Mongolia at a glance
Tucked between China and Russia, Mongolia is three times the size of France and built for adventure. Its landscape is a mix of high mountains, rolling steppes, snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and the Gobi Desert. If you are into wilderness trekking, this is your place. You will meet nomadic families who keep traditions like shamanism, horse racing, and life in a ger (yurt) alive. The country is deeply spiritual, featuring many Tibetan and Buddhist monasteries. Keep an eye out for snow leopards, yaks, wild goats, and camels.
The climate is continental, meaning you can expect brutal winters and short, hot summers.
Ulaanbaatar, a capital in flux
After three decades of rapid growth, Ulaanbaatar is the center of opportunity for the country's younger generation. Ultra-modern skyscrapers rise up next to Soviet-era blocks in a chaotic mix of architecture. Start your visit at Chinggis Khaan square, just a short walk from the central State Department Store. Head to Gandan, the country's largest monastery and home to a massive gold Buddha statue, then check out the National Museum of History. For art, head to the Zanabara Fine Arts Museum. Other landmarks include the winter palace and museum of Bogd Khan, plus the monastery and museum of Choijin Lama.
In the evening, catch a traditional Mongolian performance at the Tumen Ekh theater or head to the circus on Tserendoji Street.
Monasteries and national parks
The massive Erdene Zuu monastery, with its dozen stupas in the ancient city of Kharkhorin, is a sight to see at sunset. If you have time, check out the local museum and the market (open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Alternatively, the UNESCO-listed Amarbayasgalant monastery, which translates to "tranquil bliss," is a quiet retreat. Arrive at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., or 2 p.m. to hear the monks chanting.
Just 40 km (about 25 miles) from the capital, a 2-hour bus ride takes you to Gorkhi Terelj National Park. It is known for its vast plains and strange granite rock formations, like Ovor Gorkhi. This is also where you will find the country's most famous tourist site, the giant equestrian statue of Chinggis Khaan. The park offers hiking, horseback riding, and fishing.
Located 45 km (about 28 miles) from the capital in Zuunmod, the Bogd Khan protected area was once home to a monastery housing 300 monks. Today, you can visit the small Manzushir temple, tucked away in a peaceful natural setting.
For wildlife, head 100 km (about 62 miles) outside the city to Khustain Nuruu National Park. You can spot endangered Takhi (Przewalski's) wild horses, gazelles, deer, wolves, and marmots.
The bucolic Khövsgöl Lake, often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," is the deepest lake in Central Asia. There are two towns on its shores: Khatgal to the west, which is the more scenic side, and Khankh to the east. You can recharge by visiting nearby hot springs and watching reindeer herds graze near the water.
On the foothills of the Altai Mountains, Gurvan Saykhan National Park is a Gobi Desert essential. Parts of it are accessible by car with guided tours, while others are best seen on camelback, horseback, or by foot. The terrain shifts from flat plains to cliffs, gorges, and massive dunes. Another option is the Khogno Khan nature reserve, located 280 km (about 175 miles) from Ulaanbaatar, or roughly a 3.5-hour drive. You can hike to the summit of its 1,967-meter peak to see a mix of taiga forest and Gobi Desert landscapes.
When to go?
The best time to visit is from June to September. If you can, time your trip for July to catch Naadam, the country's most popular annual festival.
Getting there and around
The national carrier, MIAT, operates direct flights to Ulaanbaatar from Berlin. If you are flying from the U.S., you will likely connect through major hubs like Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Beijing (Air China), or other Asian gateways.
Getting around
For long distances, use domestic flights via Aero Mongolia or Hunnu Air. Buses are the most reliable option for traveling between provinces. To explore the steppe, renting a jeep with an independent driver is the standard way to go (budget about 20-30 EUR ($22-33) per day, excluding gas, and be ready to negotiate). In remote areas, expect to travel on horseback.
