Discover Urantogoo Uul, an extinct volcano nestled within the scenic Uran Togoo Tulga Uul Natural Monument in Bulgan Province, Northern Mongolia. Located approximately 80 km west of Bulgan town, this geological marvel is part of a protected area where the vast Mongolian steppe meets the forested foothills of the Khangai Mountains.

A Natural Paradise Rich in Flora and Fauna

Urantogoo Uul is surrounded by fertile grasslands formed by ancient lava flows. The area supports diverse steppe and forest-steppe ecosystems. Larch, birch, and aspen forests grow across the mountain slopes, providing shelter for many wildlife species. Birdwatchers may spot grouse, owls, falcons, cuckoos, hoopoes, and other bird species. The surrounding landscape is also home to deer, marmots, wild boar, argali sheep, wild goats, rabbits, and gophers.

Hike, Camp, and Enjoy Panoramic Views at Urantogoo Uul

One of the highlights of Urantogoo Uul is the breathtaking view from the summit. A western trail leads to the crater rim, offering a manageable one-day hike with scenic camping spots along the way. The summit offers panoramic views of the volcanic field, blue mountains, and valleys filled with grazing livestock. It’s a beautiful Mongolian landscape. Visitors can also drive up via a paved road that circles the volcano, making it accessible for travelers of all types. A parking area near the summit allows for easy exploration without a strenuous climb.

A Perfect Stop on Your Way to Khuvsgul Lake

Urantogoo Uul is an ideal stopover on your Northern Mongolia Tours, especially if you’re headed to Lake Khuvsgul. Whether you’re on a cultural tour or an eco-adventure, this area provides a perfect mix of geology, wildlife, and natural beauty.

Khovsgol Lake, one of the most stunning natural attractions in Mongolia, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Known as the second-largest freshwater lake in Asia, it holds nearly 70% of Mongolia’s freshwater, making it a vital natural reservoir. In fact, it accounts for about 0.4% of all the freshwater in the world.

A Unique Ecosystem and Biodiversity at Khovsgol Lake

Ninety-six rivers and streams feed into Khovsgol Lake, while only one river, the Egiin Gol, drains from it. In 1992, the area surrounding Lake was designated as a National Conservation Park. This protected land is surrounded by towering mountains and dense pine and larch forests, offering a breathtaking landscape. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including Argali sheep, Ibex, Bears, Sables, Moose, and Wolves, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

The Reindeer Herders of Khuvsgul

In the Khuvsgul province, you’ll find some of the world’s last reindeer herders. These unique communities live in the mountain forests near the lake, with two main groups located in the Western Taiga and Eastern Taiga. Both groups of herders travel on horseback, often reaching the Darkhad depression or Khuvsgul Lake itself. Experiencing their traditional way of life is a remarkable cultural insight.

Activities Around Khovsgol Lake

When you visit the lake, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. Explore the beautiful forests with a scenic hike, ride a horse through the stunning landscapes, or take to the waters by sailing or boating. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Khovsgol Lake offers something for everyone.

Plan Your Visit 

Khovsgol Lake is a true natural gem and a perfect destination for those exploring Northern Mongolia. Discover its pristine beauty, rich wildlife, and unique culture with our Northern Mongolia tours, and experience all that this remarkable region has to offer.

Venture into the remote northern reaches of Mongolia and experience the extraordinary life of the Reindeer Herders Mongolia, one of the last remaining nomadic reindeer herding cultures in the world. Living deep in the taiga forests of the East and West Taiga, the Tsaatan (also known as Dukha) maintain their centuries-old traditions while herding domesticated reindeer across Mongolia’s rugged northern landscapes.

Where the Reindeer Herders Mongolia Live

The Tsaatan community is split between two key regions: the East Taiga (Zuun Taiga) and West Taiga (Baruun Taiga). Both areas are accessible via Tsagaan Nuur village, the last major settlement before entering the taiga. The nearby White Nuur village lies between these regions and serves as a central gathering point for the community.

Travelers seeking to visit Reindeer Herders Mongolia typically start their journey in Tsagaan Nuur and continue by horse or vehicle into the taiga. The landscape transforms dramatically along the way—from open steppe to dense forest-taiga ecosystems, offering a rich experience of Mongolia’s natural diversity.

