Mongolia, synonymous with the Great Genghis Khan and the massive Gobi Desert is a land of Superlatives. The most sparsely populated country in the world still largely has a Nomadic lifestyle. It is indeed a land where vast landscapes meet old customs. Mongolia is in the middle of China and Russia, making it an integral part of the ancient trade routes.
As you travel through Mongolia, you'll experience the warm welcome of its friendly people, who have kept their traditional way of life alive for generations. From Ulaanbaatar, the country's busy main city, to the calm shores of Lake Khuvsgul, this land is full of great places to explore.
Although, traveling in Mongolia might be a bit challenging due to some issues like language barriers, unpaved roads, and limited accommodation options. However, the difficulties are worth it for the incredible experiences waiting in the Mongolian Gobi Desert.
If you decide to go, you'll likely be one of the few tourists enjoying breathtaking desert views, sleeping under the starry Milky Way every night, and exploring the vast wilderness of Mongolia.
This guide has general guidelines for a great Mongolian experience, your very own unforgettable adventure story.
About Mongolia
Mongolia in north-central Asia is shaped like an oval, measuring about 1,486 miles from west to east and 782 milesfrom north to south. It's comparable in size to western and central Europe. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, is in the north-central part.
Mongolia is landlocked, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the south. It experiences a continental climate with harsh winters and short, warm summers. The landscape includes steppes, semi-deserts, deserts, and mountain ranges. The average elevation is around 5,180 feet, with the highest peaks in the Mongolian Altai Mountains in the southwest.
About three-fourths of Mongolia is pastureland, supporting large herds of livestock. The rest is divided between forests and deserts, with very little land used for crops. Mongolia has a small population, with fewer than three million people, resulting in one of the lowest population densities globally.
Early History of Mongolia
The Mongols have a fascinating history that goes way back. It's believed that the Huns, who lived in Central Asia around 3rd to 1st century BCE, might have been their ancestors. In the early 13th century CE, Genghis Khan united nomadic tribes to form a Mongolian state.
The rise of Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan, originally named Temuujin, was born in Mongolia around 1162. He came from a powerful clan with a history of leadership. He inherited feuds with the Juchen-Jin dynasty and the Tatars, who had betrayed his ancestor to the Juchen. His father was poisoned by Tatars, and he faced other conflicts among Mongol clans and with the Merkit tribe.
Orphaned in his teens, Temuujin used strategic methods, such as forming marriage alliances, seeking protection from stronger leaders, and creating bonds with allies like Jamuka. He also recruited loyal followers known as nokhor. Unlike traditional bonds, nokhors pledged allegiance solely to their chosen leader.
By 1206, Temuujin's success in tribal warfare led to his proclamation as the ruler of All the Mongols, with the title Genghis Khan. He skillfully united various Mongol tribes, ensuring he controlled all potential nomadic rivals. Genghis Khan's first move involved bringing major tribal groups under his control in western Mongolia.
He then expanded his influence into northern China, facing the Jin dynasty. Genghis Khan utilized alliances and discontent within China to his advantage. The Jin capital, Zhongdu (modern Beijing), was captured in 1215, but Genghis Khan withdrew to Mongolia, leaving a general to weaken China further. He later turned westward, defeating the Naiman tribe and gaining control over the Karakhitai kingdom.
Genghis Khan's expansion continued into Khwarezm, securing his position against potential threats. He also ventured into Russia and eastern Europe through his generals and sons. However, he delayed committing his main forces to China until he dealt with the Tangut state of Xi Xia. Genghis Khan died in 1227 during a successful campaign against Xi Xia, leaving a legacy as a skilled and strategic military leader.
Collapse of Qing Rule
In 1911/12, with the collapse of Qing rule, Mongolia's religious leader, Bogd Gegeen, declared independence but only achieved autonomy under China. In 1919, with Soviet assistance, nationalists ousted Chinese and White Russian forces. On July 11, 1921, Mongolia celebrated its revolution, leading to the proclamation of the Mongolian People’s Republic in November 1924, with the capital Ulaanbaatar.
