Central Mongolia Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Central Mongolia? Read our comprehensive tour guide to discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.
- Introduction to Central Mongolia
- List of Places to Visit in Central Mongolia
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Mongolia
- Best Things to Do in Central Mongolia: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Central Mongolia
- Food and Drink Scene of Central Mongolia
- Where to Stay in Central Mongolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Central Mongolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Central Mongolia
- Best Time to Visit Central Mongolia
- Do’s and Don’ts of Central Mongolia
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Central Mongolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Central Mongolia
- Where to Go Next from Central Mongolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Central Mongolia
Central Mongolia is a region in Mongolia, located in East Asia. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and history, it’s a popular travel destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. With endless opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding to exploring ancient ruins and traditional festivals, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Central Mongolia.
List of Places to Visit in Central Mongolia
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Central Mongolia is home to several museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s past, including:
- National Museum of Mongolia
- Bogd Khan Palace Museum
- Erdene Zuu Monastery
- Kharakhorum Museum
- Tsenkher Hot Springs
Natural Attractions of Central Mongolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Central Mongolia is a nature lover’s paradise with sprawling grasslands, desert expanses, and sparkling freshwater lakes. Some of the natural attractions that must be visited include:
- Khustai National Park
- Orkhon Valley
- Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
- Hustai Nuruu National Park
- Khorgo-Terkh National Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Mongolia
Central Mongolia is home to some of the most stunning hiking and biking routes in the world. For those who love to explore, here are some of the top routes for hiking and biking in Central Mongolia:
- The Orkhon Valley
- Terelj National Park Trek
- Five Holy Mountains Trek
- Altai Tavan Bogd Trek
- Khentii Mountains Trek
Best Things to Do in Central Mongolia: Activities and Tours
Central Mongolia is home to some of the most unique, exciting, and memorable experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Central Mongolia:
- Horseback Riding into the Wilderness
- Camel Trekking
- Onon River Rafting
- Traditional Festival: Naadaam Festival
- An Ongi Monastery Visit
Week-Long Itinerary for Central Mongolia
Here is a well-planned week-long itinerary that explores the best of Central Mongolia:
| Day 1 | Arrive in Ulaanbaatar |
| Day 2 | Explore Bogd Khan Palace Museum, Choijin Lama Monastery, and Zaisan Hill |
| Day 3 | Drive to Kharakhorum Museum and Erdene Zuu Monastery |
| Day 4 | Hike in the Orkhon Valley and Visit Tsenkher Hot Springs |
| Day 5 | Camel Trekking in Gobi Desert |
| Day 6 | Onon River Rafting through the Khentii Mountains |
| Day 7 | Witness the Naadaam Festival |
Food and Drink Scene of Central Mongolia
Must-Try Dishes
Central Mongolia is famous for its traditional cuisine, Here are some of the must-try dishes:
- Buuz
- Khuushuur
- Airag
- Boortsog
- Tsuivan
Local Beverages
Central Mongolia’s drink scene has been heavily influenced by local traditions. Here are some of the local beverages that you must try:
- Suutei Tsai (Mongolian Milk Tea)
- Arkhi (Mongolian Vodka)
- Airag (Fermented Horse Milk)
Where to Stay in Central Mongolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Central Mongolia has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to guesthouses. Here are some of the top hotels and guesthouses in Central Mongolia:
- Shangri-La Hotel, Ulaanbaatar
- Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace
- Nomads Hostel
- Zaya Guesthouse
What to Buy in Central Mongolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Central Mongolia is known for its unique local crafts, making it an excellent shopping destination. Here’s what you can buy in Central Mongolia:
- Cashmere Textile and Products
- Camel and Sheep Wool Products
- Pottery and Handicrafts
- Mongolian Souvenir Products
- Ovoo (Shaped Shrines) for Religious Purpose
Local Culture and Customs of Central Mongolia
Central Mongolia is rich in culture and traditions that tourists must learn about. Here’s a brief overview:
- Nomadic Culture and Lifestyle
- Women’s Camel and Horse Riding Culture
- Community-based Initiatives
- Hospitality and Etiquettes
Best Time to Visit Central Mongolia
The best time to visit Central Mongolia varies depending on what you want to see and do. The ideal time is from June to August when the weather is warm, and the landscapes are lush. Also, visiting during the traditional festivals like Naadam Festival held in July would give a glimpse of Mongolian tradition.
Do’s and Don’ts of Central Mongolia
Do:
- Embrace Mongolia’s Nomadic Culture
- Learn Mongolian Phrases
- Dress appropriately
- Experience Local Festivals
- Try local delicacies
Don’t:
- Litter or disrespect the culture
- Wear Head Coverings in Monasteries
- Disturb Wildlife and Nature
- Photograph without permission
- Purchase Illegal Wildlife Products
Safety and Health
Safety in Central Mongolia
Central Mongolia is generally safe for tourists. However, it is still essential to take some precautions:
- Watch belongings in crowded areas
- Avoid traveling alone in remote regions
- Know the emergency numbers of the country
Health in Central Mongolia
The health facilities in Central Mongolia are limited, and the majority of hospitals and clinics are located in Ulaanbaatar. Therefore, tourists should take necessary precautions before and during their trip, such as:
- Check travel advisories before visiting
- Get required vaccinations before arriving
- Bring enough medication and a first-aid kit
Getting to Central Mongolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Central Mongolia
The Chinggis Khaan International Airport is the primary international airport in Mongolia, located in Ulaanbaatar.
Bus Stations Near Central Mongolia
There are local bus stations in major towns and cities like Ulaanbaatar, Kharkhorin, and Arvaikheer, which provide transportation to other parts of the country.
Other Options
Tourists can also travel through private cars, taxis, or rented cars. Helicopter Tours are also available to experience the scenic beauty of Central Mongolia.
How to Get Around in Central Mongolia
Tourists can travel through a rental car, public bus, or travel by horseback, camel, or bike. One can also book a tour package from local travel agencies which helps in transportation, accommodation, and guides. The adventurous types can hitch a ride with a nomad, as many cattle-herding families are happy to have company for the journey.
Where to Go Next from Central Mongolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
After exploring Central Mongolia, here are some more places to visit:
- Khuvsgul Lake National Park
- Terelj National Park
- Gobi Desert
- Northern Mongolia
- Western Mongolia
Conclusion
Central Mongolia is a true paradise for those who want to explore nature and traditional culture. The region offers a range of activities to do, and places to visit. With this comprehensive guide, it will be an easy, enjoyable, and safe experience that would make your trip memorable. Come and experience the beauty of Central Mongolia!
