Welcome to your ultimate guide to planning a trip to the Badain Jaran Desert (巴丹吉林沙漠)! This mesmerizing destination, located in the western part of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region in northern China, promises an unforgettable adventure.
Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. We’ll cover how to get there, what to see, and how to travel within the desert. Let’s dive in!
1. Why Badain Jaran Desert?
The Badain Jaran Desert is famous for its stunning landscapes. It boasts the tallest stationary sand dunes in the world, some reaching over 500 meters high. Additionally, this desert is home to numerous lakes, some of which are fresh, while others are salty.
Despite its harsh conditions, the Badain Jaran Desert supports a unique and diverse ecosystem. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species that have adapted to survive in the desert environment. You can find rare and endangered species such as the Bactrian camel, Asiatic wild ass, and numerous reptiles and rodents.
The combination of towering dunes, shimmering lakes, and a diverse ecosystem makes it a unique travel destination. However, before embarking on this adventure, it’s essential to be well-prepared.
2. Best Time to Visit Badain Jaran Desert
May to October
The best time to visit the Badain Jaran Desert is from May to October each year, especially in September and October. During this period, the weather is stable and suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking, off-roading, camping, and camel riding.
Additionally, the desert’s scenery is particularly beautiful in autumn. The lush blooms of verbena, the swaying reeds, and the desert’s lakes and rock paintings offer rich and diverse experiences for visitors.
3. How to get to Badain Jaran Desert Tourism Area
Badain Jaran Desert Tourism Area is located about 75km northeast of Badan Jilin Zhen ( Badain Jaran Town 巴丹吉林镇) in Alxa Right Banner (阿拉善右旗), in the west of Inner Mongolia, China.
Badan Jilin Zhen ( Badain Jaran Town 巴丹吉林镇) serves as the gateway to the Badain Jaran Desert Tourism Area.
There are several ways to reach Badan Jilin Zhen ( Badain Jaran Town ), the springboard for the Badain Jaran Desert Tourism Area. Or you may bypass the town and go to the scenic area directly.
The nearby cities close to Badan Jilin Zhen include Zhangye (张掖 ）136km away, or Jinchang （金昌）102km away. ( See the map above ).
So, basically if you want to go to Badain Jaran Desert Tourism Area, you need to determine your starting city such as Beijing or Shanghai, then from there, you can proceed to Zhangye or Jinchang, or Badan JIlin Zhen as the gateway to the Badain Jaran Desert.
By Air
First, you’ll need to fly into a major city in China, such as Beijing or Shanghai. From there, take a domestic flight to one of the nearby cities, such as Zhangye or Jinchang. Zhangye Ganzhou Airport (YZY) and Jinchang Jinchuan Airport (JIC) are the closest airports to the desert. Then you take the local bus to the Badain Jara Desert Tourism Area.
By Train
Alternatively, you can take a train. The Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway is a convenient option. You can travel to Zhangye West Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. The train journey offers beautiful views and is a comfortable way to travel.
Private Car or Taxi
For those who prefer road trips, renting a car is a viable option. From Zhangye or Jinchang, drive towards the Badain Jaran Desert. The journey can take several hours, so ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for desert driving.
Join a Tour
If you prefer a hassle-free option or are unfamiliar with the area, you can join an organized tour to the Badain Jaran Desert. Travel agencies, both local and in major cities like Beijing and Hohhot, offer tours that include transportation, accommodation, and guided sightseeing.
Local Transportation
Within the desert region, local transportation options are limited. Hiring a local guide or arranging transportation in advance is advisable to ensure smooth travel and navigation of the desert.
It’s important to note that roads in and around the desert may be rough and challenging, so hiring an experienced driver or connecting with a reputable tour operator is recommended.
4. How to Plan Your Trip in the Desert
One-Day Trip
For a one-day trip, you can explore Badain Lake, a freshwater lake at the entrance of the scenic area. There are several activities available for a day trip: camel riding, sand sliding, and go-karting.
This is suitable if you’re bringing children for a brief experience of the desert. However, you won’t be able to see the deeper, more beautiful parts of the desert.
Two-Day Trip
A two-day trip includes a journey deep into the desert. You can rent an off-road vehicle from the scenic area for 3000 yuan, which includes a driver. Each vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers besides the driver.
The drivers are experienced locals, ensuring a higher level of safety. Self-driving into the desert is not recommended unless you have off-road experience, as accidents are common. We encountered two self-driving accidents during our trip, and rescue fees from the scenic area are 8000 yuan per vehicle.
As mentioned in the accommodation section, you can choose to stay at Badain Lake Hotel for a two-day trip. This is essentially another form of a one-day trip. The off-road vehicle will start from Badain Lake, complete all activities in one day, and return to Badain Lake for the night. The next day, you can explore around Badain Lake before being escorted out of the scenic area.
For a true two-day trip, stay in the desert’s interior. Arrive at the scenic area entrance by midday, complete the necessary procedures, and embark on your desert journey in an off-road vehicle (the trunk can hold your luggage). The itinerary spans two days, ending at noon on the second day. If you wish to see the sunrise, inform the driver in advance. They can take you to the best vantage points for sunrise viewing.
5. More Ways to Enjoy in Badain Jaran Desert
Once you arrive at the desert, you have several options for planning your trip to Badain Jaran Desert in your own way.
