At the crossroads of Central Asia and East Asia, Mongolia has long captured the imaginations of travelers. In recent years, adventurous spirits have sought out this vast land of grassy plains, rugged mountains, and colorful nomadic cultures. Although it is the 18th largest country in the world and the second largest landlocked country, Mongolia has a population of only 2.7 million – making it one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet. Roughly 1.4 million of those people live in the sprawling capital city of Ulaanbaatar, which is home to more than half of the population. The remaining 1.3 million Mongolians are distributed unevenly across a country that spans five climate zones (the vast majority being desert and steppe) and large altitudinal differences. Mountains, valleys, rivers, lakes, forests, and deserts fill out the geology, leading to great biodiversity and sweeping differences in climates. As a result, Mongolia is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, its natural scenery characterized by breathtaking mountains and unique rock formations, punctuated by the windswept Gobi desert in the south.
The geological diversity has also allowed for a number of different ethnic groups to flourish across Mongolia’s expanse. Despite the predominance of the Khalkha Mongols in the center of the country, there are other groups that boast cultural and historical differences, from the Tsaatan reindeer herders of the north to the Uriankhai herders of the rugged western mountains. Mongolian nomads are not singular; this vastness encompasses a diversity of languages, customs, and lifestyles, from silk-walled gers to woolen ones, from flock guardians with snow leopards to those with double-humped camels. Although life is changing rapidly all across Mongolia, the concept of nomadism remains a popular subject of fascination for visitors in the modern age. Moreover, the struggle of pro-democracy movements in the 1990s opened up Mongolia to the outside world, and interest in its people and landscapes has steadily climbed in the years since.
Mongolia is the world’s most sparsely populated country after Greenland. Population density is only 1.72 people per square kilometer, compared to 88 people per square kilometer in the United States, 268 people per square kilometer in India, and 304 people per square kilometer in China. In 1880, Mongolia was the home of the northernmost Mongol steppe and its pastoral nomads most favored of the weather and geographic conditions. Preservation of freedom and independence of the pastoral nomads of Central Asia. Rock painting of the Paleolithic and Xiongnu Slaves. The buildings have fallen into disrepair, but pictures taken during this time show the temples were once grand. In the distance, flanked by trees in flower is the temple of the great white goddess. Beyond it are intricate stone chimed stupas, in front of which are large bronze bells. In the landscape below her veil, the ochre sea overwhelms all else.
Geography and Climate
Mongolia is a landlocked country located in East Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. Mongolia, the 19th largest country in the world, encompasses approximately 1.56 million square kilometers of territory and is divided into two main regions: the Gobi desert and the Central Mongolian steppe. The vast steppe region is covered by grasslands and forests, while the southern Gobi desert is characterized by sand dunes, mountains, and mineral-rich terrain, which support diverse flora and fauna.
The land is highly mountainous, with the Altai Mountains in the southwest, the Khangai Mountains in the central region, and the Khentii Mountains in the northeastern area. In between the mountains lie vast plains and basins, with the largest depression being the Gobi basin, which contains salt lakes and a salt crust. Mongolia is also home to more than 3,000 rivers, the longest being the Selenge River, which is part of Lake Baikal in Siberia. Other significant rivers include the Onon, Kherlen, and Eg rivers, which flow to the east and drain into the Pacific Ocean. There are also lakes such as the Uvs Lake, which flows north into the Arctic Ocean basin, the Khyargas Lake in the northwest, and the Khovd Lake in the west.
Mongolia has a largely continental climate with a short summer that lasts from May to September and a long, cold winter from October to April. Temperature fluctuations are extreme, and the country experiences the greatest variation in temperature on Earth, with the difference between summer and winter extremes being about 80 degrees. During the summer, the temperature ranges from 30 degrees in the south to 15 degrees in the north, while the winter temperatures range from -30 degrees in the gorges to -50 degrees in the steppes. Despite having an average annual sunshine hours of about 260 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia receives very little rainfall, with some years completely dry, while other years see flooding.
History and Culture
Mongolia has a rich history that has evolved over the centuries into a colorful and sophisticated culture. It was once the home of the legendary Genghis Khan and his Great Mongolian Empire, which at one point in time included parts of what are now contemporaneously Russia, China, Korea, and even the Middle East. The influences of this great and proud empire can still be seen in modern Mongolia: the traditional horseshoe-shaped ger, known locally as a yurt, which is still used extensively today as a home and communal dwelling in both rural and urban areas, the colorful silks of traditional del, the blue and red slices of the airag (fermented mare’s milk), the traditional throat singing (Khoomtai) that is accompanied with instruments such as the Morin Khuur (horse-headed fiddle) and the three-stringed guitar like the Toiru, the ancient Mongolian script, and of course, the mesmerizing nomadic lifestyle of the modern countryside dwellers (the “herder”, or “Buhad” in Mongolian). Very few places on Earth can pride themselves as having preserved such a folklore and nomadic life through the centuries until the present day.
