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Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
6 Days Naadam Festival Tour 2025: Attend the Grandest Festival in Inner Mongolia
6 days
What is the Naadam Festival? And what lies behind its joyous celebrations? Embark on our Mongolia Naadam Tour to uncover the answers! Regarded as Mongolia’s most significant festival, Naadam stands as the grandest highlight of Mongolian life. As one of China’s top summer destinations, Inner Mongolia comes alive during Naadam—making it the perfect time to visit. More than just a feast for nomadic communities on the grasslands, this vibrant event is also a photographer’s dream, offering endless opportunities to capture authentic moments.
Why Choose Our 6-Day Naadam Festival Tour?
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Immerse Yourself in Naadam at Xilamuren Grassland
Witness the Naadam Festival in all its glory: be captivated by stunning Mongolian dances, melodic music, and age-old traditions. Cheer on competitors in the “Three Manly Games”—horse racing, wrestling, and archery—alongside a host of other exciting sports and cultural activities that showcase the best of Mongolian heritage.
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Explore Inner Mongolia’s Breathtaking Landscapes
Journey from the lush expanses of Xilamuren Grassland to the golden dunes of Kubuqi Desert. Gallop freely on horseback or traverse the terrain on a camel, soaking in the boundless beauty of the outdoors. Spend nights under a sky full of stars in a traditional Mongolian yurt, a desert camp, or a comfortable hotel—plus enjoy a wide range of grassland and desert activities for non-stop adventure.
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Dive Into Mongolian Culture & Legendary History
Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts, this tour offers deep insights into nomadic life. Learn about Wang Zhaojun—one of ancient China’s Four Great Beauties—and delve into the extraordinary legacy of Genghis Khan, the visionary founder of the Mongol Empire.
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Savor Irresistible Naadam Festival Cuisine
Indulge in a mouthwatering array of traditional Mongolian dishes: savor succulent Roasted Whole Lamb, hearty Mongolian Hot Pot, tender Hand-Stripped Mutton, and an assortment of dairy delights (cheese, yogurt, vort). Don’t miss Mongolian Meat Pies, fragrant milk tea, chewy Huoguo Noodles, delicate Shaomai, crispy Cheese Cookies, savory Mongolian Blood Sausage, and unique Fermented Mare’s Milk—each bite a celebration of local flavors.
Book Your Naadam Tour Today!
Escape to a summer of culture, adventure, and delicious tastes with an unforgettable Naadam experience. Capture photos that will last a lifetime—this is Naadam, and it’s waiting for you!
Note: The 2025 Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony is anticipated to take place around July 19, with local celebrations typically lasting 3–7 days. Please confirm the exact dates with us as the festival approaches.
Itinerary Quick Look
Day 1: Arrival in Hohhot | Airport/Train Station Pick-Up & Free Exploration
Welcome to Hohhot—the “Green City” and capital of Inner Mongolia! Upon your arrival at Hohhot’s airport or train station, your dedicated driver will greet you at the exit and transfer you to a carefully selected city-center hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to wander freely and immerse yourself in Hohhot’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.
About Hohhot
Nestled in the heart of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot serves as the gateway to some of China’s most breathtaking grasslands and deserts—including Xilamuren Grassland, Huitengxile Grassland, and the iconic Kubuqi Desert. It’s the ultimate destination to experience sweeping steppe landscapes, partake in grassland activities, delve into nomadic life and festivals, and uncover the rich tapestry of Mongolian culture and history.
The name “Hohhot” translates to “Green City” in Mongolian, rooted in a fascinating legend: In 1581, Alatan Khan—a descendant of Genghis Khan—founded the city and built its walls using blue-green stones from Daqing Mountain, giving rise to its poetic moniker. Known also as “Zhao City” (for its abundance of temples, as “Zhao” means “temple” in Mongolian), Hohhot is today celebrated as China’s “Dairy Capital,” home to global dairy giants Yili and Mengniu, both headquartered here.
