About Mongolia

Mongolia is divided into different regions including Khangai, Gobi and Steppe, each with unique landscapes, including forests, mountainous areas, vast steppes, and the Gobi Desert, all rich in natural beauty.

• Khangai: A forested taiga and mountainous region that spans the central, northern, and western parts of Mongolia.
• Steppe: An expansive, endless prairie that stretches across the eastern part of the country.
• Gobi: A desert zone covering much of the southeastern part of Mongolia, and it is the second largest desert after the Sahara.

Western Mongolia

Known for its breathtaking scenery and unique cultural experiences, Western Mongolia is an adventurer's paradise. With snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and a blend of diverse ethnic groups, this region is a blend of natural beauty and ancient traditions. The provinces of Bayan-Ulgii, Khovd, Uvs, and Zavkhan make up this remarkable area.

Highlights:

• Mountain Treks: Hike through the snow-covered Altai Tavan Bogd, Tsambagarav, and Kharkhiraa-Turgen mountain ranges, renowned for their stunning landscapes.
• Golden Eagle Hunting: Discover the fascinating art of eagle hunting practiced by the Kazakh people, a centuries-old tradition.
• Scenic Lakes: Take in the beauty of pristine lakes such as Uvs, Khoton-Khurgan, and Uureg, perfect for peaceful walks and relaxation.
• Cultural Encounters: Meet the diverse ethnic groups of the region, including Kazakhs and other nomadic communities.
• Ancient Rock Art: Explore the ancient petroglyphs in Shiveet Uul and Baga Oigor, where traces of early human life are etched into the landscape.
• Khuumii Singing: Experience the mesmerizing sound of Khuumii (throat singing), an iconic form of music native to Mongolia's highlands.

Mongolian Geography

Mongolia is a landlocked country located in East Asia and Central Asia. It is sandwiched between Russia to the north and China to the south, with a vast territory of over 1.5 million square kilometers.

The landscape consists of these main geographical regions:

• The Gobi Desert - Covers much of the southern part of Mongolia, one of the world's great deserts
• Mountain Ranges - Including the Altai Mountains in the west and the Khangai Mountains in the central part
• Steppe - Vast grasslands that cover much of the eastern and central regions
• Taiga Forests - Northern regions include forests similar to Siberia
• Lakes and Rivers - Including Lake Khövsgöl in the north, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia

Mongolia's diverse geography offers stunning landscapes for visitors, from snow-capped mountains to vast desert dunes and grassy plains extending to the horizon.

Mongolian History

Mongolia has a rich and storied history, most famously known for the Mongol Empire created by Genghis Khan in the 13th century, which became the largest contiguous land empire in world history.

Key periods in Mongolian history include:

• Ancient Mongolia - Home to various nomadic tribes from prehistoric times
• Xiongnu Empire (209 BC–93 AD) - The first recorded nomadic empire on the Mongolian plateau
• Mongol Empire (1206–1368) - Founded by Genghis Khan, it became the largest contiguous land empire in history
• Qing Dynasty Rule (1691–1911) - Mongolia was under the control of the Manchu-led Qing dynasty
• Independence and Soviet Era (1921–1990) - Mongolia declared independence with Soviet support and became a socialist state
• Democratic Mongolia (1990–present) - Following peaceful democratic revolution, Mongolia adopted a multi-party system and market economy

Today, Mongolia preserves its rich cultural heritage while continuing to develop as a modern nation.

Mongolian People and Nomads

Despite rapid urbanization, Mongolia maintains a strong nomadic tradition with approximately 30% of the population still practicing a nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle.

Nomadic herders move their camps several times a year in search of better pastures for their animals. A typical Mongolian herder family might own horses, sheep, goats, cattle, and camels (in the Gobi region).

The traditional dwelling of Mongolian nomads is the ger (yurt), a portable, round tent covered with skins or felt. The ger is perfectly adapted to the Mongolian climate and nomadic lifestyle, being both portable and providing insulation against extreme temperatures.

Mongolian culture is deeply influenced by nomadic traditions, including:

• Strong hospitality traditions toward guests and travelers
• Deep connection with nature and animals
• Traditional music using instruments like the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle)
• Unique cuisine based on dairy products and meat
• Traditional sports like wrestling, archery, and horse racing

Mongolian Culture and Heritage

Mongolian culture is one of the world's oldest and most unique, shaped by the country's nomadic traditions, harsh climate, and historical empires.

Key elements of Mongolian cultural heritage include:

• Traditional Music - Including throat singing (khoomei) and the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle)
• Traditional Costumes - The deel, a long, loose tunic worn by both men and women
• Buddhist Tradition - Tibetan Buddhism is the predominant religion, with many monasteries across the country
• Naadam Festival - Celebrating the "three manly games" of wrestling, horse racing, and archery
• Mongolian Cuisine - Based on meat and dairy products, including buuz (dumplings), khorkhog (meat stew), and airag (fermented mare's milk)
• Traditional Crafts - Including felt making, leather working, and embroidery

Visitors to Mongolia have the opportunity to experience this living heritage through homestays with nomadic families, cultural performances, and participation in traditional festivals.