Mongolia’s history has seen many ups and downs. The rise and fall of the Mongolian empire, the seizing of Mongolia by the Manchus, the brutal oppression under the Qing Dynasty, the short-lived independence after the revolution in 1921, and eventually the establishment of a socialist republic that lasted through the Cold War until the peaceful transition into what it is now, a thoroughly Mongol and internationally recognized democratic and independent nation. The recently democratized Mongolia has been one of the fastest growing economies of the past decade, and this economic boom and newfound progress seem to have resulted in a culture clash of sorts. One of the beautiful aspects of the modern-day Mongolian culture is the blends of the ancient and the new. Nomadic tribesmen riding on their horses and camels herding their flocks and taking care of their livestock on the plains, still alongside the modern bustling capital of Ulaanbaatar, the fastest growing capital on Earth dotted with concrete skyscrapers, luxury hotels, cafes with Wi-Fi and $25 lattes, ATM machines, blitz markets, modern nightclubs, and a bustling dirt market that vendors in small hidden corners of the hills. Many of these hustle and bustle scenes are best captured beautifully on foot by simply wandering through the streets and alleyways, gazing from the hills, or sitting at a rooftop restaurant at dusk to see the day and night collide as the illuminated cityscape comes to life.
Nomadic Lifestyle
At the heart of Mongolia’s unique identity lies its tradition of nomadism, an age-old way of life that nurtures deep connections to the land and its rhythms. Almost thirty percent of Mongolia’s population is either fully nomadic, keeping herds that do not stay in one location long enough to form permanent settlements, or semi-nomadic, with families who both migrate for part of the year and farm settled plots in one location. The nomadic lifestyle has transformed the harsh conditions of the regions into a rich ambiance of folklore, and it is among the gentle, tenacious, proud, hospitable, and honorable hosts of Mongolia that visitors find a unique travel experience. Despite the rapid changes brought about by modernization and economic growth, the resilience of the nomadic culture is a testament to its strong rootedness.
Nomadic culture is unthinkable without the traditional dwelling known as the “ger” in Mongolian, or “yurt” in Central Europe. This home, widely seen in Mongolia’s vast steppes, is made portable to support the lifestyle of moving from summer pasture to winter camp. The ger consists of wood and felt, easy to disassemble and reassemble, and provides warmth during the long winters. In Mongolia, a family of 4-5 can live comfortably in a ger of 4-5 rooms, and every yurt has a unique design. Life inside the ger is warm and cozy with a hearth in the middle, and its interior is decorated in a way to reflect the family’s cultural and aesthetic values.
Livestock herding remains the foundation of the nomadic lifestyle. The Mongolian pastureland supports vast herds of sheep, goats, cattle, camels, and horses since the early days. Nomadic families care for 200-300 heads of livestock, producing meat, milk, wool, and hides for daily needs and incomes. The interdependence between animals and people is a source of creativity and spirituality reflected in the national traditional literary and musical heritage. A pivotal practice in herding is moving to new pastures based on the climatic fluctuations following an ancient traditional wisdom of the nomadic people.
Traditional Yurts (Gers)
Distinctive and enduring, Mongolia’s traditional yurts, locally known as “gers,” epitomize the skillful integration of nomadic life with nature. Utilized by Mongolian nomads, these movable dwellings showcase its people’s resourcefulness. Keeping warm in the cold winter months or cool in the hot summers, the design of gers is well-suited for the harsh environment. Structure and décor come together in gers, lending them a unique quality and beauty.
The construction of a ger is made of readily available natural resources such as wood, wool, fabric, and felt. Ger components include a circular wooden frame, wooden poles, outer felt, inner felt, and waterproof canvas. The round wood frame is divided into a circular crown (“toono”) and a surrounding wall. A wooden framework denting the wall is erected, and on top of this, wooden poles radiating from the circular crown to the base of the wall are set up. This octagonal frame is then structurally strengthened with a crossing of horizontal wooden poles.
The crown of the ger has a circular hole that allows for the construction of the chimney flue (“shonkhor”) of the stove. This opening enables natural lighting and ventilation for the space. The inner structure of the ger is then covered with the felt, which is the layer of outer covering. The felt roof is this soft covering containing sheep wool, piled well and produced in layers. Animals’ wool has insulating properties, keeping the interior cool in summer and warm in winter. On top of this felt is the waterproof bum bag protecting the space from heavy snow, rain, and hail.
