Ulanqab is beautiful, but it is not recommended to visit in June and July because……
✨In June and July, Ulanqab's grasslands are rolling green waves, wildflowers bloom freely, and the temperature is pleasant. It's truly a paradise on earth. Quickly save this guide and set off!
📍Location
Ulanqab is located in the central part of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and is known as the "Summer Capital of China's Grasslands." It is the grassland city closest to Beijing, "One step west from Beijing is Ulanqab."
🚗Recommended Transportation
✈️Airplane: Jining Airport has many routes, with direct flights from Beijing, Hohhot, and other places. The airport is about a 30-minute drive to the city center.
🚄High-speed Rail: From Beijing North Station, it takes about 2 hours to reach Ulanqab Station; from Hohhot East Station, it takes about 40 minutes.
🚗Self-driving: Suitable for group travel with flexible itinerary arrangements. However, the grassland and volcanic road sections have complex road conditions, and some areas have no signal. It is recommended to drive a four-wheel-drive SUV.
🗺️Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Ulanqab → Ulanhada Volcano Geological Park (Volcanoes No. 3, 5, 6)
Day 2: Volcano Geological Park → Huitengxile Huanghuagou Grassland Tourist Area (Huanghuagou, Huitengxile Grassland)
Day 3: Huitengxile Grassland → Linhugu Sai → Jining District
Day 4: Jining District → Ulanqab Night → Return
🌟Must-visit Attractions
1. Ulanhada Volcano Geological Park: Known as a natural "volcano museum," with more than 20 volcanoes of various shapes. Volcano No. 3 is perfect for renting astronaut suits for photos, creating a strong space vibe; Volcano No. 5 is primitive and spectacular, and climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of the entire volcanic group; Volcano No. 6 is covered with black basalt, giving a strong "Mars" atmosphere.
2. Huitengxile Huanghuagou Grassland Tourist Area: One of the world's three major alpine meadow grasslands, with flowers blooming in June and July. Riding a small train through the sea of flowers feels like stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki comic; you can also hike through canyons and streams and see countless windmills, which is both magnificent and romantic.
3. Linhugu Sai: A leisure destination where mountains and water coexist, very cool in summer. You can stroll along the forest boardwalk, experience the thrilling glass walkway and rafting, and enjoy the fun of mountains and water.
4. Ulanqab Night: A new night tour landmark with a national trend style, featuring ancient-style buildings combined with smart night tours and light shows, along with various local snacks and handicrafts. It's perfect for photo ops and enjoying food and shopping.
5. Gegentala Grassland: The grassland here stretches endlessly and is the return site of the "Shenzhou" series spacecraft. You can ride horses freely, lie in a yurt at night to watch the stars, or join lively bonfire parties.
6. Sumushan Tourist Area: With a high forest coverage rate, it is a natural oxygen bar. Climbing along winding mountain roads, you can enjoy the beautiful layered mountains and breathe fresh air.
7. Chaer Lake Ecotourism Area: A lake surrounded by mountains with clear water. You can boat on the lake and enjoy leisure time. Nearby are farmhouses where you can taste authentic farmhouse dishes.
📸Photo Spots
Ulanhada Volcano: Stand on the boardwalk in an astronaut suit at Volcano No. 3; use the black mountain body as the background at Volcano No. 6 for a stunning panoramic shot; at sunset, sunlight on the volcano creates beautiful light and shadow.
Huitengxile Huanghuagou Grassland: Sit on the small train with the sea of flowers and windmills as the background; capture dynamic shots while horseback riding and archery on the grassland.
Ulanqab Night: In front of the ancient-style buildings, wear Hanfu for photos to maximize the atmosphere.
🍱Local Food
Ice-boiled Lamb: An intangible cultural heritage dish, lamb cooked with ice cubes, tender meat with no gamey taste.
Fengzhen Mooncakes: Made with hemp oil and honey, crispy and delicious, sweet but not greasy.
Zhuozi Smoked Chicken: A century-old brand with a strong smoky aroma and firm meat.
Youmian Feast: Includes Youmian Wowo and Youmian Yuyu, served with lamb soup, delicious and healthy.
🏠Recommended Accommodation
Volcanic Grassland: You can choose volcanic homestays, join bonfire parties at night, and enjoy starry BBQs; or experience yurts to feel the grassland charm.
Jining District:
High-end: Ulanqab Boyuan Hotel (Bawanghe Branch), with beautiful river and night views, and family-themed rooms.
Comfortable: Jinyi Preferred Hotel (Ulanqab Wanda Branch), offering exquisite afternoon tea and free laundry.
Unique Homestay: Yunduo Gacha Homestay, close to the airport, with delicious food and bonfire activities at night.
❗Tips
1. The grassland has strong UV rays, so be sure to bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing; mosquitoes are common in volcanic and grassland areas, so mosquito repellent spray is a must.
2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night; you can wear short sleeves and shorts during the day, but remember to add a thick jacket at night.
3. Some areas of the grassland and volcano have no signal; download offline maps in advance. Renting a car or joining a local tour group is more convenient.
4. Respect local customs, especially in Mongolian ethnic areas, and pay attention to dietary and etiquette taboos.
The summer in Ulanqab is truly wonderful. Pack your bags and set off! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below👇
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