Ordos Grassland

Historical Overview

This region holds 2,000 years of nomadic history:

• 13th Century: Genghis Khan established his imperial pasture here
• 16th Century: Site of the decisive "Battle of Ordos" between Mongol tribes
• 1949: Preserved as a cultural heritage zone under new China
• 2003: Designated a national eco-cultural reserve
• 2011: Hosted the International Naadam Festival with 23 participating countries

Structural Layout

The reserve operates through three integrated zones:

1. Cultural Core Zone (Central Area):
   • Naadam Festival Stadium (seats 35,000)
   • Genghis Khan Mausoleum Complex
2. Nomadic Life Zone (Eastern Area):
   • 200+ traditional gers with family-run homestays
   • Daily activities: dairy processing, felt making, archery
3. Adventure Zone (Western Area):
   • 1,200m² indoor equestrian arena
   • Off-road ATV trails spanning 30km

Key infrastructure includes:

• 8km wooden boardwalk through wetland ecosystems
• Solar-powered ger camp with 5-star amenities

Major Attractions

1. Naadam Festival: July's "Three Manly Games" - wrestling, archery, horse racing
2. Genghis Khan Square: Bronze statue complex with daily cavalry performances
3. Equestrian Center: Polo matches and trick riding demonstrations
4. Traditional Ger Village: Authentic nomadic dwellings with cultural workshops
5. Przewalski's Horse Reserve: Semi-wild horse breeding program
6. Desert-Grassland Transition Zone: Guided hikes through ecological boundary areas

Suggested Itineraries

1. Cultural Immersion (Half Day):
   Naadam Stadium → Genghis Khan Mausoleum → Ger Village Craft Workshop → Sunset Horseback Ride
   Highlights: Traditional singing and khoomei (throat singing) performances

2. Adventure Package (Full Day):
   ATV Desert Safari → Archery Lesson → Polo Match Viewing → Evening Bonfire with Nomadic Songs

3. Family Experience (2 Days):
   Day 1: Ger Camp Check-In → Milk tea Making → Horse Grooming
   Day 2: Felt Craft Workshop → Equestrian Show → Departure with Custom Souvenir

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip or Ordos Tourism Bureau Website (up to 20 days in advance)
• On-Site: Main Ticket Office (opens 7:30 AM)
• Prices:
  Festival Access: ¥280 (adults), ¥140 (students)
  Basic Entry: ¥150 (adults), ¥75 (students)
  Free: Children under 1.4m (with adult supervision)

Transportation

• By Air: Ordos Ejin Horo Airport (45-minute drive)
• By Train: High-speed rail to Ordos Station + 30-minute taxi
• By Car: 3.5-hour drive from Baotou City via G65 Expressway
• Shuttle Bus: Daily tours from Dongsheng District (¥100/person round-trip)

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Visit: June–September (Naadam Festival in July)
• Avoid Rainy Days: July–August thunderstorms affect outdoor activities
• Essentials:
  • Warm clothing (evening temperatures drop 15°C)
  • Cash for artisan vendors (limited card facilities)
  • Sun protection (UV index often exceeds 9)
• Prohibited: Off-trail camping, feeding wild animals, drone flying without permit

This grassland sanctuary offers an authentic immersion into Mongolian nomadic culture, where ancient traditions thrive alongside modern eco-tourism infrastructure.