The Hexigten Global Geopark extends across 1,750 km² north of Chifeng, in Inner Mongolia. Recognized by UNESCO in 2005, it brings together in eight sectors a rare sample of geological formations: glacial relief, granite forest, volcanic landscapes, hot springs, dunes and a vast steppe lake.

Why visit Hexigten Geopark

• Geological diversity: eight distinct zones across 1,750 km², from granite forest to glacial cirques.
• International recognition: China's National Geopark since December 10, 2001 and UNESCO Global Geopark since February 11, 2005.
• Dali Nur Lake, Inner Mongolia's second largest lake, dotted with islets that are ancient volcanoes.
• Mount Huanggangliang, the highest peak of the Great Khingan range at 2,029 meters.
• Human heritage: a section of the Great Wall tracing the Xilamulun River, vestiges of the Khitan people.

History and recognition

The park was named « China's National Geopark » by the Ministry of Land and Resources on December 10, 2001, then designated « Global Geopark » by UNESCO on February 11, 2005. The reliefs visible today formed during the Quaternary period, over the past two to three million years, under the influence of glacial cycles and volcanic activity.

The banks of the Xar Moron (or Xilamulun) River were once inhabited by the Khitan people, founders of the Liao dynasty (10th–12th century). A section of the Great Wall winds through the mountains along the river course, bearing witness to successive boundaries between the steppe and the Chinese empire.

What to see in the eight sectors

The Arshihaty granite forest

Located in the park's northern reaches, this stone forest consists of granite columns sculpted by glacial cycles and erosion. Its Mongolian name « Ashihatu » means « steep peaks ». Some blocks bear evocative nicknames such as « moonlight castle » or « eagles with folded wings ».

The Qingshan granite reliefs

The Qingshan zone spans nearly 2 km² of granitic rock carved by erosion. It features approximately 300 circular cavities averaging 50 cm in size, forming nest-like formations in the rock, often filled with rainwater and colonized by sparse vegetation.

Dali Nur Lake

Inner Mongolia's second largest lake, Dali Nur covers an estimated area of 240 km². Its small islets are ancient volcanoes, and its northwestern shore is dominated by a basalt plateau. The site is a nature reserve for abundant migratory fauna, particularly waterfowl.

Mount Huanggangliang

The highest peak of the Great Khingan range, Mount Huanggangliang rises to 2,029 meters. Between 1,500 and 1,700 meters elevation, zones of permafrost persist, a remnant of the last glacial period — a rarity at this latitude.

The Pingdingshan glacial cirques

In the southeastern reaches of Hexigten Banner, the Pingdingshan Quaternary cirques stand as major evidence of northern Chine's glacial history.

The Reshuitang hot springs

In the park's eastern section, the Reshuitang hot water springs have long supplied baths and offer a welcome rest stop after high-altitude hiking.

The Xilamulun River gorge

The Xar Moron / Xilamulun River flows northeast, carving a deep canyon in the park's southwestern reach. It is in this zone that the Great Wall traces the ridgeline.

The Hunshandak Desert

The Hunshandak ranks among Chine's four largest sandy expanses. It is an ecologically sensitive zone: the proportion of territory occupied by mobile dunes rose from 2% to 33% between 1960 and 2000, chiefly due to overgrazing.

When to visit

The favorable window extends from June to October. Summer (July–August) brings verdant grasslands and mild temperatures at altitude, ideal for hiking. September and October tint the Great Khingan forests in gold and orange, with cool nights beginning to settle. Spring remains windy and vegetation slow to emerge. Winter is long, bitter and prone to blizzards; most sectors become difficult to access.

Practical information

• Duration of visit: plan for a minimum of 2 to 3 days to explore three or four main sectors; a week for an in-depth visit of all eight zones, which are distant from one another.
• Accommodation: guesthouses and tourist yurts (nadam) in towns near the main sectors; more complete hotels in Jingpeng and Chifeng.
• Equipment: windproof and warm clothing even in summer (altitude, steppe winds), good hiking boots, sun protection, ample water.
• Rates: paid entry by sector at moderate prices; budget more substantially for internal transport due to distances.
• Internal transport: private vehicle or organized tour strongly recommended, distances between sectors often exceed 100 km.

How to get there

From Chifeng: the city is the primary gateway. Allow approximately 4 to 6 hours of road travel to the heart of Hexigten Banner (Jingpeng), depending on the target sector. Long-distance buses and cars with drivers service the area.

From Beijing: Chifeng is linked to the capital by train (approximately 8 to 10 hours) and by air (flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes). From Chifeng, transport to the park must then be arranged.

Nearby attractions

• Chifeng, the base city for exploring Hexigten Banner.
• Baigongfang Craft Museum, to understand regional craftsmanship.
• Beishan Temple, an example of religious architecture in northern Chine.
• Beijing Botanical Garden, a possible stop before or after a stay in Inner Mongolia.

Frequently asked questions

Plan your trip

Hexigten Geopark integrates naturally into an itinerary linking Beijing to Inner Mongolia. To build a bespoke journey including Chifeng, the steppes and major northern sites, consult our travels in Chine.