Erlian

Erlian (二连; Èrlián) is a city in Inner Mongolia. It is also variously known as Ereen or Eriyen in Mongolia, and Erenhot or Erlianhaote (二连浩特; Èrliánhàotè) in China. It appears as Erlian on Chinese railway timetables, and Ereen on Monglian railway timetables.

Travel to Erlian

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Erlian

There is a direct flight Beijing-Erlian (Erenhot Shi, code ERL) via Capital Airlines, China.

From Erlian to Hohhot a 40-minutes flight was just over ¥270 (August 2022).

Travel by train to Erlian

From Beijing

There are trains from Beijing. The train station is on the eastern border of the town. Tickets can be purchased at the station 20 days in advance, or from almost any tourist/travel center 5 days in advance. Prices are controlled by the government and there should only be a ¥20 commission on the sale if you buy it from a 3rd party agent.

Train #K23 departs from Beijing at 11:22 arriving in Erlian at 22:30 shared hard berth ¥200 (March 2022).

You can get from Zamiin-Uud in Mongolia to Erlian by train on the international train from Beijing to Ulaanbaatar as described in Zamiin-Uud. From Moscow and other major Russian cities along the track, you can take the weekly train 43, aka the "Trans-Siberian Railway|Trans-Mongolian", to Erlian.

Visa run

Trains to Beijing only run a few days a week. If you are doing a visa run from Beijing, find out when trains will be coming back before going to Erlian. Train tickets can typically be purchased at the train station five days before the train is scheduled to leave, ten days during Chinese New Year (2022). If you are traveling from Beijing to renew a visa, return tickets can not be purchased in Beijing.

Travel on a Bus in Erlian

There are sleeper buses from Beijing. (¥200, 2011) The long-distance bus station is nearby, about one block west and 2-3 blocks north of the train station.

You can take a bus from Hohhot. There are several buses each day for ¥95 (2022). Depending on the traffic the trip is about 6 hours and 30 minutes. Bus stops for the driver to eat, but there is not much choice so bring some Snacks.

You can get from Zamiin-Uud train center in Mongolia by bus (¥60, July 2009).

The bus station was closed for Chinese New Year until February 19 (2022).

By jeep

You can get from Zamiin-Uud in Mongolia by jeep, which costs around ¥70 per person (July 2009). Russian-made jeeps driven by Mongolian drivers start from the market where Mongolians buy goods to take back to Mongolia. The same jeeps also pick up passengers at the first border checkpoint with Chinese guards if they have room. At the border a jeep will arrive every few minutes. A Chinese taxi can take you to this checkpoint for ¥7-10. The jeeps are allowed to carry 5 passengers; however, some drivers ask the Chinese guards for exceptions and carry up to 7 passengers. If taking a jeep, expect to be very crowded and to either sit on someone's lap or have someone sit on your lap. Get out of the jeep at the Chinese and Mongolian entry points and walk through. Be sure to remember which jeep is yours as they come in only two colors (grey and green) and look nearly identical to each other. Many Mongolians cross the border on a daily basis so they are familiar with the process and can help out. Many speak at least some English.

You are not allowed to walk between the Chinese and Mongolian border posts though they are within walking distance. You will need to pay a ¥7 exit tax. The whole process takes around 1½ hours.

On some holidays (e.g. 1 June, Children's Day) and the border is closed and you may be forced to stay a day longer than prepared. It may happen that a driver still offers you a lift and then notices at the border that it isn't feasible and still wants to charge you for it.

Get Around

Taxis, pedicabs and rickshaws are everywhere. A taxi around town costs ¥7 flat rate or ¥20 to the border from town (February 2010). The number one bus also will take you from town to the border for ¥2.

What to see in Erlian

• Dinosaur Museum | 7 kilometers from the centre of Erlian - Thit is a cool attraction and outdoor park. There are several exhibits and large outdoor gardens. It takes 2-4 hours to see all the exhibits and gardens. To get to the museum a taxi will cost around ¥60 one way or ¥200 to have the taxi wait for you and take you both ways.

