Ulan Butong is incredibly beautiful, but I honestly do not recommend going in January because..........
Ulan Butong Travel Guide (Including Price References)
Ulan Butong, a hidden grassland paradise located in Keshiketeng Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, attracts countless visitors with its magnificent natural scenery, rich historical heritage, and unique ethnic customs. Below is a detailed travel guide for Ulan Butong, covering attractions, transportation, accommodation, and food consumption references.
1. Must-Visit Attractions and Price References
1. General’s Pond
General’s Pond is one of the iconic attractions of Ulan Butong, named after General Tong Guogang, the uncle of Emperor Kangxi, who fought fiercely here. The lake has a wide surface reflecting distant mountains and clouds, making it an excellent spot for sunrise and sunset photography. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage or ride horses to the lakeside to experience the vastness and grandeur of the grassland. Horse riding costs about 80 RMB/hour, with an additional 20 RMB for horse leading.
2. Princess Lake
Princess Lake has clear water surrounded by grasslands with beautiful scenery. After 4 PM, sunlight filters through the birch forest, creating blue-green ripples on the lake surface, a breathtaking sight. Visitors can rent Mongolian robes here for photos to experience the grassland culture. The rental fee for Mongolian robes is about 80 RMB/hour, including makeup.
3. Five-Color Mountain
Five-Color Mountain is another highlight of Ulan Butong, where the leaves turn brilliantly colorful in autumn, creating a spectacular view. Visitors can climb to the top to overlook the entire Ulan Butong and feel the charm of nature. Five-Color Mountain is free to enter with no admission fee.
4. Film and Television Base
The film and television base is the shooting location for many productions such as "My Fair Princess," "Kangxi Dynasty," and "Emperor Wu of Han." The area is filled with ancient-style buildings, offering a strong historical atmosphere. Visitors can take photos of the grassland scenery and ancient architecture here, creating wonderful memories. The film and television base is included in the Ulan Butong scenic area ticket, with no extra charge.
5. European-Style Scenic Area
Rolling hills and grasslands dotted with birch trees create beautiful landscapes here. Known as the "European Grassland of China," it is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The European-style scenic area is also free to enter.
2. Transportation Guide and Price References
1. External Transportation
Airplane: Visitors can fly to Chifeng Yulong Airport first, then take an airport shuttle bus or taxi to Ulan Butong. The shuttle bus costs about 50 RMB per person; taxi fares depend on distance.
Train: Visitors can take a train to Chifeng Station or Jingpeng Station, then transfer to a car to Ulan Butong. Car fares range from 50 to 100 RMB per person, depending on vehicle type and distance.
Self-driving: From Beijing, take the G45 Daguang Expressway to G16 Danxi Expressway, exit at Jingpeng, then drive about 80 km along Provincial Road S204 to reach Ulan Butong Scenic Area. The total distance is about 500 km, with a driving time of 7-8 hours. Self-driving travelers should pay attention to fuel levels as gas stations are scarce on the grassland.
2. Internal Transportation
Car Rental: Within Ulan Butong Scenic Area, visitors can rent local off-road vehicles or electric carts to tour the attractions. Off-road vehicles cost about 500-800 RMB/day, electric carts about 200-300 RMB/day.
Walking/Cycling: For those who enjoy hiking or cycling, the roads inside Ulan Butong Scenic Area are flat and wide, ideal for walking or cycling tours. Visitors can rent bicycles or electric bikes within the scenic area, costing about 50-100 RMB/day.
3. Accommodation Options and Price Ranges
1. Budget Hotels
There are several budget hotels within Ulan Butong Scenic Area, offering affordable prices and complete facilities. Budget hotel prices range from 200 to 400 RMB per night, suitable for travelers on a budget.
2. Mid-to-High-End Resort Hotels
For visitors seeking comfort and quality, mid-to-high-end resort hotels are a good choice. These hotels are usually located inside or near the scenic area, providing beautiful environments and comprehensive facilities. Prices range from 500 to 1000 RMB per night.
3. Unique Homestays
There are also many unique homestays within Ulan Butong Scenic Area, usually operated by local residents, offering beautiful surroundings and moderate prices. Visitors can experience grassland culture and Mongolian traditions here. Homestay prices range from 300 to 600 RMB per night.
4. Food Recommendations and Price Guide
1. Mongolian Specialty Foods
Hand-held Meat: Hand-held meat is a traditional Mongolian dish made from high-quality lamb, served with wild chive flowers and other seasonings. The meat is tender and juicy with a delicious flavor. Price is about 80-120 RMB per serving.
Nai Jiao Kou Stir-fried Rice: Nai Jiao Kou is a traditional Mongolian dairy product, served with stir-fried rice. It is sweet but not greasy, with a unique taste. Price is about 30-50 RMB per serving.
Mongolian Milk Tea: Mongolian milk tea is a traditional Mongolian beverage made from fermented mare’s or cow’s milk. It is salty, rich, and helps with digestion and warming the stomach. Price is about 15-25 RMB per cup.
2. Other Foods
Grassland Hot Pot: Grassland hot pot uses mountain spring water as the base, paired with tender lamb and various vegetables. It is delicious and nutritious. The average cost per person is about 80-120 RMB.
Beef Pancake: Beef pancake is a specialty snack in Ulan Butong, with a thin and crispy crust and juicy filling. It is very tasty. Price is about 15-25 RMB each.
5. Suggested Itinerary (3 Days 2 Nights)
Day 1: Arrive at Ulan Butong, initial exploration of grassland scenery
Morning: Arrive at Ulan Butong Scenic Area, check in, and rest briefly.
Afternoon: Visit General’s Pond to enjoy the lake and mountain views and capture sunset photos.
Evening: Enjoy Mongolian specialty food within the scenic area and experience a grassland bonfire party.
Day 2: Deepen grassland experience and explore natural beauty
Morning: Visit Princess Lake to photograph the lake, mountains, and grassland scenery.
Afternoon: Hike at Five-Color Mountain to admire the colorful leaves and magnificent natural views.
Evening: Enjoy grassland hot pot within the scenic area and savor the charm of grassland cuisine.
Day 3: Farewell to the grassland, leaving beautiful memories
Morning: Visit the film and television base to photograph ancient-style buildings and grassland scenery.
Afternoon: Arrange return transportation to the airport or train station according to your schedule.
6. Notes
Variable Climate: Ulan Butong has a variable climate with large temperature differences between day and night. Visitors should prepare appropriate clothing according to the season.
Sun Protection and Mosquito Repellent: The grassland has strong UV rays and many mosquitoes. Visitors should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and mosquito repellent.
Respect Local Customs: Visitors should respect local customs and religious beliefs during their visit to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Eco-friendly Travel: Visitors should pay attention to environmental protection, avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife, and carry out all trash.