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Explore the natural beauty of the Meiligen Scenic Area by hiking along the scenic trails, taking in the panoramic views of forests, lakes, and mountain ranges. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Don't miss the chance to visit the local temples and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Meiligen Scenic Area is located 30 kilometers west of Baotou, Inner Mongolia. It overlooks the winding Yellow River to the south and borders Bayannur League to the west. Meiligen means "intelligent" in Mongolian.
This scenic area is a natural wonderland dominated by numerous giant spherical granite mountains, waterfalls, and plant landscapes. It includes Meiligengou, Shipaketugou, and Xigou, among other precipitous canyons. The mountains are majestic, unique, deep, and steep, with the main peak, Dahuabei, reaching an altitude of 2,324 meters.
Meiligeng is renowned for its four unique features: "strange pines amidst a sea of forests, waterfalls, ponds, and springs, a fantastical sea of clouds, and unusual peaks and rocks." The scenic area boasts a series of towering peaks, including camel-like humps, and the lifelike "Longevity Turtle Rock," "Two Apes Guarding the Night Watch," and "The Appearance of Nuwa." Numerous waterfalls and springs cascade through the rocks, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and unique landscape. Meiligeng enjoys abundant rainfall and lush forests. Clouds and mists billow, creating an unpredictable natural landscape. With an average annual temperature of 5°C, the climate remains cool and pleasant, and the scenery changes with each season: spring brings birdsong and fragrance, summer is a sea of clouds and springs, autumn blankets the mountains in crimson leaves, and winter brings forests of icicles.
Temperate continental climate, suitable for all seasons
one day
40 yuan, student ticket 20 yuan, cable car one-way ticket 75 yuan, round-trip ticket 95 yuan
8:00-16:00
The Meiligen Scenic Area is known for its striking natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The area is significant not only for its picturesque scenery but also for its historical importance, as it was a key site for the nomadic tribes that once roamed the region. The area remains a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to experience the beauty of Inner Mongolia.
The Meiligen Scenic Area is located in Baotou, Inner Mongolia. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi or driving from the city center of Baotou, which is about 30 km away. Public transportation options are limited, so it's recommended to hire a car or take a taxi for the most convenience.
The Meiligen Scenic Area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. It is open from 8 AM to 6 PM, with peak visitor numbers typically occurring in the summer months.
The entrance fee for the Meiligen Scenic Area is around 50-80 CNY depending on the season and any special events. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Some online platforms may also offer ticket sales, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is advisable during peak seasons (April to October), especially weekends and public holidays. It's best to book a few days in advance if you want to avoid waiting in line or the possibility of tickets selling out.
You will need around 3-4 hours to fully explore the Meiligen Scenic Area, including time for hiking, sightseeing, and photography. If you want to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings, you might want to spend half a day or more here.
The must-see highlights include the scenic hiking trails offering views of the mountains and lakes, the picturesque forests, and the cultural sites such as the temples within the area. The main viewpoints and photo opportunities are along the edge of the cliffs, where visitors can enjoy expansive views of the surroundings.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. For foreign visitors, it may be necessary to arrange for a private guide in advance. Audio guides in Mandarin may be available at the entrance, but it's recommended to have an app or translation tool for ease of communication if you're not fluent in Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are along the hiking trails where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. The cliffs at the edge of the scenic area offer some of the most dramatic and picturesque shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The recommended route starts with a visit to the central area where you can explore the main temples and cultural sites. From there, hike the trails around the edges of the area for panoramic views, including spots with the best photographic opportunities. Make sure to stop at the main viewpoint before finishing your tour.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Meiligen Scenic Area. The best experience is during the day when you can explore the nature trails and view the landscapes. Special tours may be available during the high season but generally focus on daytime activities.
The Meiligen Scenic Area can get crowded during public holidays and peak seasons (May to October). To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon. The least crowded times are typically in the winter months, but some areas may be difficult to access due to snow.
The Meiligen Scenic Area has basic facilities, including public toilets, food stalls offering local snacks, water stations, and rest areas along the hiking trails. Small souvenir shops are also available near the entrance selling local crafts and products.
The main trails in the Meiligen Scenic Area may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges due to the rough terrain. However, there are some paved paths around the entrance that are more accessible for children, elderly visitors, and those with disabilities.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in the area. Credit cards are not commonly accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment options for most purchases.
There are a few local restaurants and food stalls near the entrance of the scenic area serving traditional Inner Mongolian food, including lamb dishes and dairy products. For more options, you can find restaurants in Baotou city, around 30 km away.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in the area, especially in Baotou. However, within the scenic area, most food offerings are centered around traditional meat dishes, so it's advisable to check ahead if you have specific dietary requirements.
There are several hotels in Baotou city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For a closer stay, consider hotels near the entrance to the Meiligen Scenic Area, though options may be more limited compared to the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Gegentala Grassland, known for its wide-open landscapes, and the Baotou Museum for those interested in local culture and history. Both of these can be easily combined with a visit to Meiligen Scenic Area in a day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance selling local crafts, such as hand-woven textiles, Mongolian jewelry, and traditional pottery. These make for great mementos of your visit.
After visiting Meiligen Scenic Area, you can take a taxi or bus back to Baotou city. If you plan to continue your trip to other attractions in Inner Mongolia, buses and trains from Baotou can take you to other cities and regions.
