Beyond the grasslands and deserts, Inner Mongolia has rich urban and cultural highlights — the capital Hohhot, historic monasteries, and the traditions of the region. Here's more of the guide.
Hohhot — 'the blue city' — is Inner Mongolia's capital, a blend of Han and Mongolian culture. Its temples, museums, and food markets make it a rewarding stop.
Hohhot is home to notable Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, including the Dazhao and the Five Pagoda Temple (Wuta Si), with its distinctive pagoda-and-temple complex.
The Inner Mongolia Museum in Hohhot tells the story of the region — from the dinosaurs of the Gobi to the rise of Genghis Khan and the Mongol empire.
Throughout the region, travelers can experience Mongolian culture — throat singing, the Morin khuur (horse-head fiddle), wrestling, and the famous Mongolian cuisine of lamb and dairy.
The Naadam festival is the great summer celebration. The grassland regions also host horse festivals and traditional ceremonies that welcome visitors.
Combine Hohhot with the nearby grasslands for a classic Inner Mongolia itinerary. The best visiting seasons are summer for the grasslands and autumn for the deserts and temples.