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At Baiyin Aobao, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking to the top of the mountain for panoramic views, experiencing Mongolian culture through local performances, and exploring the surrounding grasslands on horseback. The Aobao (sacred stone mound) itself is an important cultural site for the local Mongolian people, often visited for rituals and prayers. The area is also popular for photography, especially during the sunset.
The Inner Mongolia Baiyinaobao National Nature Reserve is located in the northwest of Keshiketeng Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia. Its main protected object is the world's only remaining rare sand spruce forest ecosystem.
The reserve is situated at the junction of forest and steppe, with patches of sand spruce forests scattered throughout the grasslands, forming a unique forest-steppe landscape in China. The sand spruce trees resemble towers, with strong, upright trunks and horizontal branches. The Gongger River runs along the north side of the reserve, while the Aobao River meanders along its southern edge. The rivers flow continuously, their clear waters adorned by lush green grass on both sides, like two silver ribbons, embellishing the spruce communities into a tapestry of forest, steppe, and river.
Baiyin Aobao Mountain (translated as "Rich Mountain" in Chinese) within the reserve is one of the five major Aobao in Keshiketeng Banner and a sacred site for Mongolian worship on the Gongger Grassland. Every year, at dawn on the 13th day of the fifth lunar month, the banner Zasak, dressed in formal attire, personally leads his staff to the summit of Aobao Mountain. There, they perform a solemn ceremony of prostration before the Aobao and a feast of lamb is held. This ritual, known as the Hai Rihan Sacrifice, continues to this day.
Cold temperate semi-arid forest-steppe climate;
Best time to visit: June to October
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
40 yuan/person
7:30-17:30
Baiyin Aobao holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Mongolian people. The Aobao is a traditional stone mound used for religious ceremonies and is a symbol of Mongolian heritage. The mountain itself is historically associated with the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle and is often visited during local festivals and rituals.
Baiyin Aobao is located in the Chifeng City area, Inner Mongolia. The most convenient way to reach it is by taxi or private car, as public transportation options are limited. The site is around a 1-hour drive from the city center of Chifeng.
Baiyin Aobao is open year-round, but the best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for hiking. Summer can be hot, while winter may have snow, which can be beautiful but challenging for hiking.
The entrance fee is generally around 50 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on-site. It’s also possible to book tickets in advance through local tour operators or travel agencies.
For individual visits, booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it may be advisable during peak seasons or for group tours. It is recommended to book at least a few days in advance if visiting during busy times like public holidays.
A visit to Baiyin Aobao generally takes around 2 to 3 hours, especially if you plan to hike to the top of the mountain and explore the surrounding areas. For those who just want to visit the Aobao and take photos, about 1 hour may be sufficient.
The main highlight of Baiyin Aobao is the sacred Aobao mound itself, which offers spiritual and cultural significance. The panoramic views from the top of the mountain are another must-see, as they offer stunning views of the surrounding grasslands and landscape.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available during peak seasons. Audio guides are generally not provided, but local guides offer detailed explanations of the site's cultural significance and history.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the Baiyin Aobao mountain, where visitors can capture sweeping views of the grasslands, stone mounds, and the surrounding area. Sunset and sunrise are particularly beautiful times to take photos.
Start by visiting the Aobao mound and taking part in any cultural or spiritual activities. Then, hike up to the top of the mountain for panoramic views. Afterward, take time to explore the surrounding area, enjoying the open grasslands and nature.
Night visits are not typically available at Baiyin Aobao, as it is primarily an outdoor and cultural site. Special tours or light shows are not common, but during certain festivals, you may experience traditional cultural performances.
Baiyin Aobao can get crowded during public holidays or weekends. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Spring and autumn are the least crowded seasons.
Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops, are available at the site. However, food and drink options are limited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
The hiking routes at Baiyin Aobao may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors, as the terrain can be steep. However, there are accessible paths around the base of the mountain for those who may not wish to hike.
Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash, as smaller shops or vendors might not accept card payments.
There are no major restaurants inside Baiyin Aobao, but there are small local eateries and cafes nearby in Chifeng City. Mongolian cuisine is popular in this area, and there are various options for a meal after visiting the site.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Chifeng City, but halal food may be more common in areas with a larger Muslim population. It's best to check in the city for these options.
There are a few basic accommodations near Baiyin Aobao, but for more extensive options, Chifeng City offers a wider range of hotels, including mid-range and luxury choices.
Nearby attractions include the Chifeng Museum, Eastern Tombs of the Ming Dynasty, and the stunning Yulong Sand Lake. These sites are all easily reachable from Baiyin Aobao for a full day of exploration.
Small souvenir shops are located near the site, offering traditional Mongolian crafts, such as textiles, jewelry, and local handicrafts. Visitors can also find items related to Mongolian culture and heritage.
After visiting Baiyin Aobao, the best transportation options are private cars, taxis, or rental cars. Chifeng City is approximately 1 hour away by car, and public transportation options from the site to the city are limited.
