Gegentela Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gegentela, Inner Mongolia with this comprehensive travel guide featuring information about local culture, must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


Gegentela is a hidden gem located in Inner Mongolia, North China. This unique destination offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, history, and nature. In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip to Gegentela, including the must-visit attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, and more.

Introduction to Gegentela

Gegentela is a small town located between the grassland and desert, which makes it a unique spot for visitors to explore. Gegentela is situated 450 kilometers away from the autonomous region capital Hohhot, and it takes approximately 6 hours to travel by car. When you arrive in Gegentela, you will be greeted by vast grasslands, sand dunes, and traditional yurts.

List of Places to Visit in Gegentela

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gegentela has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The following are some of the must-visit museums and historical places:

  • Gegentala Grassland Cultural Tourism Scenic Area: Experience the beauty of Gegentela’s grasslands, explore traditional yurts, learn about Mongolian customs and culture, and enjoy local food and drink.

  • Xanadu: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located 16 kilometers from Gegentela. The ruins of Kublai Khan’s summer palace are a must-visit for history buffs.

  • Inner Mongolia Museum: Located in Hohhot, this world-class museum showcases the ancient history and cultural heritage of Inner Mongolia.

Natural Attractions of Gegentela: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gegentela’s natural beauty is unparalleled. Here are some natural attractions worth a visit:

  • Kubuqi Desert: The desert covers an area of 18,600 square kilometers, and it’s the seventh-largest desert in China. Visitors can enjoy camel rides, desert hikes, and hair-raising sand-skating adventures.

  • Xiangshawan Desert: Known as “Singing Sand Bay,” this scenic spot is characterized by rolling sand dunes, springs, and forests. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding, camel rides, jeep rides, and more.

  • Helan Mountain National Forest Park: This national park offers breathtaking mountain views, dense forests, and pristine lakes. Visitors can hike, bike, and explore the park’s many scenic spots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gegentela

Gegentela is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some hiking and biking routes worth exploring:

  • Xanadu: Take a scenic walk through the ruins of Kublai Khan’s summer palace.

  • Ketuoshan Mountain: This mountain is located 4 kilometers south of Gegentala. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails that offer spectacular views.

  • Gantuo Lake: This lake is located 20 kilometers from Gegentala. Visitors can rent bikes and explore the scenic area around the lake.

Best Things to Do in Gegentela: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of activities and tours you can enjoy in Gegentela. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Camping on the grasslands: Experience the local culture by staying in a traditional yurt overnight.

  • Visit a local herder’s family: Learn about Mongolian customs and get a glimpse of the herder’s daily life.

  • Horseback riding: Explore the vast grasslands while riding a horse.

  • Watch a local performance: Enjoy a traditional Mongolian performance featuring song, dance, and acrobatics.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gegentela

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Gegentela:

  1. Day 1: Visit Gegentala Grassland Cultural Tourism Scenic Area.
  2. Day 2: Explore Xanadu and other historical sites.
  3. Day 3: Take a desert safari to Kubuqi Desert.
  4. Day 4: Hike or bike to Ketuoshan Mountain.
  5. Day 5: Visit Gantuo Lake and nearby attractions.
  6. Day 6: Watch a local performance and experience local culture by visiting a local herder’s family.
  7. Day 7: Depart from Hohhot airport.

Food and Drink Scene of Gegentela

Gegentela’s food and drink scene is just as impressive as its natural and cultural attractions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes:

  • Kebabs: Made with mutton, beef, or lamb, kebabs are a staple in Inner Mongolian cuisine.

  • Dairy products: Inner Mongolia is known for its dairy products, including milk tea, yogurt, and cheese.

  • Roasted whole lamb: This dish is a must-try for meat lovers. The lamb is seasoned with traditional Mongolian spices and then roasted for hours.

Local Beverages:

  • Milk tea: This traditional Mongolian drink is made with tea and milk, offering a sweet and creamy taste.

  • Arag: This fermented horse milk drink is creamy and sour, and it’s considered a symbol of Mongolian culture.

  • Baijiu: This Chinese liquor is popular in Inner Mongolia and is often consumed during celebrations.

Where to Stay in Gegentela: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gegentela offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Gegentala Grassland Yurt: Experience the traditional Mongolian lifestyle by staying in a yurt. The yurt is clean, cozy, and comfortable, and it offers a unique cultural experience.

  • Kempinski Hotel: This luxury hotel offers modern amenities and is located in the heart of Hohhot.

  • Jinjiang Inn: This hotel chain offers affordable and comfortable accommodation in Gegentela.

What to Buy in Gegentela: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products you can buy in Gegentela:

  • Cashmere products: Inner Mongolia is known for its high-quality cashmere. Visitors can buy scarves, sweaters, and other cashmere products as souvenirs.

  • Handicrafts: Visitors can buy handmade products, such as embroidery, pottery, and paintings, which are made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Gegentela

Mongolian culture is deeply rooted in Gegentela. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • People are friendly and hospitable in Gegentela, so it’s best to respect their customs and culture.

  • Guests are often served tea or milk tea upon arrival, and it’s considered impolite to refuse.

  • Mongolian festivals and celebrations are a great way to experience the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Gegentela

The best time to visit Gegentela is from June to September when the weather is mild and there is plenty of sunshine. Winters are long and cold, with temperatures dropping to around -20°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gegentela

Do:

  • Respect local customs and culture.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, especially for outdoor activities.

  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Don’t speak loudly or be disruptive in public places.

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural landscape.

  • Don’t touch or feed the wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gegentela

Gegentela is a safe destination, but visitors should take necessary precautions while exploring the outdoors. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t wander off alone in unfamiliar areas.

  • Drink bottled water to avoid stomach illnesses.

  • Be cautious when participating in high-risk activities, such as sandboarding or camel rides.

Health in Gegentela

Visitors should be aware of the following health risks:

  • Altitude sickness: Gegentela is located at an altitude of 1200 meters above sea level, which may cause altitude sickness in some visitors.

  • Sunburn and dehydration: The weather can be hot and dry during summers, so visitors should carry sunscreen and drink plenty of water.

  • Insect-borne diseases: Visitors should take mosquito bites and ticks seriously, especially during the summer season.

Getting to Gegentela: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gegentela is located 450 kilometers from Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Gegentela

  • Hohhot Baita International Airport: The airport is well connected to major destinations in China and other parts of the world.

Bus Stations Near Gegentela

  • Hohhot Long-Distance Bus Station: Buses depart from this station to Gegentela multiple times a day.

Other Options

  • Private car or taxi: Visitors can hire a private car or taxi to travel from Hohhot to Gegentela.

How to Get Around in Gegentela

Visitors can explore Gegentela by renting a car, hiring a taxi, or using public transport. Bikes are also available for rent in certain areas.

Where to Go Next from Gegentela: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gegentela is located in the heart of the Inner Mongolian grasslands, and visitors can explore the surrounding areas by taking excursions to nearby destinations. Here are some places to visit:

  • Hohhot: The capital city of Inner Mongolia, Hohhot is a bustling metropolis that offers visitors a glimpse of modern Chinese life.

  • Ordos: This city is known for its desert scenery, traditional yurts, and unique architecture.

  • Baotou: Located on the bank of the Yellow River, Baotou is a city rich in history and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Gegentela is a destination that is worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor adventures, or local food and drink scene, Gegentela has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has given you useful information to plan your trip to Gegentela. Happy travels!