Discover the Wonders of Inner Mongolia ~ Vast Grasslands, Lakes, Deserts, and Historic Architecture That Tell Endless Tales of Charm

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The vast grasslands people imagine are right here in Inner Mongolia ! The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is located at the top of China’s map, resembling either a soaring eagle with wings spread wide or a galloping steed raising its head and hooves. Exploring the wonders of Inner Mongolia lets you enjoy both nature and history.

Starting from Hohhot, the capital of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, head to Xilamuren Grassland. Endless green meadows stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with cattle and sheep, fragrant milk tea, and moving love songs that bring to mind the poem: “In the vast plains beneath Yin Mountain, the sky is like a round felt tent, stretching over boundless land. The sky is blue, the land is boundless, and the wind blows the grass low to reveal grazing sheep…”

This fertile land has nurtured a bold and unrestrained nomadic people. Here, you can experience a welcoming horse team, drink the traditional “horse-welcoming wine,” feel the warmth of the locals, watch performances by Mongolian warriors such as wrestling and horse racing, visit horse-breeding bases of herders, dress up in Mongolian costumes for photos, taste freshly brewed milk tea and traditional kumis (fermented mare’s milk), and even join a lively bonfire party to immerse yourself in local culture in the most fun and relaxed way.

Although Inner Mongolia does not border the sea, its largest inland lake — Hasuhai — boasts vast, misty, and magnificent scenery, becoming a symbol of the ocean for all Inner Mongolians.

Surrounded by high mountains, Hasuhai resembles a huge jade plate nestled between the mountains and grasslands. It is a magnificent natural mirror bestowed upon the Mongolian Plateau, often called the “West Lake beyond the Great Wall.” Near Hasuhai, numerous rivers and lush water plants can be seen. In spring and summer, the lake water is crystal clear with small fish swimming about, and the reed beds on the lake are home to various bird species, making its unique ecological beauty truly unforgettable.

Inner Mongolia’s diverse landscapes include grasslands and lakes, and of course, sweeping deserts of golden sand. In Mongolian, “Kubuqi” means “the string of a bow.” The Kubuqi Desert got its name because it lies just below the Yellow River, resembling a string hanging from it.

In the Kubuqi Desert, the Xiangshawan Scenic Area — known in Mongolian as “Buremangha,” meaning “sand dune with a horn” — features towering crescent-shaped dunes around 80 meters high, stretching for several kilometers like a golden dragon lying on the ground. At Xiangshawan, you can try sandboarding, ride camels, and listen to the mysterious sounds of shifting sands — an experience full of wonder.

When it comes to religious history in Inner Mongolia, the Wudang Monastery stands out, often mentioned alongside the Potala Palace. In Mongolian, “Wudang” means “willow tree,” and “Zhao” means “temple.” Visiting Wudang Monastery allows you to experience the essence of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is built facing south along the terrain, with its white, layered structures stacked against the mountain, surrounded by peaks and shaded by lush pines and cypresses, giving it a majestic and spectacular appearance.

Genghis Khan is the hero Mongolians are most proud of, and visiting the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan offers a chance to reflect on the spirited history of those times.

Built in 1954, the mausoleum covers an area of more than 50,000 square meters. Its main structures consist of three yurt-style halls connected by corridors. The entire mausoleum is designed in the shape of an eagle about to take flight, reflecting a rich Mongolian artistic style. Here, you can also participate in the Sacred Lamp Blessing Ceremony, holding brick tea and hada (prayer scarves), and follow the Dalhut guards of the mausoleum in chanting nearly 800-year-old prayers, immersing yourself in a sense of historic nostalgia.

Another must-visit temple in Inner Mongolia is the Dazhao Temple, the earliest Yellow Sect Buddhist temple built in Hohhot and one of the large temples constructed in the early stages of Mongolians converting to the Yellow Sect, second only to the Meidai Temple in the region. It has had a profound influence in Mongolian areas. The temple houses a silver Buddha statue, hence it is also known as the “Silver Buddha Temple.” As you explore, you’ll discover its three marvels: the silver Buddha, dragon carvings, and murals — an indescribable spiritual experience.

More Related Information
Recommended Itinerary: Inner Mongolia In-depth 0* Xilamuren Grassland, 5A Xiangshawan, Hasuhai, Wudang Monastery, Yellow River Grand Canyon, 8-Day In-depth Tour (Includes Ordos Wedding Gift)
Xi Hong Holidays 412-8618 (add 02 for mobile)
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