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Located in the Alxa League region of Inner Mongolia, the Camel Salt Trail, a traditional salt transport route, stretched from the desert to the Haloxylon ammodendron forests and then to the grasslands, finally converging at the Anjiu Temple. Originating in the Han and Tang dynasties, it flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties. However, with the opening of the Sandaokan to Jilantai highway in 1958 and the subsequent rerouting of the Urumqi-Jilantai Railway in 1968, this once bustling route gradually fell into disuse, leaving only the desolate old road and its dilapidated remains.
The most iconic 70 kilometers of the ancient trail pass through a variety of landforms, including deserts, Gobi, grasslands, and wastelands. The many unique plants and animals, as well as history, culture, folk customs, and historical sites are also a major attraction of the Camel Salt Trail.
continental monsoon climate;
Autumn and winter are the best time to go, as it won’t be so hot.
It is recommended to spend 1 to 2 days
free
All day
The Camel Salt Trail is an ancient trade route that was historically used to transport salt across the arid deserts of Inner Mongolia. It played a vital role in connecting various regions for centuries, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.
The Camel Salt Trail is located in the Alxa League region of Inner Mongolia, China. It is best accessed by car or guided tour from nearby cities such as Alxa Left Banner or the city of Hohhot. Public transportation options are limited in this remote area.
The Camel Salt Trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) to avoid the extreme heat of summer and the cold winters.
There is no specific entrance fee for the Camel Salt Trail itself, but you may need to pay for camel rides or guided tours. Tickets for tours and rides can usually be purchased locally or through tour operators.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for visiting the Camel Salt Trail, but if you plan on taking a guided tour or camel ride, it is advisable to book at least a few days ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully experience the Camel Salt Trail and its surroundings, you should plan to spend at least half a day to one full day, depending on whether you are participating in camel rides and exploring the local culture.
Guided tours are available and typically offered in Chinese. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, but availability is limited. It’s best to check with local operators in advance.
The recommended route includes starting from the nearest access point and taking a camel ride along the desert, visiting key historical sites related to the salt trade, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Night visits or light shows are not available, but the desert is stunning under the stars, making it a great place for stargazing at night. Some tours may offer nighttime desert experiences.
The Camel Salt Trail is not heavily crowded compared to more popular tourist destinations. The least crowded times are during the cooler months in spring and autumn, especially on weekdays.
There are basic facilities such as rest areas, food stalls, and water available near the start of the trail. However, the facilities along the trail itself are minimal, so it’s important to bring enough water and supplies.
The Camel Salt Trail is a desert environment, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Camel rides may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s important to check with tour operators about accessibility options.
Cash is generally needed for most transactions in the region, especially in remote areas. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are becoming more common in larger cities but may not be widely accepted in the desert areas.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafes near the Camel Salt Trail offering traditional Inner Mongolian food, such as lamb dishes and dairy products. For a more substantial selection, you will need to travel to larger towns like Alxa Left Banner.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in some restaurants, but choices may be limited, especially in more remote areas. It is best to confirm with local eateries in advance.
Souvenir shops near the Camel Salt Trail sell local handicrafts, including camel-themed items, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Mongolian souvenirs.