With a history dating back to the Warring States period (476 BC–221 BC), Hohhot has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange between the Central Plains and grassland ethnic groups. Its historical and cultural treasures include Dazhao Temple (a revered Tibetan Buddhist site), Zhaojun Tomb (honoring one of ancient China’s Four Great Beauties), and the Inner Mongolia Museum—home to priceless artifacts like the Xiongnu’s Eagle-Crested Golden Crown Ornament.
Free Time Suggestions
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Inner Mongolia Museum of General’s Government Office (Closed on Mondays)
Explore the former residence of Qing Dynasty frontier generals, hailed as “A General’s Mansion, Half the History of the Green City.” Delve into the city’s past through well-preserved architecture and historical exhibits.
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Residence of Gurun Princess Kejing (Closed on Mondays)
Visit the best-preserved Qing Dynasty princess mansion in China, once home to Princess Heshuo—the sixth daughter of Emperor Kangxi. Admire its traditional courtyard layout and imperial-era decor.
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Kuan Alley Food Street (Muslim Quarter)
Stroll through this vibrant district in Hohhot’s Hui community, where you can savor authentic Mongolian and halal cuisine: try Lamb Haslet Soup, Shaomai (steamed dumplings), fragrant Mongolian Milk Tea, or juicy grilled lamb kebabs. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Hohhot Great Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture.
Essential Travel Tips
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About Inner Mongolia: As China’s third-largest autonomous region (after Xinjiang and Tibet), Inner Mongolia stretches over 2,400 km east-west—making it the country’s widest region. Bordering Russia (via Manzhouli) and Mongolia (via Erenhot), it’s home to 24 million people and offers an ideal summer escape to explore Yuan Dynasty Mongolian culture and the legacy of Genghis Khan.
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Packing Tips: With an average elevation of 1,000–1,500 meters, Inner Mongolia has strong UV rays—pack sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. Temperatures fluctuate sharply between morning and evening, so bring warm layers, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes. Mongolian cuisine tends to be savory, rich, and mildly spiced, with beef, mutton, and noodles as staples.
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Naadam Festival: If your trip coincides with the Naadam Festival (usually July–August), you’ll have the chance to witness Mongolia’s “Three Manly Games”—horse racing, wrestling, and archery. Each grassland or city hosts its own Naadam (typically 3–7 days). Contact us for details on joining this iconic cultural event.
How to Reach Hohhot
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By Air: Hohhot Baita International Airport is 24 km from Dazhao Temple. Note: It will be replaced by Hohhot Shengle International Airport by late 2025, 31 km from Hohhot Train Station. Direct flights connect Hohhot to major Chinese cities: Beijing (1h 20min), Shanghai (2h 50min), Chengdu (2.5h), Guangzhou (3h 20min), etc. Check flight schedules in advance, as some routes are seasonal.
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By High-Speed Train: Hohhot is accessible via Hohhot East Railway Station and Hohhot Railway Station. High-speed trains run from Beijing (2h 50min), Datong (1h 28min), Taiyuan (3h 40min), Shanghai (12h 11min), Xi’an (6h 35min), etc. Contact us for ticket booking assistance.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hohhot City
Day 2: Hohhot Cultural Tour | Museums & Historic Temples
Today, you’ll explore Hohhot’s most iconic cultural sites: the Inner Mongolia Natural Museum (alternate for the temporarily closed Inner Mongolia Museum), Zhaojun Museum (Zhaojun Tomb), and Dazhao Temple (Silver Buddha Temple).
Note: As of April 23, 2025, the Inner Mongolia Museum is closed for relocation to a new building and is expected to reopen soon. We will arrange a visit to the Inner Mongolia Natural Museum instead.
Stop 1: Inner Mongolia Museum / Inner Mongolia Natural Museum (Closed on Mondays)
Founded in 1957, the Inner Mongolia Museum is a national first-class museum with over 150,000 collections, specializing in ancient organism fossils (including dinosaurs) and cultural relics from the Silk Road and northern ethnic groups (Mongolian, Khitan, Xiongnu). It’s an “encyclopedia” of Inner Mongolia’s ecological changes, culture, and historical development—tracing the region’s story from prehistoric times, the Bronze Age, Warring States, Wei-Jin, Liao-Jin, Mongol-Yuan, Ming-Qing dynasties to the modern era.
