy-making, evening bonfire party in a stargazing yurt. **Day3: Hasuhai Lake + Resonant Sand Bay** Morning cycling at Hasuhai Wetland, afternoon desert activities at Resonant Sand Bay. **Day4: Ergun Grassland + Manzhouli** Morning birdwatching at Ergun Wetland, afternoon at Manzhouli's Border Gate and Matryoshka Square, Russian dinner. **Day5: Poplar Forest/Departure** Autumn visitors photograph Ejina Poplar Forest; others visit Genghis Khan Mausoleum or Ordos Grassland. 3-Day Family Route **Day1: Hohhot Cultural Discovery** Dinosaur fossils at Inner Mongolia Museum, Chilianchuan Grassland Cultural Zone, evening bonfire party. **Day2: Desert Adventure at Resonant Sand Bay** Camel rides, sandboarding competitions, and desert karting for kids. **Day3: Volcano Exploration** Ulanhad Volcano Geological Park hike with "Mars" astronaut photo ops. Unique Experiences & Cuisine Cultural Activities - **Naadam Festival**: Traditional Mongolian games (horse racing, wrestling, archery) in July-August. - **Herder Homestay**: Learn milking and dairy-making for authentic nomadic life. - **Aoluguya Reindeer Tribe**: Interact with reindeer and experience Ewenki culture. Special Accommodations - **Grassland Yurts**: ~¥300/night at Xilamuren with stargazing. - **Desert Hotels**: ~¥2000/night at Lotus Hotel (all-inclusive). - **Russian Wooden Houses**: Matryoshka-themed hotels in Manzhouli. Must-Try Foods - **Hand-Grabbed Lamb**: Boiled mutton with wild chive sauce (try at Gerile Amma Milk Tea House). - **Camel Meat Pies**: Alxa specialty with tender, non-gamy meat. - **Pot Tea**: Savory milk tea with roasted rice and dairy skin. - **Russian Bread**: Manzhouli's rye bread best with jam. Practical Tips Transportation Given vast distances between attractions, consider: - **Flights**: Major airports in Hohhot, Hulunbuir, Manzhouli. - **Self-Drive**: Good grassland roads (SUVs recommended). - **Private Cars**: Local guides offer customized routes. Important Notes - **Eco Rules**: No littering in deserts/grasslands (fines apply). - **Cultural Etiquette**: Don't step on yurt thresholds; keep quiet at ovoo shrines. - **Safety**: Desert activities require guides; choose licensed horse ranches. - **Weather Prep**: Strong summer UV protection; large autumn temperature swings. Budget Reference 5-day comfortable trip (~¥1500/person): - Transport: ~¥500 (local car/group tour) - Lodging: ~¥600 (yurts ¥150/night; city hotels ¥120/night) - Tickets: ~¥260 (Dazhao Temple ¥35 + Xilamuren ¥65 + Resonant Sand Bay ¥120 + Chilianchuan ¥40) - Food: ~¥400 (¥80/day) - Activities: ~¥200 (horse riding, sandboarding) Inner Mongolia's boundless grasslands, mysterious deserts, and unique ethnic cultures promise unforgettable experiences. With proper planning for seasons and routes, you'll fully appreciate this northern frontier's extraordinary charm.

