Eastern Mongolia is a vast and untouched landscape where boundless grasslands stretch under an endless sky, creating a seamless union of earth and heaven. This remarkable region includes the Khentii Mountain Range and the Dornod Mongolian Steppe, the homeland of Genghis Khan, the founder of history’s largest contiguous empire. Known for its open steppes, gently rolling hills, and peaceful wetlands, Eastern Mongolia captures the essence of Mongolia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The landscape here is unparalleled, hosting rare wildlife like the Mongolian white-tailed gazelle on the Menen Steppes, as well as tranquil sights such as Buir Lake and the winding Onon and Kherlen Rivers. Eastern Mongolia is one of the planet’s last truly unspoiled grassland ecosystems, offering visitors the rare chance to experience its wild, open spaces on horseback, following in the footsteps of the ancient nomads.
Exploring Eastern Mongolia’s scenic treasures is a journey through both beauty and history. A drive through Onon Balj National Park, the Menen Steppe, Ugtam Uul Natural Reserve, Ganga Lake, Altan Ovoo, and the historic battleground of Khalkhin Gol reveals the region’s breathtaking vistas and cultural significance. With its sweeping landscapes, rich biodiversity, and echoes of Mongolia’s great past, Eastern Mongolia offers travelers an immersive journey into one of the world’s most captivating and untouched natural environments.
Gun Galuut Nature Reserve, located 130 km southeast of Ulaanbaatar along the Kherlen River, is a hidden gem nestled in the eastern steppe of Mongolia. Covering 20,000 hectares, this tranquil reserve was established in 2003 to safeguard endangered species and their habitats. Unlike the more frequented national parks near Ulaanbaatar, Gun Galuut offers a peaceful escape ideal for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and birdwatchers alike. The reserve’s diverse terrain—featuring mountains, rivers, lakes, and wetlands—provides a vital sanctuary for some of the world’s rarest and most endangered species.
Among Gun Galuut’s most iconic residents is the Argali wild sheep, known for its striking, curled horns, freely roaming the steppe. The serene Ayaga Lake attracts white cranes during summer, while other rare bird species, such as the white-naped crane, hooded crane, red falcon, swan goose, whooper swan, black stork, and bearded vulture, make the reserve a haven for photographers and birdwatchers.
In addition to wildlife, Gun Galuut offers an array of outdoor activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Mongolia’s pristine nature. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, cycling, and even archery, all against the stunning backdrop of Mongolia’s untouched landscapes. Its remote setting provides a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life and find tranquility in the beauty of the steppe.
An overnight visit to Gun Galuut can be easily combined with nearby attractions, including the majestic Chinggis Khan equestrian statue and the scenic Gorkhi Terelj National Park. Whether you’re hiking, riding with nomads, rafting along the Kherlen River, or fishing, Gun Galuut Nature Reserve promises an unforgettable experience of Mongolia’s natural splendor and cultural richness.
In the heart of Mongolia’s Khentii Mountain Range lies Burkhan Khaldun, a mountain of immense natural beauty and profound spiritual significance. Known as “God Mountain,” its towering peaks have witnessed the rise of empires, the endurance of the Mongolian spirit, and the enduring legend of Chinggis Khaan. Believed to be both the birthplace and burial site of Chinggis Khaan, as well as the birthplace of his famed general, Subedei, Burkhan Khaldun is a timeless symbol deeply woven into the fabric of Mongolian history and culture.
Burkhan Khaldun has been a revered site for centuries, embodying Mongolia’s spiritual heritage. Declared a national monument in 1955 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, it holds a sacred place in the Mongolian heart. Today, it stands as a testament to Mongolia’s ancient customs and as a cherished pilgrimage site.
Spanning 12,000 square kilometers within the Khan Khentii Strictly Protected Area, established in 1992, Burkhan Khaldun is a haven for biodiversity. The protected region safeguards over 50 mammal species and 253 bird species, highlighting the unique flora and fauna of the Central Asian steppe. This pristine wilderness remains largely untouched, embodying the raw, unspoiled beauty of Mongolia’s landscape.
