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In Ejin Horo Banner, some top things to do include visiting the Kubuqi Desert, one of the largest deserts in Inner Mongolia, for camel rides, sandboarding, and experiencing the desert landscape. The Ordos Museum is also a must-see for its modern architecture and exhibitions on local history. The area also offers scenic views of the Gobi Desert and opportunities for eco-tourism and cultural tours.
Ejin Horo Banner has historical significance as part of the Ordos region in Inner Mongolia. It is an area rich in Mongolian culture and history, once a key part of the Mongol Empire. The banner is also important due to its location on the edge of the Gobi Desert and the Kubuqi Desert, which have been central to the region's nomadic lifestyle and ecological features.
Ejin Horo Banner is located in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, near the city of Ordos. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Ordos Ejin Horo Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive from the banner. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach your destination. There are also bus services from Ordos city to the banner area.
The area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild. The peak tourist season is summer, but visiting in spring or autumn allows for fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures. Winter can be very cold, especially in the desert.
Entrance to the general area is free, but some specific attractions like the Kubuqi Desert or the Ordos Museum may have an entrance fee ranging from 30 to 100 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site or through local travel agencies, and some may also be available online through regional tourism websites.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions. However, it is recommended to book in advance during peak seasons (summer and national holidays) to avoid long wait times or sold-out tours, especially for desert activities and guided tours at the Ordos Museum. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient.
You can explore the main attractions of Ejin Horo Banner in 1-2 days. If you plan to visit the desert for camel rides or take part in other desert activities, allocate an additional half-day to a full day. The Ordos Museum can be explored in 2-3 hours.
Must-see highlights include the vast Kubuqi Desert, where visitors can enjoy desert activities like sandboarding and camel riding. The Ordos Museum is another key attraction for its architectural design and exhibitions on the region’s history. The desert landscape and nearby grasslands offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Guided tours are available at major attractions like the Ordos Museum and Kubuqi Desert. English-speaking guides are available at some of the more popular sites, though Mandarin is the primary language. Audio guides may be available in both Mandarin and English, especially at the museum.
The best photography spots in Ejin Horo Banner are the Kubuqi Desert, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sand dunes create striking landscapes. The Ordos Museum’s modern architecture also provides excellent photo opportunities, as do the surrounding grasslands and desert expanses.
Start your visit by exploring the Ordos Museum to understand the history and culture of the area. Afterward, head out to the Kubuqi Desert for a half-day tour that includes camel riding and sandboarding. If time allows, explore the surrounding grasslands or visit local villages for a more cultural experience.
Night visits are available for stargazing in the desert, where the clear skies offer excellent views of the stars. Light shows or special evening tours are not common, but some hotels and resorts may offer cultural performances or local entertainment in the evening.
The area tends to get crowded during the summer months and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit in spring or autumn during weekdays, avoiding national holidays when tourist numbers are at their highest.
Facilities at major attractions like the Ordos Museum and Kubuqi Desert include public toilets, food stalls, rest areas, and small souvenir shops. Water and snacks are generally available at these sites. More extensive services, including restaurants and hotels, are located in Ordos city.
The Ordos Museum and most urban areas in Ejin Horo Banner are accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. However, the desert activities may not be suitable for elderly or those with mobility issues, as the terrain is rugged and physically demanding.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in Ejin Horo Banner and Ordos. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, but smaller shops and local vendors may prefer cash or mobile payment methods.
Nearby restaurants offer traditional Mongolian cuisine, such as roasted lamb and dairy products. There are also cafes in Ordos city that serve snacks, drinks, and local teas. In more tourist-heavy areas, international fast food and Chinese restaurants are available.
Vegetarian options are available, but may be limited due to the region's meat-heavy diet. Halal food can be found in some restaurants, especially in Ordos city, which has a Muslim population.
Accommodations near Ejin Horo Banner include local guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts. In Ordos city, there are more options, including international hotel chains. Yurt stays are also available for a more authentic Mongolian experience.
Nearby attractions include the Ordos Grasslands, where visitors can experience Mongolian culture and visit local nomadic families. The Maowusu Desert is also nearby for additional desert activities. Ordos city itself has other cultural sites worth exploring.
Souvenir shops in the region offer Mongolian-themed items such as woolen rugs, traditional jewelry, and hand-made leather goods. You can also find locally produced dairy products, tea, and arts and crafts from the Ordos region.
After visiting Ejin Horo Banner, you can travel by taxi, bus, or rental car to Ordos city, where you can catch a flight or train to other destinations. There are also buses that connect to other major cities in Inner Mongolia.