Mongolia, a vast and ancient land, is where the rugged, unspoiled natural beauty meets a deep and fascinating history. Known for its nomadic traditions, endless steppes, and the indomitable Genghis Khan, Mongolia offers adventures that are as expansive as its landscapes. Whether you’re a culture seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or simply someone in love with the great outdoors, here are the top 10 best things to do in Mongolia:
### 1. **Explore Ulaanbaatar**
Start your Mongolian adventure in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. Visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery to observe practicing monks and experience spiritual tranquility. Don’t miss the National Museum of Mongolia for a profound insight into the country’s history. For art lovers, the Zanabazar Museum of Fine Arts offers exquisite Buddhist art and artifacts.
### 2. **Attend the Naadam Festival**
Experience Mongolia’s most famous festival, Naadam, held annually in July. This exhilarating festival showcases Mongolian sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery in a vibrant display of cultural pride and historical tradition.
### 3. **Trek through Gorkhi-Terelj National Park**
Just a short drive from Ulaanbaatar, this national park offers stunning scenery with its alpine landscapes and interesting rock formations like Turtle Rock. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, and visiting local nomadic families.
### 4. **Stay in a Traditional Ger**
To truly immerse yourself in Mongolian culture, spend a night or two in a traditional ger (also known as yurt). These portable round tents have been used by nomads for centuries. Staying with a nomadic family can provide invaluable insight into their way of life.
### 5. **Ride Horses Across the Steppes**
Mongolia is known as “the land of horses,” and experiencing its landscape on horseback is quintessentially Mongolian. Explore more remote areas like Khustain Nuruu National Park where you might also spot wild Przewalski’s horses.
### 6. **Discover Karakorum – Erdene Zuu Monastery**
Visit Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire founded by Genghis Khan’s successor Ögedei Khan. Nearby Erdene Zuu Monastery was once one of the largest monasteries in Mongolia; encircled by stark white walls it houses spectacular temples filled with Buddhist artwork.
### 7. **Climb to Altai Tavan Bogd**
For mountain lovers seeking a challenging trekking experience at altitudes over 3 km high! This massif hosts some impressive glaciers like Potanin Glacier along with Kazakhstan border views from Malchin Peak.
### 8. **Camp by Khövsgöl Lake**
Often referred to as “Mongolia’s Dark Blue Pearl,” Lake Khövsgöl is one of the deepest lakes in Central Asia surrounded by lush taiga forest and rugged mountains – perfect for camping under starry skies.
### 9. **Experience Camel Riding in Gobi Desert**
The iconic Gobi Desert offers more than just dramatic scenery; it’s also an opportunity to ride Bactrian camels through dunes such as Khongoryn Els (Singing Sands). Don’t forget to visit Bayanzag (Flaming Cliffs) where important dinosaur fossils have been discovered.
### 10. **Explore Uvs Nuur Basin**
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring part saline lake surrounded by desert-steppe makes this site extraordinarily unique due to its complex ecosystem supporting diverse fauna including snow leopards.
Mongolia provides unforgettable experiences that range from cultural immersions to thrilling adventures across its diverse landscapes from grasslands to deserts to mountainous regions packed with rich history at every corner waiting for explorers eager enough to venture off-the-beaten paths.