The Tengger Desert (腾格里沙漠), located in the Alxa region of Inner Mongolia, covers an area of over 30,000 square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest desert in China and the second-largest in Inner Mongolia. The terrain gently slopes from southeast to northwest, with an elevation ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 meters. The desert landscape is diverse, with sand dunes, lake basins, grasslands, hills, and plains intricately interwoven. Among its unique features are the 422 lake basins scattered throughout, 251 of which contain water, some replenished by springs and seasonal water sources.
The name “Tengger” originates from the Mongolian word for “sky.” There are several explanations for this name: the endless expanse of sand resembles the boundless sky, the towering dunes seem to reach the heavens, or the vast desert appears as if it descended from the skies.
One of Tengger Desert’s highlights is Swan Lake, a ribbon-like body of water surrounded by oleaster trees and abundant wildflowers. The lake is especially vibrant in late March and early April when swans rest and play on its calm waters. The area around the lake is a haven of wild beauty, with fields of blooming mallows and groves of nearly 2,000 oleaster trees. May brings a fresh burst of greenery, with oleaster trees in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance.
Visitors to Swan Lake can immerse themselves in the rich Mongolian culture by staying in traditional yurts, which offer modern amenities like satellite TV and telephones. Though there is no mobile signal, the experience is enriched by activities such as bonfire parties under the stars. For adventure seekers, the desert offers a variety of recreational activities, including sand sledding, volleyball, camel and horse riding, karting, boating, and jet skiing, ensuring a thrilling and unforgettable visit.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Half a day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0483-8180686 |
Location and Transportation
Swan Lake is located in the northwest of Tongguleg Naoer Sumu, within Alxa Left Banner in the Alxa League of Inner Mongolia. Due to its remote location, visitors can only reach the lake by self-driving or hiring a private car.