| 3 days to explore the wild journey of grasslands, volcanoes, and deserts. Who says you need a week to travel Inner Mongolia? You can experience a magical trip combining grasslands, volcanoes, and deserts in just 3 days. Here are some hardcore activities you wouldn't imagine✨, along with a fresh 3-day itinerary. 🏞 Ultimate Scenery From June to August in Inner Mongolia, the grasslands are as green as a carpet, the volcanoes as black as an alien planet, and the deserts as golden as an oil painting! Gallop across the grasslands by day, shoot interstellar photos at the volcanoes by dusk, and lie under the Milky Way in the desert at midnight. Check in three extreme landscapes at once—your social media grid won’t be enough to post them all! 🗺 Recommended Route ✅ Day 1 Huitengxile Grassland Route (Fun Index★★★★★) Depart from Hohhot, 2.5 hours direct to the grassland. Must-visit Huanghuagou Scenic Area, take a small train through the sea of flowers (ticket + cable car 180 RMB), then horseback riding and archery in the afternoon. Stay overnight in a starry sky Mongolian yurt, enjoy hand-held lamb, join a bonfire party, and look up to see the Milky Way! ✅ Day 2 Ulanhada Volcano Route (Coolness Index★★★★★) Early morning 2-hour drive to the volcano cluster. Volcano No. 3 has a popular phone booth, Volcano No. 5 is perfect for aerial photography, and Volcano No. 6 is covered with black rocks (rent astronaut suit 80 RMB/set). Return to Hohhot by evening, and head to Saishang Old Street for ice-boiled lamb, so fresh it’ll make your tongue tingle! ✅ Day 3 Yinkentala (Thrill Index★★★★★) Be sure to wear high-top shoes, or the sand will burn your feet! Before heading back in the afternoon, remember to visit the Inner Mongolia Museum (free), a stunning finale! 💡 Notes 1⃣ Transportation: It’s recommended to rent a car; signal is weak in grasslands and deserts, so download offline maps in advance. 2⃣ Dress in layers: bring a jacket for the grasslands, wear sun-protective clothing in the desert, and bright-colored clothes for the volcanoes. 3⃣ Must-try foods: ice-boiled lamb, salty milk tea, sand onion buns—carbs for maximum happiness. 4⃣ Protect the environment: don’t litter; the grassland and desert ecosystems are very fragile. Spending 3 days around Hohhot is like traveling through three parallel worlds, with a brand new experience every day!

【Introduction】Hey guys, you must visit Yinken Tara to experience the unique charm of the desert! Located in Zhandanzhao Sumu, Dalad Banner, Ordos City, at the eastern end of the Kubuqi Desert, this place boasts vast, undulating sand dunes. When you slide down from the top, the sand produces a magical "humming" sound, like a unique concert. "Yinken Tara" means "auspicious grassland" in Mongolian—though grasslands are rare here now, the desert offers its own distinctive allure. Plus, it holds several world records, such as the world's tallest obo (Yinken Obo) and the world's longest desert cableway (Yinken Tara Cableway)—absolutely breathtaking! 🕘【Opening Hours】 Generally open from April 20 to October 10, 07:30–18:30; from October 11 to April 19 the following year, 08:30–17:30. Closed on October 25, 2024, for upgrades; check the official WeChat account for 2025 reopening details. Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours. For a deeper experience, spend a full day—dawn and dusk offer soft lighting for stunning photos. Note: Summer midday temperatures are extreme, so take sun and heat precautions. 💴【Ticket Prices】 Entry: ¥40/person. Cableway: ¥90/person (students get 50% off; disabled visitors and children enter free). Prices are stable, but check Ctrip for discounts—combo tickets (entry + activities) offer great value. ⛺【Activities】 **Sand Sliding**: Zoom down towering dunes on a sled for thrilling speed and the sand’s unique "singing" sound. Hold tight and balance for maximum fun! **Camel Riding**: Stroll the sandy sea like a nomad. Best at dawn/dusk for photos and comfort. **Desert Off-Roading**: Race over dunes for adrenaline-pumping drops and climbs (not for those with heart conditions/high blood pressure). **Desert Cableway**: Glide 2,495m (35 mins) at ~10m height, soaking in panoramic views en route to the play zone. **Desert Team-Building**: Challenge yourself with collaborative exercises—perfect for groups or families. **Suggested Itinerary**: Start with the cableway for an overview, then camel riding, followed by sand sliding/off-roading, and wrap up with team activities. 🚌【Transport】 **Ctrip Group Tours**: - Hassle-free: No transit/ticket worries; expert guides handle logistics and storytelling. - Safe: Licensed buses + experienced drivers; desert safety tips included. - Great value: Often cheaper than DIY, with meal/accommodation packages. **DIY Options**: - **Drive**: ~3–4 hrs from Hohhot (navigate to "Yinken Tara Desert Eco-Cultural Tourism Area"). Rest stops recommended. - **Public Transit**: Reach Dalad Banner first, then take a shuttle/taxi (limited schedules; taxis cost more). 👉【Nearby Attractions】 - **Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay)**: Another "singing" dune spot with fun activities—check Ctrip for combo tickets. - **Engebei Desert Science Museum**: Learn about desert ecology/formation—budget-friendly for families/students. 🧡【Packing List】 - **Sun Protection**: SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, UV clothing, and a buff for sand/wind. - **Sand Gear**: High-top shoes/shoe covers; phone sandproof bag. - **Clothing**: Light layers (cool mornings/hot days); bright colors (red/white) for photos. - **Essentials**: Large water bottle, snacks, power bank (weak signal drains phones), wet wipes.

