Things to do in Bayan-Olgii Province
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bayan-Olgii Province has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient rock art and archaeological sites that reveal the long history of western Mongolia and the Altai region.
Tsagaan Salaa Petroglyphs
Ancient rock carvings in the Altai foothills that reveal thousands of years of nomadic life.
Sevrei Petroglyphs
Another cluster of ancient carvings set in the western Mongolian Altai, popular with hikers.
Altai caravan route carvings
Remnants along historic trade routes through the Mongol Altai, offering a glimpse of past migrations.
Museums
Delve into local history and Kazakh culture through compact regional museums.
Bayan-Ölgii Regional History Museum
Displays on local history and Kazakh culture.
Kazakh Eagle Hunters Museum
Exhibits on falconry, nomad life, and traditional crafts.
Ethnographic Museum of Bayan-Ölgii
Artifacts highlighting the region's Kazakh and Mongolian heritage.
Religious Monuments
Places of worship reflect the region's Kazakh Muslim and Mongolian influences.
Ölgii Central Mosque
A focal place of worship for the local Kazakh Muslim community.
Tsengel Mosque
A small village mosque offering a glimpse into rural religious life.
National & Theme Parks
Home to spectacular landscapes and protected areas that define western Mongolia.
Altai Tavan Bogd National Park
Mongolia’s western landscape with towering peaks, glaciers and sacred Altai valleys.
Khüiten Peak
Mongolia’s highest peak, part of the Altai Tavan Bogd range.
Khoton Nuur (Khoton Lake)
One of the scenic lakes near Bayan-Ölgii, framed by the Altai mountains.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in the main towns and villages to experience daily life and access to nature.
Ölgii (Olgii) town
The provincial capital and a hub for gateways to the region.
Tsengel Sum
A rural community gateway to the Altai foothills and lakes.
Bulgan Sum
A rural district offering traditional Kazakh nomad life.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy outdoor and cultural experiences that don’t require an entry fee.
Hiking the Altai foothills
Explore scenic trails that wind through the mountains and steppe.
Sunset over Khoton Lake
Watch the sun dip behind the Altai peaks with reflections on the water.
Stargazing in clear night skies
The remote location provides dark skies ideal for astronomy.
Gastronomy
Taste hearty Kazakh-Mongolian dishes that reflect the nomadic lifestyle.
Beshbarmak (mutton or beef with noodles)
A comforting staple, often shared among families.
Kumis (fermented mare’s milk)
A traditional drink with a distinctive tang, commonly offered with meals.
Baursak and hearty stews
Fluffy fried dough bites paired with slow-cooked meat dishes.
Nightlife
Evenings in Bayan-Ölgii offer cultural flavors and relaxed social spots.
Evenings of Kazakh music and dance in guesthouses
Cultural performances and traditional songs provide evenings of entertainment.
Tea houses and cafe culture in Olgii
Relax with local teas and light snacks after a day of exploring.
Casual cultural gatherings
Informal evenings with storytelling and traditional tunes.
Entertainment
Festivals and performances celebrate local culture and skill.
Golden Eagle Festival
A spectacular showcase of eagle hunting, falconry and Kazakh culture.
Horse riding demonstrations
Traditional riding shows and endurance demonstrations in open spaces.
Cultural evenings in town centers
Community performances featuring nomadic music and dance.
Sports
Active tracts and traditional sports add a kinetic flavor to travels.
Horse riding across the steppe
Experience traditional Mongolian-Kazakh equestrian travel.
Archery demonstrations
Traditional archery shown as part of local events and demonstrations.
Falconry experiences
Watch or participate in a falconry demonstration with eagles.
Off the Track
Seek out less-touristy paths to immerse in nomadic life and rugged scenery.
Multi-day trek through the Altai foothills
Traverse rugged trails with panoramic mountain views.
Boat trip on Khoton Lake
Calm water excursion with a backdrop of alpine scenery.
Nomad homestay in Tsengel
Spend a night in a traditional Kazakh ger and share stories.
Photography expedition in the Altai valleys
Capture glaciers, blue lakes and hardy wildlife.