Essential Information About Ordos City
Ordos City, located in Inner Mongolia, is known for its stunning landscapes, rich Mongolian culture, and futuristic architecture. Despite once being called a “ghost city” due to its ambitious urban development, Ordos has evolved into a fascinating destination with a mix of modern infrastructure, desert adventures, and traditional Mongolian heritage.
- 📍 Location: Inner Mongolia, China
- 🌤️ Best Time to Visit: May – October (pleasant weather for outdoor exploration)
- 🏙️ Famous For: Genghis Khan Mausoleum, Kubuqi Desert, Kangbashi District, Mongolian culture
- ⏳ Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
- 🚗 Main Activities: Historical tours, desert adventures, eco-tourism, cultural experiences
Interesting Facts About Ordos City
- One of China’s Wealthiest Cities – Ordos gained wealth from its massive coal and natural gas reserves, leading to rapid development.
- Once a “Ghost City” – The futuristic Kangbashi District was originally built for a million people, but it was underpopulated for years. Today, it has transformed into a bustling and modern urban hub.
- Home to Genghis Khan’s Mausoleum – Ordos preserves the historical legacy of Genghis Khan, one of the greatest conquerors in history.
- Surrounded by the Kubuqi Desert – The seventh-largest desert in China, known for dunes, camel treks, and adventure sports, is just outside the city.
- Traditional Mongolian Culture – Ordos is home to Mongolian yurts, throat singing, horse racing, and Naadam Festival celebrations.
How to Get to Ordos City
By Air
- Ordos Ejin Horo Airport (DSN) – Serves flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Hohhot.
- The airport is around 40 minutes from Kangbashi District.
With Train
- Ordos Railway Station connects with major cities like Hohhot, Baotou, and Beijing via high-speed trains.
- From the train station, take a taxi or bus to Kangbashi District.
By Road
- From Hohhot: 3-hour drive via the G65 Expressway.
- From Baotou: 2-hour drive.
- From Beijing: ~8-hour drive, making it a great road trip destination.
Best Things to Do in Ordos City
1. Visit the Genghis Khan Mausoleum
- A sacred Mongolian site dedicated to the legendary conqueror.
- Features historical artifacts, traditional ceremonies, and stunning architecture.
2. Explore the Kangbashi District
- Once a “ghost city,” now a modern urban marvel.
- Visit Ordos Museum, the giant Genghis Khan Square, and futuristic high-rise buildings.
3. Adventure in Kubuqi Desert
- Ride camels, sandboard, or take a 4×4 off-road ride in Xiangshawan (Resonant Sand Bay).
- Stay overnight in luxury desert resorts or traditional Mongolian yurts.
4. Enjoy Ordos Grassland Culture
- Experience Mongolian-style hospitality, including horseback riding, wrestling, and throat singing.
- Try traditional Mongolian hotpot and roasted lamb.
5. Discover Wulan Mulun River Scenic Area
- A beautiful area in Kangbashi District, perfect for boat rides and evening strolls.
- Stunning light displays and water shows at night.
Best Accommodation in Ordos City
Luxury Hotels
🏨 Ordos Tieniu Phoenix Hotel – A 5-star modern hotel in Kangbashi, offering luxury rooms and great city views.
🏨 Ordos Yonggui Hotel – A high-end hotel near major attractions, perfect for business and leisure travelers.
Mid-Range Hotels
🏨 Holiday Inn Ordos Dongsheng – A well-known international hotel with great amenities and service.
🏨 Ordos Kangbashi Hotel – Offers a comfortable stay with modern interiors and a great location.
Budget Options & Unique Stays
🏕 Mongolian Yurt Camps – Stay in a traditional ger (yurt) for an authentic grassland experience.
🏕 Desert Camps – Stay in eco-friendly desert lodges near the Kubuqi Desert.
Cultural & Modern Attractions in Ordos City
Traditional & Cultural Attractions
🏛️ Genghis Khan Mausoleum – A deep dive into Mongolian history.
🏇 Ordos Grassland – Experience Mongolian nomadic life.
🕌 Dazhao Temple (in nearby Hohhot) – A famous Tibetan Buddhist temple.
Modern Attractions
🏛️ Ordos Museum – A futuristic architectural masterpiece showcasing Inner Mongolia’s history.
🌆 Kangbashi District – A blend of ultramodern skyscrapers and traditional Mongolian motifs.
Dining & Nightlife in Ordos City
Best Local Dishes to Try
🍖 Ordos Roasted Lamb – A must-try dish, slow-roasted to perfection.
🍲 Mongolian Hotpot – Perfect for cold nights, featuring mutton, fresh vegetables, and herbs.
🥟 Handmade Mongolian Dumplings – Juicy dumplings filled with beef or mutton.
Best Restaurants in Ordos
Ordos Mongolian Restaurant – Serves authentic Mongolian barbecue and local delicacies.
Kangbashi Food Street – A great place to try Inner Mongolian street food.
Ordos Muslim Restaurant – Offers delicious Halal food influenced by Mongolian and Hui cuisine.
Nightlife in Ordos
🍻 Sky Bar in Kangbashi – A trendy spot with great city views and cocktails.
🍺 Inner Mongolia Beer House – Serves local Mongolian-style beer and live music.
🎤 KTV (Karaoke Bars) – Popular entertainment spots, ideal for a fun local experience.
Best Day Trips from Ordos City
1. Kubuqi Desert (1.5 Hours Drive)
- Ride camels, sandboard, or enjoy luxury desert resorts.
2. Wuliangsu Lake (2.5 Hours Drive)
- One of China’s largest freshwater lakes, ideal for birdwatching and boating.
3. Baotou (2 Hours Drive)
- Visit the famous Wudangzhao Monastery, a stunning Tibetan Buddhist temple.
Getting Around Ordos City
🚖 By Taxi – Readily available, but negotiate fares before starting your ride.
🚍 By Bus – Public transport connects major areas, but schedules can be irregular.
🚗 By Car Rental – Ideal for desert and grassland trips.
🚶 On Foot – Kangbashi is pedestrian-friendly, with wide streets and scenic riverfront walks.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ordos City
Dress for the Weather – Summers are warm, but winters can be freezing cold.
Respect Local Mongolian Customs – If visiting a yurt, avoid stepping on the threshold.
Cash is Useful – Some rural areas may not accept digital payments.
Book Hotels & Tours in Advance – Especially during peak travel months (June – September).
Try the Local Food – Ordos cuisine is rich in lamb, dairy, and handmade noodles.
Conclusion
Ordos City is a fascinating blend of history, modernity, and adventure, making it one of Inner Mongolia’s most underrated travel destinations. Whether you want to explore the legendary Genghis Khan Mausoleum, venture into the golden Kubuqi Desert, or experience authentic Mongolian culture, Ordos offers a unique and unforgettable journey.
🚀 Start planning your Inner Mongolian adventure today!
