Eerduosi

Ordos is an underrated summer getaway gem, with vast grasslands and magnificent deserts, as well as modern cityscapes and a deep Mongol-Yuan cultural heritage. Summer temperatures average in the 20s Celsius, making it very comfortable. Here is a detailed travel guide for you:

Must-Visit Attractions

• ​​Whistling Dune Bay​​: One of China’s famous desert tourism destinations, a 5A scenic area on the edge of the Kubuqi Desert. You can try sand sliding, camel riding, desert off-roading, and high-altitude cable cars. Facilities are well developed, making it suitable for family trips.

• ​​Mausoleum of Genghis Khan​​: An important symbol of Mongol-Yuan culture, with grand mausoleum halls. Traditional sacrificial ceremonies by the Darqad mausoleum guardians are held every morning. Hiring a guide is recommended for a deeper understanding of the history.

• ​​Kangbashi Urban Area​​: A modern “empty city” transformed into a 4A scenic area, with landmark buildings such as the Ordos Museum, library, and grand theater. The musical fountain at Ulan Mulun Lake is truly impressive.

• ​​Kubuqi Desert​​: More pristine than Whistling Dune Bay, it is well suited to self-drive crossings, desert camping, and hiking. Desert Highway 07 is a popular photo spot, with rolling seas of sand on both sides that look great in pictures.

• ​​Ordos Grassland​​: An excellent place to experience nomadic culture. You can ride horses, watch the equestrian performance Hero, join a bonfire party, and stay in a Mongolian yurt to admire the starry sky.

Classic 3-Day Itinerary

• ​​Day 1: Urban Culture and Mongol-Yuan Atmosphere​​
  • ​​Morning​​: Arrive in Ordos and head to the Ordos Museum (distinctive architecture, rich collections, advance reservation required, closed on Mondays).
  • ​​Afternoon​​: Visit the Ordos Cultural Industry Park to experience its blue-gray Mongol-Yuan-style architectural complex, which is very photogenic; then head to the Junwang Mansion (free with ID) to see its exquisite brick carvings.
  • ​​Evening​​: Enjoy authentic Mongolian cuisine in Kangbashi. After dinner, go to Ulan Mulun Lake to watch Asia’s largest free musical fountain (usually starts at 20:30).
• ​​Day 2: Desert Fun and Off-Road Adventure​​
  • ​​All Day​​: Head to Whistling Dune Bay Scenic Area. It is recommended to buy the Xiansha Island package, which includes the cable car and various desert activities. In the morning, try the desert surf vehicle and high-altitude zipline; in the afternoon, ride camels, go sand sliding, and enjoy the desert sunset.
  • ​​Evening​​: Return to the city to rest, or take a walk through Kangbashi’s night-view streets.
• ​​Day 3: Grassland Pastoral Experience or Cultural Exploration​​
  • ​​Option A (Grassland Route)​​: Head to Ordos Grassland to experience horse riding, milking cows, and wearing Mongolian robes. In the evening, watch a live equestrian performance and join a bonfire party.
  • ​​Option B (Cultural Route)​​: Visit the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan to learn about Mongol-Yuan sacrificial culture; then climb Yike Aobao for a panoramic view over all of Kangbashi. At sunset, prayer flags flutter in the wind, creating a strong sense of atmosphere.

Local Food Recommendations

When visiting Ordos, be sure to try authentic Mongolian cuisine and northwestern specialties. The meat is fresh and flavorful, and portions are generous.

Practical Travel Tips

• ​​Transport Advice​​: Attractions in Ordos are far apart, especially the desert and grassland areas, so self-driving or hiring a car is the most convenient option. Taxis are easy to use within the city, and shared electric scooters are available in Kangbashi District.
• ​​What to Wear​​: The temperature difference between day and night is large, so even in summer you should bring a light shell jacket or outer layer. UV rays are strong in the desert, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a windproof face covering.
• ​​Pitfall Reminders​​: Do not trust low-price one-day tour pitches at scenic area entrances; when eating Mongolian food, try to choose established local restaurants and avoid ordering overpriced dishes near scenic areas; for dairy products and beef jerky, local supermarkets are cheaper and more authentic than scenic spots.
• ​​Ticket Reservations​​: The Mausoleum of Genghis Khan and Whistling Dune Bay get very busy in peak season, so be sure to buy tickets online in advance; for museums, remember to check Monday closure information.