Live Your Best Lives
Visitors to Chifeng Heili River can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbank, birdwatching, and photography. The peaceful environment is perfect for nature lovers. You can also explore the nearby wetlands and enjoy the serene atmosphere, ideal for picnics or quiet retreats.
Heilihe Nature Reserve is located in the west of Ningcheng County, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
The forest coverage area here is more than 3,000 hectares, with dozens of tall tree species such as pine, cypress, maple, linden, oak, and birch. It is known as the "Xishuangbanna outside the Great Wall".
The tourist area is full of green mountains and a wide variety of wild animals and plants, including precious wild delicacies such as wild grapes, bracken, wood ear, hericium erinaceus, and yellow flowers, as well as wild fruits such as walnuts, apricots, dates, and pears.
This is also a paradise for birds and animals, with rare birds such as pheasants, yellow orioles, mountain eagles, great bustards, mountain pigeons, and magpies. Leopards, bears, wolves, foxes, lynxes, mountain rabbits, roe deer, badgers, and hedgehogs can be found in the mountains and forests.
This place was once a place for tourists, poets, emperors and generals to play and hunt.
Chifeng Heili River is significant for its rich biodiversity and role in local ecological balance. It is an important natural resource for Chifeng City, contributing to the region's water supply and supporting diverse wildlife.
Chifeng Heili River is located in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia. To get there, take a bus or taxi from Chifeng's city center. It is a short drive from the city, and walking around the river is a peaceful way to explore the area once there.
The river is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding nature is at its best. Summer can be hot, and winter may be too cold for outdoor activities.
There is generally no entrance fee to visit the Heili River area. However, certain activities or guided tours might require tickets, which can be bought locally or online through local tour operators.
For general visits, booking tickets is not necessary. However, for guided tours or special activities, it’s best to book at least a few days in advance.
A visit to Chifeng Heili River typically takes around 2-3 hours. This allows time for walking, sightseeing, and relaxing by the river. A full day is recommended if you plan to explore nearby areas or take a guided tour.
The main highlights include the riverbank views, nearby wetlands, and the surrounding natural landscape. The tranquil atmosphere and birdlife make it a great place for photography and nature walks.
Guided tours are available, but English-speaking guides may be limited. It is advisable to arrange for a guide in advance if you require specific language support.
The best viewpoints are along the riverbank, especially where the water meets the wetlands. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography, particularly for capturing wildlife and the serene landscape.
Start at the main entrance and take a leisurely walk along the river. Make sure to visit the wetlands and stop for photos at the various viewpoints. For a longer experience, explore the nearby nature trails or take a boat ride if available.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Chifeng Heili River. However, the area is great for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
The river can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or early spring.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. Food and water can be bought from nearby vendors or small local shops. It’s recommended to bring your own supplies if you plan on staying for extended periods.
The area is generally accessible for children and elderly visitors, with paved paths near the river. However, some of the more remote areas might be difficult to access for those with mobility issues.
Cash is commonly used in the area, especially for small purchases. It’s advisable to carry cash, though mobile payments and cards may be accepted at larger establishments in Chifeng City.
There are several small Mongolian restaurants near the river that serve traditional dishes like roasted lamb and dairy products. More dining options are available in Chifeng City.
Vegetarian options are available, but vegan and halal food options may be limited. It’s advisable to check in advance with local restaurants for specific dietary preferences.
There are a variety of accommodations in Chifeng City, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. For more luxurious stays, there are international hotel chains in the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Baiyinaobao Sandy Spruce area and the Chifeng Grasslands, which are both within a short drive and offer unique landscapes and outdoor activities.
There are small souvenir shops near the river selling Mongolian crafts, such as woolen goods, jewelry, and traditional clothing. You can also find Mongolian tea and local honey as souvenirs.
To continue your trip, take a bus or taxi back to Chifeng City for onward travel by train or flight to other destinations in Inner Mongolia or China.
