Still somewhat underrated, Mongolia is fast becoming a popular destination for travelers around the world. Bordering along Russia and China, the vast (mostly untouched) land provides a variety of landscapes and wildlife.
With sights ranging from some of the world’s biggest deserts to snowy mountain tops, there’s something for everyone. This destination is a perfect fit for the adventurers at heart—especially considering Mongolia is known as one of the “last frontiers of nomadic culture”.
What to See: The World’s Biggest
In part thanks to its widespread territory, Mongolia is a hub for many of the world’s greatest treasures—greatest and biggest treasures, to be more precise.
The Great Wall of China
Part of the largest man-made monument ever built and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World is found in Inner Mongolia. Seriously impressive. We’re talking over 21,000 km of stone wall, spreading across Asia, built a couple hundred of years B.C. (by HAND), having withstood the test of time, wars and dynasties… and a portion of this incredible piece of history—history of humanity—is found right here, in Mongolia. Badass.
The Gobi Desert
As if The Great Wall wasn’t cool enough, Mongolia is also home to one of the world’s largest deserts, The Gobi—which, in Mongolian, means “waterless place” (don’t you feel a little smarter now?). Bactrian camels—or two-humped camels—roam these rocky sands and are the last wild camels known to exist (but don’t worry, you’ll still be able to enjoy riding some of them). Wanna hear something even more awesome? More awesome than camels, you ask?
Well, the Gobi desert is famous for its dinosaur fossils and known as one of the largest harbour for fossilized dino bones and eggs.
So, let’s recap: world’s biggest wall, biggest desert, biggest bones… Whoever said everything’s bigger in Texas has obviously never been to Mongolia.
What to Do: In True Mongolian Style
So, we’ve covered The Great Wall and The Gobi. But, for those of you looking for less extreme activities that are closer to everyday Mongolian culture, we’ve got just the thing(s) for you:
Trek Through National Parks
You’ll find just as much beautiful desert as you’ll find lands of with lakes, plains and mountains. With over 24 national parks spread across the country, you’re sure to find just the right kind scenery you’re looking for.
Most national parks—like Bogd Khan Mountain National Park—offer guided treks. These excursions are a great way to discover the culture and traditions of the Mongolian nomads, surrounded by nature and sleeping overnight in traveling ger camps.
Hiking, bird watching, camel riding or even fishing—you name it, the Mongols got it.
Don’t Miss Out On The View
Oftentimes, backpacking and hiking go hand in hand. And Mongolia is the ultimate hiking destination. Whether flat, steep or anywhere in between, there’s no more humbling experience than being surrounded by vast, untouched nature. Get lost in the wilderness—we mean this metaphorically, not literally!
If you’re the mountaineering type—we’re talking real high-altitude stuff—you’ll find great companies offering expeditions and tours up some of the highest peaks and glaciers. How high, you ask? High enough to see Russia and China. Just Google “Mount Khüiten”. That’s right—those ain’t your mama’s black diamond slopes.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to be an expert to enjoy hiking through Mongolia. Most national parks have easy routes that lead to some of it’s most beloved monasteries.
Horse Riding Through the Wilderness
Ever wondered what it would feel like to be completely wild and free? Of course you have. That’s why you’re part of the Hidden Place community!
So there you have it folks—an adventurer’s guide to The Country of Blue Skies. There’s no doubt a ton more things to see and do in Mongolia, but hopefully we mapped out what we think captures the essence of its beautiful nomadic culture. So what are you waiting for? Add Mongolia to your bucket list!
