Xilamuren Grassland

Xilamuren Grassland

Xilamuren Grassland: In Mongolian, it means "Yellow River," located 100 kilometers north of Hohhot. Commonly known as "Zhaohe," the grassland gets its name from the Qing Dynasty temple "Pu Hui Temple" situated by the Xilamuren River. "Pu Hui Temple" was the summer retreat palace of the Sixth Living Buddha of the Xilituzhao Monastery in Hohhot, built in the 34th year of the Qianlong reign. It features exquisitely carved beams and painted rafters, making it quite spectacular. Xilamuren Grassland is a typical highland pasture, where the grass is lush and flowers bloom everywhere during summer and autumn.

Behind Pu Hui Temple lies the Xilamuren River. Crossing the bridge over the river leads to Albin Obo Mountain, where you can enjoy the vast grassland scenery. The boundless views are truly enchanting. There are 62 yurts here, including 30 modern, star-rated yurts for visitors to stay in. There are also distinctive ethnic foods for you to try. After admiring the rustic architecture, head out to the expansive grasslands to experience the natural beauty of this summer retreat gifted by Mother Nature.

There is a significant temperature difference between day and night, and even on summer nights, it feels cool like autumn. On this vast grassland stands Pu Hui Temple, a summer retreat palace specially built for nobility. The temple is majestic and a testament to the wisdom of the laboring people from various banners. The Xilamuren River flows continuously beside the temple, adding a dynamic beauty to the scene. As you lie quietly by the beautiful Xilamuren River, listening to the sounds of nature, your work worries will fade away, and your restless mind will find peace. Here, you’ll find captivating sights such as oboos (sacred stone heaps), the Great Wall built during the Qin and Han dynasties, breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the grasslands—all memories that will last a lifetime.

When you visit here, the hospitable grassland people will welcome you with white hadas (ceremonial scarves), serve you aromatic wine, and sing heartfelt toasting songs. In this warm atmosphere, you’ll get to taste rich, grassland-style milk tea and dairy products, as well as delicious hand-grabbed lamb. Xilamuren Grassland is a world-renowned tourist destination. It welcomes the warm breezes from Hohhot to the south and listens to the bell chimes of Bairin Temple to the north. Named by the Qing Dynasty, "Pu Hui Temple" stands proudly by the river, which is why the area is also called Zhaohe. In summer and autumn, the grassland bursts with fragrant blossoms and swaying greenery, creating enchanting scenery that refreshes the soul. Flocks of sheep, horses, cattle, and camels move swiftly or leisurely across the plains, resembling colorful clouds drifting across the sky or pearls and agates scattered by fairies along the banks of the Xilamuren River, which resembles a silvery chain. In the herders’ yurts, hospitable Mongolian hosts will offer you fresh dairy treats, tender lamb, tasty fried rice, and aromatic milk tea. The unique flavors of grassland cuisine will deeply touch your heart...

Pu Hui Temple on Xilamuren Grassland, locally known as Zhaohe Temple, was first built in the 24th year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty, over 200 years ago. It is one of the many ancient temples and historic sites on the grassland. The temple faces south and has a rectangular courtyard layout, with three layers of halls arranged inside, combining Han and Tibetan architectural styles. The two-story pavilions feature elegant designs and a solemn, majestic presence. Seeing such structures in the heart of the grassland is enough to make one marvel at the craftsmanship of the Mongolian and Han artisans from over 200 years ago. When you come to the beautiful Xilamuren Grassland, whether you ride a golden camel for a stroll, gallop on a swift horse, or climb to a high point for a distant view, the grassland’s beauty will feel like a magical dream, leaving you with endless memories.