From 1921 to the late 1980s, Mongolia was a one-party state closely tied to the Soviet Union. It received support in various forms but shifted towards change in 1990. Mongolia embraced free multiparty elections, coalition government, cultural and religious freedom, and a move towards Mongol national traditions. This marked a departure from communism, adopting a neutral stance in international relations and transitioning to a market economy.
Culture and Customs of Mongolia
Mongolian culture has been shaped by its nomadic tradition and its location at the crossroads of different empires and civilizations. The nomadic pastoral economy is a key aspect, influencing family life, social relationships, and even art, music, and literature. The nomadic lifestyle revolves around herding five main animals: sheep, goats, horses, cows, camels, and yaks. These cattles play a crucial role in marriages in Mongolia.
Cattles are a prized possession for Nomads
In Mongolia, a few heads of cattle can provide enough money for a marriage. As mentioned, in the Mongol Empire, the five most important domestic animals were horses, yaks, camels, sheep, and goats. All of these animals were valued for their milk and their hides were used for clothing and shelter.
In Mongolia, one third of the population are pastoral-nomads who migrate seasonally with herds of cattle, sheep, goats, camels, horses, and/or yaks. These herders support their families who rely on them for access to meat and milk.
In Mongolia, marriage was forbidden between members of the same clan. Raiding to capture cattle, women, and prisoners was a recognized method of property accumulation.
In herders' families, a woman who gets married is normally expected to go and live with the groom's family or vice versa. Many marriages in Mongolia are organic and can be between friends or coworkers.
Other Traditions
Traditional Mongolian arts, including music, dance, and literature, are deeply connected to the nomadic past and contribute significantly to the cultural heritage.
Throat Singing
Throat singing is one of the oldest music traditions. Throat singing, also known as khoomei, is a spiritual practice that has been passed down through generations of Mongolian herders. It is a style of singing where a single performer produces a harmony of multiple voice parts, including a bass element produced in the throat.
Throat singing is also practiced in other cultures, including Tuva, Siberia, and parts of Central Asia. The prevalence of throat singing in Mongolian culture may be attributed to the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolian people and their close connection to the natural environment.
Throat singing mimics the natural environment, such as animals, mountains, and streams. In the early 21st century, throat-singing was used to lull babies to sleep, lure wild and semidomesticated animals, help gain the favor of the spirit of the place and summon shamanic spirits and Buddhist gods.
Historical records mention throat singing as early as the Han Dynasty, between 206 – 220 BC. Throat singing then appears in Chinese texts dating in 92 AD.
Architecture
The architecture of Mongolian homes, called "gers," is distinctive—circular and designed to withstand harsh weather. Gers are easily portable, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle.
Handicrafts
Mongolian culture also shines through its handicrafts and folk art, featuring crafts like woodcarving, metalworking, embroidery, and weaving. These skills are often passed down through generations and are vital to the cultural heritage. Mongolian handicrafts are commonly sold as souvenirs, providing income for many families.
Equestrian and Wrestling Traditions
Equestrian and wrestling traditions play a central role in Mongolian culture, with a significant impact on its history and continuing importance today. The country hosts various festivals, such as Naadam and Tsagaan Sar, celebrating Mongolian culture and history.
Did you know that the Orkhon Valley in Mongolia has been a suitable place for nomadic people to settle for centuries? The Orkhon Valley was considered the seat of imperial power for many centuries.
The first capital of the Mongol Empire, Karakorum, was located in the Orkhon Valley from 1206–1368. The Mongol Qa'an and his court would migrate through the Orkhon Valley annually, and other palaces were established along the route.
The Orkhon Valley has many historic sites and ruins, including cities, palaces, monasteries, and temples. The Orkhon inscriptions, a stone stele erected by Bilge Khan in the 8th century, are evidence of the valley's importance.
