Beyond the great wall to the north of China lie the great green grasslands known as the Steppes. Home to nomadic Mongol peoples of many different tribes who at one time took the world by surprise with their mighty Golden Horde, the great Steppes grasslands is the cradle of a unique nomadic culture and incomparable natural beauty. Even today, the interesting ways of the Steppes and her people can be experienced if you know where to look. One good place to start off this wonderful journey will be the Gegentala grasslands where a vivid vista of life on the Steppes awaits you.
The rolling green grasslands of Gegentala are located in the autonomous province of Inner Mongolia in the very north of China. From the nearby city of Huhot, it is quite easy to travel to the Gegentala Grassland by vehicle. In the language of the Mongolians, Gegentala means place of summer grazing where they would tend their great flocks in the warm weather. At Gegentala, the lush green fields of grass stretch to the horizon over rounded low hills and wide flat valleys, creating a stark colourful spectacle which is uncannily beautiful and almost otherworldly when the vast emerald plains touch the clear blue sky.
When youre out on Gegentala Grassland, nature is not the only spectacle that is sure to leave you in awe. The rich and active ways of traditional nomadic Mongolian life is still going on peacefully in the verdant lands of Gegentala. To experience the best of Mongolian culture, try to visit Gegentala in July or August when the steppes thunder with the cheer and music of Nadam, one of the greatest Mongolian festivals. From traditional sports to dance festivals to Mongolian cooking, you can experience the best of life in the great grasslands on your day at Nadam. If you want to be part of the action, you can try your luck at a riding contest or the shooting range where you can fire a real Mongolian shortbow.
When the crowds flow in to Gegentala, any
Huhhot hotel is the best bet to find good accommodation.
Huhhot luxury hotels are many, such as the Shangri-la Hotel, Huhhot where you can find a good hotel deal to enjoy a great stay and head off into the Gegentala Grasslands.
