15 interesting facts about Mangolia that makes it a must visit destination

The enchanting land of Mongolia is a captivating gem nestled in the heart of East Asia! Allow yourself to be transported on an odyssey through the pages of its storied history, the vibrancy of its culture, and the awe-inspiring beauty of its landscapes.

Embarking on this journey, Mongolia extends an invitation to actively engage in the rich narratives that make this destination a true marvel.

Picture yourself standing at the threshold of Mongolia's cultural and historical riches, with each step leading you deeper into the soul of this captivating land.

Now, let's uncover 15 fascinating facts that make Mongolia a must-visit for every adventurous soul.

Also read: Experience the Great Outdoors in Hong Kong This Season with the Ultimate Thrill Seeker’s Itinerary

Note: As of December 28, 2023, the exchange rate is 1 Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) to 0.0241 Indian Rupees (INR). This implies that for every MNT exchanged, it is equivalent to approximately 0.0241 INR.

1. Land of the Eternal Blue Sky:

Mongolia is often referred to as the "Land of the Eternal Blue Sky" due to its vast, uninterrupted skies and relatively low precipitation. The endless horizon and breathtaking celestial displays make it a paradise for stargazers.

• Location: Throughout Mongolia

• Must-Do: Camp under the vast Mongolian sky, stargazing in the Gobi Desert.

• Food to Try: Khuushuur (fried meat pies)

• Price: Approximately 300-500 Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) per khuushuur

• Did you know? Mongolia has, on average, 250 sunny days per year, contributing to its nickname "Land of the Eternal Blue Sky."

2. Nomadic Culture:

Experience the nomadic way of life that is deeply ingrained in Mongolia's cultural fabric. Visit the traditional ger camps, as you explore, consider sharing your favorite nomadic-inspired dish recipes, fostering a global exchange of flavors and traditions.

• Location: Various nomadic regions

• Must-Do: Stay in a traditional ger camp, experiencing nomadic life firsthand.

• Food to Try: Buuz (steamed dumplings)

• Price: Ger camp stay ranges from 20,000 to 50,000 MNT per night

• Did you know? Nearly a third of Mongolia's population is still leading a nomadic lifestyle.

3. The Birthplace of Genghis Khan:

Mongolia proudly claims the title of being the birthplace of Genghis Khan, the legendary founder of the Mongol Empire.

Explore the historic sites associated with his life, including the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue.

Go on a journey that connects you with history enthusiasts worldwide. Delve into conversations comparing the legacies of Genghis Khan and India's historical figures.

• Location: Khentii Province

• Must-Do: Visit the Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue and the nearby Onon River.

• Food to Try: Airag (fermented mare's milk)

• Price: Entrance fee to the statue complex is around 8,000 MNT

• Did you know? Genghis Khan's real name was Temüjin.

4. Vast, untouched landscapes:

Discover the diverse landscapes, from the towering Altai Mountains to the vast Gobi Desert. Mongolia's untouched beauty offers a unique opportunity for adventure seekers, with activities such as trekking, horseback riding, and camel safaris.

As you trek through the Altai Mountains, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes, share your most breathtaking moments, inviting others to appreciate the beauty of untamed terrain.

• Location: Altai Mountains, Gobi Desert

• Must-Do: Trek through the Altai Mountains or ride camels in the Gobi Desert.

• Food to Try: Aaruul (dried curds)

• Price: Guided trekking tours start from 150,000 MNT

• Did you know? Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world.

5. Wildlife Paradise:

Mongolia is home to a rich array of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, wild horses known as Przewalski's horses, and charming marmots.

Explore national parks and reserves for a chance to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Take a safari, where you identify wildlife with fellow adventurers. Consider discussing the parallel efforts in wildlife conservation between India and Mongolia, fostering unity in protecting our planet's biodiversity.

• Location: Various national parks

• Must-Do: Take a wildlife safari to spot snow leopards and Przewalski's horses.

• Food to Try: Boortsog (deep-fried sweet dough)

• Price: Wildlife tours can range from 200,000 to 500,000 MNT

• Did you know? Mongolia is home to the world's only wild horse species, Przewalski's horse.

6. Naadam Festival:

Experience the thrill of the Naadam Festival, Mongolia's traditional "Three Manly Games" – wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

This annual event showcases the country's sporting prowess and cultural heritage.

Feel the pulse of Mongolia by attending a Naadam Festival event, where you can cheer for your favorite competitors.

Reflect on the spirit of sportsmanship in India's festivals, creating connections that celebrate cultural festivities.

• Location: Nationwide during July

• Must-Do: Attend Naadam events featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery.

• Food to Try: Tsuivan (noodle stew)

• Price: Ticket prices for Naadam events vary; budget around 20,000 MNT

• Did you know? Naadam has been celebrated for centuries and is inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

7. Historical UNESCO Sites:

Discover Mongolia's rich history by exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape and the Great Burkhan Khaldun Mountain.

These sites offer a glimpse into the country's ancient past.Take a guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exchanging historical anecdotes with participants from around the globe.

Share your favorite historical tales from India, weaving a narrative that transcends borders.

• Location: Orkhon Valley, Burkhan Khaldun Mountain

• Must-Do: Explore ancient monuments and petroglyphs in the Orkhon Valley.

• Food to Try: Khorkhog (barbecue hot pot)

• Price: Entrance fees vary; budget around 10,000 to 20,000 MNT

• Did you know? The Orkhon Valley was the center of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century.

8. Breathtaking Lakes:

Mongolia boasts stunning lakes, including the pristine Khuvsgul Lake, often referred to as the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia."

The crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes make it a serene and picturesque destination.

