Places to Visit in Nepal

Ulaanbaatar

Unexplored country that offers a variety of natural features and nomadic culture

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Gobi Desert

The Mongolian Gobi Desert is the largest dinosaur fossil reservoir in the world

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Khovsgol Lake

Mongolia’s largest and deepest lake, which stretches 125km

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Karakorum

Ancient capital of the Mongol empire, whose ruins lie on the upper Orhon River 

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Altai Mountains

Home to a variety of animals, snow leopards, argali sheep, pika, and cinereous vultures

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Terelj National Park

A popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty

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Orkhon Valley

A World Heritage Site that’s rich in history, culture, and archaeology

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Mongolia

Mongolia is a landlocked country in East Asia, known for its vast steppes, nomadic culture, and dramatic landscapes. It is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. The country is famous for its connection to the Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan in the 13th century. Its culture, landscapes, and unique experiences attract adventurers and culture enthusiasts worldwide.

Population

  • Total: Approximately 3.4 million (2023 estimate).
  • The population density is extremely low, with most people living in rural areas and leading nomadic lifestyles. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, houses around half of the country’s population.

What Mongolia is Famous For

  1. Nomadic Culture: Traditional yurt (ger) living and herding livestock.
  2. Genghis Khan: The founder of the Mongol Empire.
  3. Vast Landscapes: Endless steppes, Gobi Desert, and snow-capped Altai Mountains.
  4. Wildlife: Wild horses (Przewalski’s horses), Bactrian camels, and snow leopards.
  5. Naadam Festival: Celebrates the “Three Manly Games” – wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (June to August): Warm weather, green steppes, and festivals like Naadam (July).
  • Spring (May) and Autumn (September): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery.
  • Winter (November to February): For the adventurous, experience the harsh beauty of Mongolia in the cold and the Ice Festival in Khovsgol Lake.

Tourist Activities in Mongolia

  1. Cultural Immersion: Stay in gers with nomadic families, taste traditional Mongolian cuisine, and learn about their way of life.
  2. Adventure Tourism: Horseback riding, camel treks, hiking, and off-road jeep tours.
  3. Wildlife Viewing: Spot snow leopards, wild horses, and migratory birds.
  4. Festivals: Participate in the Naadam Festival or Eagle Festival.

Top Cities and Tourist Highlights

1. Ulaanbaatar (The Capital City)

    • Highlights:
      • Genghis Khan Statue Complex: A massive statue of the iconic leader.
      • Sukhbaatar Square: Central plaza with significant monuments.
      • Gandan Monastery: The largest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia.
      • National Museum of Mongolia: Explore Mongolia’s rich history and culture.
    • What Tourists Do: Visit museums, shop for traditional goods, and explore nightlife.

2. Gobi Desert

    • Highlights:
      • Khongoryn Els: The “Singing Sand Dunes.”
      • Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs): Known for dinosaur fossil discoveries.
      • Yolyn Am: A gorge with ice fields, even in summer.
    • What Tourists Do: Camel trekking, fossil hunting, and stargazing.

3. Khovsgol Lake

    • Highlights:
      • Crystal-clear lake surrounded by forests and mountains.
      • A hub for hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
    • What Tourists Do: Horseback riding, camping, and exploring local reindeer herders’ culture.

4. Karakorum (Kharkhorin)

    • Highlights:
      • Erdene Zuu Monastery: Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery.
      • Orkhon Valley: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • What Tourists Do: Discover ancient Mongol Empire ruins and enjoy the scenic valley.

5. Altai Mountains

    • Highlights:
      • Home to the Kazakh eagle hunters.
      • Stunning mountain scenery and glaciers.
    • What Tourists Do: Trekking, eagle hunting experiences, and photography.

6. Terelj National Park

    • Highlights:
      • Famous for Turtle Rock and the Aryabal Meditation Temple.
      • Pristine landscapes with forests and rivers.
    • What Tourists Do: Hiking, horse riding, and meditation retreats.

7. Orkhon Valley

    • Highlights:
      • Lush landscapes and waterfalls like Orkhon Waterfall.
      • Archaeological sites of ancient empires.
    • What Tourists Do: Camping and exploring the valley on horseback.

Tourist Attractions in Mongolia

  1. Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue: Largest equestrian statue in the world.
  2. Naadam Festival: A unique cultural celebration.
  3. Tsaatan Reindeer Herders: Experience their lifestyle in northern Mongolia.
  4. Khustain Nuruu National Park: Home to wild Przewalski’s horses.
  5. Karakorum and Erdene Zuu: Ancient capital and monastery.
  6. Tsenkher Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs.
  7. Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs: Iconic desert cliffs rich in fossils.
  8. Eagle Festival: Witness traditional falconry in the Altai region.

Mongolia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and unspoiled nature, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and cultural depth.