Historical Overview
- Formation: Shaped over 10,000 years by glacial meltwater and nomadic grazing patterns.
- Nomadic Legacy: Home to the Khitan, Mongol, and Daur peoples, who developed sustainable pastoralism.
- Modern Conservation: Protected since 1992 as a national nature reserve, with 70% of its area designated for ecological restoration.
Structural Layout
The grassland is divided into three zones:
- Core Conservation: Protected meadows and wetlands (60% of the area), off-limits to vehicles.
- Eco-Tourism: Horse trails, camping sites, and cultural villages (e.g., Bulag Village).
- Cultural Experience: Nomadic ger camps, traditional wrestling arenas, and milk product workshops.
Major Attractions
- Wulaigai River: A 270-km-long river with crystal-clear waters, ideal for fishing and picnicking.
- Nine-Bend Lake: A series of oxbow lakes formed by ancient river shifts, popular for birdwatching.
- Bulag Village: A traditional Daur settlement offering archery, horseback riding, and folk performances.
- Naadam Festival Site: Witness wrestling, archery, and horse racing (July–August).
- Ecological Demo Zone: Learn about grassland restoration projects, including artificial grazing.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Half-Day Tour
Bulag Village → Wulaigai River → Nine-Bend Lake.
Highlight: Sunset horseback ride along the river.
- Full-Day Adventure
Ger camp stay → Archery lesson → Naadam Festival attendance (seasonal).
Add-on: Visit a local family to make milk tofu.
- Comprehensive 2-Day Expedition
Day 1: Core Zone hiking and wildlife spotting.
Day 2: Cultural village tour + overnight ger stay with stargazing.
Ticket Purchase
- Standard Entry: ¥100 (peak season: Jun–Sep), ¥60 (off-season: Oct–May).
- Special Passes:
- ¥180 (2-day eco-pass + ger stay).
- ¥280 (3-day cultural pass with guide).
- Discounts: Free for children under 1.2m; 50% off for students/seniors.
Transportation
- By Air: Fly to Hailar (HLD), then 1.5-hour taxi to Wulaigai.
- By Train: High-speed rail from Beijing (6 hrs) to Hailar Station.
- Local Transport: Private horseback tours (¥200–300/day) or 4x4 vehicles.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Season: Jun–Sep (wildflowers bloom; Naadam Festival).
- Avoid Crowds: Early mornings (7–9 AM) for photography; weekdays quieter.
- Essentials:
- Warm clothing (temperatures drop 10°C after sunset).
- Respect nomadic traditions: remove shoes before entering gers.