【Opening】Hey besties, still worried about where to go for the holidays? The Kubuqi Desert is definitely a destination you can't miss! Whether you're a thrill-seeking adventurer, a nature-loving photographer, or a worker bee looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Kubuqi Desert can satisfy all your travel fantasies! ⛺【Travel Guide】 Sandboarding is a must-try. Slide down from the top of the dunes at high speed, feel the wind whistling past your ears, and experience the adrenaline rush that will definitely make you scream! Camel riding is also a classic activity. Ride leisurely through the sea of sand, feel the vastness and magnificence of the desert, and imagine yourself as an ancient merchant traveler. If you prefer something wilder, hop on a desert buggy and zoom through the dunes, enjoying the ups and downs, and releasing all your stress. 👉【Essential Items】 Sun protection is absolutely crucial. High SPF sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses are all essential. The desert sun is very "enthusiastic." Bring enough drinking water to stay hydrated and avoid heatstroke. A pair of comfortable and well-fitting athletic shoes will make walking in the sand much easier. If you plan to camp, don't forget a warm sleeping bag and a moisture-proof mat. 💴【Money-Saving Tips】 Consider traveling during the off-season, when accommodation and ticket prices are relatively lower. Booking tickets and accommodation online in advance can also save you a lot of money. You don't have to try every activity; choose the ones that interest you most. This way, you can save money and still have fun. For example, after arriving in the desert in the morning, go camel riding first and enjoy the scenery along the way. In the afternoon, try sandboarding, and admire the beautiful desert sunset at dusk. This makes for a rich and affordable day trip. 🧡【Tips】 The Kubuqi Desert has a large temperature difference between day and night, so remember to bring a warm jacket for the chilly evenings. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, avoiding the high temperatures of summer and the severe cold of winter. Also, respect local customs and protect the desert environment, so that this beautiful desert can maintain its pristine beauty. Besties, don't hesitate any longer. Pack your bags and come to the Kubuqi Desert for a romantic encounter with nature!

Hohhot to Ordos 3-day tour: explore the grasslands and cities! This super useful guide will help you easily travel between the two places. Save it now! / Attraction Recommendations: Hass Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: 70 km west - Opening hours: All day - Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours The lake is clear and full of fish, and birds often fly low over the water. It's a great place to get close to nature and relax. Yinken Tala Desert Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Along the Yellow River Highway, Dalad Banner, Ordos, Inner Mongolia - Opening hours: 08:00–18:00 - Recommended visit time: 1 day Here, you can experience authentic Mongolian customs, enjoy the spectacular desert scenery, and taste authentic local delicacies. Princess Kejing's Mansion ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 62, Tongdao North Road, Xincheng District, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia (near Princess Mansion Park) - Opening hours: 09:00–17:00; 09:30–17:00 - Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours This is a cultural relic in the northern suburbs of Hohhot. The courtyard buildings are exquisite, the environment is quiet, and the scenery is pleasant. It's a great place to experience history and culture. / **Travel Essentials: 🎒Hohhot–Ordos Packing List** 👗 **Clothing** Down jacket and thermal underwear to keep out the winter wind. Thick pants and snow boots to prevent slipping and keep you warm and stylish. 🎩 **Accessories** Hat, scarf, and gloves are a must. Sunglasses to prevent snow blindness and look cool. 💳 **Documents** ID card, cash, and bank card for safe travel. Student ID and discount card to save money. 💧 **Daily Necessities** Moisturizer and lip balm to protect your skin in dry weather. Portable toiletries for cleanliness and environmental protection. 📷 **Photography Equipment** Camera and phone to capture beautiful moments. Spare batteries and charger to ensure you don't run out of power. 🍫 **Snacks** Beef jerky and dairy products to replenish energy and taste delicious. Thermos with hot water to warm your heart and body. / Explore the customs of Hohhot and the magnificence of Ordos. Don't waste your time, and have a great trip!

