Northern Mongolia Travel Guide
A detailed travel guide for Northern Mongolia that includes information on cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation, and more.
- Introduction to Northern Mongolia
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Mongolia
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Mongolia
- Best Things to Do in Northern Mongolia: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Mongolia
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Mongolia
- Where to Stay in Northern Mongolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Mongolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Mongolia
- Best Time to Visit Northern Mongolia
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Mongolia
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Mongolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Mongolia
- Where to Go Next from Northern Mongolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Northern Mongolia is a vast and rugged region with stunning natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage. It is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning steppe scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Northern Mongolia, this comprehensive tour guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Introduction to Northern Mongolia
Northern Mongolia is situated in the northern part of Mongolia, a landlocked country located in East Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south, east, and west. The region is characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and cool summers. Northern Mongolia boasts vast green steppes, numerous lakes, snow-capped mountains, and pine forests that make it a unique destination for nature lovers.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Mongolia
Northern Mongolia is a vast and diverse region with something to offer for all kinds of travelers. Here is a list of must-see places to visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Amarbayasgalant Monastery
- The Khutag-Undur Village Archaeological Site
- The Khatgal Village Ethnic Museum
- The Kharkhorin Museum
Natural Attractions of Northern Mongolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- The Khövsgöl Lake
- The Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake
- The Uran Togoo- Tsenkher Jiguur National Park
- The Eg River Valley
- The Darkhad Valley
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Mongolia
Northern Mongolia is perfect for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, with numerous hiking and biking routes available. Some of the best include:
- Horse-riding to Lake Khövsgöl
- Trekking in the Khangai Mountains
- Hiking in the Eg River Valley
Best Things to Do in Northern Mongolia: Activities and Tours
- Horseback riding in the open air
- Camel riding in the Gobi Desert
- Mountain biking in the Khangai Mountains
- Rafting on the Eg River
- Camping in scenic locations
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Mongolia
Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, exploration of the city’s cultural highlights |
| 2 | Transfer to Kharkhorin, tour of Kharkhorin and the Erdene Zuu Monastery |
| 3 | Drive to Lake Khövsgöl, overnight stay in a ger camp |
| 4 | Horseback ride to the Lake Khövsgöl National Park, camping near the lake |
| 5 | Hike in the scenic Eg River Valley, visit the Tovkhon Monastery |
| 6 | Drive back to Ulaanbaatar, optional visit of the Chinggis Khan Statue |
| 7 | Departure from Ulaanbaatar |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Mongolia
Northern Mongolia has a unique food and drink culture that reflects its nomadic heritage.
Must-Try Dishes
- Boodog (roasted meat inside an animal’s skin)
- Khorkhog (steamed meat with vegetables inside a metal container)
- Khuushuur (deep-fried meat pastry)
- Aaruul (dried curd from cow or yak milk)
Local Beverages
- Airag (fermented mare’s milk)
- Suutei Tsai (salty milk tea)
Where to Stay in Northern Mongolia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Ulaanbaatar has a range of international hotels as well as guesthouses catering to budget travelers.
- Ger camps near popular tourist destinations like Lake Khövsgöl and Kharkhorin.
What to Buy in Northern Mongolia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Traditional Mongolian clothing like Deel (robe-like outerwear), Gutul (traditional footwear)
- Handmade felt products like slippers, bags, and hats.
- Mongolian artwork and handicrafts from local markets.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Mongolia
Mongolian culture is steeped in traditions that vary among its different tribes and regions. Here are some essential cultural customs to keep in mind:
- Take off your shoes when entering a yurt (Mongolian ger).
- Do not point your feet towards the altar in a temple or monastery.
- Respect the elders and the upper class.
Best Time to Visit Northern Mongolia
The best time to visit Northern Mongolia is in the spring and summer, from May to September when the weather is mild and dry.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Mongolia
Do:
- Dress appropriately when visiting temples, monasteries, and other religious sites.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Mongolian to show respect.
- Try the local food and drinks.
Don’t:
- Touch someone’s head or a Mongolian’s topknot.
- Criticize Mongolian food or culture.
- Disrespect the national flag or national heroes.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Mongolia
Northern Mongolia is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always a good idea to exercise common sense and take precautions to avoid thefts and scams.
Health in Northern Mongolia
It is advisable to take precautions like wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and getting required vaccinations before traveling to Mongolia.
Getting to Northern Mongolia: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Mongolia
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN)
Bus Stations Near Northern Mongolia
- Ulaanbaatar Central Bus Station (UB)
Other Options
- Car rental
- Horse trekking
How to Get Around in Northern Mongolia
- Car rental and driving
- By horseback
- Guided tours
Where to Go Next from Northern Mongolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- The Gobi Desert
- The Khangai Mountains
- Western Mongolia
Conclusion
Northern Mongolia is a picturesque destination with natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a unique food culture worth exploring. This guide has provided essential information about the best places to visit, things to do, and cultural practices to be aware of. With this information, you are well-prepared to embark on an adventure into Northern Mongolia.
