# Badain Jaran Desert (巴丹吉林沙漠)

Alxa, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region · North China, China · Guidebook rating: 5/5
Canonical: https://cnatrip.com/en/places/badain-jaran-desert
Language: en

## Key facts

- **Admission:** Free admission to the scenic area; Badain Lake ticket ¥65; Badain Jaran Desert Geopark ticket ¥220
- **Time needed:** 1–2 days
- **Getting there:** Take a local travel agency's off-road vehicle from Ehen Hudag Town (Alxa Right Banner seat) to the Badain Jaran Desert, about 90 km
- **Good for:** Hiking & Outdoors, Photography, Nature

## About Badain Jaran Desert

The desert covers 47,000 square kilometres, and about 10,000 square kilometres in its northwest remain untouched by human footprints. Its elevation ranges from 1,200 to 1,700 metres, and dunes rise more than 500 metres above the surrounding terrain, earning it the nickname 'the Everest of deserts'. The Badain Jaran Desert combines the splendour of the desert with towering, steep and dramatic dunes. Its 'Five Wonders' are its peaks, singing sands, lakes, sacred springs and ancient temples.

## Tips from the guidebook

- Wind and sun protection
- 1. Temperatures swing widely between day and night and the weather can change quickly, so bring long-sleeved clothing for wind protection and warmth.
- 2. The high altitude and strong direct sunlight mean intense UV exposure. Bring a high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat.
- Yinderitu Sacred Spring
- A saline lake in the desert. In its centre stands a millstone-shaped rock of less than 3 square metres, dotted with springs. The water that flows from them is sweet, refreshing and crisp.

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Source: China Self-Guided Travel 2025 (《中国自助游》, Tianjin Science & Technology Press, Aug 2024), p. 1915. Prices, hours and transport details are as printed in the August 2024 edition and may have changed. Always confirm with the venue before you travel.
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