Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, known for its stunning natural beauty and nomadic culture. With vast landscapes of rugged mountains, rolling grasslands, and vast deserts, Mongolia offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best destinations in Mongolia.
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Ulaanbaatar
As Mongolia’s capital and largest city, Ulaanbaatar is often the first stop for visitors to the country. While the city may not be as scenic as some of Mongolia’s natural wonders, it’s still worth exploring for its rich history and culture. Must-see attractions include the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and the Zaisan Memorial.
Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is one of Mongolia’s most iconic destinations and for a good reason. This vast desert covers over 500,000 square miles, spanning southern Mongolia and northern China. Visitors to the Gobi Desert can explore its dunes, rocky outcrops, and unique wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard.
Kharkhorin
Located in central Mongolia, Kharkhorin is a historic city that was once the Mongol Empire’s capital. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the Erdene Zuu Monastery, which was built in the 16th century. The monastery is considered one of Mongolia’s most important Buddhist sites and is home to several temples and artifacts.
Lake Khovsgol
Also commonly known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Lake Khovsgol is a pristine alpine lake in the country’s north. Stunning mountains and forests surround the lake, home to various wildlife, including moose and reindeer. Visitors can enjoy multiple outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking.
Altai Mountains
The Altai Mountains are a mountain range spanning Mongolia, China, Russia, and Kazakhstan. The Mongolian side of the Altai Mountains is home to some of the country’s most amazing natural scenery, including glaciers, rivers, and high peaks. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountaineering, and horseback riding in this stunning landscape.
Terelj National Park
Terelj National Park is a protected area located just outside of Ulaanbaatar. The park is popular for its rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and unique rock formations, including the famous Turtle Rock. Visitors can do some hiking, camping, and horseback riding in the park and can also visit traditional Mongolian yurt camps.
Khustain Nuruu National Park
Khustain Nuruu National Park is a protected area situated just west of Ulaanbaatar. The park is home to the endangered Przewalski’s horse, which was once extinct in the wild but has since been reintroduced to the area. Visitors can hike, camp, and horseback in the park and learn about the local culture and traditions.
Orkhon Valley
Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in central Mongolia. The valley has several important archaeological sites, including ancient tombs and monuments. In addition, visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient Karakorum, once the Mongol Empire’s capital, and enjoy hiking and camping in the surrounding countryside.
Bayanzag
Bayanzag, also popularly known as the “Flaming Cliffs,” is a geological wonder in the southern Gobi Desert. The cliffs are named for their vibrant red and orange colors, particularly striking at sunset. Visitors can explore the cliffs and surrounding desert and search for dinosaur fossils, as the area is known for its rich paleontological history.
Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Located in northern Mongolia, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery is considered one of the country’s most beautiful and important Buddhist monasteries. Built-in the 18th century, the monastery features stunning architecture, including ornate carvings and colorful murals. Visitors can tour the sanctuary and know about its history and significance.
Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park
Located in central Mongolia, Khorgo Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park is home to the stunning Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, a freshwater lake surrounded by volcanic mountains. Visitors can hike around the lake, explore the volcanic craters, and spot local wildlife, including eagles and marmots.
Khövsgöl Nuur
Khövsgöl Nuur is a stunning alpine lake in northern Mongolia near the Russian border. The lake is surrounded by pristine wilderness and is home to various flora and fauna. Visitors can do some hiking, camping, and fishing in the area and learn about culture and traditions from the nearby Tsaatan people.
Tsenkher Hot Springs
Located in central Mongolia, the Tsenkher Hot Springs is a popular destination for people looking to relax and unwind. The hot springs are believed to bring healing properties and are surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can soak in the springs, enjoy a massage or other spa treatments, and explore the nearby countryside.
Uvs Nuur Lake
Located in western Mongolia, Uvs Nuur Lake is a large saline lake surrounded by mountains and grasslands. The lake is a good spot for birdwatching, as it is home to over 200 species of birds, including migratory birds from Siberia. Visitors can also explore the nearby Uvs Nuur Basin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological formations.
Khar Us Nuur National Park
Khar Us Nuur National Park is a protected area in western Mongolia, near the border with Russia. The park is home to many beautiful wildlife, including wolves, bears, and eagles, and is known for its stunning landscapes of mountains, forests, and wetlands. Visitors can do some hiking, camping, and wildlife watching in the park.
In conclusion, Mongolia is a place that offers an abundance of natural beauty and cultural experiences for visitors to explore. From the rugged mountains and rolling grasslands to the pristine lakes and deserts, there’s no shortage of destinations to discover. So whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure or cultural exploration, Mongolia has something to offer everyone.