a) Easily connect Beijing, Datong, Ulanqab, Ordos, and Hohhot by high-speed train.
b Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Summer Palace, and the Yungang Grottoes, as well as natural wonders like the Xiangshawan Desert and the Xilamuren Grasslands.
c) Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of Inner Mongolia's Mongolian ethnic groups and savor local dairy products on-site.
d) Enjoy the flexibility to explore at your own pace during the tour with the assistance of a private guide and driver.
Upon your arrival at Beijing airport or train station, our guide will be waiting for you with a personalized sign displaying your name. They will then escort you to your hotel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
Take some time to rest at the hotel and recuperate from any jet lag you may be experiencing.
After breakfast, we'll start with Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest city squares, covering nearly 40 hectares. Then, we'll explore the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, an impressive imperial palace from the Ming and Qing dynasties, boasting grand palaces. We'll also ascend Jingshan Park for the best view of the Forbidden City.
Lunch at a local restaurant will feature the renowned Beijing delicacy, Peking Duck.
In the afternoon, our next stop is the Temple of Heaven, known for its distinctive blue hue and a hotspot for photographers. At the east gate, you'll observe locals participating in various activities like music, card games, sword dancing, and gymnastics.
Following breakfast, we'll make our way to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a well-preserved and less crowded section dating back to the Ming dynasty. We'll ascend using a cable car, trek along the wall, and leisurely capture its majestic beauty through photographs.
Afterward, return to the city to visit the Summer Palace, passing by the Bird's Nest and Water Cube, iconic structures from the 2008 Olympics. The Summer Palace, a Qing dynasty imperial garden, features stunning palaces and pavilions. We'll also enjoy a brief cruise on Kunming Lake (note: winter may affect cruise availability).
In the morning, we'll visit Yonghe Temple, a unique Lama Temple in Beijing and the former residence of Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing dynasty. Notably, it houses the world's largest wooden Buddha, carved from a single piece of sandalwood. We'll then explore the historic Hutongs, gaining insights into local life and Beijing's history. In the afternoon, we'll take a high-speed train to Datong for an overnight stay.
Today, our itinerary includes two Datong gems. First, the Yungang Grottoes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001, boast an array of Buddha statues intricately carved into rock, ranking among China's top four significant grotto complexes.
Next, we'll explore the Hanging Monastery, an architectural marvel perched on a cliff since 491 AD. Combining elements of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, it stands as a majestic temple within Shanxi province.
Later in the day, our journey takes us to the Earthen Forest, celebrated for its distinctive and picturesque terrain. Weather permitting, this locale promises superb photography opportunities.
We'll begin by visiting Shanhua Monastery, a significant Datong landmark known as the Southern Monastery. This monastery boasts three main palaces adorned with exquisite Buddha statues. It stands as the largest and most well-preserved structure dating back to the Liao and Jin dynasties in China. Following our exploration of the monastery, we'll venture to Datong's Ancient City Wall, situated in the heart of the city. The remaining portion of this wall was constructed during the Ming dynasty, and you have the option to explore the city by biking along the walls. In the evening, the illuminated city wall provides a stunning photo opportunity.
Around noon, we'll catch a high-speed train from Datong to Hohhot and spend the night in Hohhot.
Following breakfast, our journey will take us to the Chahaer Volcano Crater in Ulanqab, specifically within the Wulanhada Volcano Park. This captivating destination is located approximately 240 km from Hohhot and will require about 4 hours of travel time. Ulanqab is renowned for its expansive grasslands and pristine volcano craters, which remain relatively untouched. The Chahaer Volcano Crater, nestled amidst the grasslands, seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape, offering an exceptional opportunity to explore the charm of Ulanqab. Following our visit, we will return to Hohhot.
Today promises a delightful grassland adventure. In the morning, we will embark on a 2-hour car journey to reach the Xilamuren Grassland, the nearest grassland to Hohhot. Upon arrival, a warm welcome ceremony awaits you, followed by a visit to a local Mongolian family. You'll have the opportunity to savor dairy products, taste fresh yogurt, and leisurely stroll through the picturesque grasslands. As the day transitions into evening, a memorable experience unfolds with a bonfire gathering where local Mongol residents come together to sing and dance. Your overnight stay will be in a traditional yurt.
For those seeking outdoor thrills, optional activities such as horseback riding are available (please note that these activities are not included in the package but can be arranged on-site with safety as a priority).
In the morning, take a moment to relish the tranquility of the Xilamuren Grasslands before our return to Hohhot.
Following breakfast, our next destination is the Genghis Khan Mausoleum, which is accessible from the Xilamuren Grasslands and requires approximately 4 hours of travel. Genghis Khan, a legendary Mongol hero, played a pivotal role in uniting the Inner Mongolia prairie and contributing significantly to the establishment of the Yuan dynasty. During the 1.5-hour visit, you'll delve into Genghis Khan's history and soak in the stunning landscapes.
Our journey then continues to the Xiangshawan Dunes in Kubuqi. Here, a cable car ride will treat you to a breathtaking panoramic vista of the Xiangshawan Desert. For those with diverse interests, optional activities are available, including camel riding, sandboarding, beach buggy rides, and railbike adventures.
After this memorable visit, we will make our way back to Hohhot. Then you can board an evening train back to Beijing or stay overnight for transport the next morning.
a) All the visits mentioned in the itinerary.
b) Train tickets: Beijing - Datong, Datong - Hohhot, Hohhot – Beijing.
c) Meals mentioned in local restaurants with one local drink per meal.
d) Transfers and ground transportation by car, minibus, or bus depending on the group size.
e) Hotel room, based on a double room with one double bed or two single beds. Breakfast included.
f) Generally, the service of English-speaking local guides.
g) Accident insurance during the trip in China.
a) Visa fees.
b) Round-trip international airfare.
c) Personal expenses.
d) Tips for guides, drivers, and baggage handlers; tips are not mandatory but are encouraged for their service.
The best time to visit for nice weather and seeing the steppes is from May to October.
You can do lots of outdoor activities in the grasslands and desert. Have fun, but be safe.
We can help you find hotels you'll like.
15 days before commencement of services: 100% refund.
7 to 14 days before commencement of services: charge 10% of the tour price.
2 to 6 days before commencement of services: charge 50% of the tour price.
Within 2 days of commencement of services or no-show travelers: charge 100% of the tour price.
After the trip has commenced, we are unable to refund any amount for unused services due to your willingness, early departure, late arrival, or missed days on tours.
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