Mongolia is a country with a rich culture and many amazing natural wonders. From the historic capital city of Ulaanbaatar to the breathtaking landscapes of the Gobi Desert, there is something for everyone in Mongolia. With its diverse terrain, varied wildlife, and vibrant culture, Mongolia is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 16 most beautiful places in Mongolia and what each has to offer. We’ll cover things to do, how to get there, and the best time of year to visit.
1. Ulaanbaatar
The capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar is a vibrant, modern city that offers an exciting mix of old and new. Here you can visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, take in amazing views from Zaisan Memorial Hill, and explore the Natural History Museum. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the State Department Store or the Black Market. The National Opera and Ballet Theater is also a must-see. You can also go to the Bogd Khaan Winter Palace and discover the cultural side of Ulaanbaatar.
- The best time to visit Ulaanbaatar is during the summer months between May and September.
- To get here, you can fly to Chinggis Khaan International Airport or take a train from Russia.
Once you are there, you can explore the city by bus, taxi, or trolley bus For those looking for more adventure, there are also a variety of biking and hiking trails around Ulaanbaatar. Make sure to check out the open-air markets for local products, or find a quiet spot at one of the many parks throughout the city. With its unique combination of old and new, Ulaanbaatar is sure to be a memorable experience.
2. Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is the perfect place to visit in Mongolia. It is the country’s largest desert and one of the most diverse in Asia. The Gobi Desert is filled with rolling sand dunes, caves, canyons, and ancient ruins. There are also several national parks, where visitors can explore the area’s unique wildlife and landscapes. Activities such as camel riding, trekking, and jeep tours are popular here.
- It is best to visit the Gobi between April and October when temperatures are moderate. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreens and a hat!
3. Kharkhorin
Kharkhorin is a small town located in the Övörhangai Province of Mongolia, famous for being the site of the ancient city of Karakorum, the former capital of the Mongol Empire. Visitors can explore the ruins of Karakorum, which include a temple and a palace, as well as the Erdene Zuu monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the country. Other attractions in Kharkhorin include a museum, a turtle rock, and a beautiful lake. While visiting this unique area, visitors can take camel and horse rides, or spend time exploring the town’s museums and markets.
- The best time to visit Kharkhorin is during summer when the weather is warm and pleasant.
4. Terelj National Park
This national park is located in central Mongolia and is a must-see for any nature lover. The park is filled with amazing scenery and wildlife, including rock formations, flower meadows, and clear mountain streams. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, such as rock climbing, horseback riding, rafting, and trekking. Plus, visitors can stay in traditional Mongolian ger camps for an authentic experience.
- To get to Terelj National Park, take a bus from Ulaanbaatar to the nearby village of Chingeltei.
- The best time to visit is from June to August when temperatures are comfortable and there is plenty of sunshine.
5. Lake Khövsgöl
Located in the northern part of Mongolia, Lake Khovsgol is one of the most popular destinations in the country. The lake is a stunning turquoise color, surrounded by rolling hills, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. There are plenty of activities to do around the lake, including boating, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the nearby nature reserves and ancient ruins.
- The best time to visit Lake Khövsgöl is between June and September when the weather is warm and dry.
- To get there, take a flight from Ulaanbaatar to Moron Airport, then rent a car or take public transportation.
6. Darhad Valley
The Darhad Valley is located in northern Mongolia and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and steppe. The scenery is marked by jagged rocks, lush vegetation, and roaming herds of horses and camels. There are plenty of activities to do in the valley such as horse riding, hiking, bird watching, and exploring nomadic camps. You can even take a trip to the Red Rocks for a unique experience.
- To get to the valley, you can take a bus from Ulaanbaatar or take a domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar to Murun City, followed by an hour’s drive to the valley.
- The best time to visit is in summer when the temperatures are warm and comfortable.
7. Erdenezuu Monastery
Located in the Kharkhorin region of Mongolia, the Erdenezuu Monastery is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the unique culture of Mongolia. Built in the 16th century by Abatai Khan of the Tümed Mongolian tribe, the monastery is home to 108 stupas and more than 100 Tibetan-style temples.
- Things to do here: include exploring the beautifully preserved architecture, learning about the history of the monastery, and admiring the amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
- How to go: The best way to get to the Erdenezuu Monastery is to take a bus from Ulaanbaatar.
- The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is milder.
8. Ovgon Temple
Located in the Khangai Mountain Range, Ovgon Temple is a must-visit destination in Mongolia. Built-in 1254, the temple was dedicated to two great Mongolian Buddhist teachers of the 16th century. The temple is believed to be home to various deities and spirits, making it an ideal place for meditating and exploring your inner peace. Here, visitors can explore a range of ancient Buddhist artifacts, statues, frescoes, and carvings.
