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

Lying in the extreme west of Mongolia, next to the Chinese and Russian borders, Bayan-Ölgii is  the highest aimag (province) in the whole country. 

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

Bayan Ulgii

Sagsai

 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

Khoton

A favourite spot with city-dwellers who come to unwind, the Gorkhi Terelj National Park is famous for its huge, granite rocks and sublime, Alpine surrounds. 

Terelj

Kazakhstan

Taiwan

Tajikistan

Turkmenistan

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

I had a lot of trouble getting around <a href="/mongolia/">during my trip to Mongolia</a> as the country lacks an adequate transport system. Gorkhi Terelj was an exception - no need to go by Jeep as there are frequent buses from Ulan Bator. I slept in my tent, surrounded by a landscape that's as lush as the Alps. All around me were trees decorated with colourful scarves or ovoos, reassuring me that the guardian spirits were close by. My early morning wake up call was provided by meandering, mooing cows! But it's best to be discreet - use a green tent that will blend into the surroundings. You don't want to excite any bulls! Even though the reserve is a favourite haunt with the capital city's residents, you'll have no problem finding a quiet little corner. Which is one the wonderful advantages of Mongolia. Every now and then you'll come across surprising sights, such as animal skeletons scattered here and there. After a while you'll realise that such scenes are just part and parcel of the landscape. And, as you're exploring the mountains, you'll suddenly find yourself in front of a series of gigantic boulders, including the famous tortoise rock that bears such a close resemblance to this sacred, Mongolian animal.

A favourite spot with city-dwellers who come to unwind, the Gorkhi Terelj National Park is famous for its huge, granite rocks and sublime, Alpine surrounds.

Terelj Vacations

Terelj: How to get there?

Terelj: See when to go ?

Terelj: For how long?

Terelj: What to see nearby?

Mongolia: our articles for your vacations