Eribugai Canyon
I. Scenic Area Introduction
Eribugai Canyon is located 54 kilometers south of Badain Jaran Town, Right Alxa Banner, and 12 kilometers from the former Eribugai Sumu. The crisscrossing canyon stretches for dozens of kilometers. It is covered with wind-eroded rocks in crimson and reddish-brown hues, described as “dyed red as cinnabar, glowing bright as morning glow”. It features typical Danxia landforms formed during the Cretaceous Period, approximately 65 to 137 million years ago.
Origin of the Name Dragon Head Mountain
As the name suggests, Dragon Head Mountain resembles a dragon’s head. Deep inside the mysterious canyon, a jagged cliff juts out a rock formation that perfectly mimics a dragon’s head, tilting upward toward the sky with horn-like protrusions pointing up and whisker-shaped stone streaks hanging down. The vivid shape creates an impression that a giant dragon is about to take flight.
The Mysterious Grand Canyon
The main canyon runs roughly 5 kilometers from north to south and splits into two branches heading southeast and southwest at its far end, forming a Y shape. Orange-red rock cliffs tower on both sides: the lowest cliffs stand about 5 meters tall, while the highest reach nearly 100 meters. The canyon width ranges from 30 to 40 meters at its widest points to merely several meters at the narrowest sections. Stone walls line each side of the canyon, said to be relics of an ancient battlefield.
Layered cliff faces are pockmarked with countless strange caves, many interconnected end to end and serving as natural dens for wild animals. Pagoda-shaped rock stacks and grotesque stones scatter across the valley. Forged by nature’s masterful craftsmanship, weathered cliffs take countless fantastic shapes: some massive boulders thrust out like dragon heads; others appear to trudge forward carrying heavy loads just like camels. There are also rock formations resembling lions, turtles, frogs, birds, Roman knights, magical castles, budding spring bamboo shoots, elderly hunchbacked women, scrolls of scriptures and skull stones, to name just a few. Visitors need to explore in person to fully appreciate the subtle charm of these stone sculptures.
The canyon’s unique geological structure paired with the desert’s unpredictable weather creates a perfect interplay of light and shadow, shrouding the valley in an air of mystery that stirs endless curiosity. The best time to visit is midsummer, when the canyon boasts pleasant temperatures and flourishing wild flowers and plants. Bring family and a simple tent to wander and sightsee for boundless joy.
Dragon Head Mountain is a newly discovered destination for tourism and adventure. Its distinctive geological formations spawn a wealth of bizarre natural landscapes that awe visitors and spark rich imagination. The entire mountain massif consists of reddish-brown sedimentary rock formed by crustal movements. Sharp peaks rise abruptly within the canyon, and honeycomb-like caves of all sizes riddle the steep cliffs, bearing witness to magnificent vicissitudes of time.
Strolling through the mysterious canyon, spectacular peaks unfold at every turn. Vivid rock formations stand over a hundred meters high, including the “Iron General with Small Head and Big Belly”, “Stone Monkey”, “Pigsy Looking into the Mirror”, “Ancient Pagoda”, “Skyscraper”, “Crane Standing Among Chickens” and “Writing Cliff”, each full of whimsical appeal.
Ancient Legend
Deep within the canyon sits a huge stone shaped exactly like a giant frog, inspiring a beautiful local legend. Long ago, a colossal frog wandered through the canyon, captivated by its breathtaking scenery. When it reached the fork where the two branch canyons diverge, it hesitated, unable to choose which path to take amid all the gorgeous views. It froze in place, tilted its head, opened its wide mouth and called out to the heavens asking which way to go, eventually petrifying into stone. The formation was named “Stone Frog Questioning Heaven”.
Many such folk tales surround the canyon, which teems with lifelike animal-shaped rocks waiting for visitors to discover and name, letting the world witness all the valley’s stunning scenery.
II. Ticket Information
Ticket Discount Policies
- Children under 1.2 meters tall (exclusive of 1.2 meters);
- Persons with disabilities (holders of the People’s Republic of China Disability Certificate issued by the Ministry of Civil Affairs; those with physical disabilities do not need to present additional documents);
- Journalists at provincial level and above (three valid certificates required: employee ID, press card and ID card);
- Senior citizens aged 70 and above (valid ID card and senior citizen card required);
- Tour guides holding national tour guide certificates.
III. Transportation Guide
Travel Options
Self-driving or vehicle rental available
Self-Driving Directions
The canyon is 54 kilometers from Badain Jaran Town, Right Alxa Banner, accessible via County Highway X766.
Parking Lot
Capacity: 40–50 vehicles; designated parking area inside the scenic spot.
Public Transport
Gas Station
Fuel refueling available in Badain Jaran Town.
IV. Service Guide
Suitable Visitors
Young adults, middle-aged people and children
Sightseeing Appeal
Thrill Level
Recommended Gear
Hiking shoes, water bottle, camera, sunglasses, walking stick
Financial Services
Banking outlets located in Badain Jaran Town
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