Things to Do in Mongolia

Mongolia provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, including hiking, jogging, mountain biking, and road cycling. The region features more than 10 routes across these sports, catering to different interests and skill levels.

Hiking trails in Mongolia range from multi-day treks in the Altai Mountains to explorations of the Gobi Desert and tranquil paths around Khövsgöl Lake. Routes are also found in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park and the historic Orkhon Valley. For detailed information, consult the Hiking in Mongolia guide.

Access to national parks in Mongolia, such as Altai Tavan Bogd, Khövsgöl Lake, and Gorkhi-Terelj, generally requires permits. These permits are typically obtained at park entrances or through tour operators. It is advisable to confirm specific requirements before visiting.

Mongolia features diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. These include the snow-capped peaks of the Altai Mountains, the vast Khövsgöl Lake, the sand dunes of the Gobi Desert, and the rolling grasslands of the Orkhon Valley. Dramatic rock formations are found in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.

Information on outdoor routes in Mongolia, including hiking, jogging, mountain biking, and road cycling, is available on komoot. The platform lists more than 10 routes with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 100 visitors. Specific guides, such as the Hiking in Mongolia guide, offer detailed insights.

Mongolia offers family-friendly outdoor options, particularly in areas like Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which is accessible from Ulaanbaatar. These areas often feature shorter, less strenuous paths suitable for families. The tranquil environment around Khövsgöl Lake also provides gentle trails.

Public transport options to national parks in Mongolia can be limited, especially for remote areas like Altai Tavan Bogd. For Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, local buses or shared taxis are available from Ulaanbaatar. Access to Khövsgöl Lake and Orkhon Valley often involves longer bus journeys or private transport.

Amenities near popular outdoor areas in Mongolia vary by location. Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, being closer to the capital, offers guesthouses and tourist camps. Near Khövsgöl Lake, gers and basic accommodations are available. Remote areas like the Altai Mountains and parts of the Gobi Desert have very limited facilities.

The Mongolian Tourism Board can be contacted via phone at +976 11 318493 or +976 11 311102. The Tourist Information Center in Ulaanbaatar is reachable at +976-7010-8687. Further information is available on their official website.

Yes, Mongolia offers cycling routes, including options for mountain biking and road cycling. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the steppes to more rugged terrain. Komoot lists specific routes for these sports, providing details on length and difficulty.

The terrain for outdoor activities in Mongolia is highly diverse. It includes high-altitude mountain ranges like the Altai, vast steppes, forested areas around Khövsgöl Lake, and the sand dunes and rocky canyons of the Gobi Desert. This variety supports a wide range of physical challenges.

Information on specific dog-friendly trails and regulations in Mongolia is not widely standardized. Visitors traveling with dogs should research individual park rules or consult local guides. Generally, remote areas may be more accommodating, but national parks might have restrictions.