Live Your Best Lives
Explore the vast grasslands of Xilamuren, where visitors can enjoy horseback riding, traditional Mongolian yurts, and cultural performances. Take a camel ride through the open fields or visit a local nomadic family to learn about their way of life.
Xilamuren Grassland is located in the Dalhan-Maomingan League Banner of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Xilamuren means "Yellow River" in Mongolian. It is commonly known as "Zhaohe" (Chao River) because of the Puhui Temple, a Qing Dynasty Lama temple on the banks of the Xilamuren River.
The Xilamuren Grassland boasts over 700 square kilometers of natural grassland, offering breathtaking scenery. Visitors can climb to the Aobao and gaze out over the blue sky and lush green grass, a breathtaking sight. Besides sightseeing, visitors can also enjoy horseback and camel rides, enjoy folk songs and dances, attend bonfire parties, and savor delicious grassland-style cuisine, experiencing the unrestrained and bold culture of the Mongolian people.
temperate continental climate
Best time to travel : Summer
The average temperature in July and August is 18℃-21℃, which is very cool in the morning and evening. There is a saying that goes "wear a cotton-padded jacket in the morning, wear gauze in the afternoon, and eat watermelon while hugging a stove."
The average altitude is 1,700 meters, and the surrounding area is covered with rolling hills and green grass.
free
All day
Xilamuren Grassland is one of the most famous grasslands in Inner Mongolia, known for its rich history and cultural importance to the Mongolian people. It has long been a hub for nomadic life and is deeply connected to Mongolian traditions, including horsemanship and the celebration of the Naadam festival.
Xilamuren Grassland is located in Fengzhen City, Inner Mongolia. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car from Hohhot, which is about 90 kilometers away. There are no direct metro or bus routes to the grassland.
Xilamuren Grassland is open year-round, though the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant and cultural events are most frequent. Spring and autumn are also good for a quieter experience.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥40-50. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, though some tour packages may include tickets, so it's worth checking ahead.
While it's not necessary to book tickets far in advance, booking ahead during peak tourist season (summer holidays and festivals) is recommended to avoid long queues.
To fully explore the grassland, enjoy the activities, and visit nearby cultural sites, you’ll need around 3-4 hours.
The must-see highlights include the large, sweeping grasslands, the traditional Mongolian yurts, and local nomadic life experiences. Don't miss the horseback riding and the beautiful views at sunset.
Guided tours are available, with options in Mandarin. For non-Mandarin speakers, it’s advisable to book a tour in advance to ensure an English-speaking guide is available.
The best photography spots are along the rolling hills of the grassland, especially at sunrise or sunset. The area near the yurts also offers picturesque views of traditional Mongolian life against the vast landscape.
Start at the entrance and explore the central grasslands, where you can engage in activities like horseback riding and visit a yurt. Then, head towards the outer reaches for panoramic views of the expansive grasslands. Finish the visit by enjoying a local performance or meal at the cultural center.
Night visits are possible, with some tour packages offering an overnight stay in yurts. The grassland is also famous for its stargazing opportunities, as the clear skies allow for an unobstructed view of the stars.
The grassland can get crowded during the summer, particularly around the Naadam festival in July. Visiting on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, provides a quieter experience.
Basic facilities like toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available. Traditional Mongolian food is served, and there are small shops selling souvenirs such as Mongolian hats, scarves, and jewelry.
The main areas are accessible for elderly and children, though some of the more remote parts of the grassland may require walking or horseback riding, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash is commonly used, but cards and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are also accepted in most areas.
There are simple Mongolian-style restaurants offering lamb dishes and dairy products like milk tea and yogurt. More dining options can be found in Fengzhen City, about 40 minutes away by car.
Traditional Mongolian food is largely meat-based, but vegetarian options are available, particularly vegetable stews and salads. Halal food options may be limited, but some restaurants cater to Muslim visitors.
There are basic accommodations such as yurts and small guesthouses on-site. For more comfort, you can stay in Fengzhen City, where there are a few mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Ordos Desert and the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan, which are both easy to combine in a day trip with Xilamuren Grassland.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling items like Mongolian clothing, traditional handicrafts, and jewelry. Popular souvenirs include felt hats, Mongolian knives, and wool products.
After visiting Xilamuren Grassland, taxis and private cars are the best options for continuing your trip. If you’re heading to larger cities like Hohhot, there are buses and trains available.