Planning Your Trip to Mongolia
Customize your own itinerary or pick our carefully crafted one aimed to help you spend time with your loved ones. Here are guidelines to help give you an idea about the experiences the country offers.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Choosing the right time to visit Mongolia is like picking the perfect season for your parent -child adventure. The greatest time to visit Mongolia is in the summer, from mid-June to late August. This is when the weather is just right for traveling, with sunny days and some rain that makes the land look green and pretty.
The usual temperature in summer is around 21°C (65°F), and there's an average rainfall of 200–220 mm. Mongolia's landlocked location gives it an extreme continental climate, with temperatures that can vary widely. June, July, and August are the warmest months in Mongolia.
The winters are harsh but that is also the time when a trip to Altai mountains can be a treat for the eyes, colour changing landscapes and frozen lakes. Understanding Mongolia's seasonal variations helps ensure you experience the country at its best, making your trip more enjoyable and comfortable.
The weather conditions will play a great role in deciding your itinerary and experiences in Mongolia and the Gobi Desert.
2. Create a Rough Itinerary
Creating a rough itinerary means deciding where you want to go and what you want to do during your trip to Mongolia.
Start by listing the places you're interested in visiting, like Ulaanbaatar, the Gobi Desert, or Khuvsgul Lake. Consider how much time you have and the distances between these destinations. This helps you organize your travel schedule and ensures you have enough time to explore each location.
Keep in mind that Mongolia is vast, so planning ahead will help you make the most of your visit and ensure a balanced and enjoyable travel experience.
3. Budget Planning
Budget planning is simply like making a money plan for your trip to Mongolia. It’s advisable to go for full board options as once you leave Ulaanbaatar, cities are far and few . While experiencing the real Mongolia, you will be between Ger camps and Nomadic settlements, leaving you with few food options.
A pre -decided itinerary will help save costs as adequate stay options enroute will need to be found. Most Ger camps are seasonal.
4. Book Flights
Getting flights to Mongolia is a very important part of making a trip. To find the best deals, start by looking into different companies and comparing prices. The main international airport is in Ulaanbaatar, which is also the city.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport, also known as New Ulaanbaatar International Airport, is the primary airport serving Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. It opened on July 4, 2021, replacing Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport. The airport is 14 km from the center of Ulaanbaatar. The airport code is UBN, and the elevation is 1,366 m.
Book your flights as early as possible to get better seat choices and lower prices. Think about things like layovers, journey dates, and flight lengths, and keep Mongolia's weather in mind as you plan your trip.
Domestic flights in Mongolia are seasonal so it’s best to spend some time researching them well .
5. Accommodation
When choosing a place to stay in Mongolia, make sure it fits with the places you want to visit. There are a lot of different places to stay in cities like Ulaanbaatar, from fancy hotels to cheap hostels.
If you're traveling during the busy season (which is a good idea), make sure to book your stay in Ulaanbaatar as early as possible. The affordable hostels and hotels in the city center get reserved quickly. Book at least a month ahead if you can.
A lot of Ger camps are seasonal and have limited capacities. Finding the best with the amenities of your choice can be a challenge as a lot of them don't even find a place on the internet even.
6. Learn Basic Phrases
Learning a few simple Mongolian phrases will help you get along better with locals when you travel. People may speak English in tourist areas, but trying to speak Mongolian shows that you value the culture.
Common greetings, thank-you, and phrases show respect and help people who don't speak the same language get along. People who live there often like it when tourists try to connect with them through their language. It makes the experience more real and engaging.
Learning basic phrases also shows that you are aware of the culture and want to understand the habits of this nomadic society. This will help you make friends and feel welcome as you travel through Mongolia.
Things to Do in Mongolia
Mongolia is a big, beautiful country with a land and people that are all its own. Mongolia has a lot to offer, whether you're interested in history, nature, or excitement. Here are some recommendations:
1. Attend Mongolian festival
Mongolia has amazing festivals that show its traditional culture, and Naadam is the biggest one. It's a three-day celebration with colorful events showcasing traditional Mongolian sports like wrestling, horse racing, and archery. People from all over the world come to watch and enjoy the unique Mongolian style of these games.
