Tourist attractions

Terelj National Park

Region: Töv Province

Nature

National park near Ulaanbaatar with strange rock formations and grasslands, enjoying horseback riding and hiking.

Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park

Region: Ömnögovi Province

Nature

Area including magnificent Gobi Desert, glacial gorge Yolyn Am, fossil-rich Bayanzag.

Erdene Zuu Monastery (Karakorum ruins)

Region: Övörkhangai Province

Cultural heritage

Tibetan Buddhist monastery built in 16th century. Site of Mongol Empire's old capital Karakorum.

Lake Khövsgöl

Region: Khövsgöl Province

Nature

"Blue Pearl of Mongolia," highly transparent freshwater lake.

Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue Complex

Region: Erdene village, Töv Province

Modern architecture

40m tall stainless steel equestrian statue landmark with history museum.

Amarbayasgalant Monastery

Region: Selenge Province

Cultural heritage

18th century built, well-preserved traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture monastery.

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape

Region: Övörkhangai Province

Cultural heritage

UNESCO World Heritage. Nomadic culture and historic sites continuing from Mongol Empire era.

Hustai National Park (Takhi Reserve)

Region: Töv Province

Nature

Safari-type reserve where endangered wild horse takhi can be observed.

Golden Eagle Museum

Region: Bayan-Ölgii Province

Culture

Museum introducing Kazakh falconer culture and costumes.

Dambadarjaa Monastery

Region: Ulaanbaatar

Culture

Restored monastery built on hill north of capital, overlooking city.

Suggested itineraries

Gobi Desert Circuit 6 Days

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Yolyn Am glacier gorge, Khongoryn Els dunes, Dinosaur valley Bayanzag

Tour southern Gobi major spots by four-wheel drive from Ulaanbaatar, experiencing ger accommodation.

History and Nature of Central Mongolia 8 Days

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Erdene Zuu Monastery, Orkhon Waterfall, Hustai National Park, Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue

Route combining World Heritage and grassland safari centered on Karakorum ruins.

Lake Khövsgöl and Siberian Taiga 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Lake Khövsgöl camping, Tuvan ethnic visit, Trekking, Horseback riding

Ecotour leisurely enjoying northern wilderness and minority ethnic cultures.

Travel tips

  • Even summer, mornings and evenings drop below 10°C, carry warm clothing.
  • Exchange foreign currency in Ulaanbaatar, carry ample cash in regions.
  • Many unpaved roads, always stock spare tire and drinking water in vehicles.
  • During ger stays, do not lean on central pole, northern seat for host.
  • Beware overdrinking strong alcoholic airag fermented mare's milk.
  • Winter temperatures drop to −40°C, electronic devices malfunction.
  • Public bus schedules irregular, ride-sharing apps convenient.
  • High average altitude, beware mild altitude sickness.
  • Observe wild animals from distance, do not chase.
  • Photographing military installations or border facilities prohibited.
  • Herding dogs sometimes aggressive, avoid approaching carelessly.
  • Outside urban areas often out of 4G range, choose Mobicom or Unitel SIM.