Keshiketeng Banner

What are the most recommended things to do in Keshiketeng Banner?

Explore the vast grasslands and enjoy horseback riding through traditional Mongolian landscapes.
Visit local nomadic herders’ communities to experience traditional culture and lifestyle.
Photography tours of the rolling hills, rivers, and open plains.
Attend local festivals or cultural events featuring Mongolian music, dance, and sports like archery and wrestling.
Camping and stargazing in the quiet natural surroundings.
Visit scenic rivers and lakes for fishing and relaxation.

Introducing Keshiketeng Banner

Keshiketeng Banner is located in eastern Inner Mongolia, northwest of Chifeng City. Its unique geographical location and exceptional geological structure have created a breathtaking natural landscape. Known as the "Pearl of the Grassland" and a miniature version of Inner Mongolia, Keshiketeng Banner boasts renowned attractions such as Gongger Grassland, Darinor Lake, the sandy spruce, the Huanggangliang Forest Sea, Reshui Hot Springs, the Ashatu Stone Forest, Huanggangliang National Forest Park, the Daqingshan Glacial Mortars, the Baicha Rock Paintings, and the Ulanbutong Ancient Battlefield.

In 2005, Keshiketeng National Geopark was approved by UNESCO as the Keshiketeng World Geopark. It is the only world geopark in the world named after an administrative division and the only world geopark in Inner Mongolia.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental monsoon climate;

The best time to visit Keshiketeng Banner is summer and autumn, especially the transition period. However, the sun is strong at this time, so you need to prepare sunscreen. The landscape of Keshiketeng Banner is mainly desert and grassland. The climate is relatively mild in summer and autumn, with emerald green grassland, golden desert and colorful forest leaves, which is the best time to enjoy the scenery.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for 2 to 3 days

Ulanbutong Grassland

The Ulan Butong Grassland, known as Beijing's "Back Garden," is the closest grassland to Beijing. It's also where Emperor Kangxi quelled the Galdan Rebellion during the Battle of Ulan Butong. Enjoy horseback riding, archery, photography, and skiing on the grasslands. Take a ride on a sheep cart, a horse-drawn plow, or drive around, soaking in the stunning scenery and experiencing the local ethnic customs. The vast expanse of grassland, with snow covering up to five months in winter, has made it a paradise for skiers.

Darinor Lake Scenic Area

The Darinor Lake Scenic Area is located in western Keshiketeng Banner. Known as the "Pearl of the Grassland" and "China's Third Largest Swan Lake," Darinor Lake is the second largest inland lake in Inner Mongolia. Surrounding it are vast volcanic lava terraces, prominent craters, volcanic cones, lava necks, microscopic volcanic landforms, and volcanic ash, including volcanic bombs and scoria. The scattered volcanic clusters, the vast emerald Gongger Grassland, and Darinor Lake, the pearl of the grassland, form a magnificent natural landscape.

Ashatu Stone Forest Park in Keshiketeng Global Geopark

Located in the northern part of Keshiketeng Banner, the Ashatu Ice and Stone Forest (Ashatu means "precipitous rock" in Mongolian) stretches over dozens of square kilometers. Carved by glacial meltwater, this "ice and stone forest" features overlapping peaks, creating a captivating landscape. The "Southern Pillar of the Sky," "Sister Peaks," and "Ice Great Wall" are incredibly lifelike and each bears a legacy of fascinating legends. Summer is the best time to admire the ice and stone forest.

Most Popular FAQs for Keshiketeng Banner

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

Keshiketeng Banner is an administrative division in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia. It is known for its rich Mongolian cultural heritage, grasslands, and pastoral traditions. The region is significant for preserving nomadic lifestyles and offering a glimpse into traditional Mongolian life in China.

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

Keshiketeng Banner is located in the southeastern part of Inner Mongolia, under the administration of Chifeng City. Visitors typically reach it by bus or private car from Chifeng city. Within the area, taxis or private vehicles are recommended, as public transport is limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The grasslands and open landscapes can be visited year-round.
Best months are May to September for mild weather, green pastures, and outdoor activities.
Winter is cold and less suitable for travel unless specifically seeking snow experiences.

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

Most natural areas are free to visit. Certain tourist farms, cultural villages, or festival events may have small entrance fees ranging from 50–200 CNY, payable on-site.

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

Advance booking is not generally required except for organized cultural events, festivals, or accommodation during peak season. Book 1–2 weeks ahead if attending such events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days for a basic cultural and natural experience.
4–5 days to include immersive stays with nomadic families and scenic exploration.

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

Vast Mongolian grasslands
Nomadic herder communities
Local rivers and lakes
Cultural festival sites

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

Guided tours may be arranged through local agencies, usually in Chinese; English guides may require prior arrangement. Audio guides are uncommon.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Open grasslands at sunrise or sunset
Herding areas with grazing animals
Scenic hills, rivers, and lakes
Local festivals and traditional yurts (gers)

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a drive through the grasslands, visit herder families, enjoy horseback riding, explore rivers and lakes, and end with cultural experiences or local festivals if available.

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

Night visits are mainly for stargazing. No regular light shows; special tours may be offered by private cultural operators.

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

The area is generally uncrowded. Weekdays outside major festival dates offer the most tranquility.

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

Basic facilities near tourist farms or cultural villages
Restaurants or local eateries are limited
Rest areas and shops are sparse in the open grasslands

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

City-adjacent areas are accessible; open grasslands and uneven terrain may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy horseback riding and open space activities with supervision.