Don’t miss its star exhibits:
- Xiongnu King’s Eagle-Crested Golden Crown (Warring States Period, 475–221 BC; 1,934 grams)
- Painted Wooden Coffin (Liao Dynasty, over 1,000 years old)
- Jun Kiln Incense Burner (Yuan Dynasty)
- Nurosaurus Fossil (Asia’s largest Cretaceous dinosaur)
- Northern Wei Deer-Head Gold Step Shaking Crown
- Liao Dynasty Golden Mask
If visiting the Inner Mongolia Natural Museum, explore its fascinating displays on Inner Mongolia’s geology, flora, fauna, and ecological systems—offering a deep dive into the region’s natural wonders.
Stop 2: Zhaojun Museum (Zhaojun Tomb) (Closed on Tuesdays)
Located 14 km from Dazhao Temple, Zhaojun Museum encompasses Zhaojun Tomb, the Museum of Xiongnu Culture, Chanyu Big Tent (hosting a dance show about Zhaojun’s wedding), Heqin Palace (exploring the history of “marriage alliances”), Zhaojun’s Room, and a Painting & Calligraphy Room (featuring art inspired by Zhaojun).
The museum honors Wang Zhaojun—a Western Han Dynasty (206 BC–24 AD) beauty ranked among China’s “Four Great Beauties,” each celebrated with a poetic epithet. Zhaojun’s title, “Wild Geese Descend,” stems from the legend of “Zhaojun Leaving the Pass”: In 33 BC, when Xiongnu Chanyu (leader) Hu Hanye sought a Han bride to forge peace, Wang Zhaojun—then a concubine of Emperor Yuan—volunteered to marry him. During her journey north, she played a sorrowful tune on her lute; the music was so haunting, combined with her beauty, that migrating wild geese forgot to fly and fell to the ground.
Her selfless act brought over 60 years of peace between the Han and Xiongnu peoples, and her story has been immortalized in poetry, drama, and literature. At the museum, you’ll see bronze statues of Zhaojun and her husband—symbolizing their love and the friendship between the two groups. Stand at Zhaojun Tomb (known as “Green Mound”) and feel the echoes of history, then visit the Museum of Xiongnu Culture—the only museum dedicated to Xiongnu heritage, showcasing relics and art related to Zhaojun.
Stop 3: Dazhao Temple (Silver Buddha Temple)
Founded in 1579 by Alatan Khan—leader of the Mongolian Tumote tribe during the Ming Dynasty and a reincarnation of Kublai Khan—Dazhao Temple is Hohhot’s oldest Tibetan Buddhist temple and the largest Gelugpa (Yellow Sect) holy site in Inner Mongolia. Its name “Silver Buddha Temple” comes from a 30,000-tael pure silver Sakyamuni statue, consecrated by the 3rd Dalai Lama Sonam Gyatso (a reincarnation of Buton Rinchen Drub).
The temple is renowned for its “Three Wonders”: the silver Buddha, intricate dragon carvings, and well-preserved Ming Dynasty murals. Its layout follows a north-south central axis, blending Han, Tibetan, and Mongolian architectural styles—including imperial yellow glazed tiles (a privilege reserved for royal buildings), attracting architecture enthusiasts and photographers alike.
In the Qing Dynasty, Dazhao Temple served as the ancestral temple of Emperor Kangxi, whose tablet (and that of his father, Emperor Shunzhi) is still enshrined here. Inside the main hall, admire the 400-year-old silver Buddha (crafted by Nepalese artisans), a 10-meter-tall golden coiled dragon, and precious relics: a dragon-phoenix-peacock umbrella, pearl octagonal palace lanterns, a wealth deity statue gifted by Emperor Kangxi, and rare Ming-Qing thangkas.
