Badain Jaran Desert

The Badain Jaran Desert is located in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of northern China. It covers an area of approximately 49,000 square kilometers within the larger arid region of western China. The desert is known for its towering sand dunes and surprising lake systems.

The desert contains some of the tallest stationary sand dunes in the world, with several exceeding 400 meters in height. Some of the largest dunes reportedly reach close to 500 meters. These massive formations are stabilized partly by internal moisture within the dune structures, which prevents them from migrating.

Yes, despite its arid climate, the Badain Jaran Desert contains numerous permanent lakes, estimated to number over 100. These lakes are fed by groundwater originating from surrounding mountain ranges and vary from freshwater to highly saline. The presence of these lakes among towering dunes creates one of the most unusual desert landscapes in the world.

The Badain Jaran Desert is accessible to visitors, though tourism infrastructure is limited due to its remote location in Inner Mongolia. Guided tours typically depart from nearby towns and offer dune driving and visits to the desert lakes. The extreme temperatures make spring and autumn the most practical seasons for visiting.