- Things to do include walking around the temple grounds and learning about its history, as well as visiting nearby villages for insight into local culture.
- To get there, take a bus from Ulaanbaatar to Ovgon Khiid.
- The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the terrain is dry and suitable for exploration.
9. Baga Gazriin Chuluu
Located in the Middle Gobi province, Baga Gazriin Chuluu is a rock formation with interesting shapes that are a delight for photographers. Here you can find the “Garden of Prayers,” a collection of hundreds of cairns made from stones. It’s also home to various species of animals like ibexes, marmots, and even snow leopards. You can explore the area on foot or horseback, and take part in activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and even camping overnight.
- The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is perfect.
10) Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is located at the far western end of Mongolia and is home to the highest mountain range in the country. Visitors can explore the area’s towering snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, crystal-clear lakes, wildflower meadows, and dense forests. Things to do include hiking and trekking, horseback riding, and fishing. There’s no better way to experience the beautiful landscapes of Mongolia than with a visit to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
- To get to the park, take a plane or bus to Ulaanbaatar and then drive for about six hours.
- The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is usually mild.
11. Mongol Els
Mongol Els is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mongolia. Located in the western part of the country, this area boasts stunning dunes and fantastic wildlife. Visitors can explore the desert by camel or horse, take a day trip to a local lake, or spend a night in a traditional ger (yurt). From sand sledding and horseback riding to bird watching and campfire storytelling, there are many activities to experience here.
- The best time to visit Mongol Els is in the spring and autumn when the weather is milder and the sand is at its most impressive.
12. Yolyn Am
Yolyn Am is located in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, and it is a must-see for any visitor to Mongolia. This mountain valley is known for its dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views. The sheer walls of the canyon are over a kilometer high, and at the bottom lies a lush green valley with a small stream running through it. Yolyn Am is home to a variety of wildlife including ibex, marmots, lynx, and vultures, and there are also some interesting rock formations scattered throughout the park. Activities like hiking, horseback riding, and camping can be enjoyed here as well.
- The best time to visit this beautiful location is from April to October when the weather is mild.
13. Kherlen River
The Kherlen River is one of Mongolia’s longest and most beautiful rivers. It starts in the Khentii Mountains and flows over 1,800 km before it reaches Lake Nuur. Along the way, you can spot wild animals like wolves and deer. You can also spot nomadic herders and traditional Mongolian culture along the river. One of the highlights of this river is Tsagaan Gol, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by sand dunes. n adventure, you can go rafting or fishing along the river.
- The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warmest and the days are longest.
14. Chontheosyn Uul
This small mountain is situated near the remote western part of Mongolia. Despite its location, Chonosyn Uul is definitely wor It has amazing views and is surrounded by sand dunes and mountains. can take a hike around the peak, or even just explore the area and take in the breathtaking sights. There are also some hot springs nearby to relax in after a long day of hiking.
- The best time to visit Chonosyn Uul is from June to August when the weather is milder and the area blooms with wildflowers.
15. Hustai National Park
Hustai National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mongolia. Located near Ulaanbaatar, it is home to the world’s last wild horse, the Przewalski’s horse. This park is great for hikers, offering both short and long trails, which provide excellent views of the Mongolian steppes. There is a museum and a visitor center that has educational displays about the wildlife and culture of the area.
- Things to do include observing wildlife, bird watching, visiting cultural sites, and camping.
- To get there You can drive or take a bus from Ulaanbaatar.
- The best time to visit is May-September as the weather is warm and dry during these months.
16. Sukhbaatar Square
Sukhbaatar Square is the main public square of Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia. It is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by important government buildings and monuments. This square was constructed to honor the revolutionary leader Damdin Sukhbaatar and his fight for Mongolia’s independence.
The square is also known as Chinggis Square and is home to concerts, festivals, and other events. Visitors can enjoy beautiful landscaping, local food vendors, and plenty of opportunities to take pictures. There are many great restaurants and shopping options nearby, making it the perfect place to spend some time while exploring Ulaanbaatar.
Conclusion
Mongolia is a beautiful and diverse country with many exciting places to explore. Whether you are looking for cultural landmarks, natural wonders, or incredible landscapes, you can find something to enjoy in Mongolia. From the hustle and bustle of Ulaanbaatar to the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert, there are many unique places to visit in this incredible country. So, if you’re looking for an exciting adventure, consider Mongolia – it won’t disappoint!
