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Khoton lake

Khoton lake
Lakes in western Mongolia | Places to visit in western Mongolia

Khoton & Khurgan lakes in western Mongolia

Khoton and Khurgan are two interconnected glacial lakes located in the Altai Tavan Bogd National Park in Bayan-Ulgii, the westernmost province of Mongolia. These lakes are known for their pristine freshwater and are an integral part of the Khovd River’s ecosystem. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1900m, Khoton and…

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Places to visit in western Mongolia

Festivals held in western Mongolia
Lakes in western Mongolia
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Culture of western Mongolia

F.A.Q.

To get to Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ölgii Province in western Mongolia, you have a few transportation options. Here's a brief description of each:

  1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach Ulgii is by taking a domestic flight from Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia. Ulgii has a small airport with regular flights operated by local airlines. The flight duration is approximately 3 hours. It's recommended to book your flight in advance, especially during the peak travel seasons.
  2. By Road: If you prefer a scenic journey, you can travel to Ulgii by road. You have the option to hire a private driver or join a guided tour that includes transportation. The road distance from Ulaanbaatar to Ulgii is around 1,700 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 24-48 hours, depending on the road conditions and stops along the way.
  3. By Bus: There are long-distance buses that operate between Ulaanbaatar and Ulgii. However, be aware that the journey can be quite long and uncomfortable, spanning several days with multiple stopovers. It's advisable to check the bus schedules in advance and make sure you are prepared for the extended travel time.
  4. By Train: Currently, there is no direct train connection to Ulgii.

It's important to note that transportation infrastructure in western Mongolia may not be as developed as in other parts of the country, so it's recommended to plan your travel well in advance, especially during peak seasons when availability may be limited.

I hope this information helps you in planning your journey to Ulgii in western Mongolia. Let me know if you have any further questions or if there's anything else I can assist you with!

The best time for tours in western Mongolia, specifically in the Bayan-Ölgii Province, is during the summer months which range from June to September. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Here are some details about each month to help you decide the best time for your tour:

  1. June: This is the beginning of the summer season, and temperatures start to rise. June offers beautiful landscapes adorned with spring blossoms and lush greenery. It's an excellent time to witness nomadic culture, as many herders move their livestock to summer pastures.
  2. July: July is the peak summer month in western Mongolia. The weather is generally warm, with long daylight hours, allowing for maximum exploration. It is worth noting that July is also the time when the Naadam festival takes place in Ulgii, providing an additional attraction for visitors.
  3. August: This month brings mild temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking, horseback riding, and camping. August is also a great time for photography enthusiasts, as the landscapes are at their most picturesque.
  4. September: As summer nears its end, September brings cooler temperatures, but still pleasant for travel. The forests and valleys begin to display beautiful autumn colors, creating a stunning backdrop for your tour. September is also a good time to experience the Kazakh community's Nauryz festival, as mentioned earlier.

It's important to keep in mind that western Mongolia experiences a continental climate with temperature fluctuations, so it's advisable to pack layers of clothing to prepare for changing weather conditions. Additionally, some activities like eagle hunting or seeing the Kazakh eagle festival may have specific dates, so it is recommended to check the event calendars or consult with local tour operators for specific timings.

Overall, the summer months of June to September offer the best weather and opportunities to explore and engage with the local cultural festivities in western Mongolia.

Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with!

The weather in western Mongolia, particularly in the Bayan-Ölgii Province, can vary depending on the season. Here's a general overview of the weather conditions throughout the year:

  1. Summer (June to August): The summer season in western Mongolia is relatively short but enjoyable. During this time, temperatures range from mild to warm, with average highs between 15-25°C (59-77°F). It's the peak tourist season, with longer daylight hours and minimal rainfall. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploration.
  2. Autumn (September to October): Autumn in western Mongolia brings cooler temperatures, especially towards the end of October. It's a transitional season where you can witness beautiful fall foliage as the landscapes transform into vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. Temperature highs range between 10-15°C (50-59°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. It's advisable to bring layered clothing for varying temperatures.
  3. Winter (November to February): Winter in western Mongolia can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Average temperatures range from -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F), and some areas may experience even lower temperatures. Heavy snowfall is common in the region, creating stunning winter landscapes. If you choose to visit during this time, be prepared for frigid weather conditions and have appropriate cold-weather gear.
  4. Spring (March to May): Spring in western Mongolia marks the transition from winter to summer. It is a time of awakening, with temperatures slowly starting to rise. However, spring can still be chilly, especially in March and April, with average highs ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). May brings milder temperatures and the landscapes begin to bloom with fresh vegetation.

It's important to note that weather patterns can be unpredictable, and temperatures can vary from year to year. It's advisable to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, with layers and clothing suitable for the expected conditions.

I hope this information helps in planning your trip to western Mongolia! Let me know if you have any more questions or if there's anything else I can assist you with.

In Mongolia, the official currency is the Mongolian Tögrög (MNT), also commonly referred to as Tukrik. The Mongolian Tögrög is widely used by residents throughout the country. However, it's worth noting that in certain areas, especially in more tourist-oriented locations, the United States Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR) and Chinese Yuan (CNY) are also accepted as forms of currency.

The official language of Mongolia is Mongolian, however in western Mongolia, particularly in the Bayan-Ölgii Province, the dominant language spoken by the majority of the population is Kazakh. The Kazakh language belongs to the Turkic language family and has distinct dialects and variations. It is worth noting that while Kazakh is widely spoken, there are also other dialects spoken in the region, including smaller communities speaking Dargin, Uriankhai, and Tuva languages or dialects. When interacting with locals in western Mongolia, it can be helpful to have a basic understanding of the local languages or carry a translation tool or dictionary if necessary.

Traveling to western Mongolia, including the Bayan-Ölgii Province, is generally considered safe for tourists. Mongolia, as a whole, has a reputation for being a safe destination with low crime rates. The local communities are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature towards visitors.

However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take general precautions to ensure your safety:

  1. In remote areas or when undertaking outdoor activities, it's advisable to hire experienced local guides who are familiar with the region and can provide assistance and knowledge.
  2. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including any outdoor activities or adventure sports you plan to undertake.
  3. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpocketing or theft, especially in crowded areas.
  4. Respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities to avoid any potential misunderstandings.
  5. Stay informed about weather conditions, especially if you plan on traveling during winter when temperatures can be extremely cold.

It's always a good idea to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and check with your national embassy or consulate for any specific safety information or considerations before your trip.

By being prepared, using common sense, and respecting local customs, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to western Mongolia.

If you have any further concerns or specific questions, feel free to let me know, and I'll be happy to assist you!

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  • Home
  • Tour packages
    • Trekking tour
    • Cultural and activity mixed tour in western Mongolia
    • The tour Hunting with Eagles
  • About West Mongolia
  • Eagle Festival 2024