Central Mongolia

Ulaanbaatar, where 1.3 million people out of Mongolia's population that is just over 3 million live, is the country's economic, cultural, and political center. It serves as a hub of activity with a plethora of tourist attractions and a wide variety of entertainment options. The city is divided into 9 districts and 122 khoroos, each offering its own unique charm and character.

Located on the bank of the Tuul River, Ulaanbaatar is surrounded by four sacred mountains, adorned with dense pine forests on the northern slopes and vast grassy steppes to the south. This setting creates a picturesque backdrop for the city, adding to its allure and beauty.

Mostly described as sunny, peaceful, and open, Ulaanbaatar is a city of contrast where modern life harmoniously blends with Mongolian traditional lifestyle. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich nomadic heritage of Mongolia while also enjoying the conveniences of a modern urban center.

Manzushir Monastery is a perfect day tour area nestled in the serene landscapes of the south of Bogd Khan Mountain, offers a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Initially established in 1773 to honor Manzushir, a revered Bodhisattva of wisdom, the monastery flourished as a hub of religious activity, drawing pilgrims and hosting significant ceremonies. With its location in a pine-covered valley adorned with streams and boulders, it has provided a tranquil setting conducive to spiritual reflection.

However, like many religious institutions in Mongolia, Manzushir Monastery faced adversity during the Soviet Era. The communist purge of 1937 led to its destruction, leaving behind ruins that stands as a poignant reminder of the country’s tumultuous history. Despite this tragic past, the surrounding natural environment has retained its allure, with the monastery site now offering visitors a glimpse into both the resilience of nature and the enduring spirit of the Mongolian people.

Tsetsee Gun peak in Mongolia's Bogd Khan Mountain is a must-visit destination for hiking enthusiasts and active individuals looking for an adventurous experience. Standing at an elevation of 2,265 meters (7,431 feet) above sea level, Tsetsee Gun offers breathtaking views and exhilarating trails for hikers and mountaineers to explore.

Bogd Khan Mountain holds special historical and cultural significance as the world's first protected natural area. It is also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List under the Cultural category, with recommendations for the conservation of a 65,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary. The mountainous terrain is rich in wildlife and diverse plant species, making it an ideal hiking destination for nature lovers.

Moreover, the area serves as the starting point for an ascent to the peak of Bogd Khan Mountain, where the summit of Tsetseegun offers stunning panoramic views. With its combination of natural splendor and cultural heritage, Manzushir Monastery stands as a must-visit destination for travelers eager to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Mongolian history.

As the sun rises over the vast Mongolian steppe, painting the landscape in a golden glow, you stand in admiration at the base of the magnificent Genghis Khan Statue Complex, a towering structure reaching 40 meters in height. Located 54 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar city, the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue proudly holds the distinction of being the world's largest equestrian statue and the largest horse-riding statue globally.

Legend has it that at Tsonjin Boldog, Chinggis Khaan discovered a golden whip, a significant event that would become intertwined with the region's history and folklore. This mystical tale adds to the allure of the site, attracting visitors from near and far to witness the grandeur of the statue and delve into Mongolia's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can walk through the horse's chest and neck to reach the head, offering a panoramic view of the surroundings.

The exploration doesn't stop there. Upon descending to the statue's base, you are captivated by the presence of a small archaeology museum nestled nearby, inviting you to delve deeper into the historical treasures and cultural legacy of the region.

Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, nestled 50-76 kilometers (31-47 miles) northeast of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's capital, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and proximity to urban life, making it a favored destination for travelers seeking untamed beauty and outdoor adventures. The journey from the city typically spans around 2 hours, offering a convenient escape into nature's embrace.

Terelj National Park entices visitors with its wild beauty, characterized by dramatic landscapes, verdant forests, picturesque rocky hills, and the invigoratingly crisp air that pervades the region. The park derives its name from the Terelj plant (Latin: Ledum), which once flourished abundantly in the area, adorning it with its blossoms at the onset of spring.

The Ariyabal Meditation Temple, located a few kilometers north of Turtle Rock, is a serene destination waiting to be explored. Constructed between 1998 and 2004, this temple served as a sanctuary for monks and lamas engaged in meditation practices. As you approach the temple, you'll notice its unique design, shaped like an elephant's head, with a staircase of 108 steps symbolizing the elongated trunk of the elephant.

