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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 Inner Mongolia Tour – Grassland, Volcano, Desert & Nomadic Culture
6 days
Stretching an impressive 2,400 km east to west, Inner Mongolia ranks as China’s third-largest autonomous region (after Xinjiang and Tibet). At its heart lies a treasure trove of natural wonders—vast grasslands, ancient volcanoes, and adventurous deserts—offering an unparalleled chance to immerse yourself in the mysteries of Mongolian nomadic life.
Embark on our 6-Day Inner Mongolia Tour to unlock the wild spirit of this expansive land and its extraordinary natural gifts. Wander through the lush Yellow Flower Valley in Huitengxile Grassland, where you can indulge in classic grassland activities amid the whir of wind turbines from Asia’s largest wind power plant. Spend the night in a traditional Mongolian yurt, capped off with a lively bonfire party under the stars.
For a truly out-of-this-world experience, hike the Wulanhada Volcano Geopark—a 10,000-year-old cluster of over 30 young volcanoes. Slip into a spacesuit to pretend you’re exploring Mars, hunt for agates, and discover 8 main volcanoes, each boasting unique colors and distinctive geological features.
Thrills await in the Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan) of Kubuqi Desert—dubbed “China’s Desert Disney”—where you can ride camels across golden dunes and dive into a host of adrenaline-pumping activities.
Escape to Inner Mongolia’s vast, diverse landscapes with Asia Odyssey Travel! Immerse yourself in nomadic culture, savor authentic Mongolian cuisine, and uncover the historical gems of Hohhot. This summer, let Inner Mongolia’s breathtaking scenery and rich heritage redefine your sense of adventure. Book now to experience horse riding on the grasslands, volcanic hikes, and desert fun—an unforgettable journey awaits!
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 rest of the day is yours to wander freely, soaking up the city’s unique blend of Mongolian heritage and modern energy.
About Hohhot
Nestled in the heart of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot serves as the gateway to some of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes—including Xilamuren Grassland, Huitengxile Grassland, and the iconic Kubuqi Desert. It’s the perfect starting point to experience sweeping steppe vistas, dive 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 centuries-old 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 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 Hohhot’s past through well-preserved architecture, historical exhibits, and insights into frontier life.
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Residence of Gurun Princess Kejing (Closed on Mondays)
Visit China’s best-preserved Qing Dynasty princess mansion, once home to Princess Heshuo—the sixth daughter of Emperor Kangxi. Admire its traditional courtyard layout, imperial-era decor, and gardens that reflect the elegance of royal life.
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Kuan Alley Food Street (Muslim Quarter)
Stroll through this vibrant district in Hohhot’s Hui community, where the aroma of Mongolian and halal cuisine fills the air. Savor local specialties like Lamb Haslet Soup, steamed Shaomai 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 Genghis Khan’s legacy.
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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 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 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 (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 → Ulanqab | Huitengxile Grassland’s Yellow Flower Valley & Mongolian Yurt Stay (Bonfire Party)
This morning, embark on a 2.5-hour drive (121 km) to Huitengxile Grassland in Ulanqab, where you’ll be welcomed with a warm Mongolian hospitality ceremony by local herdsmen. Your first stop is Yellow Flower Valley (Huanghuagou National Geopark)—the crown jewel of the grassland—before settling into a traditional Mongolian yurt for the night, capped off with a lively bonfire party featuring Mongolian singing and dancing.
About Huitengxile Grassland
Known as the “Cold Plateau” in Mongolian, Huitengxile Grassland is the closest alpine meadow to Beijing and ranks among the world’s largest, sitting at an altitude of over 1,800 meters. Dotting its emerald expanse are 99 natural lakes, creating a stunning contrast of green plains and blue waters—making it a top summer destination in China and a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. As Asia’s largest wind power plant, the grassland harmoniously blends natural beauty with manmade wonders: imagine capturing photos of wind turbines towering above rolling hills, grazing horses, sheep, and cattle—a unique fusion of wilderness and innovation.
Explore Yellow Flower Valley (Huanghuagou National Geopark)
Upon arrival, head to the South Gate of Yellow Flower Valley to experience the “Meeting at Aobao” performance—a vivid reenactment of Mongolian aobao (sacred stone cairn) worship and Naadam Festival traditions. This three-act show weaves together shamanic rituals, galloping wolf pack simulations, and melodic horse-head fiddle love songs across “Blessing,” “Love Story,” and “Gathering” segments—offering an immersive glimpse into nomadic life.
