Key points: Complete guide to avoiding pitfalls on the grasslands around Hohhot

👇Comparison of grasslands in and around Hohhot: 1️⃣ Xilamuren Grassland: Closest to Hohhot (about 100 km), famous for the "Yellow River," suitable for first-time visitors to experience grassland culture. Featured activities include horseback riding (60-200 RMB/hour), Mongolian yurt accommodation (300-1000 RMB), and bonfire parties. 2️⃣ Gegentala Grassland: Located in Siziwang Banner (140 km from Hohhot), hosts the grand Nadam Festival every August, where you can experience traditional activities like horse racing and wrestling. The Mongolian-style architectural complex is very distinctive. 3️⃣ Huitengxile Grassland: Alpine meadow landscape (altitude 2100 meters), known as a "grassland summer resort." The Huanghuagou scenic area includes volcanic canyons and birch forests with unique landforms. The popular small train is a highlight for photos. 4⃣ Chilechuan Grassland: Lush green grass and blooming wildflowers in summer; in autumn, golden wheat waves and fiery red burning bush create a unique landscape. You can watch the "Eternal Horse Ode" horse dance drama; experience horseback riding, horse racing, wooden boardwalk strolls, and driverless sightseeing cars. 👉Recommended itinerary Day 1: First experience at Xilamuren Grassland Morning: Depart from Hohhot (1.5-hour drive), receive a welcome ceremony with horse milk wine, then check into a Mongolian yurt. Afternoon: Experience horseback riding across the grassland, shoot the sunset in the evening (wear bright clothes for better photos). Evening: Taste hand-held mutton and salty milk tea, join the bonfire party. Day 2: In-depth cultural tour of Gegentala Morning: Drive 2 hours to visit the traditional Mongolian architectural complex, try archery and the lele cart. Afternoon: Visit a herder’s family, learn to make dairy products, and photograph the grassland starry sky at dusk. Day 3: Natural exploration of Huitengxile All day: Tour Huanghuagou scenic area (ticket 90 RMB), take the small train through flower seas, hike volcanic canyons, return to Hohhot in the evening. Optional: If time allows, add a day to visit the nearby Ulanhada volcanic group. Day 4: Special experience at Chilechuan Grassland All day: Enjoy natural scenery, horseback riding, and featured activities; especially Sarin Lake, an important stopover for migratory birds, equipped with birdwatching platforms and telescopes, ideal for family nature education. Evening: Return to Hohhot, enjoy specialty foods like ice-boiled lamb or steamed dumplings. 📷Photography tips: 1️⃣ Best light is early morning and evening; use side backlighting to outline silhouettes. 2️⃣ Wear bright clothes or ethnic costumes. 3️⃣ Prepare props like pinwheels and balloons. 4⃣ The pavilion at Chilechuan Grassland and the summit of Huanghuowo Pu Mountain are the best spots for photos. 📌Practical information 1️⃣ Transportation: Recommended to charter a car (about 500 RMB/day) or join local tours; self-driving requires caution as signal is weak in grassland areas. 2️⃣ Weather: In September, daytime temperatures are about 18-24°C, dropping to around 10°C at night; bring windproof jackets and sun protection. 3️⃣ Budget reference: About 1500-2000 RMB per person for 3 days and 2 nights (including food, accommodation, transportation, and basic activities). 4⃣ Important tips: There are many mosquitoes on the grasslands, so bring insect repellent; respect herders’ customs and do not trample the grasslands indiscriminately. 5⃣ Special reminders: • Due to summer tourist trampling, many areas have exposed soil; perfectionists should avoid these spots. • Grassland sanitation facilities are basic; areas with horses have a lot of manure. The worst are the simple toilets, which are dirty and smelly, with broken door latches—someone outside usually has to hold the door shut. Those with cleanliness concerns should be cautious. • For comfort and cleanliness, travelers are advised to stay in city hotels such as Inner Mongolia Xincheng Hotel or Velis Hotel, rather than Mongolian yurts. ♥️Summary: Hope this guide helps everyone avoid pitfalls and have a pleasant trip 😊