Another attraction is Mongolia's eagle hunting festivals. In Bayan-Olgii province, the Golden Eagle Festival in October is a highlight, featuring skilled Kazakh falconers and their trained eagles. There are exciting competitions, including camel racing and traditional horse races.
If you can't make it in October, there's the Altai Kazakh Eagle Festival in September and the Spring Eagle Hunting Festival near Ulaanbaatar in March.
Mongolia's winter festivals in February are memorable too, despite the cold temperatures. The Ulaanbaatar Winter Festival and Khatgal Ice Festival offer unique sports like ankle-bone shooting, ice archery, horse and dog sledding, figure-skating, and ice fishing.
In February, you can also enjoy Lunar New Year celebrations called Tsagaan Sar and the Bulgan Camel Festival, featuring camel polo and racing with the shaggy two-humped Gobi nomad's camels.
2. Acknowledge Nomadic Culture
To really understand and enjoy traditional Mongolian culture and the beautiful countryside, you should try spending a night in a ger, which is a round, felt-covered dwelling used by Mongolian nomads. These structures are easy to put up and take down, perfect for a life on the move. Inside, you'll find nicely decorated spaces with beds arranged around a central hearth used for cooking and staying warm.
Nomadic families have been using gers for thousands of years, and when you stay with them, you might see prized family items and even a TV. While in a ger camp, you'll have your own private ger for sleeping, but you'll still get a taste of Mongolia's famous hospitality by sharing meals with the family. These meals often include mutton, curd, and cheese products. Don't be surprised if you're offered airag, a local specialty made from fermented mare's milk.
Ger camps come in different styles. The most authentic ones are smaller, family-owned camps with just a few gers. On the other hand, more touristy options are larger with about 40 gers, and they may have Western-style bathrooms and restaurants on-site.
3. Explore the Gobi Desert in Solitude
The Gobi Desert in Mongolia is a tough and captivating place. It's known as one of the most mysterious destinations in the country. Even though it's considered one of the most remote areas on Earth, it's now easily reachable by good roads. A trip across Gobi is a big attraction in Mongolia.
The main focus is on outdoor adventures and spending nights in the desert with nomadic families. Here, you can experience some of the best stargazing in the world. The huge sand dunes of Khongoryn Els in Gurvan Saikhan National Park are the top highlight of the Gobi. For a truly memorable experience, you can explore them on camels during multi-day camping trips in the desert.
There are also amazing dunes at Moltzog Els, a dramatic area with 12-meter-tall powdery dunes. This region is the richest site in the world for finding dinosaur fossils. Other exciting desert adventures include exploring canyons at Khermen Tsav, viewing 10,000-year-old rock carvings at Khavtsgait, watching wildlife at Ikh Nartiin Chuluu, and visiting the unforgettable ice-filled gorge at Yolyn Am.
Yoliin Am, also known as "Valley of the Vultures", is a deep, narrow canyon in the Gobi Desert. It's located in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, which are part of the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.
The canyon is known for its ice field, which is frozen for most of the year except for late summer.
At the end of winter, the ice field can be several meters thick and several kilometers long.
Yoliin Am is named after the Lammergeier or Bearded Vulture, which is called Yol in Mongolian. The valley is lush and green, and the air is cool in the summer. The Yol stream erodes the valley, and freezes in winter, building up to 8 meters thick ice.
4. Sleep in a Monastery
Many Mongolians say they don't believe in any gods, but Buddhism is still the main religion in the country. You can see monks in big cities like Ulaanbaatar, and there are interesting monasteries to visit.
Instead of just going for a short visit, you can choose to stay overnight at Manjusri Monastery, which is not far from Ulaanbaatar in Bogd Khan National Park. You can hike to the monastery, explore the old ruins, and spend the night in their dormitory for some quiet time and relaxation before hiking back in the morning.
It's not easy to find information online about staying in monasteries in Mongolia, as many don't have internet. If you hire a guide, they can help you plan your stay. If not, you can go directly to the monastery you want to stay at and ask—they usually won't say no.
5. Go Horseback Riding
Mongolia is well-known for its horses, and riding them across the vast, empty countryside can be a fantastic experience. You might not see anyone for days, except for the people you're traveling with.
If you decide to go on a horseback adventure around the country, it's a good idea to hire a guide. Many travelers find it cheaper to buy a horse and then sell it after their journey, rather than renting one the entire time.
Guides can also help you find a place to stay overnight, especially if you want to stay with families in their round, traditional homes called yurts. But you don't need special permission to camp in Mongolia, so you can also bring your own tent and set it up wherever you find a nice spot with a clear view of the stars.
6. Drink Airag
When you travel, it's always fun to try local drinks. Each place has something unique that you can't find back home. Airag is one of those special drinks you won't see everywhere. It's made from fermented mare's milk, and the taste is a bit like regular alcohol mixed with the scent you get from being around horses all day. It's quite an experience! But if you're staying in a traditional Mongolian ger, it's considered impolite to say no when the family offers you a sip. Just be cautious because it's pretty strong.
If airag doesn't appeal to you, there are other choices. Mongolians mostly enjoy lager beers, with popular ones like Borgio and Altai Gobi.
There's also a darker, maltier beer called Khar Khorum, which is really tasty. And if you want something stronger than beer but not as intense as airag, don't forget about Mongolia's past connection with the Soviet Union.
You can find good and inexpensive vodka in local shops. Just remember, you can't buy alcohol on the first day of each month in Mongolia.
Getting There in Mongolia
Now, let's explore some great places to visit in Mongolia. The country is known for its stunning nature, vibrant culture, and interesting history. You can experience all of these by checking out the following places.
1. Ulaanbaatar
When you visit Mongolia, you shouldn't miss spending time in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city. It's the cultural center where you can discover Mongolian heritage and experience modern comforts. You'll find museums, art galleries, performances, restaurants, and cultural events to enjoy.
One must-see attraction in Ulaanbaatar is Zaisan Hill Memorial. It was built from 1971 to 1974 to express gratitude to the Soviet Union for helping Mongolia during its fight against Japanese forces in World War II. The memorial complex honors Soviet soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the war. From the top of Zaisan Hill, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Ulaanbaatar, the Tuul River, and the surrounding hills and mountains.
Keep in mind that to reach the top, you'll need to climb 600 steps. However, if you prefer an easier way, you can use the elevator inside the mall at the base of the hill, which takes you about halfway up.
2. Hustai National Park
Hustai National Park takes the spotlight for its successful efforts in reintroducing the endangered Przewalski’s horse, also known as the Takhi or Mongolian wild horse. Today, the park serves as a sanctuary and reserve dedicated to these horses, believed to be the only true wild horses globally.
As you explore, either on your own or with a biologist guide, keep your eyes wide open for these magnificent creatures. And that's not all – the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including marmots (you'll spot plenty), red deer, Mongolian gazelles, and various bird species.
To add a touch of education to your adventure, make sure to stop by the Hustai Visitor Center. Inside, you'll find a compact yet informative museum, a video viewing room, and a gift shop to enhance your understanding of this fascinating ecosystem.
3. Lake Khovsgol National Park
Lake Khovsgol National Park, also called Khovsgol Nuur National Park, is a huge area of natural beauty covering 8,865 square kilometers (3,423 square miles).
This place in Mongolia offers exciting outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and camping. What makes it special is the chance to see rare and endangered animals such as the Siberian ibex, argali sheep, Eurasian lynx, and gray wolf.
The star attraction is Lake Khovsgol, one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in Central Asia. Often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," it has crystal clear waters surrounded by mountains, meadows, and forests. It's truly one of the best places to explore in Mongolia.