Upon reaching the summit of the temple, you'll be treated to a mesmerizing view of the entire park, offering a moment of awe and tranquility. "Ariyabal" derives from Sanskrit and represents the god Megjid Janraisig, symbolizing a precious jewel or holder of the lotus. According to legend, Ariyabal hears the prayers of all living beings and vows to alleviate their suffering. It is said that upon witnessing his struggles, the god Avid bestowed upon him 1,000 hands.

The heart mantra of Ariyabal, "Um Ma Ni Bad Mi Hum," echoes through the temple, embodying its spiritual essence and inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its sacred atmosphere.

The ancient capital of Mongolia, Kharkhorin (also spelled Karakorum), and the Erdenezuu Monastery with its 108 stupas are must-see attractions for travelers. Located 370 km from Ulaanbaatar at an elevation of 1600 meters above sea level, Kharkhorin was founded in 1220 by Genghis Khan in the Orkhon Valley, a strategic point along the Silk Road. Completed by his son, Ogedei Khan, the city served as the capital for only 40 years before being moved to Beijing by Kublai Khan. Abandoned and later destroyed by Manchurian soldiers, the symbolic ruins of Kharkhorin's monumental walls with 108 stupas now surround the Erdenezuu Monastery, built in 1586. Once housing 62 temples and 10,000 lamas, the monastery was severely damaged during Stalinist purges but has since been restored and become an active monastery again since 1990. The complex, marked by stone-carved turtles, retains much of its former glory, with three temples dedicated to the three stages of Buddha's life and a central temple called the Zuu of Buddha housing statues of Buddha as a child. Outside the monastery walls, two 'turtle rocks' remain, once marking the boundaries of ancient Kharkhorin.

Khorgo Volcano, also known as Khorgiin Togoo, is a dormant volcano located in the Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park in Mongolia. This volcanic crater stands at an elevation of about 2,210 meters (7,250 feet) above sea level and is a prominent natural landmark in the area. The Khorgo Volcano is characterized by its perfectly circular shape and relatively young volcanic features, making it an intriguing site for visitors interested in geology and natural phenomena. The volcano's crater is easily accessible by a hiking trail, allowing tourists to reach the rim and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Surrounding the Khorgo Volcano is the Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, a freshwater lake formed by lava flows from past volcanic activity. The combination of the volcanic crater and the pristine lake creates a stunning and unique natural setting that attracts visitors from far and wide. Visitors to the Khorgo Volcano can explore the volcanic crater, hike around the area, and enjoy activities such as camping, birdwatching, and horseback riding in the picturesque surroundings of the national park. The Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park offers a blend of natural beauty, geological wonders, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers in Mongolia.

The hot spring located south of Tsetserleg town in Arkhangai province, Mongolia, is a natural wonder known for its mineral-rich, hot waters that are believed to have medicinal properties. This spring emerges from deep underground, maintaining a high pressure and a flow rate of 10 liters per second. The water is distinct from soil waters due to its heat and high mineral content, ranging from calcium and sodium to sulphuric compounds. According to folklore, the hot spring is attributed with various health benefits and is sought after by locals and tourists alike for its therapeutic effects on the joints, nervous system, and other ailments. It is often used as a remedy for conditions such as diabetes, stomach ulcers, and disabilities. The surrounding area is abundant in medicinal herbs, further adding to the therapeutic allure of the location. Numerous tourist camps in the vicinity offer indoor and outdoor baths, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate in the curative waters. Hot water is channeled from the spring to create pools where guests can unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings. Night baths, under the starlit sky, are a popular activity, providing a tranquil and magical experience for visitors.

