things to do in mongolia
Mongolia, a vast and untouched land in East Asia, offers a unique blend of traditional nomadic culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. Here are some things to do in Mongolia:
- Experience Nomadic Life: Stay with a nomadic family and experience their traditional way of life, including herding livestock, eating local food, and living in a ger (tent).
- Explore the Gobi Desert: Take a journey through the Gobi Desert, a vast and arid landscape home to the rare Bactrian camel, Gobi bear, and other unique wildlife.
- Visit Ulaanbaatar: Explore the country’s capital city, Ulaanbaatar, which offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions, including the Gandan Monastery, the National Museum of Mongolia, and the Zaisan Memorial.
- Discover the Ancient Capital, Karakorum: Visit the ancient capital of Mongolia, Karakorum, which was the center of the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan.
- Attend the Naadam Festival: The Naadam Festival is a traditional Mongolian festival that takes place in July, featuring wrestling, archery, and horse racing competitions.
- See the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag: The Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag are a stunning natural wonder, known for their reddish-orange color and unique rock formations.
- Visit Lake Khovsgol: Located near the Russian border, Lake Khovsgol is a pristine and picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and forests.
- Go Horseback Riding: Mongolia is famous for its horses, and horseback riding is a great way to explore the country’s vast steppes and countryside.
- Try Traditional Mongolian Cuisine: Mongolian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, including boortsog (meat dumplings), khuushuur (meat pies), and airag (fermented horse milk).
- Visit the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape: The Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring a mix of natural and cultural attractions, including waterfalls, hot springs, and ancient temples.
- Take a Yak Trek: Yak trekking is a unique way to explore Mongolia’s rural areas, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Visit the Altai Mountains: The Altai Mountains are a rugged and remote range, home to many traditional nomadic communities and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Go Fishing: Mongolia’s rivers and lakes are home to many fish species, including the taimen, grayling, and trout.
- Attend a Shamanic Ceremony: Shamanism is an important part of Mongolian culture, and attending a shamanic ceremony is a unique and enlightening experience.
- Explore the Khustain Nuruu National Park: The Khustain Nuruu National Park is a protected area, home to many rare and endangered species, including the takhi (Mongolian wild horse).
These are just a few examples of the many things to do in Mongolia. The country’s vast and untouched landscape, rich culture, and friendly people make it a fascinating destination for travelers.