Xilamuren Travel Guide

Plan your travel to Xilamuren, Inner Mongolia with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and best things to do in Xilamuren.


Introduction to Xilamuren

Xilamuren is a beautiful grassland that lies in the western part of Inner Mongolia, China. The name ‘Xilamuren’ is derived from the Mongolian words ‘xila’, meaning beautiful, and ‘muren’, meaning grassland. It is a magical world of rolling grasslands, sparkling rivers, crystal clear streams, and colorful wildflowers. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in China, offering a unique blend of traditional Mongolian culture and breathtaking natural beauty.

The grasslands of Xilamuren cover an area of about 2,500 square kilometers, and are home to over 10,000 Mongolian people, who still live a traditional nomadic lifestyle. Visitors can experience this unique way of life by staying with local families in yurts, sampling Mongolian cuisine, and learning about the customs and traditions of the Mongolian people.

List of Places to Visit in Xilamuren

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Xilamuren has a rich history and culture, and there are several museums and historical places that visitors can explore to learn more about the region’s heritage. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Dazhao Temple: This temple dates back to the early 17th century and is home to several important artifacts, including a rare sutra written in gold.
  • Xilin Gol Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Xilin Gol region and features exhibits on the local flora and fauna.
  • Xilamuren Grassland Culture Museum: This museum celebrates the traditional Mongolian way of life and features exhibits on Mongolian art, music, dance, and cuisine.
  • Taixi Temple: This temple is located on the banks of the Xilamuren River and is considered a sacred site by the local people.

Natural Attractions of Xilamuren: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Xilamuren is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic spots and adventure activities to enjoy. Some of the top natural attractions of Xilamuren include:

  • Xilamuren Grassland: This vast grassland is the main attraction of Xilamuren and is perfect for horseback riding, picnics, and stargazing.
  • Xilamuren River: This pristine river runs through the grassland and is ideal for fishing, camping, and boating.
  • Tengger Desert: This desert is located on the southern edge of Xilamuren and is known for its stunning sand dunes and camel rides.
  • Cuiling Gorge: This gorge is a natural wonder, with waterfalls, steep cliffs, and lush vegetation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Xilamuren

Xilamuren is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Xilamuren Grassland Circuit: This is a 15-kilometer loop around the grassland that takes visitors through some of the most scenic parts of the area.
  • Tengger Desert Circuit: This is a 6-kilometer circuit through the desert that takes visitors past stunning sand dunes and camel herds.
  • Cuiling Gorge Hike: This is a challenging hike through the steep and narrow gorge, with breathtaking views of the waterfalls and cliffs.

Best Things to Do in Xilamuren: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours available for visitors to Xilamuren. Some of the most popular things to do include:

  • Horseback Riding: This is a great way to explore the vast grasslands of Xilamuren and get a taste of the local nomadic lifestyle.
  • Mongolian Cultural Performances: Visitors can watch traditional Mongolian music and dance performances, as well as try on authentic Mongolian costumes.
  • Camping and Bonfire Parties: Visitors can stay in yurts or tents on the grasslands and enjoy traditional Mongolian food and bonfires under the stars.
  • Camel Riding: This is a must-do activity in the Tengger Desert, where visitors can ride camels through the stunning sand dunes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Xilamuren

For visitors who want to experience everything that Xilamuren has to offer, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Xilamuren, settle into your accommodation, and explore the local area.
  • Day 2: Visit the Xilamuren Grassland and take a horseback ride.
  • Day 3: Explore the Tengger Desert and take a camel ride.
  • Day 4: Visit the Cuiling Gorge and take a hike.
  • Day 5: Visit the Xilin Gol Museum and the Dazhao Temple to learn about the local history and culture.
  • Day 6: Attend a Mongolian cultural performance and partake in a traditional Mongolian feast.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy your last day in Xilamuren before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Xilamuren

Must-Try Dishes

The food scene in Xilamuren is centered around traditional Mongolian cuisine, with an emphasis on meat and dairy products. Some of the must-try dishes in Xilamuren include:

  • Fried Milk Cake: A sweet and savory delicacy made from fried milk and a variety of other ingredients.
  • Mongolian Hotpot: A communal dish where diners cook their own meat and vegetables in a simmering pot of broth.
  • Kebabs: A popular street food in Xilamuren, featuring grilled meats and vegetables on skewers.
  • Rice with Horse Meat: A traditional Mongolian dish featuring rice and tender horse meat.