Exploring the West Taiga – Rugged and Remote

The West Taiga lies about 20 km west of Tsagaan Nuur, accessible by vehicle or horseback until the edge of the Harmae valley. From there, horseback travel is required to reach the deeper camps. This region features steep forested mountains, rocky ridges, and challenging rivers, some of which may be impassable during certain seasons.

Over 20 Tsaatan households live in the West Taiga, often moving in small family groups of 1 to 10 households. Camps are spread across the region, with distances ranging from 10 to 40 km from the taiga’s edge. The remote nature of the West Taiga makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Discovering the East Taiga – Crossing the Shishged River

The East Taiga, located northeast of Tsagaan Nuur beyond the Hogruk Valley, offers a different but equally captivating experience. Reaching this area involves a 30 km journey from the Tsagaan Nuur Visitor Center toward Hogruk, and then crossing the Shishged River.

During warmer months, a ferry operated by a local family helps visitors cross the river. In winter, when the river freezes, travelers may be able to cross on ice—though extreme caution and guidance from local experts is essential due to hazardous conditions.

The East Taiga straddles the Mongolian-Russian border and showcases diverse terrain ranging from forested peaks to lush valleys. Travel conditions can become muddy and unpredictable. This is especially true during the warmer months. As a result, horseback travel is the most reliable way to reach most Tsaatan camps. These camps are located between 6 to 40 km from the edge of the taiga. More than 18 Tsaatan households reside in the East Taiga, typically grouped into two extended families.

Plan Your Journey to the Reindeer Herders Mongolia

Visiting the Tsaatan Reindeer Herders Mongolia is more than a cultural experience. A Tsaatan Tour Mongolia offers a closer look at their traditional way of life and deep connection with nature.

You may ride through the taiga, cross rivers, or share tea inside a reindeer-skin tent. For a meaningful visit, travel with local guides and respect the land, culture, and traditions of the Tsaatan community.

Amarbayasgalant Monastery is one of Mongolia’s three largest and most significant monasteries. Amarbayasgalant Monastery sits 360 km north of Ulaanbaatar, in the Baruunburen soum of Selenge province. This beautiful site is rich in history and spiritual significance. In the 18th century, the Manchu emperor, Enkh Amgalan Khan, built the monastery to honor Zanabazar, the first Bogd Gegeen, and to preserve his mortal remains.

A Rich History of Amarbayasgalant

The construction of the Amarbayasgalant Monastery began in 1727 and was completed in 1737. What makes this place even more fascinating is that the emperor himself wrote a message in four languages—Mongolian, Tibetan, Manchu, and Chinese. The message symbolized his protection over the monastery. One of the unique things about Amarbayasgalant Monastery is that, unlike many other monasteries in Mongolia, it survived the destruction during the Soviet purges of 1937. This has made it a rare treasure in Mongolia.

Since 1998, monks have worked hard to restore Amarbayasgalant Monastery, bringing in new statues from New Delhi, India. These restoration efforts have helped keep the monastery’s history alive and accessible to modern visitors.

Beautiful Architecture

Amarbayasgalant Monastery is a beautiful blend of architectural styles. The design is mainly Chinese, with influences from Mongolia and Tibet. The layout of the monastery is symmetrical, with the main buildings aligned along a North-South axis. Other structures are placed along a parallel axis, creating a sense of balance. Visitors can explore 28 buildings, including a two-story temple that covers an area of 32 square meters (344 square feet). This temple is the center of the monastery and is used for various ceremonies.

Attend a Ceremony

If you plan to visit Amarbayasgalant, make sure to arrive early for the morning ceremonies, which usually take place at 10 am. To fully experience the atmosphere, it’s a great idea to stay overnight at Amarbayasgalant Monastery. Along with the main temple, there are a few newer monuments, including a golden Buddha statue and a stupa, which are located on the hills behind the monastery. If you’re up for it, you can hike up the mountains for even more stunning views of the valley below.

Amarbayasgalant: A Perfect Stop on Your Northern Mongolia Adventure

Amarbayasgalant Monastery is not just a great destination for history and culture; it’s also a peaceful spot in the middle of nature. It’s an excellent place to take a break if you’re on your way to Khuvsgul Lake. Whether you want to learn about Mongolia’s rich heritage or simply enjoy the calm surroundings, Amarbayasgalant is an unforgettable stop. For a deeper experience, explore it on our Northern Mongolia tours, combining culture and beautiful landscapes.