Inner Mongolia: Where lambs arrive on plates and brides leave on horses

By Faisal Kidwai (chinadaily.com.cn)

Updated: 2015-07-02

The ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ leave after the mock wedding organized for diplomats and guests in the middle of a desert in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, June 27, 2015. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

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.