Inner Mongolia is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, home to landscapes so unique that they can’t be found anywhere else in the world. From vast grasslands and golden forests to volcanic peaks and towering desert dunes, the region offers seven world-class wonders that captivate travelers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. These seven natural spectacles showcase the raw power and beauty of Inner Mongolia, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable adventure.
No.1 Hulunbuir Grassland | China’s Vastest Prairie
The Hulunbuir Grassland is one of the largest and most breathtaking grasslands in China, stretching endlessly toward the horizon. It is as if nature has rolled out a giant green carpet, merging seamlessly with the sky. When the wind sweeps across the prairie, waves of grass ripple like a living ocean, releasing the fresh scent of grass and earth. The Morigele River, known as the “World’s Most Winding River,” meanders gracefully across the grassland, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky and clouds.
Herds of cattle and sheep graze peacefully, while horses occasionally thunder past, hooves echoing across the prairie. Scattered yurts release smoke that hints at daily life, while local herders welcome visitors with steaming milk tea and sweet dairy treats. Top Experiences:
• Horseback Riding: Gallop across the open plains and feel the exhilaration of freedom.
• ATV & Go-Kart Adventures: Speed through the grasslands while feeling the wind rush past.
• Bonfire Evenings: Gather around a roaring fire at night, sing, dance, and enjoy roasted whole lamb.
• Grass Sledding: A family-friendly activity children adore.
• Yurt Visits: Step inside a traditional Mongolian yurt, taste milk tea, and savor hand-pulled meat for an authentic nomadic experience.
• Nature Exploration: Take a boat along the Morigele River, visit Hulun Lake, or observe the Erguna Wetlands from a scenic viewpoint.
No.2 Wulan Hada Volcano | Brave Visitors Try the Volcanic Ash
Located in Chifeng, the Wulan Hada Volcano Group is an otherworldly destination resembling the surface of Mars. Each volcano in the group is unique, almost as if it has its own serial number. Black volcanic rocks cover the slopes, creating a mysterious and dramatic terrain.
Must-Visit Volcanoes:
• Volcano No. 4: The visitor center with dining and shopping options.
• Volcano No. 3 (North Alchemy Furnace): The only volcano with a walkway to the summit, featuring a famous red phone booth for photos. Inside the crater, a sacred Ovoo allows visitors to make wishes by walking clockwise three times.
• Volcano No. 5: Best-preserved cone offering panoramic views of the volcanic group, especially at sunset.
• Volcano No. 6 (South Alchemy Furnace): Featured on China National Geography, it’s the “most beautiful volcano.” Visitors can rent astronaut suits for fun photos or take helicopter tours (499 RMB/person).
• Volcanoes No. 7–8: Sharp volcanic rocks and agates line the trails, along with scenic roads perfect for photography and go-kart rides.
NO.3 Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest | A 21-Day Golden Spectacle
Every September, the Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest transforms into a sea of gold as the first frost arrives. These ancient trees follow a unique lifecycle: grow for a thousand years, stand dead for a thousand years, and lie undisturbed for another thousand. This fleeting 21-day autumn spectacle is a must-see natural wonder.
Admission: 240 RMB (includes shuttle)
Recommended Visit: Half-day to full-day
Top Spots Along the “Eight Bridges” Trail:
• Bridge 1 – Taolai Forest: Perfect for a gentle autumn stroll.
• Bridge 2 – Reflection Forest: Golden trees mirrored in water, creating a serene scene.
• Bridge 3 – Red Willow Sea: Red willows contrast beautifully with golden poplars.
• Bridge 4 – Hero Forest: Epic backdrops for photography, used in the movie Hero.
• Bridge 7 – Dream Forest: Early-turning yellow trees kissed by sunlight.
• Bridge 8 – Desert Forest: Adjacent to the Badain Jaran Desert; visitors can ride camels, explore desert trails, take small plane tours, or encounter “Transformers” installations.
