Naiman Banner

Introducing Naiman Banner

Naiman Banner is located southwest of Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia, on the southern edge of the Horqin Desert. Its topography is generally described as "mountains in the south, sand in the middle, and rivers in the north, with two mountains, six sands, and two plains." The southern portion forms the northern edge of the Liaoxi Mountains, with shallow hills and mountains 400-600 meters above sea level. The central portion is dominated by wind-eroded sands. The central and northern plains are part of the Xiliaohe and Jiaolaihe alluvial plains, characterized by flat and open terrain. Established as a banner in 1636, it borders Fuxin and Beipiao Cities in Liaoning Province to the south, Kulun Banner to the east, Aohan Banner and Wengniud Banner in Chifeng City to the west, and Kailu County across the river to the north. It belongs to Northeast China. Its cultural divisions and customs are similar to those of the Northeast. Naiman Banner is part of the core area of ​​the Hongshan Culture. It is home to the ancient Khitan Longting Longhuazhou, the first city established by nomadic peoples in northern China. It also boasts the most complete and precious Liao Dynasty tomb of a Chen State princess ever discovered, with over 3,000 national-level cultural relics unearthed from this tomb. Sixteen princes of the Naiman tribe of the Mongolian ethnic group were granted county titles here. The banner boasts a well-preserved Qing Dynasty Mongolian royal palace, and the beautiful Nornjia is renowned worldwide. Naiman Banner boasts the closest vast desert to Beijing and the only one in Northeast China. The Xilamulun River, considered one of the Chinese nation's "mother rivers," converges with the Laoha River here, marking the starting point of the Xiliao River. It also boasts China's largest existing desert freshwater lake. Daqintala Town, the administrative seat, is a desert ecological city in Northeast China, boasting a unique landscape of a city within a desert and a new city built on the desert. The Naiman Strange Willow, as famous as the western poplar trees, is home to the legendary Chinese medical stone, a sacred stone for longevity and health, and is the birthplace of Horqin woodblock prints.

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Most Popular FAQs for Naiman Banner

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Naiman Banner has a rich history tied to the Mongolian culture and the Qing Dynasty. It was historically an important region for nomadic Mongol tribes. Today, it is known for its beautiful grasslands and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors an authentic taste of traditional Mongolian life.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Naiman Banner is located in the eastern part of Inner Mongolia, near the city of Chifeng. The easiest way to get there is by train or bus from Chifeng, which is about a 2-3 hour drive. Taxis are also available from nearby towns, but public transportation is more common for tourists. Walking is not practical due to the large distances between attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the grasslands are lush and green. Summer (June-August) can be crowded due to the peak travel season, while winter is cold but less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Naiman Banner Grassland is usually around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the grassland and other local attractions. Online ticket booking is less common for this remote destination.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is generally not required unless visiting during the peak season (summer and holidays). It's recommended to book a few days ahead during these times to avoid long waits or limited availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Naiman Banner can typically be completed in one or two days, especially if focusing on the main attractions such as the grasslands, local villages, and historical sites. A more relaxed itinerary may require two or more days if you plan to fully immerse in local culture or explore surrounding nature.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the Naiman Banner Grassland for outdoor activities like horseback riding and hiking, the local Mongolian villages for cultural experiences, and the Naiman Banner Temple for its historical and religious significance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and Mongolian. Some local guides may offer English-speaking services, but it’s advisable to arrange a guide in advance if you need assistance in other languages. Audio guides are not commonly available in this area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots are found at the Naiman Banner Grassland, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and the landscape is vibrant. The traditional Mongolian yurts and the vast, unspoiled landscapes also provide excellent backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with a tour of the grasslands for outdoor activities like horseback riding and hiking. Then, visit the Naiman Banner Temple for a cultural experience, followed by a stop at a Mongolian village to experience traditional life. End the day by exploring local markets or enjoying Mongolian cuisine in a nearby restaurant.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not common, but the starry skies on the grasslands provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Special cultural performances or traditional Mongolian music may be available in some villages at night, depending on the season.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Naiman Banner can be crowded during the summer months and public holidays, especially in July and August. The least crowded times to visit are in the spring and fall, particularly during weekdays when there are fewer domestic tourists.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities are available, including public restrooms, food stalls, and small local shops in villages. Water and snacks can be found in most tourist areas, but it’s best to bring extra supplies, especially if traveling to more remote areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The grasslands and outdoor areas may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the main attractions in local villages and the Naiman Banner Temple are more accessible. Families with children can easily enjoy the cultural aspects of the visit.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Naiman Banner, although mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly accepted in tourist areas and some local shops. Credit cards are generally not accepted in most remote locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local Mongolian restaurants near the grasslands offering traditional dishes like lamb, milk tea, and various dairy products. Some local cafes and food stalls also serve snacks and refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are limited due to the meat-heavy nature of Mongolian cuisine. However, basic vegetable dishes may be available in some restaurants. Halal food options are common due to the influence of Muslim culture in the region.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and simple hotels in the nearby towns. For a more authentic experience, some tourists opt to stay in traditional Mongolian yurts on the grasslands. More upscale accommodations can be found in Chifeng, about 2-3 hours away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Chifeng City, known for its historical and cultural landmarks, as well as the famous Naran Bulag for more natural experiences. You can also visit the Ejin Horo Banner for more historical Mongolian sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Local souvenir shops offer traditional Mongolian handicrafts such as handwoven rugs, leather goods, and Mongolian-style clothing. Items like homemade cheese and dairy products are also popular souvenirs from the grasslands.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or bus to Chifeng, where you can take a train to other parts of Inner Mongolia or larger cities like Hohhot. For more remote destinations, private tours or vehicles are recommended.