Name: Ulanqab

Chinese Name: 乌兰察布市

Region: Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 54,491 inhabitants

Area: 2,143,590 km²

Ulanqab is a rural region in Inner Mongolia east of Hohhot, located less than 400 km from Beijing. Dominated by untamed nature, the region is characterized by endless steppes, forests, lakes, and mountains.

During a stay in Inner Mongolia, venture into the Mongolian wilderness of the Ulanqab region, which showcases rich and varied landscapes.

Ulanqab's Natural Landscape

Ulanqab or Ulaan Chab, meaning "red mountain pass," is a sparsely populated prefecture formed by impressive natural scenery.

Just 350 km from China's capital, Ulanqab offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban frenzy for a few days.

Beyond the steppes that stretch to the horizon, Ulaan Chab reveals impressive natural sites composed of volcanoes, mountains, lakes, and dense forests. In autumn, the landscape is draped in fall colors, adding to the spectacle.

The region is home to grasslands now famous as Gegentala and Huitengxile. You may encounter nomadic herders and experience an unforgettable time in their company. Spend a night in traditional Mongolian yurts and wake at dawn in a landscape free from urbanization, where nature reigns supreme.

You can take advantage of the vast expanses for horseback riding and breathe in the pure air.

If you travel to Inner Mongolia during the Naadam National Festival, you can witness the festivities and discover the main Mongolian activities: horse racing, Mongolian wrestling, archery, traditional songs and dances. The festival will immerse you in the heart of Mongolian traditions for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Climate

The climate of the Ulanqab region is shaped by its geographical location. Its cold semi-arid climate is marked by long, cold, dry winters and fairly warm, humid summers. Wind can blow strongly in spring, and occasional rain may occur.

The best time to experience Ulanqab's steppes is from June to September when temperatures are pleasant. However, after nightfall, temperatures can drop significantly. Pack warm clothing for the evenings. Early autumn is also an interesting time to see the landscapes transform, though temperatures drop quickly.

Despite being remote and largely rural, the Ulanqab region is relatively well-served by transportation.

The city of Ulaan Chab sits on the Beijing-Baotou railway line, as well as the Jining-Erlianhot and Jining-Tongliao lines. Major national highways also pass through the region, making it easily accessible from Beijing, Hohhot, and other cities in the autonomous region.

It is preferable to travel across the steppes by four-wheel-drive vehicle or adapted van.

What to Do in Ulanqab?

• Escape all urban influence in the plains of Huitengxile.
• Spend a night in a yurt in the Gegentala steppes.

Discover everything there is to do in Ulanqab.