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Top 3 Beautiful Mountains in Mongolia to Visit

Land-locked from all the sides from China and Russia, Mongolia is an offbeat destination for travelers looking for an adventure. The country has a dynamic landscapes ranging from glacier-capped mountains, free-flowing waterfalls, to lush mountain plains. Among them, mountains in Mongolia hold a special position in the cultural landscape of the country.

Among the major mountain ranges, Presidential Decree protects ten mountains that are considered sacred in the Mongolian culture. In the local Buddhist and shamanic traditions, these mountains have been associated with spiritual upliftment and wellbeing. The local nomadic culture is harmoniously trying to protect the mountains while growing sustainably in the long run.

Read more about Mongolia Landscape: from Deserts to Permanent Glaciers

The mountain ranges of Mongolia

Mongolia is the home to three major mountain ranges - the Altai Mountains, Khangai Mountains, and the Khentii Mountains. Amidst them, the Altai Mountain range is the longest one screeching between the two poles of the country. The snow-capped mountain and the stunning landscape make this place worth visiting once in a lifetime.

1. Altai Tavan Bogd

One of the sacred mountains of the country, the Tavan Bogd Mountains, is revered by the local Mongolians, Kazakhs, and Tuvans. Located in the national park with the same name - Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, here you will find an abundance of natural flora and fauna – an enticing site for a traveler looking for a break from the noises in the city. Trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts can participate in the expeditions, but necessary permits are required for entering the park as well as border areas.

Altai Tavan Bogd Mountains

Best time to visit: June to October (See also Best Time to Visit Mongolia)
Where to stay: Ger (traditional nomadic tents)/modern tents
Permit required for entering the park

2. Bogd Khan Mountain

Next on the list of sacred mountains in Mongolia is the Bogd Khan Mountain. Overlooking the beautiful city of Ulaanbaatar, this mountain along with Otgontenger and Burkhan Khaldun, is on the tentative list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. The mountain and its nearby regions are famous for its breathtaking beauty and are often visited by nature-lovers. Apart from that, the peak is the home to numerous exotic animals like Siberian deer, red deer, musk deer, wild hog, and numerous birds. Many travelers opt for a one-day hiking trip to the mountains to enjoy its beauty. Since the hiking trail is simple, anyone with minimum hiking experience can participate in the trip.

Bogd Khan Mountain

Best time to visit: Throughout the year, but from June to October, the weather is at its best (See also Mongolia Weather)
Ideal for a day trip, no overnight stay required
Total time: 9 hours+ (approximately)

3. Burkhan Khaldun Mountain

Located in the Khentii Province of northeastern Mongolia, the Burkhan Khaldun Mountain (translated as God Mountain) is part of the Khentii Mountain Range. Considered as the birthplace of Genghis Khan, the mountain is a powerful symbol in the local community. The Burkhan Khaldun Mountain is home to several legends and stories about Genghis Khan, and how the spirits of the mountain helped him in winning the wars against his enemies. Mongolians undertake a pilgrimage to the sacred sites within the mountain, following a sacred trail.

Apart from being an important religious symbol, the place is home to unique biodiversity. Many trekking operators organize package tours around the sacred mountains in Mongolia. In these trips, the visitors can experience the magnetic beauty of the region, while filling their lungs with fresh air.

Other sacred mountains in the Mongolian terrain are:

• Otgontenger Mountain
• Altan Khukhii
• Darigangyn Altan Ovoo
• Khan Khukhii
• Stai Khairkhan
• Suvrag Khairkhan Mountain
• Gobi Gurvan Saikhan

These destinations hold a special place in the local culture and region. Tourists looking to understand the local culture should make up a point to visit these mountains in Mongolia for an out of the world experience.