Alxa Right Banner

Introducing Alxa Right Banner

Alxa Right Banner, part of the Alxa League in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is located in the western part of the autonomous region, at the northern foot of the Longshou and Heli Mountains fold belts. Its geographical coordinates lie between 38°38′–42°02′N, and 99°44′–104°38′E. It borders Alxa Left Banner and Minqin County, Gansu Province, to the east, Jinchang and Zhangye Cities, Gansu Province, to the south, Ejin Banner to the west, and Mongolia to the north. The national border is 45.25 kilometers long. The banner measures 415 kilometers from east to west and 375 kilometers from north to south, with a total area of ​​73,443 square kilometers. The terrain of Alxa Right Banner is high in the south and low in the north, with a general trend of high in the west and low in the east, with a gentler slope in the middle. The average altitude is 1,200–1,400 meters. There are Longshou Mountains and Heli Mountains in the south and southwest, Yabrai Mountains in the central part, and Badain Jaran Desert in the northwest. Gobi, hills and beach crisscross between the mountains and deserts, of which desert accounts for 46.6%, mountains account for 6.5%, hills account for 33.4%, and Gobi and beach account for 13.5%.

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Most Popular FAQs for Alxa Right Banner

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

Alxa Right Banner has a rich history shaped by its location on the edge of the Gobi Desert. It has long been a hub for trade, particularly for Mongolian culture and desert exploration. The area is also known for its ancient Buddhist sites and Mongolian nomadic traditions.

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

Alxa Right Banner is located in the western part of Inner Mongolia, China. It can be accessed by train or bus from Hohhot, the regional capital. The nearest major transport hub is Alxa League, from where taxis and buses can take you to the banner. There are no metro services in this remote area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Alxa Right Banner are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is milder. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter is cold and harsh but perfect for those wanting to experience the desert under snow.

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

Entrance fees for desert tours, museums, and temples typically range from 30-80 CNY depending on the location. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of most attractions or through local tour companies for desert tours. Some places also offer online booking for convenience.

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

For popular attractions like desert tours or visits to Buddhist temples, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore Alxa Right Banner thoroughly, a 2-3 day trip is recommended. This allows time to visit the desert, the museum, local villages, and temples without rushing.

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

Key highlights include the Badain Jaran Desert, famous for its towering sand dunes and ancient temples, the Alxa Desert Culture Museum, and the Xihuang Temple. Also, don't miss a visit to local Mongolian villages to experience traditional culture.

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

Guided tours are available for most attractions, especially desert tours. They are typically offered in Chinese, but some tours can be arranged in English with prior booking.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the massive sand dunes in the Badain Jaran Desert, especially at sunrise or sunset. The ancient temples in the desert and the panoramic views of the Gobi Desert provide stunning photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary would be to start with a visit to the Alxa Desert Culture Museum in the morning, followed by a camel ride or jeep tour in the Badain Jaran Desert. In the evening, visit the Xihuang Temple and explore local Mongolian villages. The next day, explore the nearby sand dunes or take part in a desert trek.

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

Night visits are not common in Alxa Right Banner, but some desert tours may offer stargazing experiences, as the area offers some of the clearest skies in China. Special cultural performances and desert treks are available upon request.

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

Alxa Right Banner is generally not crowded, except during national holidays or the summer months when tourists flock to the desert. The least crowded times are weekdays during the spring and autumn months.

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

Basic facilities like toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available at major attractions like the museum and desert tour starting points. However, in remote desert areas, facilities may be limited, so it’s advisable to bring water and snacks.

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

The attractions in Alxa Right Banner, especially the desert tours, may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rugged terrain. However, some cultural sites and the museum can be accessed with minimal walking and are suitable for families with children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly used in remote areas, but larger establishments and tour companies may accept mobile payments such as Alipay or WeChat Pay. It’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants offer basic Mongolian and Chinese cuisine, including lamb dishes, noodles, and rice. In larger towns, there are more options, but in remote areas, food may be limited to smaller eateries or food stalls.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, though not abundant in rural areas. Halal food is commonly found in local Mongolian restaurants, which cater to the dietary preferences of the region.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations in Alxa Right Banner are limited to small guesthouses, local inns, and hotels in the nearby Alxa League. For more luxury options, you may need to travel to nearby larger cities like Hohhot.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Badain Jaran Desert (with its impressive sand dunes), the Gobi Desert, and other scenic sites within Inner Mongolia. Combining a visit to Alxa Right Banner with the Xilin Gol Grassland or Hohhot city could make for a great multi-day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in the area sell traditional Mongolian items such as cashmere clothing, handmade carpets, and local handicrafts. You can also find small desert-themed souvenirs like sand bottles and traditional Mongolian jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Alxa Right Banner, taxis, buses, and private vehicles are available to travel to nearby cities such as Hohhot. There are also buses and trains from Alxa League that connect to major destinations within Inner Mongolia.