Stretching 10 km across the grassland (with a depth of 300 meters), Yellow Flower Valley is an ancient glacial relic renowned for its dramatic geological formations. Named for the vibrant yellow flowers that bloom each summer (May–September), the valley transforms into a living painting: wildflowers carpet the plains, sightseeing trains meander through greenery, cattle and sheep graze freely, and jagged peaks, unique rock formations, and fresh forests create a breathtaking backdrop.
The full valley hike spans approximately 16 km, so transportation options (cable cars, small trains, shuttle buses, sightseeing vehicles) are included (please confirm ticket inclusions with us). For a more traditional experience, opt for self-paid animal-drawn transport like horse carts or camel carts. You can also enjoy self-paid activities such as grass sliding, horse riding, archery, or feeding friendly animals—making the most of your time in this natural wonderland.
Evening: Bonfire Party & Yurt Stay
After dinner, gather under the stars for a lively bonfire party—sing and dance to traditional Mongolian music, soaking in the warmth of herder hospitality. Spend the night in a cozy Mongolian yurt, where you’ll fall asleep to the quiet rustle of the grassland and wake to the crisp mountain air.
Optional Dinner (Self-Paid): Mongolian Zhama Banquet
Indulge in a royal nomadic feast! 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 3: Ulanqab Volcano Adventure | Optional Huitengxile Grassland Activities & Wulanhada Volcano Geopark
Rise early (around 4:00 AM) for an optional front-row seat to Huitengxile Grassland’s breathtaking sunrise—watch as golden light spills over the alpine meadows, painting the landscape in warm hues. Alternatively, spend the morning indulging in more optional grassland activities before heading to Wulanhada Volcano Geopark—dubbed “the world’s highest density ‘astronaut’ spot” for its otherworldly Mars-like scenery.
Optional Grassland Activities (Self-Paid)
- Horse Riding: Explore Huitengxile Grassland on horseback (weather permitting)—a quintessential Mongolian experience.
- Mongolian Family Visit: Step into a local herder’s home to immerse yourself in authentic nomadic life, from making milk tea to learning about traditional crafts.
Horseback Riding Guidelines
- Guided Ride (For Beginners): The safest choice for first-timers. A professional herdsman will lead your horse on a leisurely walk within a designated area, ensuring a relaxed and secure experience.
- Independent Ride (For Experienced Riders): Skilled riders may rent a horse from local herders for free-roaming exploration. However, this option includes no safety guidance and is not recommended for most travelers.
- Pricing & Details: Fees vary between guided and independent rides. Please confirm the price, riding duration, and terms with our team before booking.
Wulanhada Volcano Geopark (Wulanhada Volcanic Cluster)
Escape “Earth” and step into a Martian landscape at Wulanhada Volcano Geopark—certified as a volcanic wonder by Chinese National Geographic. Opt to wear a spacesuit (self-paid) for immersive photos, hunt for volcanic rocks and agates, and marvel at the raw power of nature in this “Natural Volcano Museum.”
Located on the southern edge of the Inner Mongolia Plateau, the Wulanhada Volcanic Cluster erupted during the Holocene epoch (about 10,000 years ago)—making it geologically young. With minimal weathering and erosion, the volcanoes retain their pristine shapes, spanning over 65 km² with more than 30 cone-shaped peaks dotted across the grassland. The flat terrain perfectly showcases their dramatic silhouettes, creating a humbling contrast between human scale and natural grandeur.
Explore the 8 Main Volcanoes (1.5 km from Northeast to Southwest)
- Volcano 3: Equipped with a wooden boardwalk, climb to the summit for panoramic views of the “super bowl” of volcanic craters. Its iconic profile once graced the cover of National Geographic magazine.
- Volcano 4: Offers unobstructed views of Volcanoes 3 and 5. Its massive crater is a popular spot for spacesuit photography.
- Volcano 5: The best-preserved but most challenging to climb, with loose rocks and steep slopes (descending can be slippery).
- Volcano 6: Boasts a dark brown exterior resembling Mars—ideal for renting a spacesuit and capturing out-of-this-world photos.
- Volcanoes 7–8: Cone-shaped peaks where agates can often be found between the two volcanoes—try your luck hunting for these natural treasures!
