Ordos Travel Guide: Unlock the Natural Wonders and Historical Secrets of Chinaās Northern Frontier
The economic center and one of the largest cities in Inner Mongolia, Ordos is where you can see a seamless blend of rich history, vibrant culture, modern economic development, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Thus, donāt miss Ordos City if you are planning a trip to Inner Mongolia. This Ordos Travel Guide is to help make your planning easier and guide you through all you need to know about this magic city.
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Location: Southwest Inner Mongolia
Population (urban area): 2,201,000
Content Previewā
- Ordos Overview and History
- Top Tourist Attractions in Ordos
- Top Things to Do in Ordos
- Ordos Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Ordos Transportation: How to Get to and Travel Around
- How Many Days to Stay in Ordos
- Accommodation in and around Ordos: Where to Stay
- FAQs about Ordos
- Plan Your Inner Mongolia Adventure with China Xian Tour
- Top Inner Mongolia Tours including Ordos
- Other Popular Destinations in Inner Mongolia
- Best China Ordos Tours
Ordos Overview and History
Ordos means āmany palacesā in Mongolian. Situated in the heart of the Ordos Plateau in the southwestern part of Inner Mongolia, the city is blessed with undulating terrain and picturesque landscapes. It is always ready to entertain visitors with vast grasslands, rich prairie culture, charming lakes, and thrilling Xiangshawan Desert and Kubuqi Desert. Ā
The history of Ordos can be traced back to over 70,000 years ago when the ancient “Hetao people” lived here and created the famous “Hetao culture”. In the following several millennia, numerous northern tribes migrated to this region and led a nomadic life. In the modern era, more Han people migrated to Ordos, contributing to the integration of agrarian culture, Yellow River culture, and prairie culture in this city.
The profound history has given this region a unique culture and many historical relics, including the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan and numerous ancient temples and shrines in the Kangbashi Tourist Area.
The rich coal and natural gas resources largely underpin the economic strength of Ordos, driving its transformation from desolation to prosperity. The Kangbashi New District is where you can look into the modernization of Ordos, characterized by skyscrapers, spacious avenues, and state-of-the-art public facilities.
Top Tourist Attractions in Ordos
When talking about Ordos attractions, the first one that comes into mind is definitely the grassland, and Ordos Grassland is the most famous, where tourists can experience varieties of unique folk activities. In addition, desert wonders are also of great appeal. Try the most classic surfing in the sand sea in Xiangshawan Scenic Area and Kubuqi Desert or explore the oasis, Qixing Lake. Whatās more, you can also learn about the cityās history in the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan and Ordos Museum. With so many experiences, do not forget to include Ordos when planning an Inner Mongolian tour.
Qixing Lake Scenic Area
The Qixing Lake Scenic Area is nestled in the hinterland of the Kubuqi Desert, with its water bodies, wetlands, grasslands, and desert landscapes offering diverse sights, desert adventures, and cultural activities. Plus, the clear night skies here make it one of the most beautiful sites for desert stargazing in China.
Top Things to Do in Ordos
Desert Surfing at Xiangshawan
At Xiangshawan, the thrilling desert surfing is ready to enthrall all adventurers. All the surfing vehicles are equipped with wider tires to ensure visitors a safe yet exhilarating ride over the dunes of different heights. The vehicle drives through the undulating sands, making it feel like surfing over the dunes.
Zipline Adventure at Xiansha Island in Kubuqi Desert
The high-altitude ziplining provides not only a genuine adrenaline-pumping experience but also a birdās-eye view of the stunning desert. It is truly a memorable flight when you wear professional safety gear and follow the instructorsā guidance to leap from a high platform to glide swiftly across the desert sky.
Camel Riding in Kubuqi Desert
Steeped in history and romance, camel riding in Kubuqi Desert allows you to traverse through the desert like the ancient merchants. You can enjoy the fascinating landscapes as your professional guide introduces you to local desert ecology, culture, and Silk Road stories.
Desert Camping
If time permits, you can spend a night in the desert. The best way for a memorable night is desert camping. This will be a serene escape, with a bonfire party and stargazing under the clear sky as its bonus.
Mongolian Cultural Experience
At some attractions like the Genghis Khan Mausoleum or Kangbashi Tourist Area, visitors can enjoy chances to experience authentic Mongolian culture and life. They can wear colorful Mongolian robes and exquisite headgear, learn simple Mongolian greetings, take part in traditional performances, etc.
Mongolian Yurt Accommodation
Staying in a Mongolian yurt is an essentical part when visiting the grassland area. It is a great way to experience the Mongolian lifestyle, with the felt tents being ethnically decorated, and traditional Mongolian cuisine and cultural experiences being provided.
Discover the Mysterious Buddhist Art at Alzhai Grottoes
Being carved around the mid-Northern Wei period, the Alzhai Grottoes in Ordos feature nearly a thousand mural paintings of different themes. It offers a unique chance to gain insights into the social life, flourishing Buddhist art, and religious art exchange from the Western Xia to the Mongol Yuan periods.
More than a religious and cultural exploration, a visit here will also reward you with a grassland panorama. All the grottoes are distributed around the solitary red sandstone mountain, which is surrounded by breathtaking grassland scenery.
