Northern Mongolia

Most recommended tour destination places - nature landscapes, national parks, historical sites, ancient ruins, burial monuments, monasteries and religious places are located in territory of Central Mongolia, that makes Central Mongolia absolutely highlight destination route for traveling through Mongolia.

123km2

Area

12-24

Average Temperature

2,232,544+

Population

213

Elevation

Overview

Northern Mongolia, characterized by its rugged beauty and vast wilderness, offers a diverse tapestry of landscapes, including pristine lakes, dense forests, and rolling hills. It experiences a continental climate with cold winters and mild summers, with temperatures ranging from sub-zero in winter to 10°C to 20°C in summer. This region holds significant cultural and historical importance, with ancient archaeological sites and nomadic traditions deeply ingrained in the way of life. Notable attractions include Lake Khövsgöl, often referred to as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," and the Darkhad Valley, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and nomadic lifestyle. Travelers can also explore the remote wilderness of the Taiga, encounter reindeer herders, and experience traditional Mongolian hospitality in ger camps scattered across the region. Accessible via flights or overland travel from Ulaanbaatar, Northern Mongolia offers an immersive journey into Mongolia's pristine wilderness and nomadic culture.

Khuvsgul Lake

Lake Khuvsgul, is a significant natural landmark situated in the Northwest region of Mongolia, near the Russian border. Its elevation stands at 1,645 meters above sea level, and it spans an area of 2,760 square kilometers, making it the second largest lake in Mongolia. Remarkably, in terms of volume, with 480.7 cubic kilometers of water, Lake Hovsgol is Mongolia's largest lake, containing approximately 70% of the country's freshwater resources in terms of surface water.

This lake holds particular ecological importance as one of the seventeen ancient lakes globally, with an estimated age exceeding 2 million years. Within its expanse are four islands, varying in terrain from wooded areas to rocky landscapes. These islands, covering a total area of approximately 6 square kilometers, serve as crucial breeding and nesting grounds for a multitude of bird species.

The biodiversity of Lake Khuvsgol is striking, boasting habitat for 10 distinct fish species and 44 varieties of aquatic plants. Along its shores, a rich diversity of plant life thrives, with 750 different species identified. Furthermore, the lake area supports an impressive array of avian life, with a total of 291 bird species recorded, including 258 migratory birds. In terms of mammals, the lake region hosts 68 species, with approximately 10% of them being endemic to the area.

Recognizing its ecological significance, Lake Khuvsgol was designated as a national park in 1992, aiming to protect its unique biodiversity and ensure its preservation for future generations.

The Darhad Depression, situated near Lake Hovsgol, offers a unique and captivating landscape for exploration. Accessible by horseback along the western shore of the lake and crossing through mountain passes, travelers can reach Renchinlhumbe, a town slightly smaller than Hatgal, which serves as a hub for exploring the region.

The inhabitants of the Darhat region, known as the Darhat people, possess their own distinct languages, customs, and a unique style of singing. Notably, the area is renowned as the last bastion of Shamanism in Mongolia, where this ancient spiritual practice is still widely observed and embraced.

Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Amarbayasgalant Monastery holds significant importance in Mongolia as one of the most revered Buddhist monasteries in the country. Built between 1727 and 1736, this magnificent architectural marvel was dedicated to Öndör Gegeen Zanabazar, Mongolia's first Bogd (spiritual leader).

Situated in a picturesque valley, Amarbayasgalant Monastery stands as a testament to both spiritual devotion and architectural brilliance. The valley's lush vegetation, nourished by the Evin River, provides a serene backdrop to the monastery's grandeur. The site's historical significance dates back even further, with Turkic-era graves indicating its sacred associations prior to the arrival of Buddhism.

The monastery's name, "Amarbayasgalant," meaning "peaceful happiness," reflects the tranquility found in its surroundings. Legend has it that the monastery was named after two children, Amar and Bayasgalant, whose joyful presence inspired the selection of the site for construction.

Originally comprising 50 temples and housing over 6,000 monks during Buddhism's flourishing period in Mongolia, Amarbayasgalant Monastery now retains 28 temples. However, its history has not been without challenges. During the anti-Buddhist purges of 1937-1938, hundreds of monks were persecuted, and many precious religious artifacts were confiscated.

Despite these trials, the monastery persevered. In 1943, it was placed under state protection and underwent reconstruction efforts to restore its splendor. Today, Amarbayasgalant Monastery stands as a symbol of resilience, housing relics such as the remains of Gegeen Zanabazar, revered by pilgrims from across the Tibetan-Mongolian Buddhist realm.

The monastery's temples preserve the ashes of past Bogds, representing relics of Mongolia's Buddhist heritage. Through its rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance, Amarbayasgalant Monastery continues to inspire reverence and awe, drawing visitors and pilgrims alike to its sacred grounds. The monastery is connected to Ulaanbaatar via 325 kilometers of paved and 35 kilometers of dirt roads, which take about 6-7 hours to travel

Erdenet city

Erdenet City, located in northern Mongolia, is a key urban center known for its strategic position and industrial importance. Situated amidst the stunning landscapes of northern Mongolia, Erdenet City serves as a hub of economic activity and cultural diversity.

The city is famous for its flourishing mining industry, particularly in copper production, which plays a crucial role in the region's economy. Erdenet City showcases a distinctive mix of traditional Mongolian heritage and modern urban development, creating a dynamic environment for residents and visitors.

Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and expansive grasslands, Erdenet City provides a scenic setting for outdoor enthusiasts and nature admirers. The city's cultural scene is lively, blending traditional Mongolian customs with contemporary influences to shape its unique identity.

While Erdenet City experiences challenges related to environmental sustainability and urban development, efforts are underway to strike a balance between economic growth and ecological conservation, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between industry and nature.

Erdenet City symbolizes Mongolia's industrial progress and cultural heritage, embodying a fusion of tradition and modernity in the heart of northern Mongolia.

Darkhad Valley

The Darkhad Valley, located in northwestern Khovsgol province, Mongolia, is a vast valley nestled between the Ulaan Taiga and Khoridol Saridag mountain ranges. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1600 meters, the valley spans about 160 kilometers in length and 40 kilometers in width. The Khoridol Saridag mountains, a 90-kilometer-long range positioned between Khovsgol Lake and the Darkhad Valley, feature the towering peak of Delgerkhaan Uul, reaching a height of 3093 meters. The panoramic vistas from the mountains surrounding the valley are truly exceptional, offering a unique and breathtaking perspective of the landscape.

The Darkhad Valley is renowned for its abundance of lakes and rivers, with notable water bodies including Dood Tsagaan Lake, also known as "lower white lake," and the Shishged River. This region is celebrated for its natural beauty, yet it remains relatively remote and challenging to access, even by Mongolian standards. Covering an area of 4270 square kilometers, the Darkhad Valley is divided among the Ulaan-Uul, Renchinlkhumbe, and Tsagaannuur administrative districts. The predominant inhabitants are the Darkhad people, from whom the valley derives its name, along with some Tsaatan individuals. The transfer of this region from the People's Republic of Tagna Tuva to the Mongolian People's Republic in 1925 served as a Soviet concession to the Mongolians, who sought to integrate the territory of Tagna Uriankhai into their country. The Darkhad ethnic group, numbering around 20,000 individuals, has largely maintained their traditional nomadic lifestyle and continues to engage in shamanic rituals. Their cultural practices and way of life contribute to the unique character and heritage of the Darkhad Valley.