Want to explore the homeland of the famous conqueror Genghis Khan? Visit the best places in Mongolia, the beautiful nomadic land located on the borders of China and Russia. Famously the homeland of the Mongol empire, Mongolia is one of the most beautiful places on this planet. Being the 18th largest country in the world, Mongolia is a treasure trove of culture and natural heritage.
Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Mongolia
Here are the 10 most beautiful places in Mongolia that you must visit when visiting the nomadic land of the Mongols:
1. Gobi Desert
Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
The Gobi Desert, one of the most famous places to visit in Mongolia, is a vast, stunning expanse of dunes, rocky landscapes, and unique wildlife. It is home to the legendary Flaming Cliffs, known for their rich dinosaur fossils. It also has the mesmerising Khongor Sand Dunes, also called the ‘Singing Sands.’ Visitors can also experience camel treks, visit nomadic families, and witness dramatic sunrises and sunsets over the desert.
Location: Southern Mongolia
Main Attractions: Flaming Cliffs, Khongor Sand Dunes, Yolyn Am Canyon
Average Cost: MNT 1,727,485 – MNT 5,182,430 / ₹43,598 – ₹130,787 for guided tours
2. Ulaanbaatar
Photo: Zazaa Mongolia / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the heart of Mongolia, this vibrant capital blends rich history with modern energy. Imagine wandering through bustling markets, exploring ancient monasteries, and soaking in the city’s dynamic culture. With its extreme climate, from freezing winters to warm summers, every season offers a unique experience. Whether you’re indulging in traditional cuisine or discovering nomadic heritage, there’s always something fascinating waiting around the corner in this ever-evolving metropolis.
Location: North-central Mongolia
Main Attractions: Gandan Monastery, Sukhbaatar Square, National Museum
Average Cost: Budget-friendly with accommodations ranging from MNT 69,093 / ₹1,743
3. Terelj National Park
Photo: Chongkian / Wikimedia Commons
Imagine a place where rugged mountains, scenic green meadows, and unique rock formations create a breathtaking escape from city life. Just a short drive from Ulaanbaatar, this is one of the most stunning places in Mongolia. It offers thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking, horseback riding, and even meeting nomadic families. Don’t miss the famous Turtle Rock and Aryabal Monastery, where panoramic views await. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this natural wonder has something for every traveller.
Location: Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, Töv Province, Mongolia
Main Attractions: Turtle Rock, Aryabal Meditation Temple, horseback riding
Average Cost: MNT 3000 / ₹75 for entry
4. Orkhon Valley
Photo: He-ba-mue / Wikimedia Commons
This breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site is where history, culture, and nature blend seamlessly. Imagine vast, rolling grasslands, ancient ruins, and the winding river that has sustained nomadic life for centuries. Once the centre of the Mongol Empire, it holds secrets of the past in its monasteries and stone inscriptions. Whether you’re exploring on horseback or camping under starry skies, every moment here feels like stepping into a timeless adventure.
Location: Central Mongolia
Main Attractions: Orkhon Waterfall, Tuvkhun Monastery, nomadic family stays
Average Cost: Guided tours start at MNT 1,537,527 / ₹38,802
5. Khuvsgul Lake
Photo: Lyallla / Wikimedia Commons
Imagine a place where crystal-clear waters mirror the vast Mongolian sky, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. This breathtaking alpine lake is often called the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia” and holds nearly 70% of the country’s fresh water. Home to diverse wildlife and rich nomadic traditions, it’s perfect for kayaking, hiking, or simply soaking in nature’s tranquillity. Wouldn’t you love to explore such an untouched paradise?
Location: Northern Mongolia
Main Attractions: Khuvsgul Lake, Tsaatan reindeer herders, kayaking
Average Cost: MNT 549,383 – MNT 791,250 / ₹13,866 – ₹19,980
6. Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Photo: Altaihunters / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the heart of Mongolia’s westernmost region, this breathtaking park is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Home to towering snow-capped peaks, ancient petroglyphs, and the stunning Potanin Glacier, it offers a mesmerising blend of history and raw wilderness. Whether you’re trekking through its rugged landscapes or meeting the friendly Kazakh eagle hunters, every moment here is a journey into something extraordinary. Ready to explore this hidden gem?
Location: Western Mongolia
Main Attractions: Altai Mountains, Potanin Glacier, eagle hunters
Average Cost: MNT 1,727,813 – MNT 5,183,321 / ₹43,629 – ₹130,908 for guided expeditions
7. Karakorum
Photo: Colegota / Wikimedia Commons
Imagine standing amidst breathtaking landscapes where ancient history and rugged beauty collide. This legendary mountain range, once the heart of the Mongol Empire, holds secrets of lost cities and epic adventures. A must-visit among Mongolia tourist places, it offers stunning trekking routes, historical ruins, and cultural insights into nomadic life. Whether you’re exploring its valleys or tracing the footsteps of Genghis Khan, this destination promises an unforgettable journey.
Location: Central Mongolia
Main Attractions: Erdene Zuu Monastery, Karakorum Museum, historical ruins
Average Cost: A climbing expedition costs MNT 139,697,945 / ₹3,528,160
8. Hustai National Park
Photo: Laika ac / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re seeking an unforgettable wildlife experience, this stunning park in Mongolia is the perfect destination! Home to the rare and endangered Przewalski’s horse, it offers breathtaking landscapes of rolling steppes, rugged hills, and serene rivers. A must-visit among tourist places in Mongolia, it’s ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Spot marmots, red deer, and golden eagles while exploring on foot or horseback for an immersive adventure in the wild.
Location: Hustai National Park Trust, Bayan Mongol Khoroolol Hunnu Street, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Main Attractions: Przewalski’s horses, wildlife safaris, scenic hiking trails
Average Cost: MNT 103,670 – MNT 345,458 / ₹2,617 – ₹8,721 for entrance and guided tours
9. Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa)
Photo: ArtHouse Studio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Imagine standing before a breathtaking natural wonder, where towering limestone formations glow in shades of white, orange, and red under the Mongolian sun. This stunning landscape, often called the White Stupa, is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Mongolia. Shaped by centuries of wind erosion, these cliffs rise dramatically from the Gobi Desert, resembling an ancient city. It’s a perfect spot for photography, hiking, and soaking in Mongolia’s raw beauty.
Location: Dundgovi Province, Southern Mongolia
Main Attractions: Colorful cliffs, hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints
Average Cost: MNT 1,036,366 – MNT 5,181,825 / ₹26,165 – ₹130,828 for guided tours
10. Bayan-Ulgii
Photo: Allenfotowild / Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away in Mongolia’s far west, this stunning region is a paradise for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. Known for its breathtaking Altai Mountains, glacial rivers, and vast steppe, it’s home to the famous Kazakh eagle hunters. You can explore Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, see ancient petroglyphs, or witness the vibrant Golden Eagle Festival. With its raw beauty and nomadic traditions, it’s a must-see among places to visit in Mongolia.
Location: Western Mongolia
Main Attractions: Kazakh eagle hunters, Altai Mountains, Eagle Festival
Average Cost: MNT 1,727,104 – MNT 2,072,736 / ₹43,604 – ₹52,330 for a round trip
The places to visit in Mongolia are a testament to the natural splendour of the land. Mongolia is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and untouched wilderness. Whether you seek adventure in the Gobi Desert, tranquillity at Khuvsgul Lake, or a historical journey in Karakorum, these places to visit in Mongolia promise an unforgettable experience. From ancient monasteries to nomadic lifestyles, every corner of this country has a unique story to tell. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and explore Mongolia’s wonders with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Christopher Michel / Wikimedia Commons