Mongolia is vast and beautiful. From rolling steppes and rugged mountains to deserts and ancient cities, this country has a lot to offer. It’s a mix of untouched nature, nomadic culture, and fascinating history. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history lover, or someone who enjoys getting off the beaten path, Mongolia has something for everyone. Here are the must-visit places in this incredible country.
Ulaanbaatar
Start your journey in Ulaanbaatar. It’s the capital and largest city of Mongolia. While many travelers use it as a base to explore the more remote areas, Ulaanbaatar itself has a lot to offer. The city is a mix of old and new, with modern skyscrapers standing next to traditional yurt camps.
Visit the Gandan Monastery, the largest and most important monastery in Mongolia. It’s one of the few places in the country where Buddhism continued to be practiced during Soviet rule. Another must-see is Chinggis Khaan Square, the heart of the city, featuring a huge statue of Genghis Khan.
The National Museum of Mongolia is perfect if you’re interested in the country’s history. You’ll find everything from ancient artifacts to exhibits on Mongolia’s nomadic culture.
Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is one of the most famous places in Mongolia. This isn’t your typical desert – it’s a land of contrasts, where sand dunes, canyons, and green valleys co-exist. And yes, camels are still used here to cross the desert, just like in ancient times. You can experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle by staying in a ger – a traditional Mongolian tent – with a local family.
Check out the Khongoryn Els dunes. These are the largest and most impressive sand dunes in Mongolia. Known as the “Singing Sand Dunes” for the sound they make when the wind blows, they stretch for over 100 kilometers.
Don’t miss a visit to the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag). This area is famous for its red rock formations and is where important dinosaur fossils have been discovered. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the cliffs glow red.
Terelj National Park
If you love hiking and nature, Terelj National Park is a great destination. Located just 70 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar, it’s one of the easiest places to visit for a quick escape from the city. The park is known for its dramatic rock formations, wide-open grasslands, and scenic views.
One of the highlights here is the “Turtle Rock,” a massive rock formation that looks like a turtle. Another popular attraction is the Aryapala Meditation Temple, which offers beautiful views of the valley below. You can also stay in a ger for an authentic experience and go horseback riding through the park’s meadows.
Karakorum
Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, holds an important place in Mongolia’s history. Founded by Genghis Khan’s son, Ogodei Khan, it was the political and cultural center of the empire. Today, visitors come to see the ruins of this once-great city and the nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery.
The monastery is the oldest in Mongolia and contains many well-preserved religious artifacts. It also offers great insight into the country’s deep Buddhist roots. The landscape surrounding Karakorum is stunning too, with rolling hills and the Orkhon River valley.
Lake Khövsgöl
Often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Lake Khövsgöl is the second-largest freshwater lake in Mongolia. This pristine lake, located in northern Mongolia, is surrounded by mountains and forests. It’s a perfect place to visit if you love nature and outdoor activities. In summer, you can go hiking, horseback riding, or kayaking on the lake.
In winter, the lake freezes over, becoming a playground for ice festivals. Local nomads come together to celebrate with ice skating, sledding, and cultural performances. No matter the season, Lake Khövsgöl offers stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is one of the most remote and rugged places in Mongolia. Located in the far west of the country, it’s home to Mongolia’s highest peaks. Tavan Bogd means “Five Saints” and refers to the park’s five towering mountains.
This is a must-visit if you’re an adventure seeker. The park is great for trekking, with trails leading you through deep valleys, rivers, and glaciers. The park is also home to the Kazakh people, who are known for their tradition of eagle hunting. If you visit in autumn, you can see the famous Golden Eagle Festival, where hunters show off their skills with trained eagles.
Orkhon Valley
The Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered the cradle of Mongolian civilization. The valley stretches across central Mongolia and is rich in history, with ancient burial sites, former royal palaces, and monasteries scattered throughout the area.
One of the main highlights is the Orkhon Waterfall, one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in Mongolia. The surrounding landscape is perfect for horseback riding, and there are plenty of opportunities to stay with local nomadic families.
Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes
Sometimes called the “Mini-Gobi,” the Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes offer a taste of the Gobi Desert without the long journey south. Located only 280 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar, it’s a popular stop for travelers exploring central Mongolia.
The dunes stretch for about 80 kilometers and are surrounded by mountains and green valleys. You can explore the area on camelback, or if you prefer, you can go for a hike to take in the views. It’s another great place to experience Mongolian nomadic culture by staying in a ger camp.
Khustain Nuruu National Park
Khustain Nuruu National Park is where you’ll find the re-introduced wild takhi horses, also known as Przewalski’s horses. These horses are the only true wild horse species left in the world. The park is about two hours from Ulaanbaatar, making it an excellent day trip from the capital.
Besides the wild horses, the park is home to numerous other animals such as deer and marmots. The landscape is beautiful too, with rolling hills and endless grasslands. It’s a nice spot for a peaceful nature walk while observing wildlife.
Hidden Gems
Tsenkher Hot Springs
Located in the central part of Mongolia near Tsetserleg, Tsenkher Hot Springs is the perfect spot to relax after a long journey. The hot springs are surrounded by forested mountains and offer a natural bath with therapeutic properties. There are several ger camps around where you can stay while soaking in the hot springs.
Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Amarbayasgalant is one of the most beautiful monasteries in Mongolia. It’s set in a remote valley in northern Mongolia, making it a bit difficult to reach, but it’s worth the effort. Built in the 18th century, the monastery is a masterpiece of Buddhist architecture. It has 28 major buildings and is surrounded by stunning mountains.
White Stupa (Tsagaan Suvarga)
The White Stupa is a unique rock formation located in the southern part of Mongolia. These colorful cliffs resemble an ancient city when seen from a distance. The landscape is otherworldly, with rich hues of red, orange, and white. It’s a great place for photography and a lesser-known gem of Mongolia.
Final Thoughts
Mongolia is a country that offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to the vast desert of the Gobi, the peaceful forests near Lake Khövsgöl, or the history of Karakorum, you’ll find a place that captures your heart. Mongolia is still relatively off the tourist map, which means you’ll have the chance to experience many of these wonders in peace and solitude.
Take your time, embrace the nomadic culture, and enjoy the natural beauty that defines Mongolia.
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