10 Amazing Spots You Can't Miss in Mongolia

Mongolia stands out as a breathtakingly beautiful country in Central Asia. Its diverse landscape features endless steppes, awe-inspiring mountain silhouettes, deep valleys, and the vividly red Gobi Desert.

The Mongolian culture boasts rich elements, including a traditional nomadic lifestyle, wool craftsmanship, traditional music, and dance. Equestrian sports play a crucial role in Mongolian culture, and the legacy of Genghis Khan, a pivotal figure in the country's history, has profoundly influenced its cultural tapestry.

Discover the top 10 incredible places to explore in Mongolia in the following sections of our article.

Ulaanbaatar

Ulaanbaatar, a city teeming with rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty, offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Immerse yourself in the mystical ambiance of the Gandan Monastery, take in panoramic city views from the Zaisan Monument, and delve into the country's rich history at the National Museum of Mongolia.

Sükhbaatar Square exudes a historic atmosphere, serving as a significant site where independence was declared. Meanwhile, the Bogd Khan Palace was once home to Mongolian leaders. Gain insights into Mongolian art and history at the Choijin Lama Temple.

For nature enthusiasts, Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, with its natural wonders near the city, is a standout. Shopping aficionados can explore Mongolian cultural products at various shopping centers, local markets, and traditional handicraft shops in the city. Ulaanbaatar promises an unforgettable experience with its diverse activities.

Khövsgöl Gölü

Khövsgöl Lake, a natural marvel in northern Mongolia renowned for its vast and crystal-clear waters, offers numerous events and activities for enjoyment.

Hike around the lake, have a lakeside picnic, and embark on boat trips to revel in the pristine waters. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with carp and trout. The mountainous areas surrounding the lake provide an ideal setting for hiking and trekking, while horse riding offers a glimpse into Mongolian culture.

Experience tranquility amidst nature by staying in lakeside campsites. In winter, engage in sports like ice skating, skiing, or dog sledding on the frozen lake surface. Explore local Mongolian villages to gain a deeper understanding of traditional lifestyles and local culture.

Gobi Desert

As the world's coldest desert, the red-hued Gobi Desert is renowned for its unique natural beauty and offers a plethora of activities.

Hike, trek, stargaze, and camp in the desert for unforgettable memories. Short camel tours provide a different perspective of the desert landscape. Discover the red sandstones of Bayanzag and the distinctive formations of Flaming Rock, intriguing sites showcasing the desert's uniqueness.

Climb Khongor Sand Dunes to witness the vast desert landscape from the summit. Visit local nomadic families to learn more about Mongolian culture. Nighttime walks at Flaming Rock offer a chance to observe the red sandstones glowing in the moonlight.

Terelj National Park

Terelj National Park is a destination close to Ulaanbaatar and is characterized by its natural beauty. Aryapala Monastery is a monastery where Buddhist monks meditate, while Turtle Rock, a giant rock formation, is the symbol of the park. The Aryabal Meditation Temple is an important Buddhist temple located among the enormous cliffs.

Staying in gerks, traditional Mongolian yurts in Terelj, is a unique opportunity to understand the local nomadic life. Activities on the banks of the Tuul River are ideal for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the park. Khagiin Khar, a rock formation in the shape of a wild dwarf horse, is an attraction for nature lovers.

Horse-riding activities represent an important element of Terelj's Mongolian culture, while Avalanche Valley is a popular destination for hiking. With its rich natural features, cultural heritage, and variety of activities, Terelj National Park offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

Orkhon Valley

The Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of great historical significance. Ancient ruins and ancient Turkish inscriptions in this valley bear important traces of the rich history and culture at the center of the Mongolian Empire. The Orkhon Valley is an attractive destination for visitors who want to discover the traditional Mongolian way of life and take a journey deep into the past.

Kharkhorin

Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of Mongolia, is famous for its historic Erdene Zuu Monastery and the ruins of the ancient city of Karakorum. This ancient city was the center of the Mongol Empire, while Erdene Zuu Monastery is known as the oldest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia. Karakorum, on the other hand, has served as the administrative center of Mongolian rulers throughout its history, and today it attracts visitors with its ancient ruins. Kharkhorin is an important destination for those who want to explore the rich history and culture of Mongolia.

Bayanzag (Flaming Kanyon)

Located in the Gobi Desert, Bayanzag is a region known for its colorful sandstones and unique geological formations. It is also the site of the discovery of dinosaur eggs, making it a major attraction for paleontologists and nature lovers. Bayanzag is an important natural protected area known both for its colorful sandstones, which offer visually impressive landscapes, and for its paleontologically important dinosaur remains.

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur

Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur, a volcanic crater lake in western Mongolia, is mesmerizing with its clear waters and surrounding mountain landscapes. You can enjoy the calm waters by taking a boat trip on the lake and exploring the rich aquatic life in the lake with fishing activities.

You can observe the unique vegetation of the region by taking nature walks in the mountainous areas around the lake.

Khustain Nuruu National Park

Khustain Nuruu National Park, located about 100 kilometers from the capital of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, is an important conservation area that aims to protect the rare Przewalski horses. This scenic national park offers visitors the opportunity to observe Przewalski horses, take nature walks in mountainous areas, observe various bird species, and explore traditional Mongolian culture. You can also have the chance to photograph the unique landscapes of the region and camp under the sky. 

Zavkhan River

The Zavkhan River is located in the west of Mongolia and is home to a region of impressive valleys, forests, and unique beauties of nature. Hiking along the banks of the river is a great option for those who want to explore the natural richness of the region. At the same time, the area around the Zavkhan River offers an attractive environment for those who want to go bird watching and have an unforgettable experience in touch with nature.