6 of the best things to do in Mongolia

24.08.2023 - 20:23 / lonelyplanet.com

A land that mesmerizes with its natural beauty as much as it enchants with its traditional culture, Mongolia is an adventure like no other.

Here you’ll follow in the footsteps of Chinggis (Ghengis) Khan is the very same landscapes that captivated the great emperor as you travel through a boundless expanse of grassy steppes where nomadic herders have lived for thousands of years.

Beyond the spellbinding imagery of Mongolia’s undulating, felt-like terrain, you’ll also find a rich diversity of scenery, from glorious snowcapped mountains and pristine woodlands to the golden sands of the Gobi Desert. Mixed among it all are those “only in Mongolia” moments – spending a night in a ger with a nomad family, cheering on Mongolian wrestlers in the open fields, or witnessing double-humped camels racing across the desert sands.

Though this is one of the least densely populated nations, there’s no shortage of things to do, from connecting with locals in the cosmopolitan capital Ulaanbaatar to touring stunning Buddhist monasteries and horseback-riding across the steppe. Mongolia is one of the world's most alluring countries – here are our favorite things to do there.

There’s no better way to experience traditional Mongolian culture than by attending one of the country’s fascinating festivals. And Naadam is the top one of them all – a massive, three-day celebration of traditional Mongolian sports and games that attracts travelers from around the world.

Amidst much color and excitement, you’ll witness traditional Mongolian sports such as wrestling, horseracing and archery, all with a very unique Mongolian bent – the action will have everyone watching on the edge of their seats.

Mongolia’s eagle hunting festivals are another big lure for culture-loving travelers. Visitors come from far and wide to Bayan-Ölgii province to witness the skill of traditional Kazakh falconers. In October, the colorful Golden Eagle Festival in Ölgii is the hottest ticket in town, where masterfully trained eagles captivate the crowds with demonstrations of hunting prowess in a range of competitions. To go with all the pageantry, there’s a packed schedule of cultural events, including camel racing and traditional horse races.

If you’re not around for October, other opportunities include the Altai Kazakh Eagle Festival in Bayan-Ölgii province in September, and the Spring Eagle Hunting Festival, held close to Ulaanbaatar in March.

Mongolia’s winter temperatures take things to a whole new level of cold, but February is the time for some of the country’s most memorable festivals. These include the Ulaanbaatar Winter Festival and Khatgal Ice Festival, where you’ll be entertained by unique sports such as the traditional game of ankle-bone shooting, ice