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Day Trips from Hohhot

Day Trips from Hohhot

Hohhot Inner Mongolia, China Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

Several locations near Hohhot extend the journey with enriching day trip potential. Consider the Xilamuren Grassland (approximately 90 km north, 1.5-2 hours drive) for a classic grassland encounter, or Gegentala Grassland (about 150 km north, 2.5-3 hours drive), which happens to be larger. Parts of the Kubuqi Desert, like Xiangshawan near Ordos, are available for the desert activities.

Baotou, Inner Mongolia's largest city, is 1.5-2 hours by high-speed train, known for its industrial base and the nearby Wudangzhao Lamasery.

Getting There & Timing

  • Xilamuren/Gegentala: Organized tours are a common choice. Private car hire is also an option.
  • Kubuqi Desert: A private car hire or an organized tour makes travel smooth.
  • Baotou: High-speed train is the most efficient choice.
  • Timing: Grasslands often fill a full day (8-10 hours) or an overnight stay. Baotou can be a full day (6-8 hours).

Natural Escapes

Discover the natural beauty surrounding Hohhot.

Lakes and Grasslands

Daihai Lake is a substantial freshwater lake about 2.5 hours east of Hohhot, featuring scenic views and recreational activities. Huitengxile Grassland, a higher altitude area with windmills, lies about 1.5-2 hours west of Hohhot.

Scenic Landscapes

  • The vast, undulating steppes of Inner Mongolia are the main natural landscape.
  • The region holds some low mountains, like the Daqing Mountains north of Hohhot.
  • Wildflowers bloom on the grasslands during summer.

Seasonal Beauty

The grasslands transform with the seasons, offering different visual experiences throughout the year.

Nature's Calendar

  • Spring: Emerging greenery on the steppes.
  • Summer: Lush grasslands with vibrant wildflowers.
  • Winter: Snow-covered landscapes blanket the region.

Cultural Excursions

Monasteries & Forts

  • Wudangzhao Lamasery: Near Baotou, this is a significant Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
  • Meidai Zhao Monastery: A fortified monastery west of Hohhot, showing Han and Mongolian architectural styles.
  • Rural Visits: Engaging with local herder families sheds light on traditional Mongolian life.
  • Pilgrimage: Wudangzhao Lamasery serves as an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Travel Options for Cultural Sites

  • Wudangzhao Lamasery: Often accessed from Baotou by local transport or private car.
  • Meidai Zhao Monastery: Best with a private car hire due to location.
  • Herder Families: Usually part of an organized grassland tour.
  • Independent vs. Tour: Many cultural sites are easier to visit with a excursion or private transport.

Multi-Day Extensions

  • Ordos City:2-3 hours by train, home to Genghis Khan Mausoleum.
  • Datong:3-4 hours by high-speed train, discover Yungang Grottoes.
  • Beijing:2.5-3 hours by high-speed rail, an international hub.
  • Xi'an:For historical depth, including the Terracotta Army.
  • Transportation:Excellent train links Hohhot to major cities.
  • Regional Route 1:Hohhot → Baotou → Ordos for a cultural and desert experience.
  • Regional Route 2:Hohhot → Datong → Beijing for a northern China journey.
  • GetYourGuide:Explore day trip options here.

Tip for Day Trips

Consider an organized tour for grassland visits for ease of travel and activities.

Experience the Grasslands

Immerse yourself in Inner Mongolia's iconic natural setting.

Horseback Riding

Experience the vastness of the steppes on horseback, a quintessential Mongolian activity.

Yurt Stays

Spend for a single night in a conventional Mongolian yurt for a truly immersive cultural encounter.

Archery & Games

Partake in traditional Mongolian games and demonstrations, often found at grassland resorts.

Xilamuren Grassland

A popular and accessible grassland near Hohhot, Xilamuren offers horseback riding, cultural shows, and local cuisine.

Activities Available

  • Horse riding excursions.
  • Traditional Mongolian song and dance.
  • Enjoy local mutton dishes.