Artisanship in Mongolian culture is often depicted with rich patterns and traditions unique to the tribes. Güris, as gers are called in Mongolian, are commonplace sights among the countryside. In the interior, gers are decorated with colorful paintings depicting pastoral life, mountains, and folkloric images. Also, the colors used in the intricate motifs symbolize wealth, hope, good luck, and the fertility of a family. Deeply connected to nature and their lifestyle, Mongolian people build gers wherein the inner space, structure, and décor convey the symbiotic relationships between man and nature, tradition, and modernity.
Livestock Herding
Livestock herding is a traditional livelihood for Mongolian nomads. Nomads have been herding livestock for over 2,000 years. Domesticated animals are bred in Mongolian ecosystems. The nomadic economy relies on animal husbandry and its products. Livestock is considered the wealth of nomads, while horses have an extraordinary connection to livelihoods, spirituality, and daily lives. Mongolia is home to over 23 million heads of livestock, including camels, yaks, goats, sheep, and horses. Nomadic herders rely on at least 100 animals to support their families. Mongolian nomads follow a seasonal round of herding, moving with their animals to specific river valleys in spring, forests in summer, mountains in autumn, and sheltered steppe areas in winter.
The herding culture is enhanced by animal husbandry-related customs, feasts, songs, and literature. A rich corpus of oral poetry and songs, including “urtiin duu,” celebrates the beauty of various livestock herding practices and life. Herders maintain diverse and innovative livestock breeding practices tied to specific environments. The herders’ annual economic cycle is divided into four seasons, with distinctive tasks. During the pastoral spring, herders prepare for the demanding summer; in summer, herders milk animals; autumn tasks include shearing cashmere goats; and winter chores focus on livestock care.
Twelve horse gaits exist in Mongolia, including top riding and horsemanship during Nadaam festivals. The young horse training process, taking two months before July, takes different forms in provinces. Each herding family manages 15-100 horses despite herding camps needing 300 horses for livestock management. The song “Tsoglog shuu zaluusaa” reflects the genuine interpretation of young horse riders. Family members usually milk their livestock, and women process dairy products. Urgam is chilled curds made during spring, with creamy clotted curds known as “Aaruul.” Top herbal tea, also called “suglan,” is served during winter welcoming rituals.
Landscapes and Natural Wonders
One of the first things people may notice when they arrive in Mongolia are the amazing landscapes and dramatic natural wonders. The sun rises early and sets late, and during summer, the whole landscape is alive with all shades of green. Vast, unbroken horizons stretch to the surrounding mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, and the intimidating Gobi Desert, which seems to have no end. Each location has its own unique culture and lifestyle; most are still untouched by Western civilization.
At 1,610,000 square kilometers, the Gobi Desert is far from flat and sandy like most deserts. It covers the southern region of Mongolia and extends into China. Although it is the most famous part of Mongolia, it takes up a small portion of what is known as Great Mongolia. The desert is a harsh land with extreme temperatures; its lowest point is -40 degrees Celsius in winter, and it can soar to +40 degrees Celsius in summer. Sand dunes as high as three-story buildings, winding red rocks in Khongoryn Els, hundreds of sandstone cliffs in Bayanzag, the “Flaming Cliffs,” and the world’s largest bird’s eggs, some weighing over 20 kilograms, are a few of the wonders the desert landscape offers. At night, the sky is like no other; without the glare of a big city, millions of stars light the sky, making it hard to believe the earth even has the kind of beauty present in these blossoms of nature.
Khuvsgul Lake is the biggest freshwater lake in Mongolia, and its water is considered to be the cleanest. It is located at the northern border of the country next to Russia. Surrounded on all sides by glorious mountains, it is hard to believe that such a treasure remains untroubled by human touch. Over two million acres of land have been declared for its protection, but in Asian standards, this is still unconquered. Blue lakes lost in the forests and herds of deer are just the tip of the iceberg. The vivid contrast of blue lakes, thick green taiga forests, and snow-covered mountains rises untamed from the broad plains and desert steppes.
Gobi Desert
The Gobi Desert is the largest desert in Asia and the fifth largest desert in the world, covering over 1.3 million square kilometers. It stretches across northern China and southern Mongolia and is characterized by its unique ecosystem and diverse topography. The Gobi Desert experiences extreme temperature variations, with scorching hot summers and freezing cold winters. The desert is also one of the driest places on earth, receiving an average of only 194 millimeters of rainfall annually. Despite these harsh conditions, the Gobi Desert is home to many unique and endangered species of plants and animals, such as the snow leopard, Gobi bear, and wild camel.
