Ejina Banner, a remote border area in the west of Inner Mongolia, is famous for its incomparable view of Populus euphratica Forest. The limited transportation and distance could not stop the tourists' steps, and Ejina attracts photographers from all over the world with its stunning scenery and exotic charm.
In early October, when all the leaves of the Populus euphratica turn yellow, Ejina will shine like a brilliant diamond under the clear blue sky. In Ejina, what could parallel to the view of Populus euphratica forest is the scenery of desert in Badaoqiao Desert Scenic Spot. Endless yellow sands change along with the unpredictable light and shadow, and the mysterious and vast desert drown people into infinite imagination, which could bring people endless shock.
With the sun setting down, the silhouette of the camel caravan is reflected on the sand, as if it had gone back thousands of years. There are many historical sites in the vast desert - the treasure may slumber underground the mysterious Heicheng Town, and the Datong Historic Site exudes an ancient atmosphere. The lingering charm you could feel in Ejina is the change of history and ancient culture. This article will show you how to plan a trip to Ejina and bring you as much information as possible.
With the development of economy and technology, the visit to Ejina could be realized with multiple transportations.
Taolai Airport (EJN) is the only airport in Ejina. It is a very small airport and only has the two flights operated by Okay Airways and Joy Air to Xian, Zuoqi Banner, and Youqi Banner. For its limited condition on flights, usually it is recommended to get to other cities around Ejina first, and then drive to Ejina. You could choose Jiuquan, Jiayuguan, or Yinchuan as the beginning city.
In 2011, the passenger train between Ejina and Hohhot was officially open, which complete the history gap. The whole journey is 1100km and 13 hours, stopping at Ejina, Linhe, Baotou and Hohhot. This is the first train to cross the desert and arrive at the most western city of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. The train would pass through the desert, which allows you to enjoy the stunning view of the landscape.
Tips: From the train station to Ejina downtown, it is about 10km, and it is recommended to take a taxi at around CNY20 per cab.
From Dalaihubu (the capital of Ejina) to the attractions, there is no public transportation, so the only way to visit Ejina is self-driving or chartered car service. The whole area of Inner Mongolia is a paradise for the travelers who love self-driving and use chartered car service, because travelers could see the endless grassland and magnificent desert along the way. The vehicle would be a 7-seat SUV, so it would be very comfortable and have enough room for the luggage.
What would you see in Ejina? What makes it a must-see place even you have to cross the mountains and rivers? Let's show you the reasons.
Ejina Populus Euphratica Forest National Nature Reserve is one of the main areas of Populus euphratica.
In every autumn, Populus euphratica forest turns yellow, gorgeous and dazzling like golden, which makes it the most beautiful season. The yellow leaves seem to be the bright sunlight that lights up the sky of the desert. This is the peak season for photography and tourism. If you would visit Ejina in autumn, you would not miss the unparalleled view and would be sure to permanently freeze the most beautiful gold color of Populus euphratica forest.
Ejina inherits the symbol of Alxa League - the robust Bactrian Camel. The Badaoqiao Desert Scenic Spot is a good place to ride a camel. With less than 100 yuan, you can ride on the camel and walk on the endless desert. The wind is blowing over the face, and the deep flute sounded in the distance. You seem to become a merchant walking along the Silk Road, feeling the history of thousands of years.
As the important husbandry base and frontier fortress in Xixia, the value of Heicheng lies not only in the architectures but the precious cultural relics buried inside. Archaeologists have unearthed many valuable cultural relics, and Heicheng is still a mysterious ancient city which is rumored to contain countless undiscovered treasures. If you like the ancient legends, then come here to explore.
Autumn is the best time to visit Ejina. In September and October, the weather is fine, and no much windy days, so it is a good time to go deep into the desert. From early to middle October, the leaves of Populus euphratica turn yellow. On a sunny day, follow the camel caravan into the desert where you can see the view of oases and magical fountains, if you're lucky, you could even see the mysterious mirages. It would allow you to fully appreciate the magnificent beauty of the desert.
Ejina has many sandstorms in the spring and is too cold in the winter, so both seasons are not suitable for travel.