Vast skies, boundless grasslands, where the wind parts the grass to reveal herds of cattle and sheep! The Inner Mongolia Grasslands have long been a mysterious place I've yearned to visit. The beautiful Xilamuren Grassland offered a boundless expanse where I felt I could soar freely, with nothing but the blue sky, white clouds, and the company of my loved one.
The grassland is situated in southeastern Baotou, Inner Mongolia. In Mongolian, 'Xilamuren' means 'Yellow River,' and it's also commonly known as 'Zhaoge River.' Its name comes from the Puhui Temple, a Qing Dynasty lama temple located right on the Xilamuren River.
The Xilamuren Grassland is a typical 'plateau grassland,' with average temperatures ranging from 18-21 degrees Celsius, making for pleasantly cool mornings and evenings. With an average elevation of 1700 meters, it's surrounded by rolling hills and features lush, verdant grasslands.
You'll find herds of cattle and horses grazing freely. Riding horseback across the grassland allows you to truly experience the free-spirited nature of the Mongolian people. The rows of yurts are clean and well-kept. The lamb here comes from free-range sheep, and dishes like 'hand-pulled lamb' (shoubaya rou) paired with milk tea offer an authentic taste of Mongolian cuisine. It's incredibly delicious and surprisingly not greasy! Anyone visiting Xilamuren Grassland absolutely *must* try the local lamb – you won't find this unique flavor back in the city!
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