Hulun Lake (呼伦湖), also known as Dalai Lake, derives its name from Mongolian, meaning “sea-like lake.” It stretches 93 kilometers long, with a maximum width of 41 kilometers and an average width of 32 kilometers. The lake has a circumference of 447 kilometers and covers a total area of 2,315 square kilometers, making it the largest lake in Inner Mongolia and the fifth largest in China. Situated in the heart of the Hulunbuir Grassland, it is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Grassland” or the “Kidney of the Grassland.”
According to local legend, long ago in a Mongolian tribe, there was a couple named Hulun and Buir. One day, a monster named Mangus led a ferocious attack on the grasslands with wolves, insects, tigers, and leopards, using two powerful blue water pearls on his head. The monster wreaked havoc, draining rivers and withering the grass, causing livestock to die. In a dark mist, he captured Hulun. To save the grassland and Hulun, Buir fought bravely against Mangus.
Hulun pretended to please Mangus, saying, “If you give me one of your pearls, I will grant your wishes in return.” Mangus, eager and greedy, agreed and handed over one pearl. Knowing that one pearl represented a body of blue water, Hulun swallowed it to nourish the grassland, transforming into the goddess of the grassland. Mangus, weakened by the loss of one pearl, was pursued by Buir, who shot him with an arrow and defeated him. Buir then retrieved the second pearl, only to learn that Hulun had become the goddess of the grassland. In sorrow, Buir vowed to always protect Hulun and swallowed the second pearl, creating another body of water south of Hulun Lake. The locals commemorated their story by naming the two lakes Hulun Lake and Buir Lake.
Hulun Lake is a popular tourist destination offering a variety of activities, including dining, accommodations, water sightseeing, and specialty barbecues. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking Hulun Sunrise and stargaze at the Milky Way at night, listen to the songs of seagulls, and witness the sunset. Activities such as water sports, fishing, sunbathing on the soft sandy beaches, and boat rides on the lake allow tourists to appreciate the beauty described by famous writer Lao She: “White gulls soar over the purple grasslands, and blue waves reflect the rosy sky.”
Additionally, tourists can engage in horseback riding, camel riding, go-karting, and carriage rides. The area also offers unique souvenirs, including Mongolian and Russian-themed items, perfect for gifts to friends and family.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | 40 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 20.00 |
Location and Transportation
Hulun Lake is located in the Xinjian Baerhu Qi, Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. To reach Hulun Lake from Manzhouli, visitors can take a small van that departs from the entrance of the border trade market, with round-trip tickets costing around 20 yuan. Alternatively, you can rent a car for approximately 100 yuan for a round trip. However, the most convenient option is to drive yourself, allowing for flexibility in exploring the beautiful surroundings.
