Inner Mongolia’s Grasslands in Summer: A Travel Guide
Golden Tropics Travel · Updated
Inner Mongolia’s grasslands stretch to the horizon in summer, dotted with yurts, horses and grazing sheep. For travellers from Malaysia, the cool, fresh air and wide open spaces feel a world away.
Best time to visit
The grasslands are greenest from late June to August. Summer days are warm and sunny, while nights on the prairie can be cool, even in July. From early September the grass begins to turn gold, and the forests of Arxan show autumn colours from mid-September.
Highlights of eastern Inner Mongolia
- The Hulunbuir grasslands around Hailar, one of China’s great prairies
- The winding Mergel River, often called one of China’s most beautiful rivers
- Manzhouli, a border town with Russian-style architecture
- Arxan, with volcanic lakes, forests and hot springs
Mongolian culture
Tours often include a visit to a herding family’s yurt, Mongolian food such as roast lamb and milk tea, horse riding and performances of traditional music. The Naadam festival, held in summer, features wrestling, horse racing and archery; dates vary by place each year.
Tips for your trip
- Distances are long; group tours plan the daily drives and stops.
- Bring a warm layer for evenings and early mornings.
- The sun is strong on the open grassland: bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Pack insect repellent for summer evenings near rivers and wetlands.
- Horse riding is offered with local guides; follow their instructions and wear closed shoes.