Don’t miss the Sakyamuni Eight Pagodas outside the temple, representing the Buddha’s eight virtues. If you visit on the 15th day of the first or sixth lunar month, you may witness the Buddha Thangka Unveiling Ceremony—where giant thangkas from the temple’s collection are hung on scripture-drying poles for worship.
Free Time Suggestions
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Explore More Temples: Cross the street to visit Xilitu Zhao Temple (Small Zhao Temple, self-paid) or head 1 km away to the Five Pagodas Temple Museum (Closed on Mondays), famous for its pentagonal pagoda adorned with thousands of small Buddha statues.
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Food & Shopping: Wander from Altan Khan Square (home to a statue of the temple’s founder) to Saishang Old Street and Tongshun Alley—historic streets lined with Ming-Qing-style buildings, offering local snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
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Dashengkui Museum Cluster (1.1 km from Dazhao Temple)
Discover the legacy of Dashengkui—a pioneering Sino-Russian Tea Road enterprise founded by Shanxi merchants, once known as “Half of Guihua City” (Guihua was Hohhot’s ancient name). The cluster includes the Dashengkui Cultural Museum (Closed on Mondays), Yongsheng Ceramic Museum, and Morin Khuur (Horse-Head Fiddle) Museum.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hohhot City
Day 3: Hohhot → Xilamuren Grassland | Naadam Festival, Hongge’er Aobao & Mongolian Yurt Stay (Bonfire Party)
This morning, set off on a 2-hour drive (83 km) to Xilamuren Grassland in Baotou—your gateway to the legendary Naadam Festival. Along the way, soak in the gradually unfolding pastoral vistas before arriving at one of Inner Mongolia’s most iconic grasslands. Opt to visit Hongge’er Aobao Scenic Area for an optional outdoor live show, then settle into a traditional Mongolian yurt for the night, capped off with a lively bonfire party featuring Mongolian singing and dancing.
About Xilamuren Grassland
As the closest grassland to Hohhot, Xilamuren is a sprawling expanse of emerald green that ranks among Inner Mongolia’s most beautiful and well-loved destinations. Blazing a trail as the region’s first developed grassland tourist attraction, it’s a top summer escape for travelers seeking an authentic nomadic experience—where the rhythms of pastoral life, sweeping plains, and warm Mongolian hospitality converge.
Immerse Yourself in the Naadam Festival
Upon arrival, dive into the vibrant energy of the Naadam Opening Ceremony (please confirm the exact date with us)—a grand celebration of Mongolian culture, featuring dynamic dances, melodic music, and age-old traditions. Derived from the Mongolian word for “games,” Naadam is affectionately known as “Eriin Gurvan Naadam” (“Three Manly Games”)—a 2,000-year-old festival inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
With roots tracing back to Genghis Khan’s era (when the games trained warriors for battle), today’s Naadam is the “Grassland Olympics”—a thrilling showcase of strength, speed, and skill. Witness heart-pounding competitions: horse racing, wrestling, archery, chess, and more. Traditionally a harvest festival of gratitude, Naadam brings nomadic families together to celebrate and give thanks; today, it unites travelers from across the globe to savor Inner Mongolia’s short, joyful summer. Immerse yourself in grassland activities, sample local delicacies like hand-stripped mutton and fragrant milk tea, and admire the vivid colors of traditional Mongolian attire.
Highlights of the Three Manly Games
- Wrestling (Bokh): A weight-class-free competition where wrestlers don traditional uniforms (“zodog” and “shuudag”). Matches end when one competitor touches the ground with any part of their body above the knee. The champion earns the prestigious title of “Naadam Warrior”—a tradition once used to select heroes and even noble sons-in-law.
- Horse Racing (Morin Khuur): Unlike Western sprint races, Naadam’s horse races are endurance tests spanning 10–30 km. Ridden by skilled young children (renowned for their agility and bravery), these races are a thrilling display of equestrian prowess and teamwork.
- Archery (Kharvaa): Archers use traditional Mongolian bows crafted from wood and sinew, aiming at targets 60–75 meters away. Open to men, women, and children, this sport honors the nomadic heritage of precision and focus.
