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The Ashatu Stone Forest is located in Keshiketeng Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia. Ashatu is Mongolian, meaning "precipitous rock" in Chinese. It lies in the transition zone between the foothills of the Greater Khingan Range and the western grasslands. The mountains on the grasslands exhibit a typical hilly topography, with steep slopes on all sides and gently undulating peaks. The Ice Stone Forest stands out against this flat, hilly terrain.
According to experts, the Ashatu Stone Forest was formed primarily by erosion and excavation by glaciers, as well as by the erosion of large amounts of meltwater from the ice caps, hence the name "Glacier Stone Forest." It comprises four scenic areas, with Areas One, Two, Three, and Four currently open to the public. The stone statues, such as the "Southern Pillar of the Sky," "Sister Peaks," and "Ice Great Wall," are incredibly lifelike and are accompanied by fascinating legends. Summer is the best time to admire the Ice Stone Forest.
Best in summer
140 yuan
Preferential policies
1. Children under 1.2 meters, people over 60 years old, journalists with press cards issued by the General Administration of Press and Publication, and people with disabilities who present valid certificates are exempt from entrance fees to the scenic area;
2. Minors under 18 years of age with valid ID can enjoy a half-price discount, students with a bachelor's degree or below with a student ID can enjoy a half-price discount, and active-duty officers with an officer ID can enjoy a half-price discount.
7:00-17:00
The Ashatu Stone Forest in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia, is a natural geological formation of limestone pillars and rocks. It is known for its unique landscape, which has been shaped by natural erosion over thousands of years. The forest is significant for its role in studying the region’s natural history and its attraction as a scenic spot for both locals and tourists.
The Ashatu Stone Forest is located in the Chifeng City region of Inner Mongolia. To get there, you can fly into Chifeng City’s airport and then take a taxi or bus to the site. Public transportation options within Chifeng city are available, but taxis or private transportation are more convenient for tourists.
The Ashatu Stone Forest is open year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring and autumn (April to October), when the weather is mild, and the landscape is most vibrant. Summer months can be hot, and winters may be cold, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.
The entrance fee to the Ashatu Stone Forest is typically around 40–50 RMB for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is also possible to buy them online through local tourism websites. For group tours, tickets may be available through travel agencies.
For general visits, booking tickets in advance is not required, but during peak seasons (public holidays or summer), it is advisable to book online a few days ahead to avoid long waits.
A typical visit to the Ashatu Stone Forest will take around 3–4 hours. This allows time for exploring the stone formations, taking photos, and walking through the scenic paths. For those who wish to take a longer hike or explore more thoroughly, an entire day could be spent here.
Guided tours are available and are usually conducted in Mandarin. Audio guides in Chinese and possibly English are offered for those exploring independently. It’s recommended to arrange a tour in advance if you prefer an English-speaking guide.
Start your visit at the main entrance, where you can take a short walk to the panoramic viewpoint. From there, follow the marked paths that lead you through the stone forest, exploring the narrow passages and rock formations. If time allows, explore the nearby natural surroundings to experience the full scope of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Ashatu Stone Forest. The attraction is best explored during daylight hours to fully appreciate the natural landscape.
The Ashatu Stone Forest can get crowded during public holidays and peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times are typically during weekdays outside of national holidays, and visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
The area has basic facilities including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are also small souvenir shops where you can buy local crafts. However, there are limited food options on-site, so it's a good idea to bring snacks or eat in nearby Chifeng City before your visit.
The Ashatu Stone Forest is a natural site with uneven terrain, which may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. Some areas are accessible, but it's recommended to check with local staff for any assistance or accessible paths before visiting. Children will enjoy exploring, but supervision is necessary due to the rocky environment.
Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments, including entrance ticket counters and local shops, also accept mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. It's a good idea to have cash on hand, especially in more remote areas.
Inside the Ashatu Stone Forest, food options are limited to small local vendors selling snacks. For more dining options, you can head to Chifeng City, where you can find a range of restaurants offering Chinese and Mongolian cuisine.
Vegetarian options can be found in larger restaurants in Chifeng City, but local cuisine is often meat-heavy. Halal food options may also be available, as Chifeng has a significant Muslim population, but availability in the area around the stone forest may be limited.
There are several hotels in Chifeng City, ranging from budget accommodations to mid-range options. Some of the closest hotels include the Chifeng International Hotel and local guesthouses, which offer easy access to the Ashatu Stone Forest.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops at the entrance and inside the park where you can buy traditional Mongolian handicrafts, local art, and small stone sculptures. Typical souvenirs include carved stone items, textiles, and local snacks.
After visiting the Ashatu Stone Forest, you can take a taxi or bus back to Chifeng City. For further travel, you can access buses and trains that connect Chifeng to other major cities in Inner Mongolia, or take a flight from the Chifeng Airport.
