Pingdingshan Volcanic Cluster (Flat-Top Mountain)
A wonder of Quaternary volcanic relics: dozens of volcanic hills have rounded, uniformly level tops as if sliced by a knife, hence the name Pingdingshan (Flat-Top Mountain); reportedly formed from volcanic plateaus and lava landforms through uplift and erosion
Visitor info
- Opening hours
- Open all day
- Ticket
- Free
Price is indicative — final quote on inquiry.
A wonder of Quaternary volcanic relics: dozens of volcanic hills have rounded, uniformly level tops as if sliced by a knife, hence the name Pingdingshan (Flat-Top Mountain); reportedly formed from volcanic plateaus and lava landforms through uplift and erosion. Folk legend says Genghis Khan flattened the hilltops with a sweep of his whip while campaigning here (as recorded), adding a legendary touch to the scenery. At sunset, the flat-top silhouettes against the grassland evening glow form a classic Xilinhot photo spot; the wind on the summit is strong, so guard against wind and dress warmly, and follow local signposts for navigation.
Getting there: About 20-plus km south of Xilinhot, along National Highway 207
Photos
More in Xilinhot
- Beizi Temple
One of Inner Mongolia's famous Tibetan Buddhist temples and the largest ancient architectural complex in Xilingol: halls unfold along a central axis against the southern slope of Eerdun Taoligai Aobao Hill; painted columns and gilded dharma wheels are the highlights, and at its peak the monastery reportedly had over a thousand monks (according to records)
- Eerdun Aobao
A cluster of aobao cairns (the Thirteen Aobaos) on the hill behind Beizi Temple, Xilingol's most famous aobao worship site: from the summit you can overlook all of Xilinhot and grassland stretching to the horizon; sunset is the city's best viewing time
- Xilingol Grassland
One of the most representative tracts of China's temperate grasslands: according to records, the Xilingol National Grassland Nature Reserve was established in 1985 as China's first grassland-type nature reserve
- Xilin River Nine Bends (Jiuquwan)
The best viewing spot for the Xilin River's snaking chain of linked bends across the grassland: climb up for a distant view and the river winds through nine linked bends like a ribbon unfurled, while at sunset the water reflects light in a "Golden River" spectacle—a regular fixture in Xilingol tourism photos
- Mongolian Khan City (West Ujimqin Banner)
A grassland culture tourism park (4A-rated) styled after Yuan-dynasty khan tents: the Khan's Golden-Top Grand Tent is the landmark building, with welcome toasting ceremonies, bonfire parties and "Three Manly Skills" experiences as the main activities, plus overnight stays in traditional yurts