Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park Travel Guide

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park, enjoy outdoor adventures & scenic views, learn about local culture, and taste delicious Mongolian cuisine.


Introduction to Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Mongolia’s Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park is a hidden gem, offering unbeatable scenery of mountains, forests, and pristine lakes, along with a glimpse into the traditional way of life of local nomads.

This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, history and culture buffs, and adventurous travelers. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top places to visit, best things to do, cultural insights, food scene, safety tips, and logistics to help you plan your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Amarbayasgalant Monastery: One of Mongolia’s most important monasteries, with stunning architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history.
  • Tsenkher Hot Springs: A natural spa, with therapeutic waters and beautiful surroundings that are perfect for unwinding and relaxation.
  • Khar Balgas Fortress: A significant archaeological site and one of the oldest ruins of the Turkic Khaganate empire.
  • Erdene Zuu Monastery: The first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, built in the 16th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Natural Attractions of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Khar Nuur Lake: A pristine lake surrounded by mountains, forests, and grassy hills perfect for hiking, bird watching or fishing.
  • Asgat volcano crater: An impressive landscape formation, that offers stunning views and unique geological features.
  • Jargalant River: A great place for fishing, kayaking, or enjoying the peaceful, unspoiled scenery.
  • Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake: Another breathtakingly beautiful lake, surrounded by mountains that offer plenty of outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and horse riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

The park offers lots of hiking and biking trails. Here are the most popular ones:

  • Khar Nuur Lake to Asgat crater trail: A challenging hike, with changing terrain and stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.
  • Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake to Khorgo Mountain trail: A challenging hike, that takes you through the rugged terrain of the area, with stunning views of the lake and mountains.
  • Jargalant River valley trail: A moderate hike with varied terrain and beautiful views of the river and surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Experience the traditional nomadic way of life: Visit a local family and learn about their lifestyle, customs, and history.
  • Horseback riding: Ride through the scenic countryside, visiting local nomadic families, and experiencing the beauty of the area on horseback.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in one of the many rivers or lakes in the park.
  • Camping: Experience the tranquility of the outdoors, camp out under the stars, and enjoy the beauty of Mongolia’s nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Day 1: Arrival at Ulaanbaatar and transfer to Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park.

Day 2-3: Explore the local area, visit Amarbayasgalant Monastery, Khar Balgas Fortress, and Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake.

Day 4-5: Hike to Khar Nuur Lake, bike through the surrounding hills, or take a horseback riding tour through the countryside.

Day 6-7: Visit Tsenkher Hot Springs, Jargalant River, and Asgat crater or indulge in some cultural experiences with local nomadic families or at Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Food and Drink Scene of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Khorkhog: A traditional Mongolian dish made of cooked lamb or goat meat with potatoes, onions, and carrots cooked in a sealed container with hot stones.
  • Buuz: A popular steamed dumpling stuffed with meat or vegetables.
  • Fried milk: A sweet dessert made from milk, sugar, and flour, fried in oil.
  • Airag: A traditional beverage made of fermented mare’s milk, rich in probiotics and vitamins.

Local Beverages

  • Suutei tsai: A traditional Mongolian tea made from milk, salt, and green tea.
  • Arkhi: A strong, clear, and transparent spirit made from fermented milk or barley.

Where to Stay in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation is available in the area, and options include:

  • Ger camps: Traditional Mongolian tents, with basic facilities.
  • Hotels & guesthouses: Providing you with modern amenities like en-suite bathrooms, electricity, and indoor heating.

What to Buy in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cashmere products: Mongolia produces some of the world’s finest cashmere products, including sweaters, scarves, and hats.
  • Mongolian traditional dress: Known as the Deel, it’s a colorful, comfortable coat-like garment made of silk, cotton or wool.
  • Handmade jewelry: Ornate and beautiful pieces made by local craftsmen.

Local Culture and Customs of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Mongolia’s culture is unique and rich with history, traditions, and customs. The locals are deeply connected to their nomadic lifestyle and show great hospitality, so you can get a taste of Mongolia’s way of life by engaging with the locals and their traditions.

Best Time to Visit Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

The best time to visit is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is mild with clear skies, and the parks’ lakes and rivers are full.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Do:

  • Respect the traditional way of life and local customs of the nomads.
  • Prepare for changing weather conditions and bring necessary gear.
  • Take your trash with you when leaving the park.

Don’t:

  • Disturb wildlife or damage natural areas.
  • Ignore park regulations and guidelines.
  • Engage in any activities that may be considered disrespectful towards the environment or the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Mongolia is a safe country, but it’s always best to take precautions like:

  • Avoiding secluded areas and wandering off alone at night.
  • Familiarizing yourself with park regulations and guidelines.
  • Checking weather and trail conditions before embarking on hikes.

Health in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

It’s advisable to take necessary vaccinations and medications before arriving in Mongolia. Bring along adequate medical supplies, like mosquito repellents and first aid kits.

Getting to Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

The nearest airport is Ulaanbaatar’s Chinggis Khaan International Airport, which is serviced by major international airlines like Air China, Korean Air, and Turkish Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

Long-distance buses run from Ulaanbaatar to the nearby city of Bayankhongor, from where you can take a local bus to the park.

Other Options

Private cars with drivers or tour agencies is a popular choice among visitors, providing more flexibility and comfort.

How to Get Around in Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park

The park’s trails are accessible by foot, bike, or horseback. Renting a car is also possible in the nearby city of Bayankhongor.

Where to Go Next from Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hustai National Park: Home to the world’s last remaining wild horse species, the Przewalski horse.
  • Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park: Another stunning park with a dormant volcano crater and scenic lakes.
  • Orkhon Valley: Situated in central Mongolia, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning landscapes and ancient monuments.

Conclusion

Ulaagchinii Khar Nuur National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases Mongolia’s beauty, culture, and history. With this comprehensive guide, we hope you have gained insights into the park’s attractions, activities, and logistics, to help kick-start your Mongolian adventure.