Xilinhot, China: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you eager for a journey in the heart of Inner Mongolia? Xilinhot awaits, a city surrounded by the Xilingol grasslands. It offers a unique experience for all who visit. Whether you want to learn about Mongolian culture or see amazing nature, Xilinhot won't disappoint you. Discover what sets Xilinhot apart and why it's a top choice in China's north.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the captivating Xilingol Grasslands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and witness the region's diverse ecosystems.
• Immerse yourself in the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle by visiting local families and experiencing traditional yurt stays.
• Marvel at the historical wonders of the Site of Xanadu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Xilin Gol League Museum.
• Savor the robust flavors of traditional Mongolian cuisine and explore the region's vibrant local dining scene.
• Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures, from hiking the grassland trails to embarking on guided jeep safaris and horseback riding experiences.

Explore the Captivating Xilingol Grasslands

The vast Xilingol Grasslands show off the area's beauty with pride. As a World Network of Biosphere Reserves member, it's a natural gem. The

Xilingol Grassland Nature Reserve

This area spans over 580,000 hectares, showing a mix of meadow steppe, sandy sparse forest steppe, and more. The Nine Turns Tourist Area has a river flowing through lush green grasslands, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The Xilingol Grassland Volcanic Geopark to the south displays impressive volcanic mountains.

The

Jinlianchuan Grassland

It's about 25 kilometers from the Nine Turns Tourist Area and is famous for its golden troll flowers in July and August. This place was the Peidu of the Yuan Dynasty, and the Char people here are said to be Genghis Khan's golden family descendants. Jinlianchuan Grassland often pairs with a visit to the Site of Xanadu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The

Wulagai Grassland

Found in the Xilingol League's northeast, Wulagai boasts incredible nature. The film "The Wolf Totem" made it famous, showcasing Wulagai River and Nine Turns Bay's beauty. Wulagai also has Bulinquan Scenic Area with Mongolian temples and gardens.

Uncover the Rich Mongolian Culture

Experiencing the Mongolian nomadic lifestyle is a highlight in Xilinhot. You can visit local nomadic families and learn about their life and customs. Seeing the nomads herd livestock and build their yurts gives a special view of Mongolian heritage.

Visit Nomadic Families

By visiting nomadic families in Xilinhot, you'll understand their life better. You'll see how closely they are connected to the Chinese grasslands. Watching them care for animals and build yurts shows the deep traditions passed over time.

This experience will make you deeply respect their culture and the land they live on.

Experience Mongolian Yurt Stays

If you want a real adventure, try staying in a yurt in Xilinhot. These round tents have been a part of Mongolian nomad life for years. A night in a yurt lets you feel part of the Xilingol grassland tours and see the true Mongolian life.

Staying under the stars in the Chinese grasslands, you'll truly live the nomadic culture experiences this place offers.

Marvel at Historical Wonders

Xilinhot is a place with a rich history shown in its two top attractions. The Site of Xanadu and the Xilin Gol League Museum take you into the Mongolian and Yuan Dynasty past. They help visitors understand the deep cultural meaning of the region.

Site of Xanadu: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Site of Xanadu is in the Jinlianchuan Grassland and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place was the Yuan Dynasty's second capital and where Kublai Khan set up his famous summer palace. Tourists can walk through the ruins and imagine the past glory of this cultural and power hub.

Xilin Gol League Museum

The Xilin Gol League Museum can be found in the Mongol and Yuan Dynasty Cultural Garden. It's like a treasure chest full of items from the Mongolian and Yuan times. You can see seals, symbols, traditional clothing, and other artifacts. This helps you fully grasp the Mongolian and Yuan eras' influence on the world.

Xilinhot, China: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Xilinhot is in the heart of Inner Mongolia. It combines natural beauty with rich Mongolian culture. The city offers the vast Xilingol grasslands and the historic Site of Xanadu. It's a must-visit place in China's northern areas. No matter what you like, from trying the nomadic life to outdoor fun, Xilinhot is ready to welcome you.

Nine Turns Tourist Area

About 18 kilometers southeast of Xilinhot City is the Nine Turns Tourist Area. It's part of the Xilingol Grassland Nature Reserve. A beautiful stream flows through green grasslands here. The setting has been featured in many photos and movies, like "Marco Polo."

The Mongol Khan City

In the West Ujimqin Grassland, you'll find the Mongol Khan City. It's a major spot for tourists to learn about Mongolian culture. You can see traditional life, customs, and performances here. Don't miss the thrilling Mongolian horse archery called Bok.

Guzigestai National Nature Reserve

The Guzigestai National Nature Reserve is in the Great Khingan's south. It's a huge area with forests and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy its wild beauty and see various animals. The landscapes are stunning and waiting to be explored.

