Yinken Tara Desert Eco-Cultural Tourism Area Travel Guide

【Introduction】Hey guys, you must visit Yinken Tara to experience the unique charm of the desert! Located in Zhandanzhao Sumu, Dalad Banner, Ordos City, at the eastern end of the Kubuqi Desert, this place boasts vast, undulating sand dunes. When you slide down from the top, the sand produces a magical "humming" sound, like a unique concert. "Yinken Tara" means "auspicious grassland" in Mongolian—though grasslands are rare here now, the desert offers its own distinctive allure. Plus, it holds several world records, such as the world's tallest obo (Yinken Obo) and the world's longest desert cableway (Yinken Tara Cableway)—absolutely breathtaking! 🕘【Opening Hours】 Generally open from April 20 to October 10, 07:30–18:30; from October 11 to April 19 the following year, 08:30–17:30. Closed on October 25, 2024, for upgrades; check the official WeChat account for 2025 reopening details. Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours. For a deeper experience, spend a full day—dawn and dusk offer soft lighting for stunning photos. Note: Summer midday temperatures are extreme, so take sun and heat precautions. 💴【Ticket Prices】 Entry: ¥40/person. Cableway: ¥90/person (students get 50% off; disabled visitors and children enter free). Prices are stable, but check Ctrip for discounts—combo tickets (entry + activities) offer great value. ⛺【Activities】 **Sand Sliding**: Zoom down towering dunes on a sled for thrilling speed and the sand’s unique "singing" sound. Hold tight and balance for maximum fun! **Camel Riding**: Stroll the sandy sea like a nomad. Best at dawn/dusk for photos and comfort. **Desert Off-Roading**: Race over dunes for adrenaline-pumping drops and climbs (not for those with heart conditions/high blood pressure). **Desert Cableway**: Glide 2,495m (35 mins) at ~10m height, soaking in panoramic views en route to the play zone. **Desert Team-Building**: Challenge yourself with collaborative exercises—perfect for groups or families. **Suggested Itinerary**: Start with the cableway for an overview, then camel riding, followed by sand sliding/off-roading, and wrap up with team activities. 🚌【Transport】 **Ctrip Group Tours**: - Hassle-free: No transit/ticket worries; expert guides handle logistics and storytelling. - Safe: Licensed buses + experienced drivers; desert safety tips included. - Great value: Often cheaper than DIY, with meal/accommodation packages. **DIY Options**: - **Drive**: ~3–4 hrs from Hohhot (navigate to "Yinken Tara Desert Eco-Cultural Tourism Area"). Rest stops recommended. - **Public Transit**: Reach Dalad Banner first, then take a shuttle/taxi (limited schedules; taxis cost more). 👉【Nearby Attractions】 - **Xiangshawan (Singing Sand Bay)**: Another "singing" dune spot with fun activities—check Ctrip for combo tickets. - **Engebei Desert Science Museum**: Learn about desert ecology/formation—budget-friendly for families/students. 🧡【Packing List】 - **Sun Protection**: SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brim hat, sunglasses, UV clothing, and a buff for sand/wind. - **Sand Gear**: High-top shoes/shoe covers; phone sandproof bag. - **Clothing**: Light layers (cool mornings/hot days); bright colors (red/white) for photos. - **Essentials**: Large water bottle, snacks, power bank (weak signal drains phones), wet wipes.