Dali Nur Lake
达里诺尔湖
Inner Mongolia's second-largest lake and a paradise for migratory birds, surrounded by volcanic, sandy, and grassland landscapes.
Dali Nur Lake, also known as Dali Lake, is the second-largest inland lake in Inner Mongolia. It covers about 200 square kilometres, is a saltwater lake, and is surrounded by the Dali Nur National Nature Reserve. In spring and autumn, large numbers of migratory birds such as swans, grey cranes, and wild geese rest here, making it a hotspot for birdwatching. The lake is known for its Huazi fish, and around May, fish swim upstream to spawn, which is a spectacle. Restaurants by the lake serve these fish. Nearby attractions include Mantuo Mountain, Zhenzi Mountain, and the edge of the Hunshandake Sandy Land. On the south bank is the Gonggeer Grassland. Admission is charged per person. There are birdwatching points and boat piers around the lake, and boat tours are available in summer. Winds are strong along the lakeshore, and temperatures drop noticeably in the evening. Inside the nature reserve, please do not chase or feed the birds.
Opening hours
Open all day (paid admission approx. 08:00–18:00)
Nearby sights
- Mantuo Hill
- Gongger Grassland
- Ganggeng Nur Lake
- Baiyinaobao Sandy Spruce Forest
- Jingpeng Town
- Hexigten Global Geopark Museum
- Huanggangliang National Forest Park
- Reshuitang Hot Spring