What sets the Gobi Desert apart from many other deserts is its diverse landscape. It features sand dunes, gravel plains, salt flats, and mountains, and even forests and tundras in some parts. The Gobi retains an air of exoticism and grandiosity that few other places can match, with its rolling sand dunes at Khongoryn Els resembling waves; the salt flats at Uvs Lake alone stretching over 18,000 square kilometers; and the mountain ranges at Altai towering far above the grassland. Author R. L. Stevens compared a ride through the Gobi Desert to sitting in a large theater, perceiving the dull sceneries at the beginning and then slowly noticing the subtle changes: a cluster of colorful wildflowers unexpectedly blooming on a gravel plain; the sun setting over a range of mountains, casting a golden glow on the surface; an oasis of lush grasslands and trees appearing after days of dryness, etc.
Due to its vast size, traveling around the Gobi requires careful planning. For its greatest natural wonders, however, there is no need to cover too large an area. Traveling to Hohhot first and then through Inner Mongolia and the later experiments around Ulaanbaatar would allow visitors to appreciate the very essence of the Gobi Desert without straying too far on the route. Scenic spots such as the sand dunes at Khongoryn Els, the salt flats at Uvs Lake, and the mountains at Altai, as well as national parks like the Terej and Bogd, are all easily accessible from Ulaanbaatar. Most of these spots can be enjoyed well within a week, with grasslands adorning them along the way. Locals regard these grasslands as sacred, so they should be treated with utmost respect.
Khuvsgul Lake
Khuvsgul Lake, located in the northern mountains of Mongolia next to the Russian border, is the largest freshwater lake in Mongolia, the second deepest lake in Asia, and one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world. Found at an elevation of 1,647 meters above sea level, the lake covers an area of 276 square kilometers, is 136.5 kilometers long, and is approximately 37 meters deep. Khuvsgul Lake feeds 96 rivers and is the largest source of freshwater in Mongolia, containing approximately 70% of Mongolia’s freshwater. It is the sister lake of Lake Baikal, located in Siberia. Khuvsgul Lake National Park is home to Mongolia’s largest burial mounds, over 4,000 ancient burial mounds dating to the Hunnu Empire, and many ancient stone sculptures, inscriptions, and ruins. The Khuvsgul-onnary, Khuvsgul-Nadi-Gol, and Khuvsgul-In-Gol rivers are abundant in fish and ideal for fly fishing. Khuvsgul Lake is still unaffected by industrial and commercial development and is truly unspoiled beauty and wildlife.
There are several options for exploration, including international tourist companies offering multi-day, organized tours to the region, or, for the more adventurous, the journey can also be made independently. Most travelers fly to Khatgal from Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, where direct flights go once a day during the summer months from Ulaanbaatar. Alternatively, from Murun, it is possible to get to the lake by a combination of minibus and taxis. There are two main tourist areas along the lake’s shores. East of the town of Khatgal is Khankh, close to the northern border with Russia, where tourists can stay in those well-established ger camps, join boat trips on the lake, or go horseback riding. West of the town of Khatgal is the smaller and quieter region of Bayan-Ulgii, where there are only a handful of ger camps and it is preferable to stay with nomadic families. The tourists here have easier access to hiking uplands and visiting the ruins of Hunnu Empire ger cities. The stunning and vast Khuvsgul Lake is one of the few places that remains in its untouched natural state.
Culinary Delights
At first glance, Mongolia’s culinary delights may not seem so special. Beyond the borders, Mongolia is often known for some of its dishes: mutton or camel meat dumplings, milk curd, and fermented mare milk are common representations of this nation. People rarely have an idea of what to serve or eat before travel. Only when in Mongolia does one realize the depth of daily eating habits or the variety of dishes that it is possible to enjoy. In reality, Mongolia is gifted with an incredible bunch of nutritious and delectable dishes, thanks to its long historical background and geographic location. Here are the most common Mongolian dishes that are must-tries.
Naran Khuun, in English, “sunny donut,” is a deep-fried dough made from flour. With strong sunlight and warm weather, it can be eaten alone with dried curd snacks and milk tea or can be served with rainy-day hot milk soups. It is a typical snack for nomadic families in the countryside during summer.
Tsui Khuud, in English “salty bread,” is fist-sized smooth white dough often cut into exact pieces. Fried bread with cooking oil served alongside milk tea, this food is as common as very common chapatti. Definitely delicious with a unique crunch and light salty taste.
