Xilamuren Grassland

希拉穆仁草原

A vast and accessible grassland reserve just two hours from Hohhot, offering authentic experiences of traditional Mongolian nomadic life including horseback riding and yurt stays. It is the most popular grassland destination for visitors seeking genuine cultural immersion without traveling far from the capital.

Things to do

• Horseback Riding Across the Grassland — Guided rides through the rolling grassland landscape, ranging from one-hour excursions to full-day adventures suited to all skill levels.
• Yurt Stay Experience — Overnight accommodation in traditional Mongolian gers (yurts) with families, including meals and insight into pastoral daily life.
• Mongolian Archery — Learn traditional composite bow archery techniques under instruction, a skill central to Mongolian heritage and warrior culture.
• Grassland Photography — Capture sweeping vistas of rolling grassland, especially during golden hour, with opportunities to photograph traditional herding practices.
• Camel Trekking — Ride Bactrian camels across sections of the grassland for a slower-paced alternative to horseback exploration.
• Cultural Performance Evening — Watch traditional Mongolian throat singing, contortionist acts, and folk dances performed nightly at the main lodge venues.
• Eagle Hunting Demonstration — Observe trained golden eagles and learn about the historical hunting methods of Mongolian herders during seasonal demonstrations.
• Dairy Production Visit — Visit local herding families to learn how fermented mare's milk (airag) and traditional dairy products are prepared and made.

Food to try

• Mongolian Mutton Hot Pot — Sliced lamb cooked in a simmering broth at the table with vegetables and noodles, a warming grassland staple.
• Airag (Fermented Mare's Milk) — A slightly alcoholic beverage made from fermented horse milk that is traditionally served in yurts and considered medicinal.
• Buuz (Mongolian Dumplings) — Steamed dumplings filled with mutton and onions, a comfort food commonly served at family meals throughout the grassland.
• Roasted Lamb Leg (Khot Khog) — Whole or large sections of lamb roasted over open fire with minimal seasoning, served communally at grassland banquets.
• Aaruul (Dried Curds) — Sweet or salty sun-dried milk curds that are crisp and tangy, a traditional snack and energy food for herders.
• Noodle Soup with Grassland Herbs — Hand-pulled noodles in mutton broth infused with wild grassland herbs and foraged botanicals for flavor and wellness properties.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Livestock and Herding Practices — Do not interfere with grazing animals or herding activities; ask permission before approaching or photographing herds or families at work.
• Embrace the Communal Dining Tradition — Meals are shared family-style from central platters; accept offerings graciously and avoid leaving food uneaten, as it is considered wasteful.
• Dress Appropriately for the Grassland Climate — Bring layers and weather-resistant clothing as grassland weather changes rapidly; Mongolian herders dress functionally in long deels (robes) for protection.
• Learn Basic Mongolian Greetings — Simple phrases like 'Sain baina uu' (hello) and 'Bayrlaala' (thank you) are deeply appreciated and enhance cultural connections with local families.