Live Your Best Lives
Zimeng Lake, located in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is famous for its unique peaks and beautiful waters. A huge rock stands on the road west of the dam, the site where Li Cunxiao is said to have fought a tiger. The dam's crest is 727.6 meters above sea level, and the dam is 42.1 meters high. It is 529 meters long and 5 meters wide at the crest, and 218.13 meters wide at the base. A 1.2-meter-high wave-breaking wall is built on the crest.
On the east side of the dam, going up the stone steps, there are landscapes such as "Seal Emerging from Water", "Jade Rabbit Looking at the Moon", "Golden Turtle Holding Eggs", "Camel Standing on the Cliff", and "Arhat Stone Man" for people to see.
The entire reservoir area consists of four parts: the majestic dam, the vast expanse of water, two spillways, and the reservoir hydropower station. Upon entering the reservoir, the imposing dam immediately catches your eye, creating a sense of "mountains and rivers so dense that one seems to have no way out." The five bold, granite characters "Dahushi Reservoir" written by renowned calligrapher Li Guimin stand out prominently. The outer layer of the dam is constructed of massive stone blocks, and two 172-step stone staircases lead from the dam's base to its summit.
Temperate continental climate, July to September
long time
45 yuan
8:00-18:00
Zimeng Lake Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty and ecological significance. It is one of the most famous scenic spots in Inner Mongolia, attracting tourists for its pristine environment, serene waters, and surrounding forested areas. The area holds cultural significance as a place of peace and nature, often linked to local Mongolian traditions and legends about the lake.
Zimeng Lake is located in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia, approximately 30 kilometers northeast of the city center. The easiest way to reach the scenic area is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options may be limited, so renting a car or booking a guided tour is recommended for convenience.
The scenic area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and summer (April to October), when the weather is mild and the flora around the lake is in full bloom. Autumn is also a great time to enjoy the peaceful scenery and cooler temperatures. Avoid visiting in winter due to the cold weather.
The entrance fee for Zimeng Lake Scenic Area is typically around 30 to 50 RMB, depending on the area you wish to access. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are no official online platforms for advance bookings at this time.
It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance for Zimeng Lake, except during peak tourist seasons (summer and holidays). For larger groups or specific tours, it's recommended to book in advance via a local tour operator.
To fully explore Zimeng Lake and enjoy the surrounding areas, plan for about 3 to 4 hours. This will allow time for a boat ride, hiking, and taking in the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Guided tours are available, with guides typically speaking Mandarin. If you're looking for an English-speaking guide, it's recommended to arrange this in advance through a local tour operator.
Start by taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside path, followed by a boat ride around the lake. Afterward, hike up to one of the observation decks for panoramic views. Enjoy a picnic or rest by the water's edge before concluding your visit with a walk through the surrounding forested areas.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows available at Zimeng Lake. The scenic area primarily focuses on daytime activities like boating, hiking, and enjoying nature. Special tours may be available during the summer or peak seasons, such as night-time cultural performances, but these are rare.
Zimeng Lake can get crowded during peak seasons, especially in summer and on public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons.
The scenic area offers basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs. However, there are no large restaurants or cafes within the scenic area, so it's a good idea to bring water and snacks with you, especially if planning to spend the day there.
The area is relatively accessible, with well-maintained walking paths around the lake. However, there may be some uneven terrain, especially in the forested areas, which might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. There are no specific facilities for disabled access, so it’s recommended to check with local tour operators for more accessible options.
Cash is still widely accepted in the area, especially in local shops and for entrance fees. However, mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are becoming increasingly popular in tourist areas, and you can use them for most transactions.
There are no large restaurants inside Zimeng Lake Scenic Area, but you can find small local eateries and food stalls offering simple Mongolian and Chinese meals. For more dining options, it's best to head to Chifeng City, where there are numerous restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and halal food options are somewhat limited in the scenic area but are available in nearby towns. It’s advisable to check ahead with restaurants in Chifeng for specific dietary needs.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near Zimeng Lake. For more comfortable accommodations, consider staying in Chifeng City, where you’ll find a wider variety of hotels and amenities.
There are small souvenir shops near the lake, where you can purchase local handicrafts, Mongolian-style jewelry, and traditional items like felt goods and textiles. Most souvenirs reflect the local nomadic culture and natural beauty of the area.
After visiting Zimeng Lake, the best transportation options are taxis or private car rentals for easy access to other nearby attractions. Chifeng City, located about 30 km away, offers bus services and train connections to other parts of Inner Mongolia.
