Guests exchange snuff bottle, a Mongolian tradition, with the 'groom' at a mock wedding organized for diplomats and visitors in the middle of a desert in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, June 27, 2015. （Photo/chinadaily.com.cn）
From Genghis Khan and roasted lamb, head to Kangbashi, the swankiest district in Ordos. Its impeccably landscaped roads, giant statues of horses and huge plazas are unlike anything you have ever seen. Even more awe-inspiring is that it's so clean that streets, sidewalks and thoroughfares glisten like the lobby of a five-star hotel.
Some places worth a visit are the Ordos Museum, a 41,000-square-foot blob highlighting the diverse culture and traditions of Inner Mongolia, the next door Library of Ordos, designed to look like books stacked on a shelf and a theater created in the shape of a yurt.
But nothing can beat an evening spent watching Asia's biggest fountain show in downtown Ordos. The synchronized display of water and flashing lights surrounded by wide sidewalks is one of the most beautiful sights.
If you are planning a trip to Ordos make sure you spend an evening being mesmerized by the beauty of the show.
Inner Mongolia is so huge that you would need days, if not weeks, to enjoy all of its attractions, but it is still worth visiting even if you can't spare more than three or four days.
Travel tips
How to get there: There are direct flights from Beijing and other major cities to both Hohhot and Ordos. Alternatively, you can take a train or drive.
Accommodation: Both cities have hotels catering to every budget. The Inner Mongolia Hotel in Hohhot, a five-star property, is located in the heart of the capital and offers excellent facilities, including a halal restaurant for Muslims. In Ordos, Wulan International Hotel is centrally located in Kangbashi and offers all the facilities expected of a world-class property to both business and leisure travelers.
Shopping: Ordos is famous for producing cashmere, so grab a couple of shawls or sweaters when you are there.
Best season: Summer and autumn are the best seasons, but if you don't mind bitter cold then take advantage of the discounts in winter. The Nadan Fair in early August is the best time to enjoy horse racing, archery and wrestling.
What to wear: Temperatures can drop as low as minus 20 in winter so warm clothes and proper shoes are necessary. Although summer and autumn are pleasant take a light jacket as the temperature can fall suddenly of an evening.