(Bridges 5 and 6 are less famous and visually similar to the other bridges, so they are often omitted in travel highlights.)
No.4 Askhatu Stone Forest | Step into a 200-Million-Year-Old World
The Askhatu Stone Forest in Chifeng’s Keshiketeng Banner is a rare granite formation sculpted by glaciers millions of years ago. Its Mongolian name means “steep rocks.” Unlike vertical stone formations elsewhere, Askhatu features horizontal layered patterns, forming a unique UNESCO Global Geopark.
The stone clusters form winding corridors and scattered formations, blending with the grasslands and sky for breathtaking scenery.
Admission: 160 RMB (includes shuttle)
Top Experiences:
• Walk Through Stone Corridors: Discover bizarre formations shaped by ancient glaciers.
• Spot Wildlife: Reindeer and hares roam among birch forests.
• Climb Northern Ridge: At 1,700 meters, enjoy sweeping views of the Gongger Grassland.
• Photography: Sunset casts golden light on the rocks, contrasting beautifully with the prairie.
No.5 Arxan Shitang Forest | Asia’s Largest Volcanic Lava Terrain
Arxan Shitang Forest on the southwestern slope of the Greater Khingan Mountains is a vast, well-preserved volcanic lava landscape. Formed in the Quaternary period, it is Asia’s largest dormant basalt terrain, a living museum of geology and ecology.
The Halahar River flows through the forest, sometimes aboveground, sometimes underground, creating scattered lakes and ponds. Larch trees grow from cracks in volcanic rock, and resilient pines cling to the stones, adding life to the landscape.
Top Experiences:
• Explore Lava Formations: Walk among volcanic remnants millions of years old.
• Enjoy Rivers & Lakes: Sparkling ponds dot the forest, surrounded by black rock and greenery.
• Experience Forest Life: Larch trees and pines showcase nature’s resilience.
• Photography: The contrast between dark volcanic rocks and lush vegetation is striking.
No.6 Badain Jaran Desert | The World’s Tallest Desert
The Badain Jaran Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the world’s tallest sand dunes. Towering dunes, hidden lakes, “singing sands,” and pristine springs combine to create a wild and majestic environment.
Top Experiences:
• Sand Peaks: Bilutu Peak rises to 1,611 meters, often called the “Mount Everest of Sand.”
• Desert Lakes: 144 scattered lakes, blue or green, appear like jewels amid golden dunes.
• Singing Sand: Slide down the dunes and hear the sands hum—a rare natural phenomenon.
• Springs: Yinderitu Lake’s 108 small springs provide precious fresh water in the desert.
As the locals say, ‘After traveling through many deserts, it is only when you return to Badain Jaran that you truly appreciate its towering dunes and untamed wilderness. Here, you can witness the ever-changing play of lakes and sand, as well as experience the stirring stillness and vastness of the desert.’
Best Time to Visit: Spring or autumn for pleasant weather.
No.7 Daqinggou | A Primeval Forest in Desert Latitude
Daqinggou is the only preserved desert forest at this latitude, known as the “Desert Sanctuary, Northern Wonderland.” A canyon trail winds through streams and lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape in the desert.
Admission: 50 RMB
Parking: 10 RMB
Other Activities: Rafting, horseback riding, bonfire nights
Top Experiences:
• Canyon Hiking: Explore boardwalks lined with ancient trees, streams, and dense forest.
• Rafting Adventures: Float along canyon streams for a refreshing experience.
• Horseback Riding: Ride through trails and valleys like northern nomads.
• Bonfire Evenings: Gather around a fire at night under the starry sky.
• Wildlife Observation: Spot birds, small mammals, and rare plants; perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Inner Mongolia offers a stunning variety of landscapes—from grasslands and golden forests to volcanoes, lava fields, deserts, and rivers—making it one of China’s most unique travel destinations. Every wonder reveals the region’s raw beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.