Gegentala Grassland

Known for being larger and more developed, Gegentala Grassland also has a variety of cultural performances.

Highlights

  • Expansive views of the steppe.
  • Yurt accommodation options.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture.

Kubuqi Desert

Location:Southwest of Hohhot, near Ordos.
Activities:Dune buggy rides, camel riding.
Highlights:Unique desert landscapes.
Travel:Best by private car or organized tour.
Experience:A contrast to the green grasslands.
Scenic Area:Xiangshawan is a noteworthy area.

Xilamuren Grassland

  • The Xilamuren Grassland is an iconic natural attraction.
  • Its rolling hills are dotted with traditional yurts.
  • A popular destination for undergoing Mongolian culture.
  • Horseback riding through the vast plains is a popular pursuit.
  • The area becomes a green carpet in summer.

City & Cultural Day Trips

Beyond Hohhot, discover nearby cities and historical treasures.

Baotou Exploration

Baotou, Inner Mongolia's largest industrial city, offers a different urban experience and access to significant cultural sites.

Attractions

  • Wudangzhao Lamasery: A well-preserved Tibetan Buddhist monastery.
  • City center: See modern urban development in Inner Mongolia.
  • Nearby sites: Access to further regional exploration.

Meidai Zhao Monastery

This unique fortified monastery west of Hohhot has a blend of Han and Mongolian architectural styles, revealing historical interactions.

Cultural Significance

  • Unique architectural fusion.
  • Historical site with deep roots.
  • Discover the stories within its walls.

Ordos City

Further south from Hohhot, Ordos offers a blend of Mongolian heritage and modern town planning.

Major Sites

  • Genghis Khan Mausoleum: A significant memorial.
  • Kangbashi New Area: A modern district with impressive architecture.
  • Kubuqi Desert: Portions accessible for arid activities.

Datong Shanxi Province

A historic city in neighboring Shanxi province, Datong is reachable by high-speed train and reveals ancient wonders.

Historical Sites

  • Yungang Grottoes: Ancient Buddhist cave temples.
  • Hanging Monastery: A remarkable structure on a cliff.
  • Ancient city walls: Explore Datong's rich past.

Travel Tips for Extensions

Planning your multi-day journeys for ease and enjoyment.

Train Connections

High-speed trains link Hohhot with Beijing, Baotou, Datong, and Taiyuan.

Bus Travel

Buses serve more regional destinations and smaller towns.

Flight Options

Flights connect Hohhot to major Chinese cities for longer distances.

Next Steps

Beijing and Xi'an are logical next destinations for a broader China experience.

Planning Your Journey

considerations for a well-prepared visit to Hohhot.

Essential Travel Logistics

V

Visa Requirements

Check current visa rules for China based on your nationality.

P

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport holds at least 6 months validity beyond your intended departure.

I

Insurance

Travel insurance is advisable for medical insurance and unforeseen events.

Local Transport

  • Hohhot Metro: Efficient for transportation the city center.
  • Buses: Extensive network, but often crowded and less English-friendly.
  • Taxis/Ride-sharing: Readily available, use Didi Chuxing (local app).
  • Private car hire: For trips to grasslands or more remote sites.
  • Trains: Connect to nearby cities like Baotou and Beijing.
  • Bicycles: Available for rent in some areas for short distances.

Booking & Reservations

  • Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Flights: Book domestic flights early for better fares.
  • Train tickets: Use official apps or agents, especially for high-speed rail.
  • Tours: Reserve grassland tours ahead of time.
  • Popular attractions: Some may allow online booking to skip lines.
  • Restaurant reservations: Generally not required for casual dining, but useful for upscale venues.

Health & Safety Reminders

Hydration

Drink plenty of bottled water, especially during warmer months or in dry desert areas.

Sun Protection

Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, especially on the exposed grasslands.

Local Cuisine

Exercise caution with street food; choose busy vendors with fresh ingredients.

Emergency Contacts

Dial 110 for Police, 120 for Ambulance, 119 for Fire. Keep your embassy contact information readily available.
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