After your volcanic adventure, return to your hotel in Ulanqab for a restful night.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ulanqab City
Day 4: Ulanqab → Hohhot | Museums & Dazhao Temple (Silver Buddha Temple)
This morning, embark on a 2.5-hour drive (125 km) back to Hohhot, where you’ll dive into the region’s rich cultural heritage with visits to the Inner Mongolia Natural Museum (or Inner Mongolia Museum, if reopened) and the iconic 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 housing over 150,000 artifacts—an “encyclopedia” of Inner Mongolia’s ecological evolution, culture, and history. Its collections shine with ancient organism fossils (including dinosaur remains) and cultural relics from the Silk Road and northern ethnic groups (Mongolian, Khitan, Xiongnu). Trace the region’s story from prehistoric times, the Bronze Age, and Warring States period through the 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 fascinating displays on the region’s geology, flora, fauna, and ecological systems—offering a deep dive into Inner Mongolia’s natural wonders.
Stop 2: 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” honors 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 celebrated 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), drawing architecture enthusiasts and photographers worldwide.
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
- 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.
- Food & Shopping: Wander from Alatan 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.
After a day of cultural exploration, check into your Hohhot hotel for a restful night.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hohhot City
Day 5: Hohhot → Kubuqi Desert | Resonant Sand Bay (Sounding Sand Bay)
This morning, set off on a 2.5-hour drive (185 km) to the Kubuqi Desert in Ordos—China’s seventh-largest desert and a testament to ecological transformation. Spend the day exploring Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan)—dubbed “China’s Desert Disneyland”—where thrilling activities and stunning desert scenery await.
About Kubuqi Desert
Once known as the “Sea of Death”—a harsh, barren landscape where survival was a challenge—Kubuqi has undergone a remarkable transformation. Thanks to decades of reforestation efforts and solar energy development, its vegetation coverage has flourished, turning parts of the desert into a “Sea of Green.” Today, it stands as one of China’s top desert destinations, blending raw natural beauty with stories of environmental resilience.
Explore Resonant Sand Bay (Xiangshawan)
Famous as one of China’s Four Singing Sand Dunes (named for the melodic sound produced by wind blowing over the sand), Resonant Sand Bay is a paradise for adventure and leisure, combining desert landscapes, entertainment, and vacation experiences. It features two main islands—Xiansha Island and Yuesha Island—each offering unique activities (please confirm ticket inclusions and fees with our team in advance). Xiansha Island boasts a wider range of activities, while Yuesha Island is ideal for families and cultural experiences.
Highlights of Resonant Sand Bay
- Xiansha Island (“Desert Disneyland”): Dive into adrenaline-pumping fun with sand yachting, rail bikes, Polaris ATVs, high-altitude zip lines, camel rides, and a roller coaster. Don’t miss the Guolao Theater’s “Legend of Guolao” performance and the Summit of Singing Sands (featuring a flying tower) for panoramic views. There are also dedicated children’s play facilities.
- Yuesha Island (Family-Friendly & Cultural): Enjoy a mix of water-based fun and cultural experiences, including a desert water park, sightseeing trains, national intangible cultural heritage performances (such as the “Ordos Wedding”), Mongolian throat singing shows, themed parades, sand sculpture parks, and Mongolian costume exhibitions.
Essential Desert Travel Tips
- Accommodation Recommendations: Stay at the 5-star Lotus Hotel or Fusha Island Hotel (Mongolian yurts) within the scenic area to enjoy VIP privileges—including priority access to some attractions. Hotel-exclusive activities like stargazing dinners, bonfire parties, archery, and wrestling require advance booking.
- Sunscreen, Sand Protection & Hydration: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing to shield against strong UV rays. High-top shoes are a must to keep sand out. Protect electronic devices (phones, cameras) with waterproof or sandproof cases. 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 fragile desert ecosystem by not littering.
- Seasonal Notes: Summer (July–August) offers access to desert pools, while winter brings fewer visitors and unique snow-covered desert landscapes (some activities may be closed due to cold weather).
- 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.
After a day of desert adventures, return to your hotel in Kubuqi for a restful night.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Kubuqi Desert
Day 6: Kubuqi Desert → Hohhot Departure | Optional Sunrise & See-Off Service
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. Afterward, embark on the journey back to Hohhot, where you’ll depart for your next destination.
Optional Free Time Activity (If Time Permits)
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. Explore exhibits on the Tea Road’s history, traditional crafts, and the musical heritage of the horse-head fiddle—adding a final cultural touch to your journey.
Farewell & Extension Options
Today marks the end of your unforgettable 6-Day Inner Mongolia Adventure Tour! 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, volcanoes, deserts, and cultural treasures—and we look forward to welcoming you again for your next exploration of Asia. Safe travels!
Extend Your Journey
- More of Inner Mongolia: Explore additional destinations like Baotou, Ordos, 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 Cities: Extend your trip to 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
