Tsetserleg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, hiking and biking routes, cultural attractions and more in Tsetserleg. Plan your ultimate journey today!


Introduction to Tsetserleg

Tsetserleg is a hidden gem in Central Mongolia, known for its breathtaking scenery, untouched landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Khangai Mountains, this small town offers a unique and authentic Mongolian experience to visitors. With a vibrant food and drink scene, numerous outdoor activities, and fascinating historical landmarks, Tsetserleg is an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. In this guide, we will help you plan your perfect trip to Tsetserleg, so buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

List of Places to Visit in Tsetserleg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Zayain Gegeenii Süm - This 17th-century monastery is one of the most important historical landmarks in Tsetserleg, featuring ornate paintings and intricate carvings that reflect the rich history of Mongolian Buddhism.
  • Amarbayasgalant Monastery - Located just 60 km from Tsetserleg, this magnificent monastery is one of the largest and most impressive in Mongolia, housing an impressive collection of religious artifacts and artwork.
  • Tsetserleg Museum - This small yet charming museum showcases the town’s history and culture, with exhibits on traditional Mongolian clothes, tools, and household items.

Natural Attractions of Tsetserleg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park - Often referred to as the White Lake, this stunning national park is located 90 km from Tsetserleg and offers a host of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hiking, and swimming.
  • Khorgo Volcano - This dormant volcano within Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park is a popular destination for hikers, offering panoramic views of the pristine lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Chuluut River Canyon - This picturesque canyon is perfect for adventure seekers, with opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tsetserleg

  • Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur Trek - This multi-day trek takes visitors through the heart of Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, offering stunning views of the White Lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Khorgo Volcano Hike - This moderately challenging hike takes visitors to the summit of Khorgo Volcano, offering panoramic views of the entire region.
  • Tsetserleg Biking Trail - This scenic bike trail takes visitors through the town and surrounding countryside, offering a unique perspective on local life and culture.

Best Things to Do in Tsetserleg: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding - Mongolia is famous for its horses, and Tsetserleg is the perfect place to experience riding one.
  • Ger Stay - Stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt, known as a ger, to get a unique taste of Mongolian culture and hospitality.
  • Fishing - Tsetserleg is surrounded by pristine rivers and lakes, perfect for a day of fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tsetserleg

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Zayain Gegeenii Süm and Tsetserleg Museum
Day 2 Explore Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, including hiking and horseback riding
Day 3 Take a day trip to Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Day 4 Visit Khorgo Volcano, including hiking and camping
Day 5 Relax in town and enjoy local cuisine
Day 6 Explore Chuluut River Canyon, including rafting and kayaking
Day 7 Visit nearby villages and experience authentic Mongolian culture

Food and Drink Scene of Tsetserleg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khuushuur - A traditional Mongolian pastry filled with minced meat and cooked in a deep-fryer.
  • Airag - A traditional drink made from fermented mare’s milk, with a slightly sour and tangy taste.
  • Buuz - A steamed dumpling filled with minced meat and onions, similar to Chinese dumplings.

Local Beverages

  • Mongolian Vodka - A strong distilled spirit made from wheat or barley.
  • Suutei Tsai - A traditional Mongolian milk tea with salt and butter.

Where to Stay in Tsetserleg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Tsetserleg Hotel - A comfortable and affordable hotel with traditional Mongolian decor.
  • Tsetserleg Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse located in the heart of the town.
  • Tsetserleg Hostel - A budget-friendly option with a communal kitchen and social areas.

What to Buy in Tsetserleg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cashmere Products - Mongolia is famous for its high-quality cashmere, with many shops in Tsetserleg offering scarves, sweaters, and other clothing items made from this luxurious material.
  • Ger Decorations - Take home a piece of Mongolian culture with colorful and intricate decorations for your own ger.
  • Felt Products - Felt is a traditional Mongolian material, and Tsetserleg offers a variety of items made from it, including slippers, hats, and bags.

Local Culture and Customs of Tsetserleg

Mongolian culture is deeply ingrained in everyday life in Tsetserleg. Hospitality is highly valued, and visitors are often welcomed into homes for tea and conversation. Additionally, Mongolian wrestling, archery, and horse racing are popular traditional sports.

Best Time to Visit Tsetserleg

The best time to visit Tsetserleg is during the summer months from June through August when the weather is warm and dry, making outdoor activities more accessible. However, the fall months of September and October offer stunning autumn foliage, and the winter months of December through February offer pristine snowscapes for winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tsetserleg

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and drinks.
  • Respect the customs and traditions of Mongolian culture.
  • Learn a few phrases of Mongolian to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing
  • Behave disrespectfully towards the customs and traditions of the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tsetserleg

Tsetserleg is a safe town, but visitors should still exercise basic safety precautions such as keeping valuable possessions secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Tsetserleg

Visitors are advised to consult with their doctors before traveling to Mongolia to ensure they are up to date with any necessary vaccinations. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when consuming local food and water to avoid any potential health issues.

Getting to Tsetserleg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tsetserleg

The nearest airport is in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, which offers regular flights to major international cities such as Seoul and Beijing.

Bus Stations Near Tsetserleg

Buses run regularly from Ulaanbaatar and other major towns in Mongolia to Tsetserleg.

Other Options

Private taxis and cars can also be hired to transport visitors to and from Tsetserleg.

How to Get Around in Tsetserleg

Walking and biking are the most common ways to get around Tsetserleg, although private cars and taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Tsetserleg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Karakorum - The ancient capital of Mongolia, located just a few hours away from Tsetserleg.
  • Orkhon Valley - A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance.

Conclusion

Tsetserleg is a hidden gem in the heart of Mongolia, offering visitors a unique and authentic experience of Mongolian culture and nature. With breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant food and drink scene, Tsetserleg is an ideal destination for anyone seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey you will never forget!

Tsetserleg Tsetserleg Lamaist Monastery Lamaist Monastery Tsetserleg Market Tsetserleg Market Tsetserleg Monastery exterior Tsetserleg Monastery exterior