Great for photos❗ Great for photos❗ Great for photos❗ Activities: 📍 Desert Cableway: Take the cableway to enjoy the magnificent desert scenery. 📍 Sand Sliding: Slide down from the top of the sand dune and feel the speed and passion. 📍 Camel Riding: Experience the traditional means of transportation in the desert. 📍 Desert Off-road: Drive an off-road vehicle in the desert and experience an exciting adventure. 📍 Desert Hiking: Hike in the desert and feel the charm of nature. 📍 Desert Camping: Set up a tent in the desert and enjoy a quiet night. 📍 Ethnic Cultural Performance: Watch the Mongolian song and dance performance and learn about local customs and culture. Precautions: 📍 The desert climate is dry and the ultraviolet rays are strong. Please take sun protection and moisturizing measures. 📍 Wear comfortable sneakers and light clothes to cope with the sand and changing climate in the desert. 📍 Bring enough water and food, as well as sand-proof masks, sunglasses, sunscreen and other protective equipment. 📍 When participating in desert activities, please follow the instructions of the staff and pay attention to safety. 📍 Respect local culture and customs, protect the environment, and do not litter.

The Yinken Steppe Desert Ecological Cultural Resort in Inner Mongolia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences that capture the essence of this fascinating region. Here's a review and some guidance on how to get there. Visiting the Yinken Steppe Desert Ecological Cultural Resort is like stepping into another world where the vibrant culture of Inner Mongolia meets stunning desert landscapes. The resort is a feast for the senses, offering an array of activities and sights that highlight the region's rich heritage and natural wonders. 🏨 Accommodations and Facilities The resort seamlessly blends traditional Mongolian aesthetics with modern amenities. The yurts (traditional tents) are particularly popular among visitors, providing a comfortable yet authentic stay. Facilities at the resort are well-maintained, and staff members are noted for their hospitality and helpfulness. Also there are a lot of budget hotels and motels nearby. 🎭Cultural and Recreational Activities The resort offers a range of activities that cater to diverse interests. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural performances, such as traditional Mongolian music and dance, or partake in workshops that teach skills like archery and amelback riding. The desert provides a breathtaking backdrop for camel riding, dune bashing, and guided treks, allowing guests to explore the unique ecosystem of the steppe desert. 🍜Dining Guests rave about dishes like roasted lamb and dairy products, staples of the local diet. 🏜️Overall Experience The Yinken Steppe Desert Ecological Cultural Resort offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Inner Mongolia. It's an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, cultural enrichment, and a deeper connection with this unique part of China. 🚀How to Get There Getting to the Yinken Steppe Desert Ecological Cultural Resort requires some planning, as it is located in a remote area of Inner Mongolia. Here’s a general guide on how to reach the resort: 1. ✈️By Air: - Nearest Airport:The closest major airport is Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET) located in Hohhot, the capital city of Inner Mongolia. - Connecting Flights: Several domestic airlines offer flights to Hohhot from major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an. 2. 🚅By Train: - Train to Hohhot: High-speed and conventional trains connect Hohhot with various cities throughout China. This is a scenic route that offers a glimpse of the changing landscapes. - Train to BaoTou 3. 🚘By Car: - Car Rental:Once in Hohhot or BaoTou, renting a car might be the most flexible and definitely the best option for reaching the resort. The drive allows you to enjoy the picturesque views of Inner Mongolia's landscapes. - Directions: Use GPS navigation or a reliable map for directions. Amap or Baidu.

When you walk into the Yinkentala Desert Ecological and Cultural Tourism Area to the east of the Kubuqi Desert, the seventh largest desert in China, you will sincerely admire the people who control the desert. Sitting on the longest zipline in Asia 🚠, you can overlook the desert. Although the sand dunes in the Yinkentala Desert are endless, they are oases 👍. It feels like the vast desert has become docile 🌹. This ecological and cultural tourism area attracts many tourists to enjoy the fun: surfing cars, camel riding, sand sliding, desert off-road vehicles, spaceships... When I went there, I also saw many students going sandboarding 😍 and riding camels 🥰 under the guidance of their teachers... It seems that this is also a popular tourist destination for the school. If you want to know what it means to transform a desert into an oasis, come to the Yinkentala Desert Ecological Tourism Area. This place makes you full of energy. #Desert Tour #Inner Mongolia In-depth Tour