Badan Jaran desert

Question

Hi all,

Has anybody ever been there ?

I read the best period for a visit was in September October.

Would early November (2nd and 3rd)very different in terms of climate ?

I'd be glad if you could share your experience in the BJ desert..

Answer

The Badain Jaran Desert is a spectacular desert in Inner Mongolia, China, known for its massive sand dunes, some of the tallest in the world, and the scattered oasis lakes that create a surreal landscape. Visiting the desert offers a unique experience, particularly for those interested in photography, camel trekking, and experiencing remote natural landscapes.

Best period to visit:

September and October are indeed the most popular months because the weather is generally mild, with cooler temperatures than the scorching summer months.
Early November is still feasible, but temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. Daytime can be comfortable, but nights will likely be very cold, sometimes near freezing.
Wind conditions may also start to increase in November, potentially making sandstorms more frequent than in September or October.

Tips for visiting in early November:

Bring warm clothing and layered outfits to handle the cold nights.
Check local weather forecasts in advance for wind and temperature conditions.
Ensure your tour operator provides vehicles suitable for desert terrain and carries supplies in case of sudden weather changes.
If interested in photography, the desert light can be dramatic in November due to lower sun angles, giving beautiful golden tones on the dunes during sunrise and sunset.

Experience highlights:

Camel treks across the massive sand dunes.
Visiting the oasis lakes which are scattered throughout the desert.
Stargazing, as the desert skies are very clear at night, providing excellent visibility for stars and the Milky Way.
Exploring remote dunes that are less visited by tourists compared to other Chinese deserts.

Overall, early November is slightly colder and windier than the peak season, but it is still possible to have a memorable trip. The key is proper preparation with warm clothing and planning for potential weather variations.