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Mongolia's raw and mysterious appeal attracts global travelers. 2018 marks the ideal time to embark on a journey to explore this fascinating land.
Mongolia, with its untamed wilderness and mystery, captivates adventurers worldwide. 2018 is the perfect time for an exploration of this intriguing and captivating land. Let's delve into the 7 reasons that make Mongolia an enticing travel destination.
Ulaanbaatar City
Explore the vibrant attractions of this bustling city, including Sukhbaatar Square, the National Museum of Mongolia, the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, and Narantuul Market.
If time is limited but you crave a comprehensive tour, consider a train journey from Moscow (Russia) through Mongolia to Beijing (China). The majority of the adventure unfolds on the train, offering impressive sights. Dedicate a few days to wander around Ulaanbaatar, exploring its unique cultural facets. In this journey, the Mongolian countryside is sure to leave indelible and unforgettable impressions.
Costs
For budget-conscious travelers, Mongolia is an ideal destination. The most significant expense is likely transportation, depending on your point of departure. However, expenses within Mongolia are incredibly economical, covering accommodation, meals, and even tour guides. For example, a hearty meal at a mid-range restaurant in Ulaanbaatar costs around 10USD, and a bottle of vodka is just under 5USD.
Buddhism
Despite many Mongolians being non-religious, Buddhism remains a prevalent faith across the country. During your days in Mongolia, exploring the numerous monasteries scattered in various places is a must.
In Ulaanbaatar, the Gandantegchinlen Monastery stands as one of the most significant Buddhist sites nationwide. The Manjusri Monastery is located in the southern part of the city, within the Bogd Khan National Park, offering accommodations for overnight stays. Alternatively, take a train south to the Gobi and visit Khamriin Khiid, a monastery built atop a major reproductive health center that Mongolians believe is the source of all energy.
Gobi Desert
Gobi Desert is a marvelous exploration destination. Here, travelers can ride camels across the arid landscape, sometimes feeling like traversing a desolate land and at other times sensing a journey to the edge of the horizon. If you visit in winter, you might be fortunate enough to witness camels trekking through the snow, a captivating sight.
Festivals
Mongolia hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, with the Naadam summer festival standing out as one of the most impressive. Taking place in July, it combines traditional sports such as horse racing, wrestling, and archery.
Another unmissable festival is the Bayan-Ölgii Golden Eagle Festival, held annually in Mongolia in October. Here, visitors witness Mongolians showcasing prize-winning eagles in various competitions. It's also a fantastic opportunity to delve into the culture and people of the steppes.
National Parks
Mongolia boasts numerous national parks, each with its own distinctive charm. Gorkhi Terelj National Park is one of the closest to the capital, Ulan Bator. Here, you can horseback ride, embark on long hikes, and engage in various activities. Lake Khovsgol, the second-largest and deepest lake in Mongolia, offers breathtaking scenery that captivates many visitors. What's even better, you can set up camp anywhere in Mongolia without needing any special permits. If you're seeking an exceptional summer vacation experience, there's nowhere better than Mongolia.
Cuisine
Due to its harsh climate and vast grasslands ideal for livestock grazing, Mongolian cuisine predominantly revolves around meat and animal fats. Additionally, Mongolian cuisine is known for various types of dumplings, notably Buuz (filled with lamb or beef, combined with onions, garlic, and spices), and Khuushuur (deep-fried pastries filled with lamb and onions)... not forgetting the traditional fresh noodles (Tsuivan).
Experience the culinary delights at the Modern Nomads restaurant chain in Ulaanbaatar, showcasing a variety of local traditional dishes. However, nothing beats the enchantment of dining and spending the night in a small tent with the locals. So, venture out of town if you have the time.
Posted by: Thuý Trần
Keywords: 7 Reasons to Pack Your Backpack and Head to Mongolia in 2018