4. Gobi Desert
One of the must-visit places in Mongolia is the Gobi Desert. It should be the highlight of you trip because of its stunning scenery, diverse landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities.
The Gobi Desert covers various provinces, such as Ömnögovi, Dundgovi, Bayankhongor, and Dornogovi. This expansive desert offers a range of landscapes, from vast open spaces and rolling sand dunes to rocky cliffs, canyons, and endless steppe grasslands.
While exploring the Gobi, keep an eye out for unique wildlife like snow leopards, Bactrian camels, Gobi bears, Gobi gazelles, and various bird species. Mongolia is one of the few places where you can spot two-humped camels, and multiple sightings of these rare creatures.
An interesting fact about the Mongolian Gobi Desert is that it holds the title of the world's largest dinosaur fossil reservoir, recognized by UNESCO.
5. Ongi Monastery Ruins
In the late 1930s, a period of political crackdowns known as the Mongolian Purges occurred. These were driven by Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, who aimed to eliminate perceived threats and tighten control over Mongolia.
As part of this, Stalin sought to replace religious beliefs with communist ideology. The Mongolian Purges led to the tragic loss of thousands of Buddhist lamas and the destruction of over 700 monasteries. Sadly, Ongi Monastery was among them. Despite this, it remains a significant cultural and architectural site in Mongolia.
Established in the 18th century, Ongi Monastery was once among the largest in Mongolia, with over 1,000 monks. It consisted of two main sections, the Barlim Monastery and the Khutagt Monastery. Pilgrims from across Mongolia and beyond visited to witness the ornate temples and vast collections of religious artifacts.
Though the monastery was destroyed, ongoing restoration efforts allow visitors to appreciate its architectural beauty. Today, the ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history and spiritual importance of Buddhism in Mongolia, set against the backdrop of the stunning Mongolian steppe.
6. Orkhon Valley
The Orkhon Valley is a special place in Mongolia that has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. People love visiting it because it's a mix of stunning nature, rich history, and unique culture.
Imagine vast grasslands, rolling hills, meandering rivers, and beautiful waterfalls. The biggest waterfall, Ulaan Tsutgalan (Orkhon Waterfall), is here, stretching 10 meters wide and 20 meters tall – a real gem of Mongolia.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in this area, and you can experience traditional nomadic life by staying in a Mongolian ger, a kind of portable dwelling.
The Orkhon Valley has deep historical roots, once being the heart of the ancient Mongol Empire. Today, you can explore ancient cities' remains, burial mounds, and stone monuments, connecting with Mongolia's rich past. It's not just a beautiful place; it's a journey through time and nature.
7. Kharkhorin
In 1220, Genghis Khan founded Kharkhorin, once the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire called Karakorum. Positioned strategically on the Silk Road, it was a hub for trade and cultural connections between the East and West. Even the famous explorer Marco Polo visited!
Although much of the city was destroyed and left abandoned in the 14th century after the fall of the Mongol Empire, Kharkhorin is now an intriguing place to learn about Mongolian history. You can explore archaeological remains, including the remnants of Ogedei Khan's palace, and check out the Kharakhorum Museum.
A must-visit is the Erdene Zuu Monastery, just outside the ruins. Built in the 16th century, it's one of Mongolia's oldest and most important monastic complexes.
What to Eat and Drink in Mongolia?
If you're hoping for Mongolian BBQ during your travels in Mongolia, you might be in for a surprise. The popular stir-fry we associate with the country actually originated in Taiwan in the 1950s and has been Westernized.
Traditional Mongolian meals are hearty, calorie-rich, and focus heavily on meat and dairy. Animals like mutton, beef, and goat are the primary sources of food, leading to dishes rich in meat, fat, milk, cheese, and cream.
Vegetables aren't a major part of the Mongolian diet due to their nomadic lifestyle. As a nomadic people, Mongolians move with their animals, rather than cultivating crops, making fresh vegetables less common.
Mongolian cuisine emphasizes hot and fresh meals, and dried meat is a traditional winter staple. Cooking is done using simple tools like an aluminum pot and a small stove fueled by wood gathered on the go.
Mongolian food is more about sustenance than gourmet experiences. Interestingly, the dishes mentioned have been enjoyed for thousands of years and have stayed relatively unchanged. Let's explore what to eat in Mongolia.
1. Aaruul
It might seem like a plain biscuit, but it's actually dried curd milk left outside and then sliced into cubes. The Mongols enjoy sharing it with guests, and you'll always find it on the table as a snack during meals.
This special treat, known as one of the popular "white foods" made from milk, is cherished by the Mongols. They often dip it in salted tea, although some might find its taste unique compared to what they're used to.
2. Khuushuur
These are tasty pastries that are always filled with mutton, onion, and garlic. They're bigger and have a crescent shape compared to buuz. The dough gets a crispy crust from frying, making them extra delicious.
When you have a Khuushuur lunch, men usually get 4 pieces, and women get 3. Eating them can keep you full for a long time, but it might take a bit of effort for your stomach to digest them.
3. Five Fingers
When you stay in a ger, a traditional Mongolian dwelling, you'll probably come across a dish called Five Fingers on the menu, especially for guests. It's an adventurous meal that involves using all parts of an animal, usually a sheep or goat. The internal organs, head, ribs, and legs are boiled together, creating a unique meat dish.
Five Fingers gets its name because it's meant to be eaten with your hands. If you're the special guest, you might even be offered the most nutritious part – the eyeball.
4. Boodog
This dish, like khorkhog, uses hot stones for cooking, but it's made with groundhog or goat meat. The stones are placed directly inside the boned animal, cooking the meat from the inside and giving the dish a distinct and unique flavor.
5. Sheep Head
Finally, let's talk about an interesting dish from Mongolia – boiled sheep head. Locally known as Honinii Tolgoi or Beshbarmak (if it includes parts of other animals), it's called "5 fingers" because it's meant to be eaten with your hands.
Now, the unique thing about this dish is that every part of the sheep's head is eaten, no exceptions. If they offer you the eyes, consider it an honor because it's considered the most valuable part.
This tradition has deep cultural roots in the nomadic life of the Mongols. In the vast steppes, wasting food is seen as a serious offense. When they hunt or raise an animal, they make sure to use every part, including the head. It's a way of showing respect to the animal and making the most out of what nature provides in their challenging environment.
Where to Stay in Mongolia?
When you're in Mongolia, you'll likely stay in three types of places:
1. Tent Camping (for independent travelers)
Camping is free in Mongolia. You can set up your tent anywhere in nature and camp for free. However, keep in mind that camping is challenging in the Central and Southern areas, like the Gobi, due to a lack of grass and rocky soil.
2. Gers (Yurts)
Staying in Ger is a unique experience. Gers are traditional homes for farmers and nomads. You can find Ger camps all over the country, ranging from small family-run setups to larger tourist camps with extra facilities. Prices vary, with basic family-run ones being cheaper (around $8 to $20 per person).
3. Guesthouses or Hotels
You'll likely use these in major cities like Ulaanbaatar. During peak season, it's advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially in the city center. Budget-friendly options are available, and if you're looking for a bit of luxury at the end of your trip, the Ibis in the best neighborhood offers a full buffet, excellent wifi, and a great shower to wash off the dirt from your adventures.
Things to Buy in Mongolia
In addition to the usual travel items, there are some neat things you can purchase as souvenirs or for daily use during your visit.
When you go shopping in Mongolia, you can find unique things that show off the country's nomadic culture, traditional crafts, and vast landscapes. Things you might want to buy in Mongolia are listed below:
1. Woolen Products or Cashmere
Many people believe that Mongolian wool products are not only the best but also the most stylish globally. The quality and length of Mongolian cashmere fiber are unique, making Mongolia the world's second-largest producer with over 30 million goats.
