Inner Mongolia

A breathtaking expanse of grasslands, deserts, and forests stretching across northern China. It is celebrated for its deep Mongolian nomadic heritage, vast steppes like Hulunbuir, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry.

Hulunbuir Grassland World's Best Grassland

Hulunbuir Grassland

Considered one of the most pristine and beautiful grasslands in the world, this...

Hulunbuir

Top Cities to Visit in Inner Mongolia

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Inner Mongolia Trip Routes

5-Day Central Loop: Hohhot → Ulanqab Volcanoes → Ordos Xiangshawan → Baotou
7-Day Eastern Grassland Route: Hailar (Hulunbuir) → Erguna → Shiwei → Manzhouli
6-Day Desert & Geology Tour: Chifeng Hexigten → Yulong Sand Lake → Tongliao Khorchin

Inner Mongolia Travel Tips

Temperature Variations

The temperature difference between day and night on the grasslands and deserts is drastic. Always pack layers, even in mid-summer.

Grassland Etiquette

When visiting yurts or partaking in local ceremonies, follow local Mongolian customs, such as receiving bowls of milk tea with both hands.

Vast Distances

Driving times between attractions can easily exceed 4-5 hours. Renting a car or hiring a driver is highly recommended for flexibility.

Recent Reviews

4.4 ★★★★☆ (5)
Alex_Zhang Jul 03, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I had higher hopes. The grassland near Hohhot was way too touristy — lots of souvenir stalls and people pushing camel rides. The grass wasn't as lush as I'd imagined, probably because of the dry season. Our yurt was basic and cold at night, and the 'traditional' dinner felt like a reheated buffet. Not a bad trip, but definitely overhyped. Next time I'll go to a more remote area.

Travel_Bug_2 Jul 03, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Overall a good trip — the scenery is truly magnificent, especially the vast grasslands near Xilamuren. However, the distances between attractions are huge; we spent hours on the road every day. The tour bus was comfortable but the itinerary felt rushed. Also, the food options at some stops were limited and overpriced. Still worth it for the views, but plan your own transport if you want more flexibility. Rating 4/5.

Wanderlust_T Jul 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

The Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay) desert was the highlight of my trip to Inner Mongolia. Sandboarding down the dunes is a thrill, and the camel ride at golden hour was incredibly peaceful. The sound of the shifting sand really does hum! The sunset colors over the desert are something I'll never forget. A bit crowded in the afternoon, but still a solid 5/5 experience.

Nomad_Jane Jul 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Went during the Naadam Festival and it was an unforgettable cultural experience. The wrestling, horse racing, and archery were fascinating to watch. Tried roast whole lamb for the first time — juicy and flavorful, especially with the local milk tea. Only wish I could have stayed longer to visit more remote herder families. Would 100% recommend to anyone looking for authentic Inner Mongolian traditions.

GrasslandLov Jul 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! Spent three days on the Hulunbuir grasslands and it felt like stepping into a painting. The endless green rolling hills under a deep blue sky, the taste of fresh air mixed with wildflowers... We stayed in a traditional yurt and the host family was so warm and welcoming. Riding horses at sunset was a dream come true. If you love nature and open spaces, this is heaven. Five stars without hesitation!

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Inner Mongolia Travel FAQ

Should I stay in a yurt or a hotel near Hulunbuir Grassland?
It depends on your priorities. If you want comfort, reliable Wi-Fi, and easy access to restaurants, choose a hotel in Hailar. If you’re okay with basic facilities and want the full nomadic experience for 1-2 nights, a yurt camp is unforgettable. My advice: split your trip. Stay in Hailar first to adjust, then move to a yurt for the cultural fix.
How far is Hailar from the main grassland?
The nearest scenic section (Jinzhanghan Grassland) is about 40 minutes by car. Most people call this “Hulunbuir Grassland,” but the truly vast steppe starts about 2 hours north, near the Ergun border. If you only have 2 days, Jinzhanghan is fine. If you want endless horizons, head toward Shiwei village.
Is it safe for solo travelers to stay in a yurt camp?
Generally yes. The local Mongolian families are hospitable. However, I advise solo female travelers to book camps that have staff on-site 24/7 and look for camps with good reviews from other solo women. Also, let someone back home know the camp’s location. The remote camps may have limited mobile signal (China Unicom is better than China Mobile there).
Can I use Uber or Didi from the airport?
Didi (Chinese Uber) works in Hailar city but not on the open grassland. From the airport, you can book a Didi to your Hailar hotel (around 50 CNY). For grassland destinations, pre-arrange a private transfer through your hotel. Airport taxis often quote fixed prices (100-150 CNY to city) — negotiate before getting in.
What should I pack for staying in a yurt?
Even in summer, nights are chilly (10-15°C). Bring a fleece jacket or a warm hoodie. Mosquito repellent is essential from June to August (the ones with DEET are best). A headlamp is handy because yurt camps have dim lighting. Also, bring your own toilet paper — some camps run out. And a portable charger; outlets may be limited.
Can I use credit cards on the grassland?
Rarely. Most vendors only take WeChat Pay or Alipay. I always tell my clients to bring at least 2000 RMB in cash small bills. Even some yurt camps don't have card machines.
Is it safe to drink tap water?
No. The water has high mineral content—it's safe for washing but can upset your stomach. Buy bottled water (2-3 RMB per bottle) from shops in Hailar before heading out.
Do I need a guide for the grassland?
Not necessarily if you have a good driver who speaks some English. But if you want deep cultural insights, hire a local guide (about 300 RMB/day). Many are available through Hailar tourism agencies.
How do I deal with mosquitoes?
They're fierce near wetlands, especially at dusk. Bring DEET repellent, wear long sleeves, and avoid perfumed lotions. Yurts usually have mosquito nets but bring your own plug-in repellent if you can.
How far is the grassland from Hailar city center?
No fixed answer—the grassland is huge. The nearest scenic area (Jinzhanghan) is about 40km or 1 hour drive. Some yurt camps are 100km away. Always ask the exact distance before booking.
2026 on-site verified · Last audit: July 11, 2026
Last visit: Jul 11, 2026
Author: Lei Li
Reviewer: Ying Zhang