Tongliao Guai Shan (Strange Mountain)

Tongliao Guai Shan (Strange Mountain)

The Guai Shan Tourist Area is located 14 kilometers northwest of Holingol City in Inner Mongolia and 320 kilometers from Horqin District, the seat of Tongliao Municipal Government, covering an area of 11.4 square kilometers. The scenic area is divided into a business zone, a reservoir zone, and a nature reserve. Guai Shan was formed by crustal movements and compression, with a mountain range stretching approximately 2,000 meters and an elevation of 1,199.3 meters. The world-famous Guai Shan stands majestically on the shore of the Habqile Reservoir, acting as the guardian of the vast grasslands. Originally named Hundihan Wula, which means “the highest peak in the valley” in Mongolian, it earned its current name due to its peculiar shape, unusual weather patterns, rare local vegetation, and long-standing legends. When viewed head-on from the south, the stone forest soars straight into the clouds, and it is said that even fierce enemies in ancient times could not breach it. From the northwest, it resembles a lotus throne, making it a sacred site. From the southeast, it looks like a reclining goddess, serene and natural. At its foot lies the Habqile Reservoir, fed by seven divine springs that produce sweet and refreshing water. The Guai Shan Natural Ecological Reserve boasts blooming flowers in spring, lush green trees in summer, fiery red maple leaves in autumn, and vast snowy landscapes in winter, showcasing the unique scenery of the grasslands beyond the Great Wall. The project has received an investment of 23 million yuan, with the first phase investing 8.75 million yuan, mainly used for facilities such as the Habqile Reservoir and Mongolian yurts. The second and third phases will expand the reservoir, build a series of supporting accommodation, dining, and other service facilities, as well as establish orchards, vegetable and flower bases. These efforts aim to make full use of natural resources to develop ethnic-style guesthouses and yurt clusters with cultural experiences, offering summer retreats and cool getaways. Activities such as horse racing, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, and summer camps for primary school students can be developed. The area currently has the capacity to receive 90,000 visitors annually.

Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia