Situated in the southeast part of Damao Banner and about 90 kilometers north of Hohhot, Xilamuren Grassland is the first grassland tourist attraction opened in Hohhot City. Xilamuren means “yellow river” in Mongolian, which indicates the Xilamuren River flowing by. It’s famous not only for its vast green grassland but also for Puhui Temple nearby. In summer, because of the pleasant weather and the greenest grass,this grassland has been developed as a sightseeing destination and now have well-equipped yurts strategically located.
What to do in Xilamuren Grassland?
Visit Puhui Temple
Puhui Temple is pretty popular among visitors, and local people always call it Zhaohe Temple for it stands next to Zhaohe River. This temple was built in 1759 with three palaces, facing south. Inside the temple, visitors can appreciate majestic architecture in combination of Han Style and Tibetan style. There is an ancient well in front of Puhui Temple. It’s said that this well was dug when Kangxi Emperor (1654-1722) put down the rebellion of Galdan tribe.
Attend Nadam Fair
Nadam Fair is held at Xilamuren Grassland in late July or early August every year. During this period, visitors can watch a lot of interesting folk shows performed by local people, especially males. Horse racing, wrestling and shooting are three essential skills of Mongolian men. On Nadam Fair, visitors can not only see superb performance by the brave and fierce grassland athletes, but also personally take part in these activities to show their skills and express their pride. When night comes, the bonfire party makes everyone excited and passionate.
No cultural tour is complete without sampling the local foods. We recommend to try the food feast in a Xilamuren Grassland yurt. Many people sit around a table and eat delicious local cuisines, which contains mutton in hot pot, and many dairy products. Most of the time, roast whole lamb is available and it is a must-eat food. Horse milk wine is always offered to guests, and its offering is a gesture of hospitality and enthusiasm of the Mongolian.
Horse Riding or Camel Riding
Try riding a horse for the experience. Of courses most of the horses available for riding are docile and the experience coach will accompany with you. The horse is an important means of transportation for local herdsmen, and through riding a horse to gallop on the vast grassland you will not only experience the local people’s life, but also get totally relaxed. In recent years, Xilamuren Grassland Scenic Area launches a series of adventurous activities, including camel riding and sand motor. Visitors should follow safety rules when they take part in these events.
Overnight in a Mongolian traditional yurt
Although it is possible to visit one of the grassland areas in one day, it is far nicer to spend a night or two out here in a Mongolian traditional tent (or yurt). These
yurts are made of compressed sheep wool, are windowless, smell of sheep, and are snug. The yurts are made from latticed wood frames, have thick, rug floors and are usually furnished with many blankets, low beds, quilts, pillows and hot water flasks. They were originally designed to be folded up and carried by camel, however nowadays most of them are more solidly built on concrete yards, in yurt type camps that have numerous yurts and usually a dining area, a washroom with occasional hot water and even electric light.
When to Visit Xilamuren Grassland?
From July to September, groups of tourists are eager to visit the Xilamuren Grassland to appreciate the greenest grasslands with blossoming flowers. Moreover, it’s also a good destination for visitors to escape scorching temperature in many other tour destinations. The average temperature ranges from 18 - 21ºC in summer thanks to its high altitude and latitude.
Travel Tips
Add: 90 kilometers away from Hohhot City,in Inner
Mongolia Region.
Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00
Entrance Fees: CNY 120