4 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
Seven hours from Ulaanbaatar by bus
When to go
Outside the main tourist season
Minimum stay
One week
Arkhangaï (Mongolia)
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CharlotteRAPP
Practical information about Arkhangaï
Reviews of Arkhangaï
In Arkhangai's central region the landscape gradually changes from the stifling desert conditions of the Gobi, in the south, to the Siberian taiga of the north. The area is made up of forest (rare in Mongolia), steppes, and a mixture of small valleys and uneven mountain terrain.
My suggestion:
Tsetserleg serves as a good base from which to explore the wider region: the city has its own attractions to offer, and you'll be able to relax and properly organise your excursions into the surrounding area from there.
Summary:
Arkhangai is an interesting region to include as a destination to visit on your trip to Mongolia. In the south lie the Khangai Mountains, which rise to a height of 3,300 m and are easy to access. Before going there myself, I first visited the Tsenkher Hot Springs, which I recommend you also do. The site can be reached by taxi from Tsetserleg; though those looking for a bit more of a challenge can choose to cycle there instead (a trip of just under thirty kilometres).
When it comes to the interesting places to visit in the region, I particularly recommend Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park in the west. The famous White Lake (Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur) is to be found here, a large freshwater lake surrounded by lava fields and pine forests – the overall effect is simply sublime. Another place to visit is Khangai Nuruu National Park, which lies due south of Tsetserleg and is also quite wonderful.
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François Philipp
Arkhangai is a stunning central Mongolian 'aimag' or province that's dotted with forests and lakes. It's name can be translated as 'Northern Hangay', as it circles part of the Hangay range.
My suggestion:
It's best to tour on horseback, so you can explore its nooks and crannies, whilst meeting some amazing people along the way.
Summary:
Having visited Karakorum and the regional capital Tsetserleg, I toured Arkhangai for over two months and was left with unforgettable memories; I felt a sense of freedom combined with humility when faced with vast expanses, sparsely populated by nomadic communities.
'Hangay' in Mongolian describes ecosystems where pines and deciduous trees cover the steppes. This flat steppe is surrounded by huge, sheer cliffs and deep canyons. Towards the south, mountains overlook lakes and floral plains carved with volcanic channels that look like the Earth's entrails. Home to the Orkhon Valley, crossed by the Chuluut and Tamir Rivers, the area has numerous hot springs and boasts a fascinating cultural heritage.
Arkhangai's canyons and grandiose landscape mirror Mongolia as a whole - you'll know when you've arrived but not when you'll be able to leave... So be prepared! Be forewarned that although many water sources spout clear springs, others are stagnant pools infested with flies and mosquitoes.
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CharlotteRAPP
51 travellers' photos
