Mongolia On Asia Map

Introduction

Mongolia is a landlocked country located in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east, and west. It is home to vast steppes, rugged mountains, and vast deserts, making it an ideal destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Mongolia.

Top Attractions

The Gobi Desert

The Gobi Desert is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mongolia. It is home to vast sand dunes, canyons, and rock formations. Visitors can go on camel rides, hike through the desert, and explore ancient ruins, such as the Flaming Cliffs, where the first dinosaur eggs were discovered.

Lake Khövsgöl

Lake Khövsgöl is a pristine alpine lake located in northern Mongolia. It is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Visitors can go kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding hills.

Mongolian Steppe

The Mongolian Steppe is a vast grassland that covers most of the country. It is home to nomadic herders, who live in traditional gers (yurts) and tend to their livestock. Visitors can experience the traditional way of life by staying with a family and helping out with daily tasks.

Hidden Gems

Orkhon Valley

The Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in central Mongolia. It is home to ancient ruins, such as the Tövkhön Monastery and the Orkhon Waterfall. Visitors can go on horseback rides and explore the surrounding hills.

Khar Us Nuur National Park

Khar Us Nuur National Park is a hidden gem located in western Mongolia. It is home to a vast lake, sand dunes, and unique rock formations. Visitors can go on camel rides, hike through the desert, and explore ancient petroglyphs.

Food Scene

Mongolian cuisine is hearty and filling, with a focus on meat and dairy products. Some popular dishes include khorkhog (Mongolian barbecue), buuz (steamed dumplings), and aaruul (dried curd). In Ulaanbaatar, visitors can find a wide range of international cuisines, including Korean, Chinese, and Russian.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Mongolia is a relatively affordable destination, with budget accommodations and meals available. Visitors can save money by taking public transportation, such as buses and shared taxis, and avoiding tourist traps. Bargaining is also common in local markets.

Outdoor Adventures

Mongolia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available. Visitors can go hiking, horseback riding, camel riding, kayaking, and fishing. The country is also home to unique sports, such as archery and Mongolian wrestling.

Historical Landmarks

Genghis Khan Statue Complex

The Genghis Khan Statue Complex is located just outside of Ulaanbaatar and is home to a 131-foot-tall statue of the famous conqueror. Visitors can also explore the museum and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Erdene Zuu Monastery

The Erdene Zuu Monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Mongolia. It was built in the 16th century and is located in Kharkhorin. Visitors can explore the many temples and stupas and learn about the history of Buddhism in Mongolia.

Family-Friendly Activities

Mongolia is a great destination for families, with a wide range of activities available. Children will love exploring the national parks, going on horseback rides, and learning about the traditional way of life. There are also many cultural activities available, such as traditional music and dance performances.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Khustain Nuruu National Park

Khustain Nuruu National Park is located just outside of Ulaanbaatar and is home to the endangered Przewalski’s horse. Visitors can go on horseback rides and explore the surrounding hills, while learning about conservation efforts in Mongolia.

Terelj National Park

Terelj National Park is located just a short drive from Ulaanbaatar and is home to stunning scenery, including rock formations and waterfalls. Visitors can go hiking, horseback riding, and stay in traditional gers.

Natural Wonders

Yolyn Am Canyon

Yolyn Am Canyon is located in the Gobi Desert and is home to a year-round ice field. Visitors can hike through the canyon and see unique wildlife, such as ibex and vultures.

Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes

The Khongoryn Els Sand Dunes are located in the Gobi Desert and are some of the largest sand dunes in Mongolia. Visitors can go on camel rides and sandboarding adventures.

Vibrant Nightlife

Ulaanbaatar has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars and clubs available. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, dance the night away, and try local beers and cocktails.

Local Markets

Mongolia is home to many local markets, where visitors can find unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. The Narantuul Market in Ulaanbaatar is one of the largest markets in Mongolia and is a great place to buy traditional clothing, jewelry, and food.

Beaches and Mountains

While Mongolia is a landlocked country, there are still many opportunities to enjoy beaches and mountains. Lake Khövsgöl is a great place to go swimming and enjoy the surrounding mountains, while the Altai Mountains in western Mongolia offer stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Cultural Immersion

Mongolia is a great destination for cultural immersion, with many opportunities to learn about the traditional way of life. Visitors can stay with nomadic families, attend traditional music and dance performances, and learn about the history and culture of Mongolia.

Art and Music Scene

Mongolia has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and art still thriving today. Visitors can attend concerts and performances, visit art galleries and museums, and explore the many handicrafts available in local markets.

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities and towns of Mongolia. Visitors can go on guided tours of Ulaanbaatar and other cities, exploring the many historical sites and landmarks.

Architectural Marvels

Zaisan Memorial

The Zaisan Memorial is located on a hill overlooking Ulaanbaatar and is dedicated to Soviet soldiers who died in World War II. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and see unique Soviet-era architecture.

Bogd Khan Palace Museum

The Bogd Khan Palace Museum is located in Ulaanbaatar and is the former residence of the Bogd Khan, the last emperor of Mongolia. Visitors can explore the many temples, gardens, and artifacts on display.

Historical Sites

Kharkhorin

Kharkhorin was the capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century and is home to many historical sites, including the Erdene Zuu Monastery and the ruins of the ancient city. Visitors can learn about the history of the Mongol Empire and explore the many temples and palaces.

Choijin Lama Temple Museum

The Choijin Lama Temple Museum is located in Ulaanbaatar and is home to many historical artifacts, including Buddhist sculptures and paintings. Visitors can learn about the history of Buddhism in Mongolia and explore the many temples and shrines.

Biking Routes

Biking is a great way to explore the countryside of Mongolia. Visitors can go on guided bike tours or rent bikes and explore on their own. The Khangai Mountains in central Mongolia offer stunning scenery and challenging terrain for experienced bikers.

Wellness Retreats

Mongolia is a great destination for wellness retreats, with many opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can stay in traditional gers and enjoy spa treatments, yoga classes, and meditation sessions.