When you visit Ulaanbaatar City, you'll find many department stores offering woolen products at more affordable prices than elsewhere. Some local stores provide budget-friendly options without compromising quality.
If cashmere is too expensive, you can explore wool items made from camel, sheep, or yak. They are equally cozy, warm, and stylish. Popular souvenirs to bring back include sheep wool slippers and camel wool blankets.
2. Silver Cutleries
Mongolian souvenirs often feature silver items, which are highly important. In Mongolia, it's a tradition for people, especially men, to carry their own containers for eating or drinking, ranging from wooden to silver. They prefer using their own bowls and cups and don't use anyone else's.
As a gesture of honor, guests are often served beverages like tea in a silver bowl. This tradition makes silver-mounted cutlery a popular and appreciated gift in Mongolia.
Nowadays, you can find a variety of these bowls designed specifically for men, women, and children. They may have intricate patterns or personalized engravings, making them unique and thoughtful gifts.
3. Leather Crafts
People love visiting Mongolia because of its amazing handmade leather products. Skilled Mongolian leather workers can create a wide range of items, from delicate gloves to warm coats, as well as wallets, purses, and, of course, footwear.
Traditional leather shoes with a raised toe are especially popular and make for great souvenirs.
4. Horse Head Fiddle
This musical instrument is a special one with just two strings, and its head is carved to look like a horse head.
The people who use this instrument have a deep appreciation and respect for horses. They consider horses to be very important, so they place these instruments or small versions of them in the most special and respected spots, alongside their valuable belongings.
As a result, you can find a variety of horse head fiddle souvenirs in souvenir shops, ranging from keychains to beautifully framed wall hangings in many different colors.
5. Skin Care Products
For many years, Mongolians have been using things from their animals and wild plants for food, medicine, and taking care of their skin. They use things like horse oil, sheep tail oil, and mare milk from their animals.
They also use plants like nettle, thyme, sea buckthorn, and others, along with things like rock salt, charcoal, and oatmeal.
These natural ingredients have lots of benefits, and people still use them for things like hair treatments, nettle shampoo, soap with animal oil, and peeling masks with charcoal.
6. Traditional Clothes (Deel)
It's a great idea to collect cultural items to remember your travels. Why not consider buying traditional clothes? Some of them, like the dignified deels made of silk or wool, have a shirt that goes down to the ankles or knees with multiple layers for different seasons.
The deel can even be used as a blanket at night or a narrow mat in the steppe. Nowadays, there are more stylish designs with shorter lengths that have become popular. You can find these modern deels from various traditional clothing brands in shopping malls.
Additionally, traditional hats and shoes with beautiful designs are also a good choice to complement the deel.
Final Thoughts
Going to Mongolia is an amazing adventure full of beautiful scenery, interesting culture, and the friendly hospitality of nomadic people. The stunning beauty of the country, from the vast steppes to the rough mountains, stays with tourists forever. By looking into the unique customs of the nomads, we can get a sense of a way of life that mixes old customs with new ideas. From the famous Gobi Desert to Ulaanbaatar, the country's old city, Mongolia is a beautiful place with a rich history. A trip to Mongolia will be one of a kind and unforgettable, whether you ride horses across the open plains, visit old monasteries, or meet friendly locals.
FAQs
Q: What is the capital city of Mongolia?
A: The capital city of Mongolia is Ulaanbaatar.
Q: What is the traditional dwelling of the nomadic people in Mongolia?
A: The traditional dwelling of nomadic people in Mongolia is called a "ger" or "yurt."
Q: What is the famous annual festival celebrated in Mongolia?
A: Naadam is a famous annual festival in Mongolia, featuring traditional sports such as wrestling, horse racing, and archery.
Q: Which famous historical figure is associated with the Mongol Empire?
A: Genghis Khan, born as Temüjin, is the famous historical figure associated with the founding of the Mongol Empire.
Q: What is the predominant religion in Mongolia?
A: Buddhism, particularly Tibetan Buddhism, is the predominant religion in Mongolia.