Famous Landmarks in Mongolia
Mongolia, often called the “Land of the Eternal Blue Sky,” is a vast country with stunning landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and a unique nomadic heritage. Known for its wide open spaces, Mongolia offers travelers an authentic experience of untouched wilderness, where deserts, steppes, mountains, and lakes create a breathtaking backdrop for adventure. The country’s history, steeped in the legacy of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire, adds a layer of historical intrigue to any visit.
Mongolia is also home to warm, hospitable people, many of whom still lead a traditional nomadic lifestyle. Visitors can experience life in a traditional ger (yurt), witness incredible wildlife, and immerse themselves in centuries-old Buddhist and shamanic practices. Below are the top 10 famous landmarks in Mongolia that highlight the best of the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
1. Gobi Desert (Khongoryn Els)
Overview
The Gobi Desert, one of the largest deserts in the world, is a defining feature of southern Mongolia. Known for its dramatic sand dunes, particularly at Khongoryn Els (often called the “Singing Dunes”), the desert offers a surreal landscape of towering dunes that can reach heights of 300 meters. The Gobi is not only a desert of sand but also home to unique wildlife such as Bactrian camels and the elusive snow leopard. Visitors to the Gobi Desert can explore the vast expanse by camel or 4×4 vehicle, and camp under the stars in traditional ger camps.
Location
- City: Dalanzadgad, Ömnögovi Province
- Coordinates: 43.8340° N, 103.2210° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free; guided tours to the Khongoryn Els dunes typically cost around $100-$200 USD depending on the duration and activities.
Nearby Airports
- Dalanzadgad Airport (DLZ): Located about 70 km from the Khongoryn Els dunes.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; access is primarily by air or road.
Special Attention
Camel Trekking: One of the most authentic ways to explore the Gobi is by camel trek, offering a slower, more intimate experience of the desert’s vastness.
2. Erdene Zuu Monastery
Overview
Erdene Zuu Monastery is the oldest Buddhist monastery in Mongolia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near the ancient city of Karakorum. Founded in 1586, the monastery complex once housed hundreds of temples and thousands of monks. Though much of it was destroyed during Mongolia’s communist era, the remaining structures are beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into Mongolia’s rich religious history. Visitors can explore the ancient walls, temples, and stupas, and witness Buddhist ceremonies that continue to this day.
Location
- City: Kharkhorin, Övörkhangai Province
- Coordinates: 47.1996° N, 102.8360° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 8,000 MNT (approximately $3 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Kharkhorin Airport: A small regional airport located about 10 km from the monastery.
Railway Stations
There are no direct railway connections; most visitors travel by road from Ulaanbaatar.
Special Attention
Spiritual Experience: Attend a Buddhist ceremony or prayer session at the monastery for an immersive spiritual experience, reflecting the deep-rooted influence of Tibetan Buddhism in Mongolia.
3. Karakorum (Kharkhorin)
Overview
Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, was established by Genghis Khan in 1220 and served as a major cultural and political center during the empire’s peak. Today, the ruins of Karakorum, located in the Orkhon Valley, offer a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s medieval past. While much of the original city is no longer standing, visitors can explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery, the Karakorum Museum, and the Turtle Rocks, ancient stone carvings that once marked the boundaries of the city.
Location
- City: Kharkhorin, Övörkhangai Province
- Coordinates: 47.2000° N, 102.8000° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the ruins; entry to the Karakorum Museum costs around 5,000 MNT ($2 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Kharkhorin Airport: About 10 km from the ancient city ruins.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near Karakorum; travel is typically by road from Ulaanbaatar or nearby towns.
Special Attention
Genghis Khan’s Legacy: Karakorum is an essential stop for those interested in the history of Genghis Khan and the Mongol Empire, with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of this powerful era.
4. Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake (White Lake)
Overview
Terkhiin Tsagaan Lake, also known as White Lake, is a stunning freshwater lake located in central Mongolia. The lake is surrounded by volcanic craters and lush green landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, and horse riding, or simply relax by the lake’s tranquil shores. The surrounding area is home to nomadic herders, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Mongolian life in a beautiful natural setting.
Location
- City: Tariat, Arkhangai Province
- Coordinates: 48.1500° N, 99.7500° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to visit the lake; activities such as horse riding or guided tours vary in cost.
Nearby Airports
- Tsetserleg Airport (TSZ): Located about 100 km from the lake.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; travel is by road from Tsetserleg or Ulaanbaatar.
Special Attention
Volcanic Origin: Don’t miss the nearby Khorgo Volcano, an extinct volcanic crater offering excellent hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Genghis Khan Statue Complex
Overview
The Genghis Khan Statue Complex is a massive monument dedicated to Mongolia’s most famous historical figure, Genghis Khan. Standing 40 meters tall, the statue is the largest equestrian statue in the world and depicts Genghis Khan mounted on horseback. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the statue for sweeping views of the surrounding plains. Inside the complex, there is a museum showcasing artifacts from the Mongol Empire and a cultural center where visitors can learn about Genghis Khan’s impact on world history.