Jeep Tours
Jeep tours are the most popular way to travel within the Badain Jaran Desert. These tours are led by experienced guides who know the terrain well. They can navigate the challenging sand dunes and take you to the best spots.
Camel Treks
For a more traditional experience, consider a camel trek. Camels are well-suited to the desert environment and provide a unique way to explore the landscape. However, camel treks can be slower and more physically demanding than jeep tours.
Hiking
If you prefer to travel on foot, hiking is an option. However, it’s important to be well-prepared. The desert can be harsh, and it’s easy to get lost. Always carry a map, plenty of water, and protective gear.
Sandboarding
Thrill-seekers can try sandboarding on the towering sand dunes. Strap on a board and slide down the slopes of the desert, experiencing a unique adrenaline rush as you navigate the fine sand. Sandboarding is suitable for both beginners and experienced boarders.
Photography
The stunning landscapes and unique geological features within the Badain Jaran Desert provide fantastic opportunities for photography. Capture the majestic sand dunes, ever-changing patterns created by wind erosion, and the mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The contrast between the golden desert and the crystal blue lakes makes for breathtaking compositions.
Visit the Lakes and Springs
The Badain Jaran Desert is renowned for its numerous lakes and freshwater springs, which provide crucial water sources in this arid region. Some notable lakes to visit include the Dabuxun Lake, Bilutu Lake, and Nuoertule Lake. Enjoy the serene beauty of these pristine bodies of water and witness the unique ecosystems they support.
Cultural Experiences
Engage in cultural activities and learn about the traditions and customs of the local Mongolian and Tu ethnic minority communities. Interact with the locals, witness traditional performances, and try Mongolian cuisine. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that pervades the desert region.
Camping and Stargazing
Spend a night in the desert by camping under the starlit sky. Experience the tranquility of the surroundings and witness the stunning brilliance of the stars in this remote area with minimal light pollution. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the vastness of the universe.
6. The Major Attractions in the Desert
While planning your trip to Badain Jaran Desert, you’d better have some basic information about the major attractions in the desert. The Badain Jaran Desert, a mesmerizing expanse in Inner Mongolia, is home to some of the most stunning attractions in the region.
Among these, the Badain Jaran Temple （巴丹吉林庙） stands out as a serene oasis of spirituality nestled amidst the towering dunes. This ancient temple, with its intricate architecture and peaceful ambiance, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Next, Bilutu Peak (必鲁图峰), the tallest sand dune in the world, is a must-see for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Rising over 500 meters, this colossal dune provides breathtaking panoramic views of the desert landscape, making it a prime spot for photography and exploration.
Another fascinating attraction is Khara Khoto (黑水城) also known as the “Black City.” This ancient, abandoned city is steeped in history and legend, offering a hauntingly beautiful contrast to the vibrant desert surroundings. Its ruins tell stories of a once-thriving civilization, captivating the imagination of all who visit.
Badain Lake (巴丹湖）
Badain Lake is one of the many stunning lakes in the desert. Its crystal-clear waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding sand dunes. It’s a great spot for photography and relaxation.
These major attractions in the Badain Jaran Desert offer a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and historical intrigue, making it a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
7. Accommodation in Badain Jaran Desert
For a Day Trip
If you’re visiting for a day trip, there’s no need to stay overnight in the scenic area.
For a Two-Day Trip
For a two-day trip, staying within the scenic area is a good option. There are two main types of accommodations:
- Badain Lake Hotel: Located at the entrance of the scenic area, Badain Lake Hotel offers relatively better conditions but lacks unique features. The surrounding scenery is also quite ordinary.
- Homestays by the Desert Lakes: The second option is staying in homestays by the lakes deeper in the desert. Although the facilities are more basic, the hygiene is generally acceptable. The advantage is witnessing the magnificent desert sunrise and sunset. The preferred spot is Miao Lake, the most impressive lake with the most homestays available. Qing Lake and Shuang Lake also have accommodations, but their locations are not as favorable as Miao Lake.
Desert Camps
Staying in a desert camp is a unique experience. These camps offer basic amenities and allow you to immerse yourself in the desert environment. You’ll sleep under the stars and wake up to the sound of the wind in the dunes.
Hotels in Zhangye and Jinchang
For those who prefer more comfort, there are hotels in nearby cities like Zhangye and Jinchang. These hotels provide a convenient base for exploring the desert and offer modern amenities.
8. Travel Tips
Additionally, we have some travel tips for your planning your trip to Badain Jaran Desert.
Pack Wisely:
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and warm clothing for nighttime. Additionally, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Stay Hydrated:
The desert climate can be dehydrating. Always carry plenty of water and drink regularly to stay hydrated.
Respect the Environment:
The Badain Jaran Desert is a fragile ecosystem. Respect the environment by not littering and staying on designated paths.
Hire a Guide
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides know the desert well and can ensure your safety while providing valuable insights into the region.
The Badain Jaran Desert is a remarkable destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural heritage. By following this “Plan a trip to Badain Jaran Desert” guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore this unique landscape. Whether you’re climbing the tallest dunes, stargazing under the clear skies, or simply soaking in the serene beauty, your trip to the Badain Jaran Desert will be an unforgettable adventure.
If you have any questions or queries, then please feel free to drop us a line.
