Live Your Best Lives
Located in the heart of the Tengger Desert in Alxa Left Banner, 30 kilometers from Zhongwei City, Ningxia, the Tonghu Grassland Tourist Area boasts a diverse array of natural and cultural attractions, including deserts, salt lakes, wetland grasslands, sand springs, oases, pastoral villages, and rock paintings.
Zhongwei City has a typical temperate continental monsoon climate. Due to the influence of the desert, it has sufficient sunshine and a large temperature difference between day and night. The average temperature is between 7.3 and 9.5℃, the average annual relative humidity is 57%, the frost-free period is 158 to 169 days, and the average annual precipitation is 180 to 367 mm.
In terms of tourism project settings, Tonghu Tourist Area has developed a variety of interesting, fun and exciting special tourism projects based on the resource characteristics of the desert grassland, including grassland horse racing, camel riding, desert exploration, hunting in the enclosure, hiking, sunrise viewing, sunset viewing, and karting off-road.
In particular, they have developed a unique adventure project, the "Desert Cheetah" sand surfing adventure. Riding on a modified high-powered off-road vehicle, they traverse the ups and downs of the sand wave valley as high as hills, galloping across it and invincible.
Combined ticket (including entrance ticket and bonfire party ticket): 100.00 yuan;
Ticket price: 60.00 yuan;
Bonfire Party Ticket: 50.00 yuan.
06:30~22:00
Tonghu Grassland is a stunning natural area located in Ningxia, China, known for its vast stretches of grassland and the rich cultural heritage of the local Hui and Mongolian communities. Historically, it was an important grazing ground for nomadic tribes, and today, it serves as a cultural symbol of traditional life and a prime area for eco-tourism.
Tonghu Grassland is located in the central region of Ningxia, China, and can be accessed from Yinchuan, the provincial capital. You can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the grassland, as public transportation options are limited. The drive from Yinchuan to Tonghu Grassland takes around 2 hours.
Tonghu Grassland is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (May to September) when the grass is lush and the weather is pleasant. The peak tourist season is in July and August, so visiting during the shoulder months of May, June, or September might offer a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee for Tonghu Grassland is approximately 30–50 RMB. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. Some tours may offer packages that include transportation and activities, which can be booked in advance through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary unless you are visiting during peak season or planning to join a guided tour. If you are looking to participate in specific activities or require a guide, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance.
A visit to Tonghu Grassland typically takes around 4–6 hours, depending on the activities you choose. If you plan to participate in horseback riding or cultural experiences, it may take longer.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance, though it is recommended to confirm availability when booking your trip.
Start your visit by exploring the open grassland areas, taking a leisurely walk or horseback ride. Visit the traditional yurts to learn about local culture and then enjoy a picnic or lunch with a view. If time permits, head to the nearby lakes and wetlands for birdwatching or a peaceful walk.
Night visits are not available at Tonghu Grassland. However, you can enjoy stargazing at the site due to its remote location and clear skies. Special tours like cultural shows or performances may be available depending on the season.
Tonghu Grassland can get crowded during the summer months, especially on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon hours, and in the shoulder months of May and September.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available at the entrance. There are limited food and drink options, so it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring. There are no major shops, but souvenirs may be available at local stands.
While the area is relatively flat, it may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the natural terrain and the need for some walking or horseback riding. Children can enjoy the open space but should be supervised, especially around animals.
Cash is often required, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. It’s still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case of network issues.
There are limited dining options inside Tonghu Grassland. However, there are several local restaurants and small eateries in the nearby towns, offering local Ningxia cuisine and simple meals. It's advisable to bring food or arrange a picnic for a more immersive experience.
Vegetarian and vegan options can be found in nearby towns, especially in Ningxia, where Hui Muslim communities reside. Local restaurants may offer halal food as well.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the nearby cities of Yinchuan and Zhongwei, which are within a 1–2 hour drive from the grassland. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for a local homestay or camping option on the grassland itself.
There are a few souvenir shops in the area, selling local crafts, Mongolian-style goods, and items related to the Hui Muslim culture. You can find traditional fabrics, handicrafts, and souvenirs like small animal figurines.
The best transportation options to continue your trip after visiting Tonghu Grassland are by taxi or private car. From Yinchuan, you can take a taxi or hire a car to explore nearby attractions such as Shapotou Desert or Liupanshan.