Visitors are drawn to Burkhan Khaldun for diverse reasons: for some, it is a sacred pilgrimage, a journey to connect with the mountain’s spiritual energy. For others, it’s a quest for adventure, as they trek through the rugged terrain of Mongolia’s wilderness. Many find it a sanctuary from modern life, offering peace and the chance to reconnect with nature’s serenity. Whether seeking spiritual reflection, adventure, or a tranquil retreat, Burkhan Khaldun promises a deep, transformative experience in the heart of Mongolia.
Baldan Bereeven Monastery, a yellow sect Buddhist monastery, is situated in the scenic Baruun Jargalant River valley in Umnudelger Soum, Khentii Province. Founded in 1654, it grew to become one of the largest and most significant monasteries in eastern Mongolia, housing up to 8,000 monks at its peak in the mid-19th century. However, during the 1937 communist regime, the monastery and its temple complex were destroyed.
The monastery sits amid the sacred landscapes of four majestic mountains: Munkh Ulziit, Arvan Gurvan Sansar, Bayan Baraat, and Bayan Khangai, which are believed to resemble mythical creatures—lion, dragon, tiger, and garuda. Behind the monastery, the steep rocks of Munkh Ulziit Mountain feature intricate cliff carvings, stone depictions of Buddhist deities, and religious mantras, adding to the spiritual significance of the site. After being closed for nearly six decades, Baldan Bereeven began to see restoration efforts following Mongolia’s democratic revolution in 1990. Elder monks who were once exiled returned to the site, and since then, numerous temples have been revived. In 2012, Baldan Bereeven Monastery was placed on the tentative list for nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today, Baldan Bereeven offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore both Mongolia’s spiritual heritage and its natural beauty. Set against a backdrop of stunning mountain landscapes, the monastery is a tranquil sanctuary for reflection, history, and the enduring Mongolian Buddhist traditions.
The Onon-Balj Basin, located at the southern edge of Siberian boreal coniferous forests and extending into the Daurian steppe, is a unique area at the junction of two major Central Asian ecosystems. The basin’s fragile beauty and diverse biodiversity make it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates alike.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the Onon-Balj Basin is historically and culturally significant. It is home to several important sites related to Chinggis Khaan, the legendary Mongolian emperor, as well as other historically and ecologically valuable areas. Established as a National Park in 2000, the 415,752-hectare Onon-Balj Park was set aside to protect its rich biodiversity, preserve its genetic resources, and promote environmentally sustainable tourism centered around its natural and historical treasures.
Located within the Onon-Balj basin is the legendary city of Dadal, the birthplace of Genghis Khan, in Khentii Province. Situated just 254 kilometers northwest of Undurkhaan, Dadal is a picturesque destination located among lakes, rivers, and forests, with traditional Buryat log cabins adding to its charm. The northern border of Siberia is just 20 kilometers away, making Dadal a prime location for exploring both the natural beauty and the rich history of Mongolia. Dadal is home to significant landmarks, including Khajuu Bulag, a small spring where Chinggis Khaan is said to have drunk from, and Deluun Boldog, the birthplace of Temujin – the childhood name of Genghis Khan. A stone monument crowns Deluun Boldog to commemorate the 750th anniversary of “The Secret History of the Mongols,” an essential 13th-century text chronicling the Mongolian empire. The surrounding valleys and woodlands offer stunning scenery and excellent trekking opportunities, while the Onon-Balj National Park, stretching north toward Russia, provides ample opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. For those seeking a unique adventure in both nature and history, the Onon-Balj Basin and Dadal are must-visit destinations, blending Mongolia’s natural wonders with its ancient legacy.
Located on the western bank of the Khalkh River, 35 kilometers north of Khalkh Soum in Dornod, Mongolia’s easternmost province, the Ikh Burkhant compound is a remarkable historical and spiritual site. The complex features a grand statue of Janraisag (Avalokitesvara) Buddha, 12 stupas, and 20 deities, all framed by impressive double rectangular stone enclosures measuring 220×97 meters and 113×63 meters.
