So hop on a bus and head off to see some unusual rock formations! The moment you're out of the capital, nature takes over and buses wind their way past the steppe until they reach the Gorkhi Terelj National Park, home to clusters of majestic rocks that dominate the landscape.

The intiguing rock formations in Gorkhi Terelj

With its infinite landscapes and silent expanses, Mongolia offers its visitors a retreat from the world. You can focus on yourself, harmonise with nature and appreciate the freedom of nomadic life; a world where every element plays an essential role.

Live the nomad way in the Orkhon Valley

A nomadic people with Turkish origins, the Tsaatan are reindeer-herders. They live in the Mongolian Taïga and as far as the border with Russia. Going to meet them is like discovering a whole new world; you'll be captivated by their distinctive lifestyle.

The Tsaatan, a nomadic people who herd reindeer in the Taiga

With hair-raising sports and plenty of colour, this event is the most eagerly awaited of the year. A national celebration of independence, this is one festival that no Mongolian wants to miss. Cloaked in deels, the traditional Mongolian outer dress, participants spend the 11th and 12th of July either taking part in a variety of games or cheering on their favourite competitors.

Mongolia's Naadam Festival

It would be a real shame to restrict a trip to Orkhon Valley to just visits to the Erdene Zuu Monastery in Karakorum and the Orkhon waterfalls. In fact, could there be a more wonderful place than this for the traveller who wants to fully immerse themselves in the nomadic lifestyle?

Asia

Mongolia is above all limitless stretches of land. No fields, not even rice paddies, as the climate makes any intensive culture impossible, but magnificent landscapes as far as the eye can see. In order to feed themselves, the Mongolian peoples have always adjusted their way of life to the needs of their flocks and herds, setting off regularly in search of new pastures. Although today half the Mongolian population lives in towns, it goes without saying that nomadism remains present. So, you will come across numerous yurts strewn along steppes, admist which you will certainly have the opportunity to discover the tremendous local hospitality. According to the most recent censors, Mongolia has the peculiarity of having the smallest density in the world (5 inhabitants/sq. m.), which explains the exceptional preservation of the landscapes, habitats and traditions. An ideal destination for a complete getaway and communication with nature, very far from the beaten track.

Mongolia

Orkhon valley

It may well be due to its depth, but you'll never see the same colour of blue twice, when looking at Lake Khövsgöl's waters! It merits its nickname - the 'Blue Pearl'! It's a sight for sore eyes.

Khuvsgul Lake

 Tavan Bogd, in Bayan-Ölgii Province, is the highest mountain massif (4,380 m) in Mongolia. The national park that shares its name extends over an area of 6,400 km².

Altai Tavan Bogd

Declared a national park in 1993,  the Khustain Nuruu is famous for its rare Przewalski horses, a breed that has been the focus of a major conservation project.

Khustain Nuruu

Mörön is the relatively small, modest capital of Khövsgöl...although it does have its own airport.

Mörön

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You can find areas to camp along the Delgermurum River, which is situated less than 2km from Mörön, but, being near to the road, it's not the most peaceful place to <a href="/mongolia/">visit in Mongolia</a>. There's all sorts of accommodation in the town and, unlike most other places outside Ulan Bator, it has a large market and supermarket! It has to be said that grocery shops in villages on the steppe are pretty much the same. You'll be able to stock up on staples: vodka, beer, hot drinks, biscuits, sweets, noodles, sardines, salad and, occasionally, frozen meat, potatoes, a couple of onions, maybe a carrot or two, if not a stray turnip! So best to buy supplies in Mörön, where the supermarket resembles Alibaba's cave.  You'll also find shops along the main road in Mörön where you can pick up fishing tackle, foldable rods and lures at rock bottom prices. There's an interesting, modern wrestling stadium and, having seen matches in Ulan Bator, I recommend you buy a ticket. You'll also find a provincial museum with exhibits that include shamans' ceremonial robes and ancient ornaments.

Mörön Vacations

Mörön: How to get there?

Mörön: When to go?

Mörön: For how long?

Mörön: What to see in the surroundings?

Mongolia: our articles for your vacation