Western Mongolia

Uvs Lake, situated in Central Asia, stands as the most northern enclosed basin in the region. Surrounded by the imposing Tannu Ola Range and the Sangilen Mountains to the north and northeast respectively, the lake receives its primary water source from the Tes-Khem River. Originating from the picturesque Sangyn Dalai Nuur, a freshwater lake nestled in the alpine meadows and larch forests of the Sangilen uplands in Mongolia, the Tes-Khem River embarks on a 500-kilometer journey westward, traversing through steppe and desert landscapes before meandering back into Mongolia and finally pouring into Uvs Lake. The river's final stretch of 100 kilometers weaves through a vast wetland complex, offering a vibrant oasis within the semi-desert terrain, with its delta spanning approximately 40 kilometers wide and serving as a crucial habitat for wildlife.

Uvs Lake, characterized by its shallow depth ranging from 10 to 20 meters, boasts high salinity and alkalinity levels. The lake showcases a diverse array of hydrological features, water quality, and biomass productivity. Often referred to as the 'sea' of western Mongolia, Uvs Lake attracts a variety of seabirds despite being located 3,000 kilometers away from the nearest ocean.

Khar-Us Lake is a freshwater lake located in western Mongolia. It is situated within the Great Lakes Depression, which is a region known for its numerous lakes and diverse ecosystems. Khar-Us Lake is surrounded by vast plains and desert landscapes, creating a unique and picturesque setting.

The lake is fed by several rivers and streams, including the Khovd River, which flows into the lake from the north. Khar-Us Lake is relatively shallow compared to some of the other lakes in the region, with a maximum depth of around 6 meters.

The area around Khar-Us Lake is known for its rich biodiversity, with a variety of plant and animal species calling the region home. The lake and its surrounding wetlands provide important habitats for numerous bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Overall, Khar-Us Lake is a beautiful and ecologically significant area in Mongolia, offering stunning natural scenery and important wildlife habitats for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes in Mongolia, showcasing towering white mountains, glaciers, lush valleys, and expansive lakes. The park is divided into two distinct regions: the Tavan Bogd Mountains in the northwest and the Lakes Region to the southeast. Stretching along the Chinese border from the Russian border to 200 kilometers south, the park follows the Altai Mountains, which serve as the meeting point of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. The park's three large lakes, fed by glacial melt and annual snowfall, serve as the headwaters of the Hovd River. The Tavan Bogd Mountains stand as the highest peaks in Mongolia, with Khuiten Uul ('Cold Peak') towering at 4374 meters (14,201 feet) above sea level. These majestic mountains, perpetually cloaked in snow, encircle the Potanin Glacier, covering an area of 23 square kilometers. Other notable peaks in the range include Nairamdal ('Friendship', 4180 m), Malchin ('Herder', 4050 m), Bürged ('Eagle', 4068 m), and Olgii ('Cradle', 4050 m). On clear days, visitors can behold views extending as far as Kazakhstan, located 30 kilometers away, from the summit of Kuiten Uul. The Lakes Region is a picturesque area encompassing three sizable freshwater lakes. Khurgan Nuur and Khoten Nuur are interconnected by a narrow channel, with numerous small creeks streaming into the lakes from the encircling mountains. Two of these creeks cascade down as waterfalls, ranging from 7 to 10 meters in height. A quaint bridge spans the channel, offering visitors a charming vantage point. These lakes teem with fish and host a diverse array of bird species. Dayan Nuur, a smaller lake located 20 kilometers south of the two larger lakes, adds to the natural allure of the region.

Otgontenger is a majestic mountain located within the Khangai mountain ranges, standing proudly as the highest peak at 4,021 meters above sea level. This mountain is characterized by its perpetual snow cover and is surrounded by dense forests, abundant fast-flowing rivers, and serene lakes. The region is known for its natural wonders, unique geological formations, rare plant and animal species, and numerous mineral water sources. Otgontenger is situated within the territory of Zavkhan province in Mongolia.

Since 1779, Otgontenger has been revered and worshipped, with the tradition formalized in 1911 under the rule of Bogd Khan's Mongolia. This reverence was reinstated in 1992, leading to the declaration of a special protection area covering 955 square kilometers encompassing the mountain and its surroundings. As per a decree by the President in 1995, worship ceremonies are held once every four years in honor of Otgontenger.

Nestled just below the snow line of Otgontenger lies the enchanting Badarkhundaga Lake, situated on the mountain slope within the protected area. This picturesque lake is home to exceptionally rare flowers like the vansemberuu and Mongolian arnica, as well as the renowned Otgontenger juniper, adding to the area's natural beauty and ecological significance.

The Kazakhs are a Turkic ethnic group mainly inhabiting Kazakhstan, as well as some parts of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, and Mongolia. They are traditionally a nomadic people with a rich cultural heritage. The Kazakh society is traditionally organized into tribes or clans known as "zhuz," which are further divided into extended families.

Each zhuz has its own distinct customs, traditions, and dialects. The three main zhuz are the Elder, Middle, and Junior zhuz. The Elder Zhuz is known for its strong adherence to tradition and its role in leadership. The Middle Zhuz is known for its agricultural practices and skilled horsemen. The Junior Zhuz is known for its focus on trade and commerce.

Kazakh tribes have historically played a significant role in the political and social life of Central Asia. They have a strong sense of identity and pride in their nomadic heritage. The tribes have a system of mutual support and cooperation, which is essential for survival in the harsh environments of the Central Asian steppes.

Today, many Kazakhs have transitioned from a nomadic way of life to a more settled existence, especially since the Soviet era. However, elements of their traditional culture, such as horsemanship, hospitality, and a deep respect for nature, continue to be important aspects of Kazakh identity.