Location
- City: Tsonjin Boldog, near Ulaanbaatar
- Coordinates: 47.8016° N, 107.5357° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 8,500 MNT (approximately $3 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN): About 55 km from the statue complex.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; most visitors travel by road from Ulaanbaatar.
Special Attention
Panoramic View: The top of the statue provides a fantastic viewpoint, where you can see the vast Mongolian steppe stretching out in all directions.
6. Orkhon Valley
Overview
The Orkhon Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historically significant region that was once the center of the Mongol Empire. The valley is home to several ancient monuments, including the ruins of Karakorum and numerous burial mounds from Turkic and Mongol times. The Orkhon River, which flows through the valley, adds to the area’s natural beauty. Visitors can explore the cultural heritage of the region while also enjoying activities such as horseback riding and hiking in the scenic landscapes.
Location
- City: Near Kharkhorin, Övörkhangai Province
- Coordinates: 47.1996° N, 102.8360° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the valley; guided tours and museum visits have additional costs.
Nearby Airports
- Kharkhorin Airport: Located within the Orkhon Valley area.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near the valley; access is primarily by road.
Special Attention
Cultural Significance: The Orkhon Valley is rich in archaeological finds, including ancient stone inscriptions and artifacts that trace the history of the early nomadic empires that dominated the region.
7. Amarbayasgalant Monastery
Overview
Amarbayasgalant Monastery is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Mongolia, located in a remote valley in the Selenge Province. Founded in the 18th century, the monastery was built in honor of Zanabazar, the first spiritual leader of Mongolian Buddhism. Amarbayasgalant’s architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Mongolian and Tibetan styles, and the complex is surrounded by tranquil landscapes. Despite suffering destruction during the communist purges, much of the monastery has been restored, and it remains an active center of Buddhist practice.
Location
- City: Baruunbüren, Selenge Province
- Coordinates: 49.5976° N, 105.0625° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 5,000 MNT (approximately $2 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Darkhan Airport (DAK): Located about 100 km from the monastery.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; access is by road from Darkhan or Ulaanbaatar.
Special Attention
Quiet Solitude: The peaceful setting of Amarbayasgalant Monastery, nestled in a remote valley, offers visitors a serene escape and an opportunity to reflect in one of Mongolia’s most spiritual sites.
8. Hustai National Park
Overview
Hustai National Park is famous for being home to the Przewalski’s horse, or Takhi, the last surviving wild horse species in the world. After becoming extinct in the wild, these horses were reintroduced to their native habitat in Mongolia and now roam freely in the park. Hustai is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife, including deer, marmots, and wolves. Visitors can take guided tours to observe the wild horses and explore the park’s rolling steppe, mountains, and rivers.
Location
- City: Töv Province, near Ulaanbaatar
- Coordinates: 47.8136° N, 105.9227° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 15,000 MNT (approximately $5 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN): About 100 km from Hustai National Park.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near the park; access is primarily by road.
Special Attention
Wildlife Watching: The best time to see the Przewalski’s horses is in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active in the park.
9. Khustain Nuruu National Park (Hustai)
Overview
Khustain Nuruu National Park, also referred to simply as Hustai National Park, is a UNESCO-recognized conservation area situated just west of Ulaanbaatar. This park is globally famous for the successful reintroduction of Przewalski’s horses, the last wild horse species. The expansive park covers forests, steppes, and rolling hills. Visitors can take guided tours to catch glimpses of the Takhi horses, along with other local wildlife, such as deer, marmots, and birds of prey. Additionally, the park offers educational opportunities about conservation efforts in Mongolia.
Location
- City: Ulaanbaatar
- Coordinates: 47.8151° N, 105.9205° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 15,000 MNT ($5 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Chinggis Khaan International Airport (ULN): About 100 km from the park.
Railway Stations
No nearby stations; road travel is the best option for access.
Special Attention
Przewalski’s Horse: Wildlife enthusiasts should plan their visit around dawn or dusk when the famous Takhi horses are most active and visible.
10. Khuvsgul Lake (Lake Khovsgol)
Overview
Known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” Khuvsgul Lake is one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in Mongolia. Located in the northern region near the Russian border, Khuvsgul is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings, including pine forests and mountains. Visitors come to the lake to enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as to experience the lifestyle of the local nomadic herders who live in the area. Khuvsgul is also a sacred site for the Tsaatan reindeer herders, who maintain their ancient way of life in the nearby taiga forests.
Location
- City: Khatgal, Khuvsgul Province
- Coordinates: 51.0250° N, 100.2500° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free; fees for guided tours and activities vary.
Nearby Airports
- Murun Airport (MXV): Located about 100 km from the lake.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; access is primarily by road from Murun.
Special Attention
Reindeer Herders: Visitors can arrange to visit the Tsaatan reindeer herders, an indigenous group that has preserved its traditional way of life in the remote taiga forests surrounding the lake.