Note: Inner Mongolia’s Naadam Festival has no fixed Gregorian dates. Summer Naadam typically falls in July–August (around the 4th day of the 6th lunar month) and lasts 3–7 days, varying by region. Please confirm the exact dates with us.
Explore Hongge’er Aobao Scenic Area
Next, visit Hongge’er Aobao—the largest sacred aobao (stone cairn) on Xilamuren Grassland, with a history spanning over 400 years. Join locals in the “kora”—a ritual circumambulation of the aobao, a sacred site where Mongolians worship, offer sacrifices, pray, and make wishes. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the endless grassland, then opt to watch the spectacular Large-Scale Live Equestrian Drama—an outdoor performance that brings Mongolian culture to life, including the iconic Three Manly Games.
Optional Grassland Activities (Self-Paid)
- Horse riding on Xilamuren Grassland (weather permitting)
- Visit a Mongolian family to experience authentic nomadic life
- Participate in the Three Manly Games: horse racing, wrestling, or archery
Horseback Riding Notes
- Guided Ride (For Beginners): The safest option for first-timers— a local herdsman leads your horse on a leisurely walk within a designated area.
- Independent Ride (For Experienced Riders): Skilled riders may rent a horse from local herdsmen for free riding, but this option includes no safety guidance and is not recommended for most travelers.
- Pricing & Duration: Fees vary between guided and independent rides. Please confirm the price and riding time before booking.
Evening: Bonfire Party & Yurt Stay
After dinner, join a lively bonfire party under the stars—sing and dance to traditional Mongolian music, soaking in the warmth of grassland hospitality. Spend the night in a cozy Mongolian yurt, where you’ll fall asleep to the quiet rustle of the plains and wake to the crisp morning air.
Optional Dinner (Self-Paid): Mongolian Zhama Banquet
Indulge in a royal feast fit for nomadic nobles! Savor roasted whole lamb and other Mongolian delicacies while dressed in traditional attire. Enjoy live ethnic music and dance, and participate in ceremonial toasting rituals with silver bowls and hada scarves—an unforgettable cultural experience.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Traditional Mongolian Yurt
Day 4: Xilamuren Grassland → Kubuqi Desert | Optional Sunrise, Wudangzhao Monastery & Yemingsha
Rise early (around 4:00 AM) for an optional front-row seat to Xilamuren Grassland’s breathtaking sunrise—watch as the golden light paints the endless plains, casting a magical glow over the landscape. Afterward, embark on a 3-hour drive (180 km) to Wudangzhao Monastery in Baotou, once the residence of Inner Mongolia’s most influential lama. Conclude the day with a 3-hour drive (185 km) to Yemingsha—a remote gem in the heart of Kubuqi Desert—where you’ll spend the night.
Stop 1: Wudangzhao Monastery (“Little Potala Palace”)
Regarded as one of China’s Four Great Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect—alongside Tibet’s Potala Palace, Gansu’s Labrang Monastery, and Qinghai’s Kumbum Monastery—Wudangzhao is affectionately called the “Potala Palace on the Grassland.” As Inner Mongolia’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, it was founded during the Qing Dynasty’s Kangxi reign (1662–1722) by the first Living Buddha, Lobsang Jigme Gyatso, modeled after Tibet’s Tashilhunpo Monastery and expanded over centuries into its current grand scale.
Unlike traditional Chinese temples with a central axis, Wudangzhao’s architecture follows a Tibetan-style layout: grand halls are scattered irregularly across a 1.5-kilometer-long south-facing valley slope. Spanning over 300 acres, the complex includes 6 main prayer halls (originally 8), 3 Living Buddha residences, and a reliquary hall housing stupas of past lamas—totaling over 2,500 rooms.
Explore the monastery’s sacred spaces: marvel at intricate murals, ancient thangka paintings, and gilded Buddha statues inside the halls; spin prayer wheels and admire white stupas and mani stone mounds along the paths; and visit the deer park for gentle encounters with friendly deer. For panoramic views of the entire complex, hike the southern hill (if time allows).
