Attractions
Southern Mongolia: Vast Gobi desert,
The Gobi desert is a vast expanse covering much of the southern part of Mongolia. Unlike the Sahara, it has few sand dunes, instead consisting of large barren expanses of gravel plains and rocky outcrops. The climate is extreme, with temperatures reaching +40°C in summer and -40°C in winter. Precipitation is less than 100 mm per year, with some areas receiving rain only once every two or three years. Strong winds up to 140 km/h make travel dangerous in spring and fall. Great Gobi National Park is a World Biosphere Reserve larger than some countries, and is home to the last remaining wild Bactrian camels, wild ass, and a small population of Gobi bears - the only desert-inhabiting bear. Many people picture the Mongolian Gobi as a sandy flat area or barren dried mud soil, but after they travel Mongolia, they often find it to be an amazingly surprising area. The Mongolian Gobi is a land of contrast, with daunting rocky mountains covered with plants in some parts and views of marvelous blue mountains combined with high and long continuing sand dunes, lush green-shored streams, and endless steppes edging the horizon in others.
Central Mongolia: Heritage & Scenery
Central Mongolia is a vast region that offers visitors some of Mongolia's most spectacular scenery and historical sites. The area is famous for its vast grasslands, pristine lakes, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage. Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the region's most significant historical and natural sites. The valley is home to some of Mongolia's most awe-inspiring landscapes, including the Orkhon Waterfall, which cascades down 20 meters into the valley below. Visitors can also explore the ancient Turkic and Mongol ruins, including Kharkhorin, which served as the capital of the Mongol Empire for over 40 years. In addition to historical and natural attractions, the region offers travelers the opportunity to experience traditional nomadic culture firsthand. Visitors can stay in a ger (traditional nomadic dwelling), participate in local festivals, and learn about traditional practices like horse riding and archery. With its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, Central Mongolia is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mongolia.
Northern Mongolia: Wild mountains
Northern Mongolia is a region of unparalleled natural beauty and cultural significance. The area is famous for its rugged mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes, with the taiga being a prominent feature. One of the most unique attractions in the region is the traditional nomadic reindeer herders who have lived in the taiga for centuries. Visitors can experience their unique lifestyle, stay in a ger, and participate in traditional activities like milking reindeer and making dairy products. The region is also rich in cultural heritage, with ancient sites like the Deer Stones and Khirigsuur, offering a glimpse into Mongolia's rich history. The area's stunning natural beauty and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Mongolian experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Northern Mongolia's wild beauty and traditional way of life are a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage.
Western Mongolia: Altai wonders
Western Mongolia is a region of vast and untouched wilderness, home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. It is characterized by high mountains, glaciers, deep valleys, crystal-clear rivers, and vast deserts. The Altai Mountains dominate the western region and are the highest in Mongolia, with the highest peak, Tavan Bogd, reaching 4,374 meters. The region is also home to the stunningly beautiful Khovd River Valley, where the mountains meet the arid desert plains. The Great Lakes Depression is another geological feature in Western Mongolia, which includes the spectacular saltwater Lake Khyargas and freshwater Lake Uvs. This region is also home to many ethnic minorities, including Kazakhs, Tuvans, and Uriankhai. Visitors to Western Mongolia can experience a unique blend of nomadic and Kazakh cultures, including traditional music, dance, and food. Western Mongolia is truly a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic cultural and natural experience.
Eastern Mongolia: Empire legacy
Eastern Mongolia is a region of diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. It is home to the vast grassy steppe, the vast Gobi desert, and the dense forests of the Khentii Mountains. The region has been a crossroads of trade and migration for centuries, with a rich history of nomadic life and the rise and fall of empires. The eastern region's most famous site is undoubtedly the birthplace of Genghis Khan in the Khentii Mountains. The area is still a place of pilgrimage for many Mongolians, who come to pay their respects to their greatest hero. The region is also known for its unique rock formations, such as the striking granite cliffs of Ikh Nart and the Flaming Cliffs in the Gobi desert. The area is also home to many rare and endangered species, such as the wild ass, Gobi bear, and argali sheep. The cities of the east, such as Choibalsan and Dornod, are bustling hubs of trade and commerce, where traditional ways of life blend with modern technology and development. The eastern region is a fascinating place to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Mongolia.