Immerse in Local Flavors

Trying local dishes is a big part of the Xilinhot experience. The area's cuisine is influenced by Mongolian traditions. This includes dishes like mutton, hand-pulled noodles, and dumplings. The food highlights the Mongolian lifestyle and uses fresh, local ingredients.

Traditional Mongolian Cuisine

The traditional food of Xilinhot shows off its rich culture. People enjoy steamed and fried dumplings, and mutton soup. These meals use fresh items like lamb and dairy, making them truly Mongolian.

Local Dining Hotspots

In Xilinhot, you'll find places to eat that mix old and new. A must-visit is Sai Yi De Meng Can for real Mongolian food. Another favorite is Lao Cui Gu Quan Yang Za Shao Mai Guan for tasty dumplings. They let you taste the local culture through their cuisine.

Outdoor Adventures Await

The Xilingol Grasslands are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. They provide many chances for hikes. Here, you can see everything from beautiful meadows to unique volcanic rocks. And, the views of the Chinese grasslands are stunning.

Hiking Trails

Don't miss the chance to walk the Xilinhot hiking trails. They offer amazing views of the Mongolian nomad lifestyle. You'll get to see the nomadic culture experiences this area is known for.

Jeep Safaris

A thrilling way to see the Xilingol Grasslands is via jeep. Hop on one for a guided safari. You'll explore hidden parts of the grasslands. Plus, you might see some interesting animals. It's a great way to see the natural beauty of the area.

Horse Riding Experiences

Experiencing the Mongolian horses at Xilinhot is a must. Join a guided horseback ride to explore. This allows you to enjoy Xilinhot attractions from a unique perspective. You can even learn more about the Mongolian nomad lifestyle.

Get There and Around

Xilinhot can be reached by air through the Xilinhot Airport. It's the main way to get to the area. From this airport, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the Xilingol Grassland Nature Reserve. The Site of Xanadu is a 2.5-hour drive away. The Wulagai Grassland can be reached in about 6.5 hours.

For those who want a deeper look, private car tours with local guides are a great choice. These tours let you set your own pace. Plus, they help you get to the less-visited spots in the Xilingol Grasslands.

Recommended Tour Packages

If you want to make the most of your time in Xilinhot, consider these tour packages. There's the 5-Day Classic Inner Mongolia Tour. It takes you to places like the Huitengxile Grassland and the Kubuqi Desert.

Then, there's the 6-Day Inner Mongolia Bests Discovery Tour. It shows you more attractions in the region.

Best Time to Visit Xilinhot

It's best to visit Xilinhot in the summer, from June to September. During this time, the Xilingol grasslands are green and filled with life. It's when the golden troll flowers bloom in the Jinlianchuan Grassland, creating a beautiful sight.

The summer weather is just right for outdoor fun. You can dive into the Mongolian nomad lifestyle. This makes your visit both enjoyable and interesting.

Visit the Xilingol grasslands and learn about Inner Mongolia's nomadic culture in the summer. The Xilinhot hiking trails are perfect this time of year. You'll also enjoy exploring the UNESCO-listed Site of Xanadu.

In summer, Xilinhot is great for adventures into the Alxa Desert or to experience the Mongolian way of life. This season is ideal for exploring this magical part of China.

Where to Stay in Xilinhot

For an authentic Xilingol Grasslands experience, consider staying in a grassland resort. You will have the chance to connect with nature. Options include staying in a traditional Mongolian yurt or choosing modern comfort with stunning views.

Grassland Resorts

In the Xilingol Grasslands, unique experiences await at grassland resorts. You can sleep in a real Mongolian yurt, surrounded by beautiful nature. Activities like horseback riding, archery, and cultural shows help visitors enjoy the area's nomadic culture.

City Hotels

Those looking for an urban vibe will appreciate Xilinhot's city hotels. These places offer modern amenities and are good for exploring the area. They cater to various needs, from luxury stays to more budget-friendly options.

Travel Tips for Xilinhot

Planning a trip to Xilinhot in Inner Mongolia requires some prep. These tips will help make your visit great. Consider this advice to enjoy all of Xilinhot's wonders.

What to Pack

When heading to Xilinhot, packing smart is key. This area has diverse scenery, like vast grasslands and rough lands. So, it’s essential to pack comfy, multi-layered clothes.

Bring warm jackets and pants for the varying weather. Make sure to have sturdy shoes for hiking. Sun protection, like hats and sunglasses, is also a must against the strong sunshine.

Don’t forget any needed medications and a power bank. A reusable water bottle is vital to keep hydrated in Xilinhot. With these essentials, you’re ready to enjoy this unique spot.