Naadam Festival
Naadam Festival, the most well-known cultural event not only in Ordos, but also in the whole Inner Mongolia. It is usually held in July or August. What can you see at this festival? The most core and exciting should be the Mongolian wrestling, horse racing and arrow shooting. All are test of courage, strength and wisdom. When watching the competitions, just cheer and shout for the participants and indulge in the atmosphere. Travelers can also try these activities in the dedicated area. Besides, it is also recommended to experience the local life by wearing the Mongolian robe and tasting the delicious local food.
Ordos Weather and Best Time to Visit
The annual average temperatures of Ordos are around 5.3ā to 8.7ā. July is the hottest month here, with an average temperature of about 21-25ā. In January, the coldest month of Ordos, temperatures can fall to below -10ā.
Summer and autumn are the most recommended time to embark on your trip to Ordos. Summer months from June to August are the peak season of Ordos, when the grasslands and deserts are at their most vibrant, the weather is comfortable and many celebrations and festivals are held.
September to October is the ideal time to catch the golden grassland landscapes and enjoy a more serene atmosphere than the summer months.
Note: Taking sun protection measures is always essential given the year-round abundant sunshine in this region.
Ordos Transportation: How to Get to and Travel Around
How to Get to
Fly to Ordos from Major Domestic Cities: Visitors can directly fly to Ordos through Ordos Ejin Horo International Airport, which operates direct flights from major domestic cities like Beijing, Xiāan, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc. After arriving at the airport, you can take the airport shuttle bus or taxi to get to the city center.
Transfer through Hohhot, Baotou, or Hulunbuir: For most travelers, Ordors may not be their first stop in Inner Mongolia. They would transfer to Ordos from the more popular destinations like Hohhot, Baitou, or Hulunbuir. From both Hohhot and Baotou, you can take direct trains and long-distance buses to reach Ordos conveniently. From Hulunbuir, youāll need to fly to or take a train to Hohhot or Baotou first, then transfer to Ordos by either train or long-distance bus.
How to Travel Around
Public buses can take you to major areas in Ordos city center. To reach the surrounding attractions, taxis and ride-sharing services are recommended, or, for more convenience, you can also join a local guided tour with transportation and accommodation included. Below are detailed information to get to major tourist attractions from Ordos city center:
- Kangbashi Tourist Area: Close to the city center, it be easily reached by both taxi and public bus.
- Kubuqi Desert: About 180 km from the city center. It is recommended to reach there by hiring a car or using ride-sharing services or joining a local tour.
- Genghis Khan Mausoleum:About 60 km from the city center. You can take a tourist shuttle from Dongsheng District to reach here in about 1.5-2 hours. Or, hire a private car with a local driver or use a ride-sharing service to reach here within about 1 hour.
How Many Days to Stay in Ordos
The recommended duration is 3 – 5 days. The number of days is different, and so is the experience. 3 days are enough to plan an essence tour to the desert, the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan and urban landscapes. 4 days are the most recommended time and you can add the grassland to have a deeper cultural experience. If you have a 5-day vacation, include the more remote scenic spots or spend more time exploring the desert or grassland. The itinerary below is for your reference.
Day 1: Xiangshawan Scenic Area
Day 2: Ordos Grassland
Day 3: the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan – Head to Kangbashi District for night view
Day 4: Ordos Museum
Recommended tour: 5 Days Classic Inner Mongolia Tour with Leisure Hike
Accommodation in and around Ordos: Where to Stay
Choosing the living area is the first step of a perfect tour. In Ordos, Dongsheng District, Kangbashi District and the area near the scenic spots are the main options.
Dongsheng District is the old city center. Here, the hotel types range from international chain hotels to cost-effective economical hotels. You can also easily find several large shopping malls and restaurants. The nightlife is also more abundant.
Kangbashi District is the new district with modern facilities and an elegant environment. If living here, you will have a more leisurely experience.
For tourists who prefer a unique immersive experience, the hotels inside or near the scenic area are the first choices. Both Xiangshawan and Qixing Lake offer characteristic hotels, living in these hotels itself is the highlight of the tour.
FAQs about Ordos
Is it safe to visit Ordos?
Of course. During the tour, you just need to take care of your own body condition when visiting the desert and grassland.
What is the best way to experience the Kubuqi Desert?
The essence of the Kubuqi Desert is the Xiangshawan Scenic Area. To enjoy the most experiences, it is recommended to buy a ticket package of Xiansha Island and Yuesha Island and live in the resort inside the desert.
What local Mongolian food specialties should I try?
Hand-served mutton, roasted whole lamb, local milky tea and oat Noodles are unmissable.
What kind of cultural experiences, like festivals or performances, are available?
Naadam Festival, Ordos Wedding Song and Dance Performance and live-action equestrian show Hero are highlights in the Ordos tour.
Are there specific customs or etiquette I should be aware of, especially when visiting the Mausoleum of Genghis Khan or a yurt?
The Mausoleum of Genghis KhanĀ is the sacred land for Mongolians, so taking photos, shooting and speaking loudly are prohibited inside the main hall of the mausoleum palace. And do not point at the portraits or statues. When entering the yurt, do not step on the threshold.
Plan Your Inner Mongolia Adventure with China Xian Tour
Not only in Ordos, but in the whole Inner Mongolia, the attractions are scattered, so transportation is always the main problem for most tourists. And with profound culture, there are many historical backgrounds of the scenic areas, ethnic etiquette and cultural taboos tourists do not know, so a professional guide will offer much help. If travelling with China Xian Tour, we can arrange the driver and the guide for you. In addition, we will customize a trip to meet all your demands. So do not hesitate to contact us.
