Hulunbuir Grassland

Background

The heart of the Hulunbuir Grassland lies west of Hailar District and across Chen Barag Banner, New Barag Left Banner, New Barag Right Banner, Evenk Autonomous Banner, Ergun City and nearby areas. The grassland is named after Hulun Lake and Buir Lake; according to tourism sources, it is one of the world's famous natural pastures, covering about 100,000 square kilometres, with more than 3,000 rivers and more than 500 lakes (figures for reference only). It has long been home to Mongols and other nomadic peoples, and yurts, horse culture, milk tea and roast lamb, long song and the horse-head fiddle are familiar parts of grassland life; the summer Naadam festival brings together traditional contests such as horse racing, wrestling and archery. Tourism sources often link the Ergun River basin with the early life of Genghis Khan; accounts of his exact movements vary, and archaeological and historical research is the authority.

Local customs

• Drive or hire a car along the grassland roads to see the meandering Morigele River and the Ergun wetlands
• spend a night in a yurt with a registered herding family or at a scenic area and enjoy the bonfire and starry sky
• ride horses and watch the herds of cattle and sheep, the sunrise and the sunset (ride only at a registered riding ground and wear protective gear).

Travel tips

• Days and nights differ greatly in temperature on the grassland, so bring a jacket plus sun and insect protection even in summer
• sights are far apart, so allow 3–5 days and book accommodation and a car with driver in advance
• the grass is slippery after rain, so take care when walking or riding. Most visitors first fly or take the train to Hailar, then hire a car, drive or join a tour to the grassland scenic areas
• grassland and border roads can be tricky, so if you are unfamiliar with them, hire a local driver. For tickets and other fees, refer to official announcements.
• June to September, when the grass is green, flowers bloom and the weather is cool, is the traditional peak season
• November to February is the snowfield season and bitterly cold, so prepare thoroughly for the cold
• according to tourism sources, mid-to-late May and mid-September are also fairly comfortable.