Xilamuren Grassland
希拉穆仁草原
A mature grassland tourist area about 90 km from Hohhot, offering horseback riding, horse racing and wrestling shows, and yurt stays. It is the top choice for a short grassland experience.
Xilamuren Grassland lies in the southeast of Darhan Muminggan United Banner in Baotou. Its Mongolian name means 'yellow river,' after the river that flows through it. Historically it was a summer retreat for Qing-era living Buddhas, and the town's Puhui Temple (Zhaohe Temple) is a Qing-era Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The grassland is gently rolling, at an altitude of about 1,700 meters, and cool in summer. Many tourist reception points offer horseback riding, archery, Mongolian wedding performances, horse racing and wrestling shows, bonfire parties and whole roast lamb. You can spend the night in a yurt and watch the stars. It is about 1.5 hours' drive from Hohhot city center via the Daqing Mountains, suitable for a day trip or a two-day, one-night stay. Notes: the scenic area is quite commercialized, so agree on prices for horseback riding and other activities in advance. The grassland has strong UV and large temperature swings between day and night, so bring sun protection and a jacket. Always follow the horse handler's instructions when riding.
Opening hours
All day (tourist season roughly May–October)
Nearby sights
- Monishan Intangible Heritage Town
- Daqingshan Wildlife Zoo
- Wusutu Monastery
- Mansion of Princess Kejing
- Ulanhu Memorial Hall
- Great Mosque of Hohhot
- Saishang Old Street
- Dazhao Temple