Things to do in Khangai Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Khangai Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient sites that tell the story of central Mongolia at the heart of the Khangai ranges.
Erdene Zuu Monastery (Kharkhorin)
A centuries-old Buddhist monastery near Karakorum, founded in 1585 and famed for its white-walled courtyards.
Karakorum Ruins
Remnants of the ancient Mongol capital along the Orkhon River, set in a windswept steppe.
Museums
Small, informative museums in and around Karakorum showcase Mongolian history and the Orkhon valley.
Karakorum History Museum
Exhibits about the legacy of Karakorum and the Orkhon valley region.
Orkhon Valley Museum
Displays on archaeology and nomadic cultures from central Mongolia.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that reflect Mongolia's Buddhist heritage set against expansive mountain scenery.
Erdene Zuu Monastery (Religious site)
One of Mongolia's most important Buddhist monasteries, set near Karakorum.
Taikhar Rock
Sacred rock formation revered by locals, located in the Arkhangai region.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected areas showcase the region's wild beauty.
Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape
UNESCO-listed valley with lakes, waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
Hustai Nuruu National Park
Protects rolling steppe habitat and the famous Przewalski’s horses.
Neighborhoods
Areas and towns worth a visit to feel the pulse of central Mongolia.
Karakorum (historic town)
A crossroads of history with monuments and markets near the Orkhon valley.
Tsetserleg (Arkhangai capital)
Gateway town to the Khangai highlands with local markets and temples.
Free Things to Do
Take in the landscape and culture without an entry fee.
Sunrise over the Khangai peaks
Watch the mountains glow as the sun rises over the steppe.
Hike the Khangai foothills
Follow trails through pine forests and open meadows.
Picnic by a river or lake in the valley
Relax and soak in the panoramic views of central Mongolia.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Nomadic flavors and cooking experiences.
Traditional nomadic meal in a ger camp
Experience a hearty Mongolian meal with local hosts.
Buuz and Khuushuur tasting
Try iconic Mongolian dumplings and fried pastries.
Airag tasting in a ger camp
Sample fermented mare’s milk in a rustic setting.
Nightlife
Evening cultural experiences in the heartland.
Traditional throat singing performance
Greet the night with ancient vocal traditions.
Local music in a ger camp
Relax with songs and stories around a campfire.
Entertainment
Live demonstrations and performances rooted in Mongolian culture.
Horse riding demonstrations
Watch riders maneuver with skill and speed.
Mongolian archery workshop
Try traditional archery with guidance from locals.
Sports
Active ways to explore the mountains and steppe.
Horseback riding in the Khangai mountains
Traverse forests and meadows on a guided ride.
Hiking to scenic viewpoints
Climb gradual slopes for panoramic valley views.
Mongolian archery lesson
Learn archery with a local instructor.
Off the Track
Hidden spots and authentic experiences away from the main trails.
Overnight with a nomadic family
Sleep in a ger and share daily life with locals.
Visit remote villages in the Khangai
Meet shepherds and learn about nomadic life.
Photography expedition in hidden valleys
Capture the quiet, untouched landscapes of central Mongolia.