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The "Sacred Tree," located 28 kilometers north of Dalaihubu Town, Ejin Banner, Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, refers to a poplar tree known locally as the "Sacred Tree" within Ejina's 5.67 million mu (approximately 1.67 million hectares) of natural poplar forest. Located 25 kilometers north of Dalaihubu Town, Ejina Banner, this "sacred tree" is 880 years old. Standing 23 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 2.07 meters, it requires six people holding hands to encircle it, earning it the title of "King of Ejina's Poplars."
According to local Mongolian customs and primitive religion, the sacred tree is imbued with mystery, serving as a vehicle for local people to worship the gods of heaven. Every late winter and early spring, herders from near and far devoutly come to the "sacred tree" to chant sutras and pray for favorable weather, good harvests, and a thriving herd of livestock. Within 30 meters of this thousand-year-old "sacred tree," five sturdy poplar trees have sprouted. The herders call them "mother and child trees," creating a magnificent sight from afar.
The sacred tree, the most typical landscape of the Ejina Populus euphratica forest, has become the symbol and image of the forest. All Chinese and foreign tourists who come to Ejina Banner to admire the wonders of the poplars must visit the sacred tree to witness its magnificent and beautiful appearance.
Climate: Temperate continental climate
Best travel time: June to October
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
10 yuan
All day
The Ejina Sacred Tree is an iconic natural and cultural landmark in Inner Mongolia. The trees are highly revered by the local Mongolian people for their spiritual significance, representing strength and resilience in the harsh desert environment. They are considered sacred due to their long history and the role they play in local folklore and traditions.
The Ejina Sacred Tree is located in the Ejina Banner of Alxa League, Inner Mongolia. The most convenient way to reach it is by taxi or private car from nearby cities like Alxa Left Banner. Public transport options are limited, so arranging private transportation is recommended.
The attraction is generally open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months of spring and autumn. The trees are most photogenic at sunrise and sunset when the light casts beautiful shadows over the desert landscape. Summer can be quite hot, so it is less ideal for long visits.
Entrance fees typically range from 30 to 50 RMB, depending on the season and whether you want to visit additional areas. Tickets can be bought at the entrance, and some local tour agencies may offer packages that include transportation and entrance fees.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it’s a good idea during peak tourist seasons, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend or during holidays. Booking a few days in advance should suffice.
Visitors typically spend 1-2 hours exploring the area, especially if you are there to photograph the trees and enjoy the surrounding desert views. If you plan to take part in cultural activities or have a more leisurely visit, you may want to set aside 3-4 hours.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. Some guides may also offer limited English-speaking services, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides might be available in Mandarin and English, but it's always good to confirm availability in advance.
Night visits are not generally available, and there are no light shows. However, the serene atmosphere of the desert at dusk or dawn is an attraction in itself. Special tours may be offered during holidays or festivals.
The attraction can get crowded during public holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or later in the afternoon when most tourists are not around.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are also small food stalls offering drinks and snacks. It’s recommended to bring your own water and supplies, especially during the hotter months.
The site is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some areas of the desert may require walking on uneven ground. Disabled visitors may find some areas challenging due to the natural terrain, but the main viewing area is relatively flat and accessible.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used and recommended. It's advisable to carry some cash just in case.
There are no large restaurants within the attraction itself, but you can find small food stalls or local vendors selling snacks and beverages. For more substantial meals, head to nearby towns such as Alxa Left Banner.
While vegetarian and halal food options are available in nearby towns, options inside the attraction may be limited. It’s best to prepare in advance or head into the town for more variety.
There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Alxa Left Banner and nearby towns. For more luxury options, you may need to travel further to nearby cities. It's recommended to book accommodation in advance during peak seasons.
There are a few souvenir stalls offering local handicrafts, including Mongolian textiles, jewelry, and small desert-themed items. Typical souvenirs include scarves, hats, and wooden carvings.
After visiting, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your journey to other attractions. Public transport options may be limited, so it's recommended to arrange transportation in advance.
