Ningxia Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Ningxia with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Ningxia, China

Ningxia is an autonomous region located in Northwest China. It offers unique landscapes, historical sites, and a rich culture that rivals its neighboring regions. From the beautiful sand dunes of the Tengger Desert to the majesty of the Yellow River, Ningxia has something to offer every type of traveler.

Introduction to Ningxia

Ningxia is known for its ethnic diversity, as it is home to various minority groups such as the Hui, Mongolian, and Manchu. The region is rich in historical sites, beautiful natural scenery, and diverse local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Ningxia

Ningxia is an incredible destination that offers a range of attractions for all types of travelers, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Western Xia Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Western Xia Tombs are located in the Helan Mountains and feature over 30 tombs of emperors and their family members.
  • Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum showcases the region’s cultural heritage, including the Hui people’s customs and folklore.
  • Shapotou Scenic Area: This popular destination features a unique mix of desert and oasis, complete with sand dunes, the Yellow River and the Zhongwei Gao Temple.

Natural Attractions of Ningxia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tengger Desert: This vast desert offers adventures such as camel treks, sandboarding and dune buggies.
  • Helan Mountains National Forest Park: Located in the north of the Ningxia region, this park has several hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic vistas.
  • The Yellow River: The Yellow River is the second-longest river in China and is responsible for much of the region’s fertile farmland. A trip to Ningxia is never complete without a visit to see the river up close and personal.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ningxia

Ningxia offers some great hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Helan Mountain East Route: This 12 km route takes you through the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains and provides stunning views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes.
  • Yinchuan Riverside Bicycle Trail: A 15 km trail, the Yinchuan Riverside Bicycle Trail is an easy ride that takes you along the Yellow River, providing stunning views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Ningxia: Activities and Tours

  • Camel Trekking in Tengger Desert: Many operators offer camel trekking tours through the Tengger Desert, where you can experience the desert’s vastness and stunning night sky.
  • Taste Ningxia’s wine: Ningxia’s grape growing industry has been growing in recent years, and the region is now considered the leading wine-producing area of China. A visit to one of the many vineyards in the region is a must-do activity.
  • Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum: Located in the city of Yinchuan, the mausoleum is a tribute to the great Mongol emperor and provides insights into the region’s history and the incredible achievements of the Mongol Empire.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ningxia

Day 1-2: Yinchuan

  • Visit the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Museum
  • Explore the Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum
  • Discover the Yinchuan Sand Lake Scenic Area

Day 3: Zhongwei

  • Visit Shapotou Scenic Area
  • Enjoy a sunset camel trek across the Tengger Desert

Day 4-5: Guyuan

  • Explore the Western Xia Tombs
  • Visit the Jade Emperor Palace in Zhongwei
  • Hike the Helan Mountain East Route

Day 6-7: Wuzhong

  • Enjoy wine tasting at one of the many vineyards in the region
  • Visit the Shuidonggou Paleolithic Site Museum, an archaeological site that dates back to 30,000 BC.

Food and Drink Scene of Ningxia

Ningxia cuisine has been influenced by Han and Hui cooking, with a focus on lamb, beef, and noodles. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ningxia Lamb: Ningxia’s famous local dish, this is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Biang Biang Noodles: These are thick and wide noodles served with a variety of toppings.
  • Stewed Beef Noodle Soup: This popular dish features tender beef, handmade noodles, and a fragrant broth.

Local Beverages

  • Ningxia Wine: Ningxia’s wine industry is growing rapidly, and many vineyards are now open for wine tasting.
  • Wolfberry Wine: Wolfberries are a Ningxia specialty and are added to many local wines.

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

Ningxia has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Some recommended options include:

  • Haosheng Hotel (Yinchuan): Located in the city center, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms and great service.
  • Jade Garden Hotel (Zhongwei): A charming boutique hotel that features traditional Chinese-style rooms and a relaxing courtyard garden.
  • The Velly Boutique Hotel (Wuzhong): A luxury hotel located in Wuzhong that features its winery and offers wine tasting events for guests.

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

Some local products to bring home as souvenirs include:

  • Wolfberry: Ningxia’s wolfberries are considered some of the finest in China and are available at local markets and stores.
  • Ningxia Wine: Ningxia’s wine is growing in popularity and can be bought at any vineyard or local store.
  • Camel Hair Products: Locally crafted camel hair products, such as hats, scarfs, and gloves, are a perfect souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Ningxia

The Hui people are the dominant ethnic group in Ningxia, and their customs and traditions are deeply rooted in the region’s culture. Visitors should respect local customs, such as covering their shoulders and knees when visiting mosques, and asking for permission before taking photographs of locals.

Best Time to Visit Ningxia

The best time to visit Ningxia is between April and October when the climate is mild and the skies are clear, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ningxia

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local cuisine, especially lamb dishes.
  • Visit the vineyards and taste Ningxia’s wines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photos of locals without their permission.
  • Don’t touch or remove artifacts from historical sites or museums.
  • Don’t visit during the winter months when the weather is cold and harsh.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ningxia

Ningxia is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always important to take precautions such as keeping a close eye on your valuables and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Ningxia

Travelers should ensure that they have up-to-date vaccinations and take necessary precautions to prevent common illnesses such as severe sunburn, heat stroke, and dehydration.

Getting to Ningxia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ningxia

The main airport serving Ningxia is Yinchuan Hedong International Airport, which offers domestic and international flights to several cities in China and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Ningxia

Ningxia is well connected by bus to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.

Other Options

Other transportation options include high-speed trains, private taxis, and car rentals.

How to Get Around in Ningxia

Ningxia has a range of transportation options, including buses, trains, and taxis. Visitors can also explore the region on foot or by bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Ningxia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that can be visited as an excursion from Ningxia are:

  • Xi’an: Known for its Terracotta Army and ancient city walls
  • Beijing: The capital city of China and home to many historical attractions
  • Inner Mongolia: A vast region known for its grasslands and diverse ethnic cultures.

Conclusion

Ningxia is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list when planning a visit to China. With its diverse attractions, local cuisine, and unique experiences, Ningxia is an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation.



    Qingtongxia
    Xixia Wangling National Park