Altai Tavan Bogd National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is a protected area located in the western part of Mongolia, covering an area of 6,362 square kilometers. It is situated near the borders of China and Russia and has an altitude ranging from 1,524 to 4,374 meters above sea level. The park boasts an impressive range of landscapes such as glaciers, rivers, lakes, forests, and vast plains, making it a popular tourist destination. With its cultural and natural richness, Altai Tavan Bogd National Park has become a must-visit for travelers looking for an adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Olgii City Museum: A regional museum featuring the history and culture of western Mongolia.
  2. Petroglyphs of Tsagaan Salaa: A collection of ancient rock carvings depicting animals, hunting scenes, and rituals.
  3. Tuvan Throat Singing Performance: A cultural show performed by Tuvan musicians, showcasing the traditional throat singing technique.

Natural Attractions of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tavan Bogd Mountain: The highest peak in Mongolia, located in the Altai Mountains.
  2. Potanin Glacier: The largest glacier in Mongolia, covering an area of 23.1 square kilometers.
  3. Khoton and Khurgan Lakes: The two stunning lakes are surrounded by picturesque forests and mountains, offering visitors stunning views.
  4. Bear Valley: A natural reserve home to an array of wildlife such as wild boar, lynx, and ibex.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Tavan Bogd Summit: A challenging five-day trek to the highest peak of Mongolia.
  2. Tsaagan Gol Valley Trek: A four-day hike through the stunning Tsaagan Gol Valley.
  3. Altai Tavan Bogd Mountain Biking: A unique experience of biking in the Mongolian wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Activities and Tours

  1. Kazakh Eagle Festival: A cultural event that takes place in early October to showcase Kazakh eagle hunting traditions.
  2. Horseback Riding: A popular activity in western Mongolia and an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the traditional Mongolian nomadic lifestyle.
  3. Jeep Tour: An adventure tour visiting the different natural landscapes and cultural landmarks in the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Day 1: Arrival at Olgii City, Explore the City Museum and Local Markets Day 2: Visit the Petroglyphs of Tsagaan Salaa and Attend a Tuvan Throat Singing Performance Day 3-5: Trek to Tavan Bogd Summit Day 6: Visit Khoton and Khurgan Lakes Day 7: Departure from Olgii City

Food and Drink Scene of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Khuushuur: A fried pastry filled with minced meat (usually beef or mutton) and onions.
  2. Buuz: Steamed dumplings filled with a meat mixture flavored with onion, garlic and spices.
  3. Airag: A traditional Mongolian drink made from fermented mare’s milk.

Local Beverages

  1. Suutei Tsai: A salty tea made from black tea, milk, water, and salt.
  2. Mongolian Vodka: A vodka distilled from fermented mare’s milk.

Where to Stay in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Tavan Bogd Eco Lodge: A cozy eco-friendly lodge nestled in the western valleys of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
  2. Olgii Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Olgii City.

What to Buy in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Traditional Kazakh clothing: Colorful and elaborate clothing worn by the Kazakh ethnic minority in the area.
  2. Traditional Mongolian Hats: Known as “khan khuu,” this hat is made from fox or wolf fur and is an iconic symbol of Mongolian culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Nomadic Culture: The park is home to many Mongolian nomads who can be seen herding their livestock and living in traditional yurts.
  2. Eagle Hunting: A traditional Kazakh practice where trained golden eagles are used for hunting.

Best Time to Visit Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

The best time to visit Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is from June to September when the weather is mild and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Travel with a local guide for better safety and cultural understanding.
  3. Bring appropriate clothing for the weather and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Pick or remove any plants or wildlife.
  2. Wear shoes inside a yurt.
  3. Take pictures without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Be cautious of potential hazards while hiking or trekking such as uneven terrain and slippery surfaces.
  2. Follow local safety regulations when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Bring sufficient medication and first aid supplies.
  2. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid water-borne illnesses.

Getting to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Olgii Airport: The nearest airport, located 12 kilometers from Olgii City.

Bus Stations Near Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Olgii Bus Station: The main bus station in Olgii City.
  2. Bayan-Olgii Bus Station: A secondary station located outside of Olgii City.

Other Options

  1. Private Taxi: Available throughout Olgii City and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park

  1. Hiking: One of the best ways to explore the park’s natural surroundings.
  2. Jeep Tours: A popular option for visitors who want to cover more ground.
  3. Horseback Riding Tours: A traditional way to explore the park.

Where to Go Next from Altai Tavan Bogd National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Ulaanbaatar: The capital city of Mongolia located approximately 1,200 kilometers from Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.
  2. Gobi Desert: An arid region known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

Conclusion

Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is a destination that combines rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular tourist attraction for travelers looking for an authentic Mongolian experience. Whether trekking to the summit of Mongolia’s highest peak, exploring the local culture, or enjoying traditional local dishes, Altai Tavan Bogd National Park has something for everyone. Plan your trip carefully by using our comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your visit to this beautiful and awe-inspiring destination.

Tavan Bogd Mountains and glaciers. Tavan Bogd Mountains and glaciers. Potanin Glacier Potanin Glacier Horgan Lake in Tavan Bogd National Park Horgan Lake in Tavan Bogd National Park Altai Tavan Bogd National Park Altai Tavan Bogd National Park Petroglyph at Tsagaan Salaa Petroglyph at Tsagaan Salaa Turkic Stone man Turkic Stone man Waterfall in Tavan Bogd Waterfall in Tavan Bogd Kazakh woman in a ger Kazakh woman in a ger Fishing on Hoten Lake Fishing on Hoten Lake Altai Nomad's Festival Altai Nomad's Festival Kazakh Eagle Hunter Kazakh Eagle Hunter Camping with a mountain view Camping with a mountain view Riding past a glacier Riding past a glacier