Badain Jaran Desert
Synopsis
Overview
The Badain Jaran Desert, located within the Alxa League in the western part of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China, is China's second-largest desert and the world's highest desert in terms of elevation and most prominent in relative height. It covers a total area of approximately 49,200 square kilometers and is renowned for its "Five Wonders": peculiar peaks, singing sands, numerous lakes, sacred springs, and ancient temples. ...
Overview
The Badain Jaran Desert, located within the Alxa League in the western part of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China, is China's second-largest desert and the world's highest desert in terms of elevation and relative height. Covering a total area of approximately 49,200 square kilometers, it is renowned for its "Five Wonders": peculiar peaks, singing sands, numerous lakes, sacred springs, and ancient temples. Within the heart of the desert lie 144 lakes of various sizes, 74 of which contain water year-round. The juxtaposition of sand mountains and clear waters creates a globally unique desert wetland landscape. In 2009, the Badain Jaran Desert was ranked first among the "Five Most Beautiful Deserts in China" by Chinese National Geographic magazine for its unique landforms and ecosystem.
History
The history of the Badain Jaran Desert is closely intertwined with the ancient Silk Road and nomadic civilizations. "Badain Jaran" originates from Mongolian, meaning "lakes in the desert." Historically, this area was a significant region for northern nomadic tribes such as the Xiongnu, Turks, and Mongols. Rock paintings and ancient sites discovered in the desert provide evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. The famous Mandala Mountain rock paintings record the lives and beliefs of ancient inhabitants from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. In modern times, due to its complex terrain and harsh environment, the Badain Jaran Desert long maintained an aura of mystery. It was not until the late 20th and early 21st centuries, with the deepening of adventure tourism and scientific exploration, that its magnificent natural landscapes gradually became known to the world, developing into an important special tourism destination.
Main Attractions
- Bilutu Peak: Known as the "Mount Everest of the Desert," it stands at an elevation of about 1,617 meters with a relative height of nearly 500 meters, making it the world's tallest sand mountain. Climbing to its summit offers a breathtaking panoramic view of several surrounding lakes.
- Nuoertu Lake: The largest lake in the desert, featuring a vast and clear water surface. The reflection of sand mountains on its shores has earned it the nickname "Jiangnan in the Desert," making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
- Miao Haizi (Temple Lake) & Badain Jaran Temple: On the shore of Miao Haizi stands the centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist Badain Jaran Temple. This temple, with its white walls and golden roof, is nestled against sand mountains and faces the clear lake, serving as a tranquil spiritual sanctuary deep in the desert and an important religious site for local herders.
- Yinderitu Sacred Spring: Located on a small rocky island, it features numerous spring outlets. The famous "Millstone Spring" is situated on a massive rock, its sweet water revered as sacred by locals.
- Singing Sands Area: The singing sand mountains of Badain Jaran are vast in scale. When sliding down the sand or when the wind blows, the sand grains produce a roaring sound, resembling an airplane passing overhead or the resonance of bells and drums, creating a marvelous phenomenon.
- Mandala Mountain Rock Paintings: Located in the Mandala Mountains on the desert's edge, thousands of existing rock paintings depict scenes of hunting, herding, dancing, and religion, serving as precious materials for studying the history of ancient nomadic peoples.
Practical Information
The following information is general reference as of 2023. Please verify through official channels before your trip.
| Item | Specific Information |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Badain Jaran Desert Scenic Area Ticket: 160 RMB/person (usually includes access to some attractions). Additional costs for desert off-road vehicles, accommodation, etc., apply. |
| Opening Hours | Open year-round. Best travel season is from May to October annually, with September-October offering clear, cool autumn weather, being the most comfortable. Winters are severely cold, and summer days are extremely hot; choose travel times carefully. |
| Transportation | 1. Reaching Gateway Town: Typically, first arrive at Badain Jaran Town (Ehen Hudag Town), the seat of Alxa Right Banner government. Accessible by long-distance bus from cities like Lanzhou, Zhangye, Jinchang. 2. Entering the Desert: Must transfer to local professional off-road vehicles (managed uniformly by the scenic area). Personal vehicles are strictly prohibited. Off-road vehicles must be booked in advance through travel agencies or the scenic area, usually charged by day and itinerary; costs are relatively high. |
| Accommodation | Several guesthouses or camps operated by herders are located deep in the desert, offering relatively basic conditions but allowing for stargazing experiences at night. Alternatively, accommodation is available in Badain Jaran Town. |
| Important Tips | 1. Safety First: Must follow experienced guides and vehicle convoys; never venture deep into the desert alone. 2. Climate Adaptation: Extreme temperature differences between day and night; prepare sufficient wind/sand-proof, sun-protective, and warm clothing, as well as sunglasses. 3. Environmental Protection: Please take all trash with you to protect the fragile desert ecosystem. 4. Supplies Preparation: Bring ample drinking water, high-energy food, common medicines; take sand-proof measures for electronic devices like cameras. |
References
- Official introduction by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region: http://wlt.nmg.gov.cn/zwxx/mshy/202105/t20210518_1573245.html
- Alxa Right Banner People's Government Portal (Tourism-related information): http://www.alsyq.gov.cn/
- Special feature on the Badain Jaran Desert on Chinese National Geographic official website: http://www.dili360.com/article/p5d3c53504e5d4d7.htm
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