Where to travel in Mongolia is a question many people ask when they want to visit a new and exciting place. Mongolia has wide open lands, tall mountains, clear lakes, and the famous Gobi Desert. It is one of the few places where people still live a nomadic life, moving from place to place.
In this article, you will learn about Mongolia’s best places to visit. From quiet lakes to big deserts, Mongolia has something fun for everyone who loves nature, animals, and adventure.
Where to Travel in Mongolia – The Best Places to Visit
1. Ulaanbaatar – The Capital City
Ulaanbaatar is the capital and the largest city in Mongolia. It is the first place most people visit when they come to the country. The city is very busy and full of life, with cars, shops, and tall buildings. But it also has quiet and peaceful places like old temples and parks. Ulaanbaatar is a mix of old and new.

You can learn about Mongolia’s long history and also see how people live today. It is a great place to start your trip because it has museums, markets, and many fun spots to explore. The city is also where you can try tasty Mongolian food and see local art and music.
Things to do in Ulaanbaatar:
- Visit Gandan Monastery, one of the most important temples in Mongolia
- Walk through Sukhbaatar Square, a big open area in the center of the city
- Explore the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the country’s history
- Try Mongolian food like dumplings and noodle soup
- Shop for handmade gifts and souvenirs at local markets
2. Gobi Desert – A Vast and Wild Land
The Gobi Desert is one of the most famous places in Mongolia. It is very big, dry, and full of dunes, rocks, and wide open land. Even though it is a desert, there are many interesting things to see and do.
You can ride a camel across the sand, visit the Flaming Cliffs where dinosaur bones were found, and meet friendly nomadic families. The Gobi is quiet and peaceful, and at night, the sky is full of stars. This is one of the top places when deciding where to travel in Mongolia.
Things to do in the Gobi Desert:
- Ride a camel across the dunes
- See the Flaming Cliffs, a place where dinosaur fossils were discovered
- Visit Yolla Bolly Valley, a cool place with deep canyons and even ice in summer
- Camp under the stars and enjoy the quiet
- Learn about nomad life from local families
3. Khuvsgul Lake – Mongolia’s Blue Pearl
Khuvsgul Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Mongolia. The water is very clean and clear, and the lake is surrounded by tall trees and mountains. It is called the “Blue Pearl” of Mongolia because of its bright blue color.

People come here to relax, hike in nature, and ride horses. You can even take a boat ride on the lake. Khuvsgul is perfect for people who love peace, fresh air, and the outdoors. It’s one of the best places to rest and enjoy nature.
Things to do at Khuvsgul Lake:
- Go hiking in the forests and hills
- Ride a horse along the lake
- Take a boat ride on the clear blue water
- Have a picnic and enjoy the fresh air
- Watch birds and other wild animals nearby
4. Terelj National Park – Close to Nature
Terelj National Park is a beautiful place not far from Ulaanbaatar, so it’s great for a short trip. It has green valleys, tall mountains, and big rocks with fun shapes. One rock looks like a giant turtle! You can also find small rivers, colorful flowers, and peaceful forests.

People visit Terelj to enjoy the fresh air, walk in nature, and ride horses. You can even visit a real nomadic family and see how they live in a round tent called a ger. This park is perfect for families and nature lovers who want a quiet day away from the city.
Things to do in Terelj National Park:
- See the famous Turtle Rock and take photos
- Visit the Aryapala Meditation Temple on a hill
- Go hiking on the trails and enjoy nature
- Ride a horse through the green fields
- Meet a nomadic family and learn about their lifestyle
5. Orkhon Valley – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Orkhon Valley is a special place in central Mongolia that is full of history and natural beauty. Long ago, many great empires and leaders lived here, so it’s an important part of Mongolia’s past. The valley has green fields, rivers, and old ruins that show how people lived many years ago.

You can also see big waterfalls and ride horses across the land. Many travelers come here to learn about Mongolia’s culture and enjoy the peaceful views. It is one of the most important places to visit if you like history and nature together.
Things to do in Orkhon Valley:
- Visit the Orkhon Waterfall, one of the biggest in Mongolia
- See ancient ruins and old temples
- Learn about Mongolian history and past empires
- Stay in a ger camp and enjoy local food
- Ride a horse and explore the valley
6. Altai Mountains – For Adventure Seekers
The Altai Mountains are one of the most amazing places in Mongolia, especially for people who love adventure. These mountains are far from the busy cities, making them a quiet and peaceful place. The Altai is a great spot for hiking and trekking because the views are stunning, with snow-covered peaks and green valleys.

It’s also famous for the Kazakh eagle hunters who live in the area. These hunters use trained eagles to catch animals, and watching them is a unique experience. The Altai Mountains are perfect for anyone who wants to explore nature and see a way of life that hasn’t changed much in centuries.
Things to do in the Altai Mountains:
- Trek through the beautiful, remote mountain trails
- Meet Kazakh eagle hunters and learn about their tradition
- See wild animals like ibex and snow leopards
- Camp under the stars in a remote valley
- Enjoy the peaceful and quiet nature of the mountains
Tips for Traveling in Mongolia
- Best travel season: The best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warmer and the roads are easier to travel.
- Transport options:
- Local tours are available to explore popular destinations.
- Jeeps are used for getting around the countryside.
- Flights are available between major cities and remote areas.
- Local tours are available to explore popular destinations.
- Local culture:
- Mongolia has a nomadic culture, so you might meet people living in traditional gers (tents).
- Respect for elders is very important in Mongolia.
- Mongolian food can be heavy, with lots of meat and dairy products.
- Mongolia has a nomadic culture, so you might meet people living in traditional gers (tents).
Conclusion:
Mongolia is a country full of exciting places to explore, from the vast Gobi Desert to the peaceful Khuvsgul Lake. Whether you’re looking for adventure in the Altai Mountains or a cultural experience in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia has something for everyone. So, if you’re wondering where to travel in Mongolia, these amazing destinations will make your trip unforgettable.
For more details on traveling in Mongolia and other exciting destinations, visit Discover Tour Places.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to travel to Mongolia?
The best time to visit Mongolia is from June to September, when the weather is warmer and ideal for outdoor activities.
2. Do I need a visa to visit Mongolia?
Visitors from many countries can enter Mongolia without a visa for up to 30 days. Check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
3. Is Mongolia safe for travelers?
Yes, Mongolia is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s important to be careful in remote areas and follow local customs and advice.
4. How do I get around in Mongolia?
In cities, you can use taxis or buses, but for rural areas, jeeps or local tours are the best ways to get around.