}} - Konlongmudi | Large replicas of dinosaur skeletons

• Sculpture | There is a giant at the intersection of the primary streets - one running east-west from the train station and the other north-south.

• Dinosaur Plaza Towards the center of town - There is a large plaza near the center of town that was under construction (2022). There looks like there is potential for a nice plaza with a dinosaur theme. There is loads of shopping all around. There was a fair in the plaza (July 2022). Several street barbecues set up every night just south of the plaza.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Erlian

• Erlian Grassland Tour Loop | It is feasible to use Erlian as the starting point for the Erlian Grassland Tour Loop itinerary.

Shopping in Erlian

Antiques (of suspect age) and tourist knickknacks, at the alleys of gift shops at the north-east corner of 新华街 (mislabeled as Xinghua Street) and 前进路 (Qianjin Road).

• Central Market The market can be found directly across the street from the dinosaur square. - There is a large indoor market with many small shops selling all sorts of goods from clothes to power tools. There are also many outdoor stores next to the market. There are many large shopping centers in the area also. There are money changers at the east entrance who will give you a decent exchange rate for Mongolian money if needed.

Halal Restaurants

The Mongolian restaurant in the bus station complex (on the left side) has excellent food with reasonable prices and a picture menu. They also have some imported items from Mongolia and ¥2 lockers if you don't want to lug your bag around. Most of the clientele are Mongolians and many of the waitstaff don't speak Mandarin so you know it's authentic!

There are also Muslim restaurants opened by the Hui Muslims visitors of China.

There are many barbecue places on Xilin street that set up outside dinning and start getting busy around 19:30.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Erlian

Erlian - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Erlian, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Erlian. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Erlian and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Erlian. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Erlian. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Erlian: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Erlian.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Erlian: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Erlian, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Erlian.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Erlian, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Erlian, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Erlian and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Erlian, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Erlian, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Erlian without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Erlian is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Erlian.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Erlian is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Erlian, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Erlian Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Erlian

eHalal Group Erlian is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Erlian. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Erlian.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Erlian ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Erlian. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Erlian, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Erlian are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are many smaller hotels around the train station costing ¥70-60 for a double.

Other hotels:

• Ruyi International Mansion - Rooms start from ¥730 The biggest hotel in Erlian

• Geely Hotel - 吉利旅店 | It is located close to the junction of Xilin Street (锡林街) and Tuanje Road (团结路) It is only marked in Chinese and hard to spot. ¥80 for a triple This was the nicest "affordable" hotel within walking distance of the bus station. Clean rooms, AC, and good Wifi.

Travel Next

Mongolian visa

Get a Mongolian visa either from:

• CITS (when open)

Costs ¥695. You drop it off at 09:00 and pick up at 15:00.

• The Mongolian Consulate

No.1206, Youyi Beilu Erlianhaote

Open Monday to Friday 08:30-12:00. Same-day processing costs ¥665.

The visa will last for 30 days. You will need one passport photo and to pay with cash. The prices above apply to most, but not all nationalities. For a full list see the /index.php?ChangeLang=en Mongolian Embassy in China website.

Directions from the train station: Walk straight ahead along the road that runs directly in front of the clock outside the train station until you reach the second junction. The CITS will be on the left hand corner. Turn right here and then walk straight ahead for about five minutes. When you get to Chichaer Street you will see the beige bus station down the street on the left, but continue walking straight ahead for a about another ten minutes until you see the blue, red and yellow Mongolian flag on the left. Do not worry if it seems like you have walked a bit outside town, you are meant to. Go to the small office at the gate.

During Chinese New Year and the border (18 Feb) and the Mongolian Consulate (22 Feb) were both closed. (2023)

One Australian was able to obtain a visa at the border while the consulate in town was closed during Chinese New Year but this process did not seem to be encouraged and may not be typically available.

For residents of Beijing, a trip to Erlian is the cheapest way to leave the nation and renew a multiple entry visa (a visa run) but is less straight forward than a trip to Hong Kong or Seoul, Korea. Most people in town and at the border do not speak any English so some basic Chinese is very helpful.

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