Ul Gai Grassland at the Edge of the Sky Cultural Immersion

Ul Gai Management Area, Xilingol League, Inner Mongolia — the best-preserved natural grassland. A 2-day 1-night itinerary blending grassland scenery, Corps culture and holy water exploration.

5,013 km²
Total Area
Most Beautiful Grassland
Nine Bend River
Holy Water Spring
Buling Spring
95%
Grassland Coverage
Aerial panorama of Ul Gai Nine Bend River
Ul Gai Nine Bend River Grassland Landscape
A magnificent picture woven by meandering rivers and vast grasslands

Ul Gai Two Days One Night Grassland Culture Journey

Natural wonders + holy water exploration + Corps memories, feel the unique charm of the grassland at the edge of the sky

Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Nine Bend River, Buling Spring, Corps Town
Suitable For
Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, culture explorers
Budget per person
¥600-¥900
01
Grassland & Holy Water
Nine Bend River + Buling Spring
Highlights

Exploration of natural wonders and holy water culture

Attractions
Nine Bend River
A natural wonder formed by the winding flow of the Ul Gai River across the grassland, hailed as the "Yellow River Nine Bends of the Grassland." The best viewpoint overlooks the magnificent scenery of the river wrapping around the grassland like a hada scarf.
Buling Spring
Meaning "hot spring" in Mongolian, it is a rare artesian spring on the grassland. The spring water is clear and sweet, revered as holy water by local herders. Around the spring there is an altar platform and Oboo, making it an important site to understand grassland water culture.
Practical Information
Visit Tips
  • Best photo time is morning and evening
  • Protect the grassland ecological environment
  • Respect holy water sacrifice customs
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Grassland stargazing Mongolian yurt
  • Buling Spring Resort
  • Management Area comfortable hotel
02
Culture & Memories
Corps Town + Folk Experience
Highlights

In-depth experience of Corps history and grassland folk customs

Attractions
Corps Town
A well-preserved architectural complex from the Corps era, showcasing the history of Corps soldiers reclaiming the grassland during the 1960s and 1970s. Visitors can tour the Corps Memorial Hall, experience military reclamation culture, and taste the flavors of the Corps canteen.
Ul Gai Grassland Folk Experience Zone
An experience base showcasing pure grassland nomadic culture, where visitors can participate in traditional herder life experiences such as yurt building, cow milking, and dairy product making.
Practical Information
Experience Suggestions
  • Learn Mongolian folk songs
  • Experience traditional archery
  • Taste grassland hotpot
Return Preparation
  • Purchase grassland specialty products
  • Allow travel time to Holingol

Must-try Foods in Ul Gai Management Area

Hand-Grabbed Mutton

A traditional delicacy of Ul Gai Grassland, made with locally free-range lamb, boiled in plain water and eaten by hand, paired with wild chive flower sauce. The meat is tender and the flavor unique.

Grassland White Mushroom

A precious wild edible fungus unique to Ul Gai Grassland, with thick flesh and rich aroma. It can be stir-fried or used in soup, a true "mountain delicacy" of the grassland.

Ul Gai Management Area Travel Tips
Best Season
  • Jun-Aug: Most beautiful grassland season
  • July: Grassland Nadam Fair
  • September: Golden autumn photography season
Special Notes
  • Large temperature difference between day and night on grassland
  • Protect the grassland ecological environment
  • Respect traditional customs of herders
Transportation Guide
  • About 3 hours drive from Tongliao
  • Complex grassland roads require caution
  • Off-road vehicles recommended

Explore Districts, Cities and Banners of Xilingol League