If your visit coincides with the annual temple fair (25th day of the 7th lunar month to 1st day of the 8th lunar month), witness sacred rituals including Thangka Unveiling, scripture chanting, and Cham dances—adding a deeper layer of spiritual significance to your journey.
Stop 2: Yemingsha (Kubuqi Desert Hinterland)
As dusk falls, arrive at Yemingsha—a serene corner of the Kubuqi Desert, far from the crowds. Capture the stunning desert sunset as the sky bursts into hues of orange and purple, casting long shadows over the golden dunes. Enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner under the stars, then retire to your accommodation—choose between a desert camp or a comfortable hotel (please inform us of your preference in advance). Drift to sleep to the silence of the desert, wrapped in a blanket of brilliant stars.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Yemingsha (Desert Camp or Hotel)
Day 5: Kubuqi Desert → Ordos | Yemingsha Desert Activities & Mausoleum of Genghis Khan
Rise before dawn (around 4:00 AM) for an optional chance to witness the Kubuqi Desert’s awe-inspiring sunrise—watch as the first light of day bathes the golden dunes in warm, honeyed hues, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Spend the morning indulging in thrilling desert activities at Yemingsha, then embark on a 3.5-hour drive (220 km) to the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan in the afternoon, where you’ll delve into the legacy of Mongolia’s greatest leader.
About Kubuqi Desert & Yemingsha
China’s seventh-largest desert, Kubuqi was once infamously known as the “Sea of Death”—a harsh, barren landscape. Thanks to generations of reforestation projects and solar energy development, however, its vegetation coverage has flourished, transforming parts of the desert into a “Sea of Green.” Today, it stands as one of China’s premier desert destinations, blending raw natural beauty with sustainable progress.
Nestled in Kubuqi’s hinterland, Yemingsha is a desert gem offering unforgettable adventures. Dive into the thrill of camel rides across undulating dunes, sand sliding down soft slopes, or ATV excursions through the desert landscape—each activity promising excitement and panoramic views. Note: Please confirm ticket prices and activity availability with us in advance.
Essential Desert Travel Tips
- Sunscreen, Sand Protection & Hydration: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing. High-top shoes are a must to keep sand out. Shield electronic devices (phones, cameras) from sand damage. The desert’s dry climate demands at least 2 liters of water per person—stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Dress Code: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved clothing in summer (for UV protection) and thick down jackets in winter (temperatures fluctuate drastically between day and night).
- Safety & Environmental Protection: Never venture into uninhabited areas alone. Follow safety guidelines for all activities and exercise caution on steep dunes. Help preserve the desert ecosystem by not littering.
- Photography Tips: The best times to capture the dunes’ dramatic beauty are one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset—when light and shadow create striking contrasts.
Explore the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan
A sacred shrine dedicated to Genghis Khan (1162–1227)—founder of the Mongol Empire and one of history’s most legendary warriors—this site honors his enduring legacy. Genghis Khan united scattered Mongolian tribes, expanding his empire from the Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea (encompassing Central Asia and parts of Eastern Europe), creating the largest contiguous empire of his time. His conquests laid the foundation for China’s Yuan Dynasty (1279–1368) and the reunification of the nation.
To this day, Genghis Khan is revered by enthusiasts of Mongolian history, culture, and traditions. Due to the Mongolian custom of “secret burial,” the exact location of his actual tomb remains unknown. The current mausoleum houses a symbolic relic: camel hair said to have absorbed Genghis Khan’s last breath, representing his eternal soul—cherished and guarded for centuries.
Since 1227, the Da’erhute tribe (descendants of Genghis Khan’s personal guards) has faithfully cared for the mausoleum for over 700 years. If your visit coincides with the Spring Ceremony (Tsagaansurek, or “milk sacrifice”), you’ll witness sacred Mongolian shamanistic rituals organized by the tribe—offering a profound spiritual connection to Genghis Khan’s legacy. This site is truly a holy place where Mongolians honor their national hero.
