I declare that July is the "divine" month for Ulan Butong!

I've been to Ulan Butong no less than five times, and I'm here to share a super practical guide to help all you travel planners out! If Xinjiang seems too far, why not visit Ulan Butong, known as the "Aletai of the North"? Just a 2-hour drive from Beijing, my last social media post had everyone thinking I was in Xinjiang. This summer, let's go together! Basic Info about Ulan Butong 📍 Location: Ulan Butong Grassland, Inner Mongolia Route Advantages Revealed ✔ Super convenient transportation—easily accessible by plane or high-speed rail🚅. ✔ Ulan Butong is relatively niche, increasing your chances of having the place to yourself for an exclusive grassland experience. ✔ Now is the perfect time to visit, with June to September being the ideal months. ✔ Great for short 3-5 day trips around the area—no need for long leave, just pack and go! ✔ Pure fun for all ages, with activities everyone can enjoy. Road Conditions Overview Most areas on the grassland have no signal, but the scenery along the way is like a screensaver—perfect for unfiltered photos. However, the roads can be tricky, so novice drivers should avoid self-driving. Some areas require off-road vehicles to traverse deep into the grassland. First-timers are better off joining a reliable tour for a hassle-free experience. Awesome Itinerary Recommendations ⛰Day 1: Beijing - Duolun - Off-Road Sand Dune Adventure 🚙 Kick off with an exciting off-road sand dune adventure, full of speed and thrills. Along the way, encounter diverse wildlife. The evening includes a free bonfire party—experience maxed out! ⛰Day 2: Off-Road Grassland Exploration - Princess Lake - Film Base 🚙 Venture deep into the grassland by off-road vehicle, soaking in the stunning views. At dusk, capture breathtaking sunset shots—every photo is a vibe. ⛰Day 3: Grassland Reindeer/Horseback Riding - Return Trip 🚙 Discover the culture of the Ewenki, the "hunting nomads," feed reindeer up close, and experience the thrill of galloping on horseback—so cool! More Exciting Experiences ① Off-road adventures through sand dunes and grasslands—every step offers new scenery. ② Visit ancient reindeer tribes for an intimate encounter with these grassland spirits. ③ Ride purebred Mongolian horses for a unique grassland experience. ④ Immerse in rich Mongolian culture: taste welcome drinks, receive ceremonial scarves, and join bonfire parties. ⑤ Capture stunning sunrise and sunset shots to make your social media explode with likes. Food Temptations ✔ Mongolian milk tea, milk tofu, hand-grabbed meat, roasted lamb, hot pot, stuffed tripe, grilled lamb legs—each dish is mouthwatering. Handy Tips 📍 Large temperature swings between day and night—pack long sleeves and pants for warmth. 📍 The grassland is sunny and dry—don’t forget sunscreen and hydration. 📍 For horseback riding, bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and thin gloves. 📍 Carry a small daily bag; choose a backpack or suitcase based on your needs. 📍 Keep a safe distance from animals and avoid loud noises to prevent startling them. 📍 Accept Mongolian tea with both hands as a sign of respect to the host.