Share your favorite lakeside moments in India, creating a cultural blend through the love of food and scenic beauty.

• Location: Khuvsgul Lake

• Must-Do: Enjoy boating on Khuvsgul Lake and hike in the surrounding mountains.

• Food to Try: Bansh (dumpling soup)

• Price: Boat rental is around 20,000 MNT per hour

• Did you know? Khuvsgul Lake is one of the world's 14 ancient lakes and is over 2 million years old.

9. Mongolian Throat Singing:

Immerse yourself in the unique art of Mongolian throat singing, a traditional musical form that produces multiple harmonic tones simultaneously.

Attend local performances to witness this mesmerizing cultural expression, or take part in singing workshops to showcase your newfound talent and explore similar vocal traditions in India, harmonizing cultures across the miles.

• Location: Nationwide

• Must-Do: Attend a traditional throat-singing performance.

• Food to Try: Shuurkhai (Mongolian fried cookies)

• Price: Ticket prices for performances vary; budget around 10,000 to 30,000 MNT

• Did you know? Mongolian throat singing is listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

10. Yak Wool Clothing:

Experience the warmth and comfort of traditional Mongolian clothing made from yak wool. Visit local markets to find intricately crafted garments that reflect the country's nomadic heritage.

Connect with Mongolian fashionistas and share your love for traditional Indian fabrics, celebrating the diversity of global fashion.

• Location: Throughout Mongolia

• Must-Do: Purchase traditional yak wool clothing at local markets.

• Food to Try: Tsagaan idee (white food)

• Price: Yak wool items range from 30,000 to 100,000 MNT

• Did you know? Mongolia is home to the world's second-largest yak population.

Also read: Top 5 Chor Bazaars of India: Where, when and what to buy?

11. Chinggis Khaan International Airport:

Marvel at the futuristic design of Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, blending modernity with Mongolian cultural elements. The airport itself is an architectural wonder.

Engage in discussions about airport design, drawing parallels with Indian airports, and sparking conversations about modern infrastructure.

• Location: Ulaanbaatar

• Must-Do: Admire the architectural design of the airport.

• Food to Try: Khuushuur (fried meat pies)

• Price: Airport architecture tour prices vary

• Did you know? Chinggis Khaan International Airport is the main international gateway to Mongolia.

12. Dinosaur Fossil Discoveries:

Mongolia is a treasure trove for paleontologists, with the Gobi Desert yielding numerous dinosaur fossil discoveries. Uncover the mysteries of the past by visiting the Flaming Cliffs and the Mongolian Dinosaur Museum.

• Location: Gobi Desert, Flaming Cliffs

• Must-Do: Explore the Flaming Cliffs and visit the Mongolian Dinosaur Museum.

• Food to Try: Boodog (marmot barbecue)

• Price: Museum entrance fees range from 5,000 to 15,000 MNT

• Did you know? The first dinosaur eggs were discovered in the Gobi Desert in the 1920s.

13. Mongolian Traditional Cuisine:

Savor the flavors of Mongolian cuisine, characterized by hearty meat dishes, dairy products, and traditional staples like buuz (steamed dumplings) and khuushuur (fried meat pies). Culinary enthusiasts will find a delightful array of tastes to explore.

Participate in a cooking class, preparing Mongolian dishes. Infuse Indian flavors into Mongolian recipes, creating a culinary blend that bridges two distant yet interconnected cultures.

• Location: Nationwide

• Must-Do: Sample traditional dishes like buuz and khuushuur.

• Food to Try: Tsuivan (noodle stew)

• Price: Meal prices at local restaurants vary; budget around 10,000 to 20,000 MNT

• Did you know? Mongolian cuisine is heavily influenced by the nomadic lifestyle, focusing on meat and dairy products.

14. Eagle Hunting Tradition:

Witness the ancient art of eagle hunting, a tradition passed down through generations among the Kazakh nomads.

Marvel at the skill of eagle hunters and learn about the close bond between the hunters and their majestic birds.

• Location: Western Mongolia

• Must-Do: Witness a traditional eagle hunting demonstration.

• Food to Try: Buuz (steamed dumplings)

• Price: Entrance fees to eagle hunting festivals vary; budget around 10,000 to 30,000 MNT

• Did you know? Eagle hunting has been practiced in Mongolia for over 4,000 years.

15. Warm Hospitality:

Experience the genuine warmth of Mongolian hospitality as locals open their hearts to visitors, whether in nomadic dwellings or urban settings.

Share your stories, bridging the gap between Indian and Mongolian hospitality traditions and showcasing the universal language of kindness that unites diverse cultures.

In these shared narratives, discover the common thread of heartfelt generosity that transcends geographical boundaries.

• Location: Nationwide

• Must-Do: Interact with locals to experience Mongolian hospitality.

• Food to Try: Airag (fermented mare's milk)

• Price: Priceless!

• Did you know? Mongolia is one of the few countries in the world without a McDonald's restaurant.

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Embark on a journey that transcends geographical boundaries as Mongolia beckons you to join a global community in celebrating the diverse beauty of our world.

Whether traversing the expansive steppes or the majestic landscapes of the Indian subcontinent, Mongolia's allure captivates those in search of an authentic and adventurous experience.

Its unique blend of natural wonders, enriched history, and vibrant culture creates an irresistible destination.

From the vast steppes to the towering mountains, Mongolia unveils hidden treasures, inviting you to forge lasting memories in a land where every landscape tells a story.

So buckle up for a ride from the wide-open steppes to the sky-kissing mountains as Mongolia spills its secrets and challenges you to create epic memories. Who knew exploring could be this much fun? Mongolia did!