Local Beverages

The most popular beverages in Xilamuren are fermented horse milk and Mongolian tea. Fermented horse milk is a sour and slightly fizzy drink that is rich in nutrients, while Mongolian tea is a refreshing herbal tea made from local plants.

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

There are many accommodation options available in Xilamuren, ranging from luxury hotels to traditional yurts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Xilamuren:

  • Xilamuren Grassland Yurt Camp: This is a traditional Mongolian-style yurt camp that offers a unique nomadic experience.
  • Xilamuren Grassland Hotel: This is a modern hotel located in the heart of Xilamuren, with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Hongling Hotel: This is a budget-friendly option located near Xilin Gol Museum, with clean rooms and friendly staff.

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

There are several local products and souvenirs that visitors can buy in Xilamuren, including:

  • Mongolian Costumes: Visitors can buy authentic Mongolian clothing, including hats, boots, and robes.
  • Mongolian Jewelry: Visitors can buy handmade jewelry featuring traditional Mongolian designs.
  • Paintings and Artwork: Xilamuren is home to many talented artists who create beautiful paintings and artwork inspired by the local scenery and culture.
  • Horse Hair Products: Visitors can buy products made from horse hair, such as bracelets, necklaces, and keychains.

Local Culture and Customs of Xilamuren

The Mongolian people in Xilamuren have a rich culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Some of the most important customs include:

  • Greetings: It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile.
  • Hospitality: The Mongolian people are known for their warm hospitality and will often invite visitors into their homes for tea or a meal.
  • Nomadic Lifestyle: Many Mongolian families still live a traditional nomadic lifestyle, moving their yurts every few months in search of better grazing land.
  • Respect for Nature: The Mongolian people have a deep respect for nature and believe that all living things are interconnected.

Best Time to Visit Xilamuren

The best time to visit Xilamuren is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and the grasslands are at their greenest. However, visitors should be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and crowds larger.

Do’s and Don’ts of Xilamuren

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try traditional Mongolian cuisine.
  • Learn some basic Mongolian phrases.
  • Bring warm clothing and a hat for the cool evenings.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Touch or feed the local wildlife.
  • Litter on the grasslands.
  • Take photos without asking for permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Xilamuren

Xilamuren is generally a safe place for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling alone or at night. They should also be aware of the potential hazards of outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, and camel riding.

Health in Xilamuren

Visitors should be aware that the water in Xilamuren may not be safe to drink, so it’s best to drink bottled water instead. They should also bring any necessary medications with them, as medical facilities in the area may be limited.

Getting to Xilamuren: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Xilamuren

The nearest airport to Xilamuren is Baotou Erliban Airport, which is about 120 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Xilamuren

Buses run regularly from Baotou to Xilamuren, with a travel time of about 2 hours.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or car to travel to Xilamuren from Baotou or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Xilamuren

The best way to get around in Xilamuren is by hiring a car or taking a guided tour. Visitors can also rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the area on their own.

Where to Go Next from Xilamuren: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore after their trip to Xilamuren. Some of the best options include:

  • Baotou: This city is less than 2 hours away from Xilamuren and is known for its modern architecture and cultural heritage sites.
  • Hohhot: The capital of Inner Mongolia, this city is about 4 hours away from Xilamuren and is home to several historical and cultural attractions.
  • Yinchuan: This city is about 8 hours away from Xilamuren and is known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Xilamuren is a hidden gem in China, offering visitors a unique blend of traditional Mongolian culture and breathtaking natural beauty. With its vast grasslands, pristine rivers, and stunning deserts, Xilamuren is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Inner Mongolia.