The mausoleum complex, designed in traditional Mongolian architectural style, spans 13.6 acres and comprises two main areas: the Tomb Complex and Donglian Scenic Area. With over 2,500 halls, scripture rooms, and monk residences, it houses a vast collection of relics and artworks detailing Genghis Khan’s life and the Mongol Empire’s history—don’t miss the chance to see his original sabers, swords, arrows, and bows.
Highlights of the Mausoleum
- Spirit Hall: Home to a gilded statue of Genghis Khan and symbolic relics.
- Main Hall: Adorned with murals and exhibits tracing the Mongol Empire’s rise and glory.
- Eternal Flame: A sacred flame representing Genghis Khan’s undying spirit, kept alight for centuries.
- Optional Self-Paid Cultural Performances: Experience traditional Mongolian dances, music, and ceremonies.
- Mongolian Rituals: Observe or participate in spiritual rituals led by the Da’erhute tribe (subject to ceremony dates).
Note: The Spring Ceremony (Tsagaansurek) is the grandest of four annual rituals honoring Genghis Khan, lasting eight days. It involves offering white horse milk to pray for peace and prosperity. Inscribed on China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2006, please confirm the exact dates with us.
Evening in Ordos
After exploring the mausoleum, check into your accommodation in Ordos—a city of warmth and contrasts nestled on the Ordos Plateau, within the bend of the Yellow River. Boasting diverse landscapes (prairies, deserts, valleys) and a reputation as one of China’s wealthiest cities (its 2024 GDP surpassed Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou), Ordos thrives on abundant coal, gas, and rare earth resources. It’s also known as the “Warm City”: its cashmere output accounts for 13% of the world’s total, with Albas white goat cashmere renowned as the finest globally.
Free Time Suggestions in Ordos
- Kangbashi District: Once dubbed a “ghost town” by Time Magazine in 2010 (for its modern infrastructure but few residents), Kangbashi has evolved into a top tourist destination. Explore its world-class museums, sprawling squares (including Genghis Khan Square), theme parks, serene lakes, and cutting-edge facilities (such as driverless buses and taxis).
- Ordos Musical Fountain (Asia’s Tallest): Located at Wulanmulun Riverside Square (adjacent to Wulanmulun Lake) in Kangbashi, this spectacular fountain combines sound, light, water, and color. Its main jet reaches 230 meters—earning it the title of “Asia’s Tallest Fountain.” Performances run nightly from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM (subject to cancellation in bad weather).
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ordos
Day 6: Ordos Departure | See-Off Service
Today marks the end of your unforgettable 6-Day Inner Mongolia Naadam Tour! You can depart Ordos directly via train or flight, or opt for a 3.5-hour drive (280 km) back to Hohhot for your departure.
Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) for your Chinese adventure. We’ve cherished being part of your journey through Inner Mongolia’s grasslands, deserts, and cultural treasures—and we look forward to welcoming you again for your next exploration of Asia. Safe travels!
Extension Options
- Extend Your Inner Mongolia Journey: Explore more of the region, including Baotou, Ejin Banner, the Badain Jaran Desert, or Hulunbuir. Let us know your interests, and we’ll tailor the itinerary for you.
- Expand to Other Chinese Destinations: Extend your trip to cities like Beijing, Shanxi (Datong, Pingyao, Wutaishan, Taiyuan), Gansu (Zhangye, Lanzhou, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan), Ningxia, Xi’an, Luoyang, Chengdu (Sichuan), or Shanghai. We specialize in customizing itineraries to match your preferences.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: No accommodation included (departure day)
Discount available at low season, please send inquiries!
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IncludedExperienced drivers & air-conditioned vehiclesProfessional licensed English-speaking local guideHotel accommodation with breakfastsDomestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class) listed in the itineraryAdmission tickets, activities, meals listed in the itineraryAccident insuranceOur service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip
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Not IncludedInternational airfaresEntry visa feesPersonal expensesSingle room supplementRecommended optional activitiesArrival/departure flights or train on the first and last dayTips or gratuities for guides and drivers
