Inner Mongolia
China's vast northern grassland province — endless steppe, Mongolian culture, Genghis Khan's legacy, and a chance to sleep in a traditional yurt under the stars.
provinces2026-10-27
At a glance
- Region
- north
- Capital
- Hohhot
- Population
- 24.0 million
- Area
- 1,183,000 km²
- Best season
- June–September (grasslands are green)
- Pinyin
- Nèi Měnggǔ
- Country
- CN
- Signature cuisine
- Hotpot (Inner Mongolian style)
Why visit
For travelers who want to experience grassland culture without going to Mongolia. The Xilingol Grassland is 2 hours from Beijing by air. Horseback riding, traditional Mongolian wrestling, throat singing, and sleeping in a yurt are the signature experiences.
Getting there
Hohhot Baita Airport (HET) has flights from Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities. Xilingol has its own airport. HSR from Beijing to Hohhot: 2.5 hours.
Getting around
Within cities, taxis and DiDi. For grasslands, join a 2-3 day tour or hire a private vehicle. Public transport on the steppe is non-existent.
Key cities
Day by day
3 — Hohhot + Nearby Grassland
Day 1: Hohhot (Dazhao Temple, Inner Mongolia Museum). Day 2-3: Xilingol Grassland (2 hours drive) — yurt stay, horseback, Mongolian show.
5 — Hulunbuir Deep
Fly to Hailar. 4 days exploring Hulunbuir Grassland (Asia's largest), Ergun Wetland, Russian-influenced border town of Manzhouli.
7 — Cross-Steppe Adventure
Hohhot → Xilingol → Erenhot (border with Mongolia) → return. Cross 3 grassland ecosystems, see wild horses, visit a nomad family.
Famous for
- Grasslands (Hulunbuir, Xilingol)
- Genghis Khan legacy
- Mongolian yurts
- horseback riding
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Inner Mongolia?
June through September. The grasslands are green in summer (July–August peak) and turn golden in late September. Winter (December–February) is brutally cold (-20 to -30°C) and most grassland activities are closed.
Can I stay in a traditional yurt?
Yes — this is the signature experience. Tourist ger camps operate on major grasslands (Xilingol, Hulunbuir) with private rooms, hot water, and restaurants. ¥200-500/night including meals and activities.
Is Inner Mongolia safe for tourists?
Yes — very safe. The main risks are getting lost on the steppe (always go with a guide) and weather changes. Avoid remote areas in winter.
Do I need a visa to visit Inner Mongolia?
No — it's part of China. Your China visa or visa-free entry covers it. Some border areas near Mongolia require a border permit, arranged through a tour.
Can I see Genghis Khan's tomb?
Yes — the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan is in Ordos, 2.5 hours from Hohhot by car. It's a large memorial complex (not his actual burial place, which is unknown), with museums and traditional ceremonies.
What is the best grassland near Beijing?
Xilingol Grassland is the most popular — 2.5 hours by HSR to Hohhot, then 2 hours by car. Direct tour buses from Beijing also run in summer (6-7 hours).
Is there a desert in Inner Mongolia?
Yes — the Badain Jaran Desert has some of the world's tallest stationary sand dunes (up to 500 m). It's in western Inner Mongolia, far from Hohhot. A 3-4 day expedition is needed.
What is Inner Mongolia's food specialty?
Hand-pulled lamb (手把肉), roasted whole lamb, milk tea (咸奶茶 — salty), dairy products, and Shao Mai (烧麦, a steamed dumpling filled with lamb). Hohhot is famous for its dairy-based cuisine.