Whispering Sand Bay

What are the most recommended things to do in Whispering Sand Bay?

Walk or hike on the vast sand dunes and enjoy the desert landscape.
Experience the unique "singing sands" phenomenon by sliding down the dunes.
Take camel rides across the desert for a traditional experience.
Try sandboarding or dune skiing for adventure enthusiasts.
Watch the sunrise or sunset for stunning desert photography.
Visit nearby lakes or oases for a contrasting natural scenery.

Introducing Whispering Sand Bay

Located in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, this small crescent-shaped sand dune is also known as the "Yinken" Singing Sand. Whenever the sand is struck by something, it emits a powerful and strange sound. The sound starts when someone walks and stops when they stop.

This is China's first desert resort—a large-scale, comprehensive desert leisure scenic area integrating sightseeing and leisure vacations. Located at the easternmost tip of China's renowned Kubuqi Desert, it is the closest desert tourist destination to mainland China and Beijing. It is a National AAAAA-level tourist attraction and a National Cultural Industry Demonstration Base. It boasts the world's longest camel fleet—over 500 camels.

In the scenic area, you can experience thrilling activities such as desert surfing cars and sand sliding. In addition, there is a desert water world where you can play in the water in the depths of the desert, which is definitely a novel and unique experience.

Climate and best time to travel

May to October is the best time to travel to Ordos, as the wind and sand are less and the air is humid.

Tickets

The ticket + cable car price is 130 yuan per person.

A. Free policy: Children under 1.2 meters are free of charge.

B. Preferential policies: Children between 1.2m and 1.5m can purchase child tickets for RMB 80; students over 1.5m need to show their student ID to purchase student tickets for RMB 80 (if they do not bring their student ID, they will be charged as adult tickets); people aged 65 and above can purchase senior citizen tickets for RMB 40 with valid ID; military officer ID, journalist ID (issued by the General Administration of Press and Publication), and people with disabilities can purchase discounts for RMB 40 per person.

Attraction opening hours

08:00~19:00

Most Popular FAQs for Whispering Sand Bay

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Whispering Sand Bay is a famous desert area in Inner Mongolia, known for its unique natural phenomenon where sand produces musical sounds when moved. It is significant for its ecological diversity, desert tourism, and cultural experiences related to Mongolian nomadic traditions.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the Ordos region of Inner Mongolia, China.
Accessible by car or taxi from nearby cities such as Ordos or Baotou.
Public buses are limited; organized tours often provide transportation from major towns.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open year-round, though the desert is most comfortable to visit from May to October.
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid midday heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is typically around 80–120 RMB per person.
Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or via online travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends and national holidays to ensure access, ideally 3–7 days ahead.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day to a full day is sufficient for dune exploration and activities.
Overnight camping is possible for a more immersive desert experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The central sand dunes producing the "singing" effect.
Oases or small desert lakes nearby.
Sunset and sunrise viewpoints atop the dunes.
Areas offering camel rides and adventure sports.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guided tours are available in Mandarin; some organized tours for international tourists may offer English-speaking guides.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

High dune peaks for panoramic desert views.
Sunrise and sunset locations for dramatic lighting.
Along camel riding paths for unique cultural shots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance, explore the main dunes, try sandboarding or camel rides, visit an oasis, and end at a sunset viewpoint.
Optional overnight camping for star photography and night desert experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Overnight camping is available for stargazing; no artificial light shows, but special guided night tours may be arranged.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays and non-holiday periods are the least crowded.
Weekends and national holidays see more visitors, especially in summer.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets and small food stalls are available near the entrance.
Rest areas and souvenir shops may be limited within the desert itself.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Children can enjoy the desert with supervision.
Elderly visitors may find climbing dunes challenging.
Accessibility for disabled visitors is limited due to sandy terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended; mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and cafes near the entrance serve traditional Inner Mongolian cuisine.
Major towns nearby, such as Ordos, offer more dining options.