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Xilingol League in Inner Mongolia offers a variety of unique activities, including visiting the vast grasslands, experiencing traditional Mongolian culture, and exploring the Xilin Gol Grassland Nature Reserve. Horseback riding, Mongolian yurt stays, and enjoying traditional meals like roasted lamb are highlights. The region also hosts the annual Naadam Festival, which features traditional sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing.
Xilin Gol, meaning "river on the vast grassland" in Mongolian, is one of the four major grasslands in Inner Mongolia. With its diverse grassland types, it is my country's most representative and typical temperate grassland. It is also a national grassland nature reserve, and the Baiyinxile Grassland is the only nature reserve in my country to be included in the International Biosphere Reserve.
In addition to its ecological significance, the Xilin Gol Grassland is renowned for its magnificent scenery, having been named one of China's six most beautiful grasslands. Here, blue skies and white clouds, distant mountains and nearby waters contrast with each other, lush green grasslands, vibrant flowers, cattle and sheep roam freely, and white Mongolian yurts dot the landscape, creating a breathtaking and breathtaking scene.
Xilingol Grassland
Not only is this place one of the world's most famous grasslands, it also serves as the primary natural grassland of Inner Mongolia, one of my country's four major grasslands. The Xilin Gol Grassland boasts beautiful natural scenery, quaint Mongolian customs, numerous cultural relics, a rich history and culture, and a pleasant summer climate.
Mongol Khanate
Located along the Xilinhot-Linxi Highway, 15 kilometers from Bayan-Ula Town, the county seat, it offers convenient transportation, fresh air, and stunning grassland scenery. A National AAAA-rated tourist attraction, the Mongolian Khan City Scenic Area covers 20 square kilometers and focuses on Mongolian folk culture, leisure and entertainment, and grassland sightseeing. It showcases the extensive and sophisticated culture of the Mongolian people from all angles.
Xilingol League is historically significant as part of Inner Mongolia’s Mongolian heritage. It was once home to nomadic Mongolian tribes, and it still retains much of that traditional way of life. The region is important for its vast grasslands and as a center of Mongolian culture, offering insights into their traditional nomadic lifestyle and deep-rooted customs.
Xilingol League is located in the northern part of Inner Mongolia, China. The nearest major city is Hohhot, which is about 4-5 hours by car. Public transport options such as buses and trains are available from Hohhot to Xilingol League. Once in the area, traveling by taxi or private car is recommended, as many attractions are spread out across the grasslands.
The best time to visit Xilingol League is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the grasslands are lush. The region is also popular during the Naadam Festival in July. The area is accessible year-round, but winter can be very cold and harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
The entrance fees for specific attractions, such as the Xilin Gol Grassland Nature Reserve, can vary but typically range from 50 to 100 CNY. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site, and some popular attractions may offer online booking, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for the Naadam Festival or during peak tourist seasons (July and August). It is advisable to book at least a week in advance for popular sites to ensure availability.
To explore the main attractions in Xilingol League, 3-4 days are recommended. This allows time to visit the grasslands, explore Mongolian culture, and enjoy activities like horseback riding and attending the Naadam Festival. You may need more time if you wish to venture deeper into the region’s remote areas.
Key highlights include the Xilin Gol Grassland, where you can experience traditional Mongolian life, visit the Xilin Gol Nature Reserve, and stay in a yurt. The Naadam Festival is also a must-see if you visit in July. For history enthusiasts, visiting the Mongolian King’s Tomb and the Datan Buddha Temple is also recommended.
Guided tours are available for most attractions, especially in the Xilin Gol Grassland and historical sites. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it’s advisable to book a guide who speaks Mandarin or to use translation apps. Most tours provide insights into Mongolian culture and history.
The vast, open grasslands provide stunning panoramic views, perfect for photography. The Xilin Gol Grassland Nature Reserve is a particularly popular photography spot, as are the hills surrounding the area. The Naadam Festival also offers great opportunities for action shots of horse racing and wrestling.
A suggested itinerary would be to first visit the Xilin Gol Grassland for a horseback ride and a Mongolian yurt experience. Then, head to the Xilin Gol Nature Reserve for a nature walk or wildlife viewing. If you are visiting in July, don’t miss the Naadam Festival. You can also explore the local Mongolian culture at small villages along the way.
Night visits are not typically available in Xilingol League due to its rural nature. However, staying in a yurt and experiencing Mongolian stargazing can be a unique and peaceful night activity. Special tours are offered during the Naadam Festival, but light shows are not common in the region.
Xilingol League tends to be less crowded than other major tourist destinations, except during the Naadam Festival (July), when it attracts many visitors. The least crowded times are during the winter months (December to February) and the shoulder seasons of early spring or late autumn.
Basic facilities are available in the main tourist areas, such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. However, remote areas may lack extensive infrastructure, so it’s recommended to bring water and snacks for longer excursions. Small shops selling souvenirs are common near the grassland attractions.
Access can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, especially in the more remote areas of Xilingol League. The grasslands may have uneven terrain, and some cultural experiences, like horseback riding, may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It is better to consult with local guides to plan a comfortable visit for all ages and abilities.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are popular in urban areas. However, in rural areas, especially on the grasslands, cash is preferred, so it’s important to carry sufficient local currency for small purchases.
Local restaurants offer traditional Mongolian cuisine, including lamb dishes, dairy products, and savory stews. The area near the grasslands has a few small restaurants and yurts where you can enjoy traditional meals. There are also food vendors selling snacks and local specialties.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in more remote areas, as Mongolian cuisine is heavily meat-based. However, vegetarian dishes such as steamed vegetables and rice can be found. Halal food is generally available in larger towns, but may not be common in rural areas.
Accommodation in Xilingol League typically includes guesthouses and yurts for an authentic Mongolian experience. In larger towns like Hohhot, you can find more hotel options ranging from budget to mid-range. For a unique experience, staying in a yurt on the grasslands is highly recommended.
Nearby attractions include the city of Hohhot, home to the Dazhao Temple and Inner Mongolia Museum. The Xilin Gol Nature Reserve is a short trip from the grasslands. You can also visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum, located a bit further north, for a historical side trip.
Souvenir shops are available near tourist areas and offer Mongolian crafts, including handwoven textiles, leather goods, and traditional clothing like the "deel." You can also find small trinkets like Mongolian knives, jewelry, and local art depicting Mongolian life and wildlife.
After visiting Xilingol League, you can continue your journey by taking a bus or taxi to Hohhot, from where you can catch trains or flights to other destinations in China. Renting a private car or using ride-hailing services like Didi can also be convenient for exploring further.