Makh map, in English “meat stuff,” khuurshuur is deep-fried dough stuffed with minced and spiced mutton meat. Frying khuurshuur takes time, as it must be cooked at a high temperature with enough oil entirely. The dough wrapping is paper-thin and airy. There are three common varieties.
Hutguud, a traditional meat pie with dough stuffed with juicy boiled meat, is especially amazing when eaten right out of the pan. The pan-feu ingredients are usually potatoes, carrots, and onions, a mix of spices, and chilies. Even the most novice cook can prepare it as a specialty dish on his/her first cooking experience; just remember to keep checking until fully cooked! It’s absolutely delicious.
Bansh, in English “dumpling” that is better known as mutton meat ravioli, is filled with chopped and spiced mutton meat. Before arrival, freshly boiled bansh can be safely stored for weeks, and sautéed water-dumplings served with hot dipping sauce spectrum the bunch.
Traditional Mongolian Dishes
Exploring the nomadic culture and scenic landscapes of Mongolia offers a unique glimpse into the traditional dishes of this fascinating country. Mongolian “tsagaan idee,” or traditional food, is integral to the ancient nomadic culture’s daily life, celebrated in both ordinary and festive settings. Barbecue meat, dairy food, and fried dough are staples of the Mongolian diet, highlighting the country’s cultural legacy.
The food habits of Mongolian nomads vary depending on the soum’s relocate pasture area. They either enjoy plenty of meat from sheep, goats, or camels, or focus more on dairy products depending on the summer, autumn, winter, and spring seasons.
In summer, food items include boiled meat, steaming dumplings, fried meat pie, and pickled milk products. As autumn approaches, meat dishes like mutton or beef on the bone, cooked rice, and grain soup are common. In winter, boiled meat is typically served, along with tea made with milk and a high quantity of pastry products.
Interestingly, during spring, people experience food deprivation due to economic difficulties. Although food supplies dwindle, nomadic people are resilient in persisting in their unique food habits. Mongolian traditional foods are mostly meat. Meat dishes like fat meat, meat pies, etc. stand the first portion among food products served regularly. Hardly any holiday goes without barbecue dishes. Mongolian nomads are adept at barbecuing meat dishes in a way all food lovers would indulge. Food served at festive events, larves, or family celebrations includes prized dishes, premeditated barbecuing mutton tail, and meat pie made from chicken coop first fed chicks.
Dairy food is the second portion among food products served regularly. Milk products, served together with tea, soup, buns, fried pastry food, and cheese are indispensable at all festivities. Though it’s cumbersome to prepare, Mongolian traditional dairy food make fine party meals. Fried dough is the third portion among food products served together with bread and biscuit. Fried pastry such as meat pie, cabbage pie, cheese pie, and fried curd are prepared for celebrating both national and personal events. In addition, fried dough with a variable taste is always on hand at every hors d’oeuvres.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Mongolia is a land of pristine natural beauty, rich history, and a nomadic culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. For travelers seeking adventure and a deeper understanding of this unique way of life, there are several things to keep in mind.
Traveling in Mongolia can be a challenge, but with some preparation, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The majority of the country is still quite remote, with vast stretches of wilderness that can take days to cross. Many roads are unpaved and in poor condition, so be prepared for a bumpy ride if you choose to travel by car. Buses and minivans can be booked through tourist offices in major cities, while hitchhiking is also common and generally safe.
Most visitors to Mongolia do so on organized tours, which can range from luxury trips with all the comforts of home to budget tours with yurt accommodations and five-hour bus rides to city destinations. With a little extra planning, these tours can also be customized to suit personal interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and horseback riding excursions are all available through local operators. Those wishing for more home-based activities can take part in making felt, cooking, or textile arts.
Gers, or yurts, are the traditional homes of Mongolian nomads. Made from wooden frames covered with felt, canvas, and sometimes tarpaulins or skins, they are both portable and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Gers come in a range of sizes, from small family homes to large guest accommodation for touring nomads. Travelers are expected to respect the basic tenets of hospitality and take off shoes when entering.
Travelers are often asked to sign a guestbook in each ger they visit, which can serve as a travel diary and a record of many travels. Guests usually receive milk tea or vodka upon arrival and should accept these offerings before continuing the conversation. It is considered good manners to inquire about the welfare of the family as well as the animals, harvest, and other general activities.
Most ger districts and urban neighborhoods have public toilets, although quality varies. Hotels and guesthouses generally have Western-style toilets, and elaborate “western” toilets in some restaurants are free but only for patrons. Some public toilets in cities charge a few hundred tugrik for use. Mungus is a toilet outdoors, typically wooden huts over holes with a view, surrounded by rocks or bushes, and spare toilet rolls are often tied to trees.