The Taikhar Chuluu, a significant rock formation located in Mongolia, is notable for its historical inscriptions that date back to multiple periods in Mongolian history. The rock is adorned with inscriptions that reflect the diverse cultural influences and languages that have shaped the region over time. The inscriptions range from Turkic script from the period of Turkic rule in Mongolia to Mongolian script, Tibetan, and even modern graffiti. Legend has it that the Taikhar Chuluu rock has a mythical origin tied to a heroic figure named Bukhbileg, meaning "Strong and Wise." According to the legend, Bukhbileg once encountered a large snake emerging from beneath the earth. In response, he bravely pushed the snake back into its underground abode and sealed the entrance with the massive rock that stands in the plain to this day. The rock serves as a lasting monument to Bukhbileg's bravery and resourcefulness in protecting the land from the threat of the serpent. Near the Taikhar Chuluu rock, there is a small mountain known as Altan Sandali, meaning "Golden Throne," where tradition holds that Bukhbileg rested while washing his hands in the nearby Tamir River. These mythological and historical narratives add to the mystique and cultural significance of the Taikhar Chuluu rock, making it a site of interest for locals and visitors alike seeking to connect with Mongolia's rich folklore and heritage.

Ugii Lake, is a beautiful freshwater lake located in central Mongolia. It is renowned for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The lake covers an area of approximately 25 square kilometers and is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of around 15 meters. Surrounded by rolling hills and grasslands, Ugii Lake offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. One of the highlights of Ugii Lake is its abundant birdlife. It serves as an important breeding and nesting ground for various bird species, including migratory birds such as swans, geese, ducks, and herons. Birdwatchers flock to the area to observe these feathered inhabitants in their natural habitat.

In addition to its diverse bird population, Ugii Lake supports a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Common fish species found in the lake include perch, pike, and various types of carp.

Ugii Lake is not only a picturesque destination but also holds cultural significance for the local communities. It is often visited by nomadic herders who graze their livestock in the surrounding grasslands and rely on the lake as a water source.

Hustai National Park is a special place in Mongolia, 100 km from the capital city, Ulaanbaatar. Here, you can find the last remaining wild horses in the world, called Przewalski's horses or Takhi. These horses were declared extinct in the wild, but thanks to efforts starting in 1992, they're making a comeback in this park.

The park is huge, covering over 50,000 hectares of land, and it's carefully managed by a group called the Hustai National Park Trust. Since the 1990s, they've been bringing these horses back to their natural habitat and making sure they're safe.

Initially, only 15 horses were brought from the Netherlands, but over the years, more have been introduced, and now there are around 380 horses in the park. They even expect more baby horses, or foals, to be born soon.

Despite this progress, these horses are still in danger. The males sometimes fight each other over territory and mates, which can be deadly. Also, they only breed within the park, which means their population growth is limited.

In recognition of its importance, the park was designated as a special place by UNESCO in 2002. This means it's part of a global network of protected areas focused on preserving nature.

The Orkhon Waterfall is a majestic natural wonder located in the Orkhon Valley National Park. This beautiful waterfall is known for its stunning cascades and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Orkhon Waterfall is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, which highlights the rich history and natural beauty of the region. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the surrounding area to fully appreciate the beauty of the Orkhon Waterfall and its surroundings. It is about 25 meters deep and adorned with pine trees. When planning a visit to the Orkhon Waterfall, it's essential to consider the season and weather conditions. The waterfall's water flow is not consistent throughout the year, and it typically starts flowing after the first good summer rain. Therefore, late July and August are considered the best times to witness the waterfall at its fullest and most impressive state. It's advisable to check with your tour operator about the current status of the falls before planning your trip to ensure you get to experience this natural wonder at its best.

Khogno Khan Uul Nature Reserve, is a picturesque mountain range located in Mongolia. This stunning natural area is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including sand dunes, rocky mountains, and lush green steppes, creating a unique and captivating environment for visitors to explore. It is situated in the Khogno Khan Uul Nature Reserve, which spans over 470 square kilometers and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including wild animals such as gazelles, ibexes, and various bird species. The reserve offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Mongolian countryside. One of the highlights of Khogno Khan Mountain is the stunning Elsen Tasarkhai Sand Dunes, also known as the Mini Gobi. These sand dunes stretch for several kilometers and provide a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape of rocky mountains and green valleys. Visitors to Khogno Khan Mountain can experience the tranquility of the Mongolian wilderness, learn about traditional nomadic culture by staying in ger camps, and enjoy outdoor activities such as camel riding and hiking.