The centerpiece of the compound is the 30-meter-high, 8-armed statue of Janraisag, one of the largest in Mongolia. This monumental figure, depicted in a reclining position on a 35° slope, was created through the combined efforts of monks and the public. Its construction required an enormous amount of labor, with 1,000 bullock carts transporting the stones and 180 skilled craftsmen working on its intricate details.
The project was initiated by Togtokhtur, a local regent and descendant of Chinggis Khan, known as To Van. Recognizing the challenges of the time, including droughts, disasters, and livestock losses, To Van commissioned the construction of the statue and complex between 1859 and 1864. His vision was to create a protective symbol for his homeland, offering both spiritual solace and protection from potential threats. The compound also served as a spiritual sanctuary, reducing the need for Mongolian worshippers to travel to distant pilgrimage sites in Tibet, China, and India.
Ikh Burkhant holds a significant place in Mongolian history and culture, serving as both a symbol of protection for Mongolia’s eastern border with Manchuria and a testament to the nation’s resilience and devotion. The compound remains a vital part of the country’s heritage, drawing visitors with its historical importance, stunning craftsmanship, and spiritual significance.
Buir Lake, located 300 km east of Choibalsan city in Dornod Province, is a beautiful spot in eastern Mongolia, situated 980 km from Ulaanbaatar. As the fifth-largest freshwater lake in Mongolia, Buir Lake spans 615 square kilometers, measuring 21 km in length and 40 km in width. The lake’s southeastern sandy beach, with its warm, shallow waters (ranging from 6 to 16 meters deep), attracts travelers seeking a peaceful summer retreat.
The lake is home to 34 species of fish, including amur carp, grayling, lenok, mirror carp, golden carp, silver carp, and burbot—12 of which are considered significant for fishing enthusiasts. Beyond fishing, Buir Lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting 37 species of resident birds and 199 species of migratory birds. The Khalkh Gol River delta, which feeds into the lake, offers some of the best birdwatching spots in the region.
Recognized for its ecological importance, Buir Lake was added to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance in 2004, ensuring its protection and sustainable use. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, peaceful relaxation, or a chance to connect with nature, Buir Lake offers a stunning, serene destination for travelers and nature lovers alike.
Khamariin Khiid, located 520 km from Ulaanbaatar and 38 km south of Sainshand in Dornogobi Province, is a revered spiritual destination in the heart of Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. Known as the “World Energy Center,” the monastery and its surrounding mountains are considered a powerful hub of spiritual energy.
Founded in 1820 by the visionary Danzanravjaa—a writer, poet, architect, composer, and physician—Khamariin Khiid was originally established at the young age. Danzanravjaa, a member of the Red Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, chose this sacred site for its unique spiritual qualities, and through his efforts, the monastery became an influential cultural and educational center. At its height, it housed over 5,000 monks and served as a hub for theater, literature, mathematics, science, and Mongolian and Tibetan studies.
The monastery was tragically destroyed during the communist purge in 1937, but today, after the fall of the regime in 1990, Khamariin Khiid has been meticulously rebuilt and restored. It now stands as a place of pilgrimage and meditation, attracting locals and visitors from around the world. The monastery is home to several meditation caves, including the sacred Mother’s Womb Cave, where Danzanravjaa and his disciples meditated.
Among the highlights are the museum, which houses religious books and artifacts hidden during the purge, and the Shambala Energy Center—a focal point for spiritual ceremonies and rituals designed to enhance inner energy. Visitors can witness the serene atmosphere, participate in energy-boosting rituals, and experience the tranquility of this sacred space.
Khamariin Khiid is not only a significant religious site for Mongolians but also a cherished destination for Buddhists and spiritual seekers worldwide. The surrounding landscape, steeped in mysticism and beauty, provides a perfect setting for reflection, meditation, and connection to Mongolia’s deep spiritual roots.
