7-Day Inner Mongolia Discovery: Volcanos, Grassland, Desert & Mongolian Heritage

Day 1 Arrive Hohhot

Welcome to Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia. This captivating city seamlessly blends modernity with access to the legendary Mongolian steppes. While the name ‘Mongolia’ evokes images of nomadic life and Genghis Khan’s empire, Hohhot acts as a vital gateway. From here, travelers can easily venture into the breathtaking grasslands of Xilamuren and Huitengxile, immersing themselves in horseback adventures, authentic herder experiences, and warm Mongolian hospitality. Upon arrival at the airport or train station, your friendly expert local guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Xiangtai Hotel or similar

Day 2 Hohhot | Hohhot City Highlights

Start to explore Hohhot at Zhaojun Museum and discover the story of Wang Zhaojun, one of China’s renowned Four Beauties, who was sent to marry a Hun chieftain to foster peace between the Han Dynasty and the Hun tribe 2,000 years ago. Marvel at the imposing 36-meter bronze Statue of Genghis Khan on horseback, a powerful tribute to the iconic leader. After prayers at the Great Mosque, Hohhot’s oldest and largest, take a leisurely stroll through Wide Alley Muslim Food Street, where an array of meat, fruit, and pastry shops tempt your senses. End the day with a visit to Saishang Old Street, a charming historic block that dates back over 400 years to the Ming Dynasty and a perfect spot to sample local delicacies and shop for traditional Mongolian handicrafts.

Salat Prayer: Great Mosque of Hohhot
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Xiangtai Hotel or similar

Day 3 Hohhot | Day Trip to Ulan Hada Volcano 

Head to the spectacular Ulan Hada Volcano Geopark in the morning (approx. 240 km, around three hours). This “natural museum of volcanoes” features a dramatic chain of dormant basalt cones rising from the Mongolian plateau. The highlight is a truly “out-of-this-world” experience: dressing up in a realistic astronaut suit for a professional-style photoshoot against the stark, dark volcanic landscape. Walk across the black cinder paths and red oxidized earth of Volcanoes, the barren, cratered terrain creates the perfect illusion of a mission to the surface of Mars, providing you with the most unique and unforgettable photos of your entire expedition. Afterwards, return to Hohhot.

Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Xiangtai Hotel or similar

Day 4 Hohhot – Xilamuren | Xilamuren Grassland

Journey from Hohhot on a picturesque 2-hour drive to the sprawling Xilamuren Grassland, where the nomadic spirit comes alive. Upon arrival, be greeted with a traditional Mongolian welcome ceremony, setting the stage for an immersive cultural experience. Visit a local Mongolian family to gain insight into their way of life, then dress in authentic Mongolian attire for one-of-a-kind photo moments. Share a delightful encounter with playful lambs and put your skills to the test in a lively archery session. As night falls, gather around a crackling bonfire for an enchanting evening of music, dance, and a breathtaking fireworks display beneath the boundless Mongolian sky.

Salat Prayer: Great Mosque of Hohhot
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Mongolian Yurt with En-Suite & AC

Optional Grassland Activities (Self‑Pay)

Horseback‑Riding Package: CNY280/person
A horseback ride across Xilamuren Grassland is one of the most authentic and unforgettable ways to experience the spirit of Inner Mongolia. Over the course of about 40 minutes, you’ll ride through open plains, feel the vastness of the steppe, and connect with the traditional nomadic lifestyle in a way that no bus tour can match. Even if you’re new to riding, friendly local guides and gentle horses make the journey comfortable and enjoyable. And for guests who prefer to stay off the saddle, the experience can be easily swapped for a relaxing horse‑drawn wagon ride, allowing everyone to enjoy the sweeping scenery and cultural charm of the grassland. This optional tour adds depth, adventure, and a true sense of place to your visit — a moment you’ll remember long after you leave.

Live Show of the “Legend of Monan”: CNY280/person
The Legend of Monan is a breathtaking open‑air spectacle set against the vast, golden expanse of Xilamuren Grassland, where history, myth, and Mongolian spirit come alive in a way you simply won’t find anywhere else. This immersive performance blends powerful storytelling, dynamic horseback stunts, stirring music, and grand stage effects to transport you into the heroic world of ancient nomadic tribes. It’s not just a show—it’s an unforgettable cultural journey that lets you feel the heartbeat of the grasslands and witness the epic legacy of Mongolia under the endless northern sky. A visit to Inner Mongolia isn’t complete without experiencing this extraordinary live performance.

Off-Road 4×4 Vehicle Package: CNY280/person
This package is built for travelers who crave excitement and want to experience the Mongolian steppe in a bold, unforgettable way. Your adventure begins with a round‑trip off‑road ride deep into the open grassland, taking you across rugged terrain that ordinary vehicles can’t reach. Along the way, you’ll climb into a real tank for a rare, heavy‑duty ride that delivers pure power and adrenaline. The fun continues with grass skiing down natural slopes and a thrilling session of go‑kart driving on the open plains. Packed with speed, scenery, and hands‑on adventure, this package is the perfect way to elevate your grassland journey beyond traditional sightseeing.

Day 5 Xilamuren – Dalad Banner | Resonant Sand Bay

Set off on a scenic drive to Dalad Banner (approx. 240 km, 3.5 hours). After lunch, visit the Resonant Sand Bay, home to crescent‑shaped dunes that soar up to 90 meters with a steep 45‑degree incline. These sands are famed for their unique sonic phenomenon – when dry, they resonate with mysterious sounds. Ascend the dunes by cable car and listen for the symphony of bugle‑like calls, drumbeats, and engine‑like roars as you descend. After an exhilarating camel ride, enjoy optional artistic and athletic activities such as gymnastics, aerobics, breakdancing, or beach volleyball. 

Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Xiyue Mobei Hotel or similar

Optional desert activity (self‑pay) is available with the Yuesha Island Combo Ticket (CNY 280/person), offering a variety of immersive experiences. Ride the Desert Sightseeing Train deep into the dunes for picturesque views, enjoy vibrant Mongolian cultural performance “Ordos Wedding,” and take a classic camel ride across the sands. Cool off at Desert Water World, featuring pools of varying depths, water slides, and playful “water flying saucers.” You can also explore sand sculpting and painting on Yuesha Island, where professional works are displayed and you can create your own desert‑inspired masterpiece.

Day 6 Dalad Banner – Ordos | Mausoleum of Genghis Khan and More

Dive deep into the heart of Mongolia’s imperial heritage, beginning with the monumental Mausoleum of Genghis Khan, a grand tribute to the legendary Mongol emperor. Though not his burial site, this ceremonial complex honors his life and legacy. Its architecture, rich with traditional Mongolian elements like ornate yurts, reflects the nomadic culture. Following lunch and salat at Dongsheng Mosque, step back in time at Mongolian Origins – a grand, immersive replica of Kublai Khan’s legendary capital, Dadu. Continue to Kangbashi New District, once dubbed China’s “ghost city” and now a vibrant urban center filled with striking architecture and expansive public spaces. After a farewell dinner, transfer to the airport for your chartered 21:50 flight back to Kuala Lumpur, carrying home unforgettable memories of the Mongolian wilderness.

Salat Prayer: Dongsheng Mosque
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurant
Accommodation: Local 4-star Shangjing Hotel or similar

Day 7 Depart Ordos

A private transfer to the airport or train station of Ordos will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!

Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel