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The Ulagai Grassland is named after the Ulagai River. It is located at the junction of Xilinguole League, Xing'an League and Tongliao City. It has a wide variety of flora and fauna and is known as the "Grassland at the Edge of the Sky". The usable area of the grassland is 4,350.53 square kilometers, mainly composed of grasslands of grades 2, 3 and 4. Among them, the output is mostly in grades 3, 4 and 5. The overall grassland quality is excellent and the output is medium to high. There are various plant types in the territory, including 501 species in 62 families, mainly in the family of Leguminosae. The forage species are excellent. In addition to the excellent forage, there are abundant wild plants with different uses and values. There are many Chinese and Mongolian medicinal plants, mainly rhubarb, platycodon, licorice, bupleurum, etc. Wild animals include gazelles, prairie wolves, camels, foxes, badgers, hares, etc.
Suitable for all seasons
1-2 hours
free
All day
Ulagai Grassland is a major part of the vast Inner Mongolian steppe, known for its rich history and cultural significance in Mongolian nomadic life. It is one of the most picturesque and pristine grasslands in the region, offering a view into the traditional lifestyle of Mongolian herders, including their unique festivals, horse riding, and livestock rearing. The grassland also serves as a vital ecological area for native wildlife.
Ulagai Grassland is located in the Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia, China. It is accessible by car or bus from Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia. The most convenient way to reach the grassland is by taking a bus or private car from the city. There are no direct metro services to the grassland.
The Ulagai Grassland is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant and the grassland is lush. It is also the time for the Naadam Festival and other local cultural events. The winter months (December to February) can be very cold, with snow covering the landscape.
The entrance fee to Ulagai Grassland typically ranges from 40 CNY to 100 CNY, depending on the season and activities available. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the grassland. Some local travel agencies may also offer packages that include transportation and entrance tickets.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it is highly recommended during peak tourist seasons, particularly during the summer months when the grassland hosts many visitors for the Naadam Festival. Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient.
A visit to Ulagai Grassland can take anywhere from half a day to a full day. It depends on your interest in outdoor activities such as horse riding, hiking, or exploring the local culture. For a more immersive experience, including staying in a yurt and participating in local activities, you may want to spend 2-3 days in the area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin Chinese and sometimes English, depending on the availability of guides. These tours usually focus on the culture, history, and natural beauty of the grasslands. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin as well.
The best photography spots are around the vast open grasslands, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows over the rolling hills. The Mongolian yurts and herders' horses grazing on the grasslands also make for excellent photos.
A recommended itinerary would be to first visit the main entrance and take a tour of the grasslands by horseback or bike. After exploring the natural scenery, head towards the yurt villages to experience local culture and perhaps participate in activities such as archery or camel riding. If visiting during the Naadam Festival, plan to attend the festivities for a true cultural experience.
Night visits are not common, but you can enjoy stargazing in the clear skies of the grassland, which offers a stunning view of the stars. Special tours and cultural performances are available during the summer, especially during the Naadam Festival, but light shows are not typical.
The grassland can get crowded during the peak summer months and the Naadam Festival (July). The least crowded times are during the spring and autumn months, particularly weekdays when fewer tourists visit.
Basic facilities are available at Ulagai Grassland, including public toilets, food stalls offering traditional Mongolian snacks, and water stations. There are also rest areas where visitors can relax, and small shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
The grassland's natural terrain may not be easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven surfaces and long walks. However, the main tourist areas near the yurts and cultural sites are more accessible. It's advisable to inquire about mobility options if needed.
Cash is still commonly used in some areas, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas, so it's recommended to carry some cash when visiting.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes offering Mongolian cuisine, including lamb dishes, milk tea, and traditional stews. These are generally located near the yurt villages or the main entrance to the grassland.
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but can be found in some of the local eateries. Halal food is not commonly available unless in larger cities like Hohhot, but visitors should inquire with local vendors for specific dietary needs.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses near the Ulagai Grassland, including local options for staying in Mongolian-style yurts. For more luxurious stays, visitors can book accommodations in Hohhot or other nearby cities and take a day trip to the grasslands.
Yes, there are souvenir shops at the Ulagai Grassland selling Mongolian handicrafts, including traditional clothing, jewelry, and handwoven rugs. Local products like dried meats, Mongolian tea, and dairy items are also popular purchases.
The best options to continue your trip are by car or bus. Visitors can take a private car or bus back to Hohhot, which is the closest city with major transportation links to other parts of China. Trains and flights are also available from Hohhot to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai.
