Wulagai, the grassland on the edge of sky

A film still from French director Jean-Jacques Annaud's h, which hit China's big screens earlier this year. It is an adaptation of author Jiang Rong's hymn for the grasslands. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The grassland covers more than 5,000 square kilometers but has a small population, about 24,000. The area is less famous than other grasslands in Inner Mongolia, so it is less crowded in the peak of summer. However, it's among the best-preserved areas in the region.

Joining hiking enthusiasts from all over the country to embark on a trek through Wulagai sounds like a good choice. The route of this event, which is held every June, is more than 210 km, and the hike is scheduled to take seven and a half days. This year's hike will begin on June 29, and for the first time, five additional treks are scheduled through August.

Mornings in Wulagai are slightly cold, even during summer, and unfriendly mosquitoes gather to attack. It is best to be prepared before setting off with long-sleeve shirts to protect yourself from the sunlight, because the day quickly turns sunny and hot, and the boundless grassland immediately becomes brighter.